Happy 2020!

Back to the grind and seeing what might start the year. Overall average is the same for the past 2 years which is down from earlier counts over our counts. Not really not many migrants

We had a nice start to the morning with 6 birds in the first hour. A recaptured Carolina Wren was the processed.



Very interesting to have an Eastern Phoebe just before dawn. Usually they wait for the light to bring the insects out into the open. Shannon got to do the lion's share of banding for her practice on learning to band to add to her resumé.



Eastern Phoebes are our primary flycatchers through the Winter.



Next up was Gray Catbird.



In fact, it turned out to be a Gray Catbird dominate morning with three others captured.



As the Catbirds were being processed, their occasional calls drew the attention of our resident Barred Owls. One flew just down from the table to inspect the ruckus. We make sure that birds are released out of harm from potential predators.



Christine had posited placing signs along our newly established native planting zones to warn the rangers from running them over on their occasional maintenance mowings. Andrew made several signs and placed them in proper spots along the net lanes.



A recaptured Northern Cardinal female added to our totals for the day.



Another recapture, this time a Hermit Thrush.



Carolina Wren are finally beginning to move around again providing our second bird of this species today.



We wrapped the day up with a new local Brown Thrasher which do not migrate and breed here on property.



Though migrants are scarce this season, our nets are always half-full in our minds and we look forward to a new Sunday of new discoveries next week.
______________________________________
Next (planned) Banding Day: Sunday, January 12th.
All nets will be opened by 6:50 A.M.