New Bird After a Damp Week

The rains continued most afternoons last week and the water level was even higher this Sunday morning. Last week, the water was just below the bridge. This week the water was flowing over the bridge. At least this structure has withstood the surge more than any of our past pallet bridges. Still can't get to Net 21.



We usually save the Bird-of-the-Day for the end of the post. However, it was the very first bird captured today.

Funny thing is, most of us were at the table recalling how it has been so long since we have heard Nightjars in the area. Then a call comes in asking if certain birds bite or claw. Or first bird of the day was our first ever Chuck-wills-Widow! We have banded a few Whip-poor-wills, but never a Chuck. Until now...



Our next bird was a Northern Waterthrush. Most head through in August (which we are now taking off) so it was nice to have one in September.



We caught several Northern Cardinals throughout the morning. Susan, her daughter, Anna, and sister. Karen, joined us today. At first, Anna was indifferent being there. Then she got to release the Waterthrush. A bit later she was all in and wanted to release one of most 'bitey' birds we get. Brave and fully into it now!



Common Yellowthroats are fewer than normal right now. We did manage a single female. Nalida released this new bird.



Along the way today, Lynn found a number of insect observations. Like this Metallic Sweat Bee. If we could get near the lake, they would be all over the willows right now.



She also found a Mantis missing much of its arms. Odd. Unless this is some type never seen before...



Brazilian Skippers wrap themselves in leaves for cocoons. They are using the planted Cannas for now.



Hiding behind Net 1 near the river, a Redfemured Orb Weaver, Neoscona domiciliorum, sits on a battered web.



A female Black-and-White Warbler was caught near the end of the day in Net 6.



As we wound down and began to close the nets, a White-eyed Vireo flew in. This was a new juvenile.



Migration is well underway. Hoping for many more birds this Sunday and maybe we can get to Net 21 after to some clipping.

Today's Totals

Birds Processed	New	Recaptured	Total
Northern Cardinal	4	1	5
Ovenbird	1	0	1
Chuck-wills-widow	1	0	1
Black-and-White Warbler	1	0	1
Common Yellowthroat	1	0	1
Northern Waterthrush	1	0	1
White-eyed Vireo	1	0	1
Totals	10	1	11

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NOTE: Due to the new CDC recommendations, if you are fully vaccinated you are not required to wear masks, esp. at outdoor events such as ours. Get your shots and come on out. Otherwise, bring a mask. All current members at Lake Lotus are fully Vac'ed.
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Next (planned) Banding Day: Sunday, September 18th.
All nets will be opened by 6:40 A.M.