Merlins and Warblers and a Good Birding Day

I received an email stating there were Merlins at Annapolis Junction Business Park, and I haven’t seen one in years. I set out early to beat the traffic, and arrived at the field about sunrise. This very large, open field had a lot of birding opportunities, and I did well. It’s quite close to Patuxent NWR, so I went there after a couple of hours and found some nice birds there as well.

Sunrise

The Merlins were reported to be on the wires in this picture, and they were. This image, though, only shows part of the large contingent of Mourning Doves and a gorgeous sunrise.

Canada Goose

Canada Goose

Several flocks of Canada Geese flew over while I was there.

Magnolia Warbler

Magnolia Warbler

Magnolia Warbler

I explored a stand of trees in the field and found this very nice Magnolia Warbler.

Unknown Sparrow

This Sparrow seems to be missing its tail.

Unknown

I don’t know what this is, but I’m working on it.

Unknown

Yet another unknown. The morning light is probably distorting the colors.

Carolina Wren

Carolina Wren

Carolina Wrens often sing loudly in the open, and pose willingly.

Merlin

I spent some time trying to get closer to this Merlin, but there was very little cover and he was skittish.

Sharp-Shinned Hawk

This could be a juvenile Sharp-Shinned Hawk.

House Wren

I didn’t realize this was a House Wren until I uploaded it to my computer.

Green Heron

This Green Heron was very active, and stayed in the area quite a while

Green Heron

Chipping Sparrow

Chipping Sparrow

I’ve seen lots of Chipping Sparrows, but I can’t pass up a bird so willing to pose.

Common Yellwothroat

This Common Yellwothroat is probably a first winter male.

Greater Yellowlegs

This appears to be a Greater Yellowlegs.

Bufflehead

A pair of Ruddy Ducks were diving amidst a large flock of Canada Geese.

Bald Eagle

It’s always a thrill to see a Bald Eagle fly over.