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.
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.
Several flocks of Canada Geese flew over while I was there.
I explored a stand of trees in the field and found this very nice Magnolia Warbler.
This Sparrow seems to be missing its tail.
I don’t know what this is, but I’m working on it.
Yet another unknown. The morning light is probably distorting the colors.
Carolina Wrens often sing loudly in the open, and pose willingly.
I spent some time trying to get closer to this Merlin, but there was very little cover and he was skittish.
This could be a juvenile Sharp-Shinned Hawk.
I didn’t realize this was a House Wren until I uploaded it to my computer.
This Green Heron was very active, and stayed in the area quite a while
I’ve seen lots of Chipping Sparrows, but I can’t pass up a bird so willing to pose.
This Common Yellwothroat is probably a first winter male.
This appears to be a Greater Yellowlegs.
A pair of Ruddy Ducks were diving amidst a large flock of Canada Geese.
It’s always a thrill to see a Bald Eagle fly over.