September Field Trip Report

At El Dorado Nature Center

Carolyn Vance, Field Trip Chair

Allen’s Hummingbirds zipping around greeted us as we began the first field trip of the new season. A glorious day, good friends reunited after our summer break and birds – what more could you want? Well the birds didn’t disappoint, either. Highlights of the 33 species seen included Common Yellowthroat, Warbling Vireo, Brown Pelicans flying overhead, Red-shouldered Hawks and Turkey Vultures soaring on thermals. The south lake had pied-billed grebes and coots and lots of algae on top. A female Downy Woodpecker gave us a good view as did the immature Cooper’s Hawk and Ash-throated Flycatcher.

But the surprise bird of the day was the 20, in 2 flocks, of Cedar Waxwings that were seen off the service road. Yup, we couldn’t believe it either. John Fitch checked and according to Status and Distribution books these are very early arrivals. There have only been 4 records before the 9th of the month with most birds arriving in November. There is always something new and exciting to see when you’re out birding. Come and join us next month on a trip and see what’s happening!