Tuesday, May 5, 2015

May 5, 2015

So comes the end of a wonderful spring run at Possum Long Banding Station.  But, it is just a break; we will be back in late summer in preparation for fall migration.

It is now breeding time and the birds of Possum Long are at it.  This time last year the Blue Jays were fledging and judging by the noises we heard today the young may be out of the nest really soon.  We have seen young Northern Cardinals in the area.  Our Osprey are about to fledge THREE young.  It is time to let them carry on bringing a new generation to the property.

It has been so fun to watch the Yellow-crowned Night-Herons.  We observed 3 nesting pair a block away over the last few weeks.  Our own bird has provided us with a lot of fun observations.  Is it lonely?  Just late to the game?  Is it trying to build a flimsy nest and maybe not doing so well?

Today we were up to 3 birds practically over our banding table.  Today's vocalizations and feather displays were amazing.  Will a nest happen here or are they on nests in the next block?

Yellow-crowned Night-Heron
Photo by Nancy Price

Yellow-crowned Night-Heron
Photo by Nancy Price

We did not band any birds today.  There was very little migration action (none) and the rains threatened.  There's no joy in trying to dry nets.  So, we are done for now.  Join us again in the fall.  

There are so many folks to thank for a wonderful time.  Every volunteer brings special talents and joy.  It is a privilege to know and work with you all.  THANK YOU!  

Next banding session should start in mid-August.  I will post ahead of the start-up.  Subscribe and get an email whenever there's a new post!