Quick Updates

The Hudsonian Godwit, an adult well along to winter plumage and missing a foot, entertained folks on the hawkwatch most of the day today (Monday) as it fed in Bunker Pond, but eventually lifted off and flew to the South Cape May Meadows. The hawkwatch also spotted an American (presumed) Golden-plover in a flock of Black-bellied - that bird also seemed to wind up in the meadows. Michael O'Brien had a juvenile Lesser Black-backed Gull on the beach off Cape Avenue, a nice plumage to see. An excellent hawk flight included an exceptional afternoon falcon flight, look for details on View from the Field soon.

Tom Reed made interesting observations of the best American Kestrel flight he's had at Reed's Beach, up the bayshore: 100 flying north along the bayshore between 5:45 and 6:45 p.m. These undoubtedly are birds that Doug counted at the hawkwatch in Cape May, diverting north along the bay to find a narrower place to cross.

I didn't hear about the Black-bellied Whistling Ducks today, nor about the King Eider. A few warblers, with nice diversity, were outside the Northwood Center along East Lake Drive in Cape May, according to Mike Crewe.

Light north winds are forecast overnight and into the morning tomorrow. The radar and anecdotal reports indicate a good flight of birds descended to our north last night. . .will they continue tonight and arrive tomorrow? It should be great conditions throughout the region for nocturnal listening.

And finally, Monarchs, Monarchs everywhere, still.