Plovers Rule the Latest Wild Side Walk

Black-bellied Plovers Long Pond IBA

On February 11th, a group of birding enthusiasts joined the Wild Side Walk on Long Pond Important Bird Area (IBA).

Snowy Plover

We were excited to see a variety of plover species, including the following:

• Black-bellied Plover

• American Golden Plover

• Snowy Plover

• Semipalmated Plover

• Killdeer

Absent was the resident Wilson’s Plover. I expect they were hiding in the rocks.

Sanderlings

Overwintering birds like Sanderlings were also seen in large numbers.

Mixed Flock of Shorebirds

A Merlin made several passes over the pond forcing the birds into the air. Mixed in the flock was a great view of a Western Sandpiper. It is a tough bird to distinguish from the more common Semipalmated Sandpiper. I only noticed it when reviewing the photographs.

Wild Side Walk Participants 2/11/2024

Many thanks to all our participants who got up early to explore nature.

If you or someone you know would like to join my FREE Wild Side Walks, subscribe below. The next excursion is on February 18, 2024.