Written by and photos taken by: Delaney Osmond, Avian Field Research and Communications Intern

Sunday, June 26, 2022

Spring Lake Park Reserve

Banded: 26

Re-trap: 7

Seen/Heard: 50

Most Banded Bird of the Day: Yellow Warbler (YEWA), 6 birds

Banders: Jennifer V, Linda W, Shelley B, Sonia M, Isabel M, Pam A, Loren A, Elizabeth C, Patti M, Delaney O.

The third session of MAPS banding at Spring Lake Park Reserve was less active. Although, this is most likely due to an increase in the number of birds nesting. We have started to see this year’s young in our nets. So far, we have banded a hatch-year Rose-breasted Grosbeak, American Redstart, and a Clay-colored Sparrow. There are sure to be more in the coming weeks.

Some species added to the probable breeder’s list include the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, White-breasted Nuthatch, Eastern Bluebird, Downy Woodpecker, Cooper’s Hawk, Chipping Sparrow, and Blue Jay. Species added to the confirmed breeder’s list are the Orchard Oriole, Field Sparrow, and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher. The observations for the Breeding Status sheet this session were thanks to Dave Zumeta. Thank you so much for your help.

Although the wind was stronger than the banders would have hoped for, the temperature increased from a slight chill to a pleasant 70 degrees throughout the session. The banders weren’t the only ones enjoying the sunshine. The banding station was littered with Hackberry Emperor butterflies basking on nearby trees and people.

Thank you for your continued assistance and support.