Part two-Solitary Sandpiper On A Sunday Afternoon

The afternoon was much different weather-wise than the morning had been. It was now 70 degrees and sunny. The strong wind had been replaced by a gentle breeze. I took a walk down to the Portland Riverfront Trail area. You will often hear me refer to this area , because I like to monitor local birding areas frequently.


My first stop was at the field that had been flooded. I was curious to find out if the Thrashers had returned. I noticed right away that there were many Gray Catbirds in the area. Then, as I entered the field, a Brown Thrasher popped up on a tree branch. It started singing a series of songs, repeating each one twice.


I slowly walked in to the field. Most of the water had receded but there was a small patch that was still flooded. I was pleased to see a few Wood Ducks walking in the marshy area. Wood Ducks do not pose for me. If I try to get too close, they are gone.

As I started to scan the field, I noticed this shorebird near the edge of the water. I don't know shorebirds well at all, but I did observe that this guy was wearing a snazzy pair of spectacles.

It later flew to this little brook near the entrance. I knew it was some kind of Sandpiper but was not sure which one. When I checked out Sibleys, it noted that Solitary Sandpipers have distinct eye rings and relatively short bills. A Solitary would be a lifer for me. I would appreciate it, if someone would confirm my i.d.

The Yellow Warblers have also returned to this area. I spotted about a dozen. They thrive in this habitat which is comprised of tangled thickets and vines. There were also good numbers of American Redstarts around.

By this point I was satisfied and decided to return home. Before going back, I decided to have a look at one more area people call Sleepy Hollow-or the Hollow. There weren't many birds there but here's a picture of me at Sleepy Hollow. Well, I think that about wraps up part 2.