Stebbins Refuge Morning Walk

The morning started out grayish, with a slight breath of wind in the air.  Temperatures were normal for the time of year as ten enthusiastic birders began slowly ambling down the Bark Haul Trail at the Stebbins Refuge.  The ubiquitous Wood Duck, icon for the refuge, made its first appearance in the pond along the trail.  As we continued around the pond more familiar feathered friends were observed, including Northern Flicker, Cedar Waxwing, and Red-bellied Woodpecker.  Just before we turned back west, a Merlin was spotted high in a snag, then sped off over the pond.

Our first target bird was standing on a submerged log in the pond just east of the railroad tracks, keeping company with more ducks and a pair of Mute Swans.  This sometimes hard to locate visitor was the Common Gallinule, showing off its long legs and whitish side streak.  As it entered the water the delicateness of its pigeon-like head was contrasted to the nearby ducks.  Overhead, Tree Swallows and Chimney Swifts flew high, probably getting fuel for their journey south.  

As we made our way further down the trail our only warbler for the day, Common Yellowthroat, was observed.  A lone Solitary Sandpiper was seen feeding in the water near the intersection of the Bark Haul and West Road trails.  Venturing south on the West Road Trail we admired the various fall wildflowers on display.  As we turned east onto the Meadow Trail, a Pileated Woodpecker flew quite low over us, allowing a great view.  Next on tap would be our second target bird, but first a surprise came when we heard two Marsh Wrens vocalizing just off the boardwalk.  As we continued to listen, these two chatterboxes actually came closer to us!

In the pond north of the Boy Scout bridge our second target bird, Black-bellied Whistling-Duck, was just as obliging as the gallinule was.  Apparently sleeping on one pink leg, this rare but regular visitor from the south, was keeping company with other ducks, including two Blue-winged Teal.

On the way to our last stop we observed Mallards and Double-crested Cormorants loafing in the ponds along Pondside Road.  At the northernmost pond, we added Green-winged Teal to our day’s total.  Not a bad way to end an enjoyable morning of birding at Stebbins Refuge!

Click below to view complete species list.