Photo: Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Rusty Moran

The Migratory Bird Count is on Saturday, May 9.  Meet at the entrance of Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge at 6:30 AM.  Jim will organize the participants into small teams and the count will begin when the gate opens at 7:00 AM  Parking is in the refuge’s central lot.  

Teams are assigned specific quadrants on/around the refuge in which to do an intensive count of species and numbers. Team leaders are very familiar with the refuge.  Experience of team members (adults only) may range from novice to expert.  A noontime tally is held at the parking lot shelter. Weather conditions may dictate changes of time/methodology.  A final report of results is emailed to participants and other interested parties.  

Over this count’s history, final tallies have averaged over 100 species.  Altogether, this site’s range of habitats from open waters, wetlands and various fields and woodlands offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness the richness of spring migration and beginnings of a new breeding season. 

To gain the most from this experience, participants will need binoculars (scopes and camera are optional).  For safety and comfort, be prepared for wet walking, sun, heat and insects.

Any questions:  Jim Waggener, jwagge3093@aol.com or 703-717-2085.