Date: 4 May 2025
Leader: Greg Gough
The DOS field trip to Cape Henlopen State Park began at the hawk watch platform in light rain, fog offshore, and a stiff southerly breeze. A raft of late Surf Scoters camped out close to the sandy beach while gulls and terns patrolled the ocean.
Our next stop was the point where sand flats at low tide hosted Brant and Red-breasted Merganser. Numerous terns foraged and rested and included Least, Royal, Forster’s, and Common.
A pair of friendly endangered Piping Plovers kept us company. Further out on the flats Black-bellied Plovers scampered about with an oystercatcher and turnstone.
Gull flocks were numerous and included dainty Bonaparte’s along with Herring and Laughing and even a young pelican.
The persistent rain was not conducive to songbird action, but Blue Grosbeak and Prairie Warbler were noted.