Brown Thrasher.
Photo by Michael Sciortino

On a recent mid-September morning, 13 birders led by Allison Gallo and Bryan Henson visited Bles Park in search of migrants. The park was active, and we found several species of warblers including Common Yellowthroat, Blackburnian Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Northern Parula, American Redstart, Magnolia and many Black-throated Blue Warblers. Mimics were out in force with Gray Catbirds at every turn, several Brown Thrashers and a group of Northern Mockingbirds.  A few Wood Ducks, both male and female, were found on the marsh. Flocks of Cedar Waxwings flew over a few times but unfortunately, none of them provided more than just a quick look. Rose Breasted Grosbeaks and Swainson’s Thrushes played hide and seek, and we were very happy to see both species.  At the very end of the walk, we were treated to a group of Red-shouldered Hawks circling and calling — a nice way to end a lovely walk.

Magnolia Warbler.
Photo by Michael Sciortino