August birding hike 2016

  We started at the Discovery Center on Riverside Drive, the former Nature Center.  It was early, already warm and humid. The Lesser Goldfinches gathered at the sunflowers and enjoyed the seeds. Mockingbirds and various doves flew overhead and treetop to treetop.

Defending the space. (Colton Robbins photo)

  A pair of woodpeckers defended their roost in an old snag just below the Discovery Center grounds. Colton Robbins, who provided the birding list, captured an impressive photo of the encounter.  
  We wound our way into Ramon Lucio Park which borders the San Marcos River and provided habitat for many of the water birds. The highlight for the walk was watching a Barred Owl fly across the park and stir up some excitement among the other birds. One particular Mockingbird was not happy with the raptor’s presence and made it known. The American Robin made a strong showing and their presence in late summer was commented upon.
  The monthly birding walks are hosted by Stephen Ramirez and take place at a different natural area or river park on the first Saturday of each month. Contact [email protected] to be placed on the notification list or visit the Facebook page for the San Marcos Bird Walk. 
  Thanks to Colton Robbins for the list and great photo.  — LJ




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San Marcos- Ramon Lucio Park, Hays, Texas, US
Aug 6, 2016 7:05 AM – 8:20 AM
Protocol: Traveling with 15 observers
0.5 mile(s)
Comments:     San Marcos Monthly Bird Walk
76 degrees, partly cloudy, little to no wind.
22 species
 
Green Heron  1
Turkey Vulture  1
Inca Dove  1

Searching for the Barred Owl

White-winged Dove  70
Mourning Dove  4
Barred Owl  1
Black-chinned Hummingbird  1
Golden-fronted Woodpecker  1
Red-bellied Woodpecker  1
Downy Woodpecker  1
Eastern Phoebe  1
Great Crested Flycatcher  1
Western Kingbird  2
Blue Jay  2
Carolina Wren  2
Bewick’s Wren  1
American Robin  20
Northern Mockingbird  3
Northern Cardinal  4
Great-tailed Grackle  3
Lesser Goldfinch  2
House Sparrow  3
 
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S31003396