Homosassa Wildlife State Park Field Trip, 13 April 2024

Homosassa Wildlife State Park Field Trip, 13 April 2024

Some 15 enthusiastic birders joined the Pepper Creek birdwalk on Saturday morning 13 April 2024, a beautiful sunny day with a chilly 50^F start.  In addition to the usual two species of crows and the now-usual red-shouldered hawk, a loud brown thrasher entertained us vocally right from the start.  He gave all of us good views finally and opportunities for photos.  A downy woodpecker scaled trees nearby.  Warblers found included northern parula and two new to the walks this season: American redstart and praire, a hyperactive little bird which Bob was able to capture in the corner of one of his few shots (photo below).  Both red-eyed and yellow-throated vireos were found and sang for us while they foraged, as did a blue-headed.  Two great-crested flycatchers were also active and vocalizing in the canopy.  Young Hanna Mae and only a couple others found a brilliant blue indigo bunting along the trail.  Waterbirds included a green heron with bright orange legs, cattle egret, sandhill cranes (heard but not seen), and the reliable wood duck at end of trail.  Several gulf fritillary butterflies fed on nectar along our path.  In all 30 species of birds were recorded and documented by Joyce Lewis in her eBird report.  Thanks to Elaine Roche for her lead this season and all birders who joined us on these monthly forays into this popular state park.

Text and photos by Bob Ross