Now that this fabulous floodplain refuge has returned to its former glory and we are in the midst of spring, Eagle Bluffs was alive with birds this morning. Indeed, on my two hour visit, I encountered 43 species, many of them summer residents.
Swallows (all five species), blue-winged teal, dickcissels and indigo buntings were most abundant. Highlights included a pileated woodpecker, American avocets, white-faced ibis and soras; the latter, usually best observed on cloudy, rainy days, were especially vocal and visible on this bright, May morning. Eastern kingbirds and common yellowthroats were more numerous than I had expected and our common waders, great egrets and great blue herons, are gradually regaining their past summer populations. Ironically, an immature bald eagle was the only raptor that I saw.
Though I had hoped to encounter black terns, a personal favorite, it is a bit early for those late spring migrants. Nevertheless, my overall experience was more than rewarding and I'll continue regular visits whenever I'm in Columbia.
