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Sandy (Snowy) Point Park, Truxton Park

Monday, December 21, 2009

The bridge leading into Truxton Park over Spa Creek


Contrary to the norm, I used this blizzard of nearly 2 feet snow to get out and have some adventure in and around Annapolis - and find birds. On the day of the storm, I strapped on Uncle Bob's waders (bequeathed to me by Eliza's uncle who was in his day an avid Maryland birder) and headed out to Truxton Park on foot. Diversity was not great, but the birds that were present were active and easily visible as they tended to stay up out of the snow. The plumage colors were strikingly vivid compared to the widespread colorless background of fallen snow. Even a tufted titmouse commanded my attention for several moments as I noticed, possibly for the first time, the extent of rufous in the flanks.


Frozen Spa Cove




Yesterday, Dan Haas had the idea to venture out to Sandy Point Park in hopes of finding Snow Buntings, or some other unusual bird taking advantage of the limited foraging area available on the wave beaten but snow-less beach. His instinct was right, although we didn't find any buntings there was a misplaced HORNED LARK, as well as 2 SAVANNAH SPARROWS. The lark was Anne Arundel County bird #203 for the year, a number I am quite pleased with. That places me at a solid third for top Anne Arundel lists of the year behind Dan with a stunning 237 and Stan Arnold at 233.


A Horned Lark forages on Sandy Point Beach




A Savannah Sparrow does the Same











A first winter Ring-billed Gull







Snow, Beach, Lighthouse - Sandy Point MD

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