September NASWC Bird Walk

Three of us enjoyed a beautiful overcast and cool morning on the flood plain property. (The only time I saw the sun was in this sunrise picture I took from the T&C parking lot at Meadowheath.) We spent about 3 hours and found 40 species of birds. Here are the highlights:

• A flock of southbound birds flew over us around 7:30 AM in 2 loose "V" formations. They were too high to identify but I'd guess they were Ibis.
• We saw 3 Eastern Kingbirds, the first I've seen this fall.
• Many Baltimore Orioles are still in the area and we saw several, including one great look at a bright black and orange male.
• We found a Wilson's Warbler and a Black-and-white Warbler foraging together very low in dense brush. I've never seen a Black-and-white so low -- sometimes it was even on the ground!
• We all got brief but good looks at an adult Mourning Warbler.
• A Mississippi Kite soared over us. It looked like it was eating something out of its talons while in flight.

Besides the birds, I got this picture of a very cooperative butterfly. My best guess based on a quick internet search is that it's a Black Swallowtail. But I really don't know butterflies very well so if anyone could correct or confirm my guess that would be great!