2017 Birding Journal Observations - September / October

Immature Bald Eagle in Bald Cypress Tree from 10/24

After Hurricane Irma delivered 6-inches of rain in one deluge on September 11, the precipitation in the Lowcountry essentially turned off. Only 1.5-inches of rain fell in October, and with above average temperatures, the landscape is dry heading into winter. Of course birders know that these climactic conditions make birdbaths a powerful attractor for avian life, and the fresher the water the better!

Fall migration seemed to start early in 2017 with my first hooded warbler sighting on September 4. And I had a bald eagle sighting on that same day for good measure! I would say that observing these two bird species is fairly common in my area, but they both offer eye-popping characteristics (both large and small) that make each viewing memorable.

Other sightings include Parula warbler (9/18), blue jay, cardinal, dove, flycatcher, magnolia warbler, mockingbird, red-bellied woodpecker, ruby-throated hummingbird, red-shouldered hawk, Canada goose, Carolina wren, tufted titmouse, white-breasted nuthatch, downy woodpecker, hermit thrush (9/25), pileated woodpecker, gray catbird, female summer tanager (9/22), brown thrasher, American redstart (10/10), kingfisher and Great blue heron. To the best of my knowledge my hummingbirds departed on 10/25 for the winter.

To view the most recent birding journal observations click on July / August 2017

To view past Birding Journal Observations for September / October click 2016 - 2015 - 2014 - 2013 - 2012 - 2011 - 2010 - 2009