2023 Birding Journal Observations - July / August

Red-Headed Woodpecker with mouth open August 14

The temperatures in July and August were very even, and very Hot! Backyard birding did not really suffer, but there was very little change on species coming and going. Most of the Lowcountry enjoyed spotty rain showers both months, but for me two tropical style downpours in late August signaled a change in the atmosphere heading into tropical weather season. The first deluge was 5.5-inches and the second was 4.6-inches (courtesy of T.S. Idalia). The first rain smoked right into the ground, and the second mostly ran off, so the drought-busting rains of Fall have begun their annual dance. 

Killdeer with mouth open on Aug. 12

With the hot temps, I noticed plenty of birds with their mouths open, moving air through their gullet in order to cool down, similar to a dog panting. I have witnessed this behavior in the past for sure, but the string of hot days in July and August made this tactic more commonplace, especially when being in the shade was not an option for the bird. Shorebirds, wading birds, and songbirds all practice this habit.

It is worth noting that while birding at Botany Bay WMA on Aug. 11 we spotted a female American redstart, which is a Fall migrant. It seems a bit early, but by Sept. 1 a good many migratory species were on the move. And the painted buntings I enjoyed all summer made their move South at the end of August, and they will be missed.

To view the latest Birding Journal Observations click on May / June 2023

To view past Birding Journal Observations for July / August click on 2022 -  2021-  2018- 2017- 2016 - 2015- 2014 - 2013 - 2012 - 2011 - 2009  

Green Heron with mouth open on August 11

To view 2023 Birding Trips click on Hunting Island Shorebirds - Sea Island Shorebird Festival - Beidler Forest - Harbor Island -  Kiawah Island -  Webb Wildlife Center - Whooping Crane Pond - Jarvis Creek Park - Caw Caw Bio Blitz -  Botany Bay WMA - Pinckney Island NWR - ACE Basin NWR Combahee Unit