Evergreen Cemetery Field Trip

Sunday, April 28, 2024 • Evergreen Cemetery • Report Paddy Cunningham, Photos by Ana Lima

If you ever wanted to learn more about how to identify a Cooper’s Hawk, then the April 28th walk at Evergreen Cemetery was the place to be. The endless discussion between birders on the differences between Cooper’s Hawk and Sharp-shinned Hawk was made clearer with many sightings of this magnificent raptor. We saw both a male and a female, observed hunting behavior and saw one eating a bird, and studied its characteristic flap-flap-glide flight pattern. The best view included one of a handsome male with his black cap and characteristic flat head. I pointed out how long the tail hung down below the branch when perched. This species is called a “track star” of the local raptors, known for appearing long and lean on the perch and in flight with its long tail. The last time it flew off I was able to point out another field mark — the scalloped (not squared off ) tail.

Spot-breasted Oriole

Anhinga

Cooper's Hawk

The trip was planned to maximize our chances for migrating warblers, but only a few were seen in a small flock. I pointed out how a Cape May Warbler is “streaky, streaky, streaky”, meaning streaks all across the breast, compared to the wintering Yellow-rumped Warbler, which is “streaky, break, streaky” with a yellow patch on the shoulder. Someone pointed out a beautiful Blackpoll Warbler with reddish legs, which we were able to distinguish from a Black-and-white Warbler because it was NOT climbing down the branches like the Black-and-White does. The best view was of a beautiful Black-throated Blue Warbler male with his white handkerchief.

Along the Atlantic Coastal Ridge cliff, Green Herons hunted close to the canal along thick branches. Also seen were Common Gallinule and Anhinga. We had close views of a Downy Woodpecker pecking in a spreading Live Oak. A brief shower sent Phoebes flying away, but those who stayed were in for a big treat. Announcing itself with a loud lyrical whistle, a brilliant orange Spot-breasted Oriole flew in for an amazing close look. This was truly a spectacular South Florida treasure delighting all.

A special guest joining us was a young scout Christine and her mother Heather who was working on her Bird Merit Badge. It was great to see so many new faces with half the women attending their first Phoebes walk. We hope to see them again in the fall. Hope to see you too.