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During the second week of May,
Cape May is at its best for birders looking for migrants in breeding
plumage, especially shorebirds and warblers. Our special target bird
was the Red Knot, northbound populations of which peak when the
horseshoe crabs emerge on the beaches to lay their eggs. We were not
disappointed, as we saw hundreds close up. I only carried my camera one
day, as active birding and photography can sometimes be conflicting
hobbies. The photographer must stop to "smell the roses" while the
group has urgent business as it strives to check off ever more species.
Here we are, heading out on the beach to view the endangered Piping
Plover. Restrictions to public access did not permit me to get close
enough to photograph them, but this is all the better for the birds!
Our trip leader, Mark Garland,
assisted by NJ Audubon naturalists Chuck & Mary Jane Slugg, led our
trek on the boardwalk through the woods and
wetlands. Other NJ Audubon naturalists who served as guides
included Karl & Judy Lukens, Jason Guerard and Bill Glaser.
Bob & Linda Carlough, very acute observers, took us out on on The
Skimmer.
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A most interesting discovery was that of a pair of Killdeers with four newly-hatched chicks.
My images are not very good, but they do help recall the excitement of seeing the
little critters make cautious forays into the big world.
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Along the way, there were many interesting sightings.
A Song Sparrow hopped nearby, and an adult Tree Swallow fed its recently fledged chick.
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At the end of the day, time for rest and relaxation!
Our hotel, The Inn at Cape May, was situated on the beach front.
Staff were friendly and meals were reasonably good.
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