Dateline: 10 Oct 2021
After the rain on Saturday, Sunday was drier and sunnier overall, but still hazy. PI (Presque Isle State Park) was unusually congested due to the “Hot Apple Cider Hustle,” a half-marathon/5k run-walk. Somewhat randomly due to the traffic, and since it seemed too windy for Gull Point, the editorial staff ended up hiking the Dead Pond Trail from the east trailhead off Thompson Circle, as far as the B Trail and back. Historically, this section of trail has been hit-or-miss (mostly miss) for birding. But, as we like to say, “In any location, birding activity varies significantly based on time of day, weather, and season” = ended up being a great couple hours. That is, if you like White-throated Sparrows, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Chickadees, Eagles, and Nuthatches. Which we do.
Along the trail, there’s an open space (see above and below) of grass, sand, and young, bushy pine. Arguably, this was the highlight of the day, with the White- and Red-breasted Nuthatches and Black-capped Chickadees enjoying the sunshine and pine nuts.
All photos with iPhone (7), Nikon D7500 + Nikon f5.6 200-500mm lens, or whatever other shenanigans were on tap. Bonehead move: forgetting your camera’s set to limited ISO when using shutter priority mode at 1/1600 or 1/2000 S = underexposed. Don’t forget to check your shots as you go.
Despite the camera troubles, very much enjoyed a White-breasted Nuthatch that was spending plenty of time in a nearby tree.
