There was more paddling than birding today. But it was a beautiful Easter morning to be on the water.
After passing a mixed roost of Turkey and Black vultures I approached what local residents call “Wide Ocean”, trying my best not to break the silence of the lake. I attempted to make small ripples in the lake, hoping to catch any raptors (eagles and hawks) perched high in the lake bank trees.
But it wasn’t to be. Nine Canadian Geese declared my presence to the rest of the neighborhood with their loud raucous voices. Once the alarm was raised they took a few steps on the water and were aloft and calm was returned to the waters.
On the way back a pair of Eastern Phoebes provided the highlight of the trip. When sitting in a kayak on a lake nature tends to forget you are there, almost as if you are part of the whole. Interesting to know that Phoebes are one of the earliest migrants to our area and they usually are one of the later birds to migrate south in the Fall.
If you’ve never taken a kayak or canoe out on the lake you don’t know what your missing out on. Canoeing and kayaking are low impact activities that can improve your aerobic fitness, strength and flexibility. Don’t forget on May 16th there will be canoe rides down at the lake as part of it’s Fun & Fitness themed New Egypt day. A great opportunity to try out the lake and see if maybe there is a kayak purchase in your family’s future.
Location: Oakford Lake, New Egypt
Observation date: 4/12/09
Notes: Light breeze and sunny Easter morning.
Number of species: 16
Canada Goose
Downy Woodpecker
Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted)
Eastern Phoebe
Black-capped Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
American Robin
Pine Warbler
Northern Cardinal
Brown-headed Cowbird
American Goldfinch
Turkey Vulture
Black Vulture
Wood duck
Mallard duck
Muscovy Duck
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