Venture to Stecoah Gap 
& Robbinsville

Graham County, NC

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Spring migration is always an exciting time of the Year, but this year seemed slower than usual. We did have a few northbound migrants, but never any significant numbers when they passed through our region. Most of our local breeding birds came in as per normal and our morning at Stecoah did produce a pretty good selection of species. The Cerulean Warblers were hiding in the leaves, so were only heard today, but our vigil at the Golden-wing area produced great views of a couple of males chasing each other around trying to claim a territory. A pair of Chestnut-sides was also easy to see at the same spot. Both Scarlet Tanagers and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks had arrived but our only true transient was a Yellow-rumped Warbler!! Tom saw a couple of Ruffed Grouse when he continued on the trail away from the group and a stop in Robbinsville (behind the Ingles) produced a Brown Thrasher, Common Yellowthroat and the normal “town birds”. Despite the somewhat slow day, it was still good to be at one of our favorite places in the mountains.

Simon Thompson

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