Oscar Scherer State Park, Sarasota, FL, USA, 18-Nov-2012

10:50 AM - 2:10 PM

Protocol: Traveling
3.0 mile(s)
Comments: First full day on holiday & a visit to a nearby state park looking for scrub-jays with the father-in-law, Mr. Correia. Didn't see them but a good long walk during which 3 Bobcats (1 adult & 2 juveniles) walked across our path, which was amazing!
Weather: hot & sunny.
13 species

Little Blue Heron 1 on water from South Creek Trail.
Black Vulture X - several including two perched on a naked tree branch, like from Jungle Book!
Turkey Vulture X

Bald Eagle X - approx. 6 during the day. The first was an immature; light brown top, dark primaries, cream mottled under prominent head; distinct size & flight. Later adults on a nest were also seen as well as an adult perching on a tree near to black vultures & another 2 soaring in the distance with a buteo sp. Life-tick.

Red-shouldered Hawk 1 soaring alongside an eagle. Smaller than red-tailed, tawny on top but distant otherwise. Size, compact shape & distribution points to this species. Life-tick.

Laughing Gull 1 first winter bird over.
Belted Kingfisher 1 flew up creek after we stopped at visitors' centre.
Tree Swallow 2 over.
Grey Catbird 2 heard.
Palm Warbler X
Pine Warbler X
Yellow-rumped Warbler 3
Chipping Sparrow X - in trees near to visitors' centre.

View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13475553