It was a lovely day for a hike, especially one for scouting birds. Our goal was to locate the migrating  Red Winged Blackbirds, Bluebirds, and Wood Thrushes as they returned for breeding.

The male Red Winged Blackbirds were everywhere. We did not see any females so they probably had yet to arrive. There were no Bluebirds evident around the bluebird houses, but we know they have arrived, since they have been viewed elsewhere. No sign of Wood Thrushes yet, but they have frequented Wildwood in past springs and summers.

We did see Egrets, Canada Geese, a snake, a dead raccoon that looked like it was sleeping, a Blue Jay, Red-Bellied Woodpecker, a Thrasher and many, many turtles!  Then there was the huge sycamore that was estimated to be at least 100 years old!

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On March 23rd the Duncannon Outdoor Club and Duncannon Appalachian Trail Community held another Haldeman Island hike with the great leadership of the knowledgeable Scott Bills, state games representative.  We have received many emails commending Mr.  Bills for his vast knowledge of waterfowl and other bird species.  It was a great learning experience, viewing 16 of the 20 species of waterfowl found on the island.

We also were honored with the presence of a male and female bald eagle on their massive nest.  Upon arrival we had a flock of Tundra Swan fly in formation overhead honking their way North to Canada.  Scott pointed out how gracefully a swan lands in the water.  There was hardly a ripple upon landing.

We hope to schedule another such event in the future, since we had such a great turnout and actually had to turn people away.  If you wish to be notified of another such event email dtakach@duncannonatc.org and your email address will be added to the Duncannon Outdoor Club email list to received hike notifications.