Date: 4/10/25 9:55 am From: davidpmassa via groups.io <davidpmassa...> Subject: [hmbirds] 4/10 Thursday Round Lake Report
A mix of sun and clouds set the stage for an exciting morning of spring birding at Round Lake. Waterfowl were out in good numbers: a pair of Northern Shovelers, a dozen Ring-necked Ducks, Mergansers cutting across the water, and what we believe was a Horned Grebe diving in the distance. Overhead, an Osprey cruised by, while Ring-billed Gulls circled and called. In the parking lot, bright flashes of blue signaled the presence of Eastern Bluebirds. On the far side of the lake, the preserve was alive with activity—sparrows darted through the brush, and a lone Barn Swallow skimmed the water’s surface. A major highlight came at the wooden observation deck: off to the right, around 8 to 10 Great Blue Herons were roosting high in the trees—a striking and somewhat prehistoric sight. Just as we were taking it all in, a ghostly Northern Harrier glided silently overhead, giving everyone a moment of awe.
As we wrapped up the visit, another thrilling moment—a probable female Harrier was seen coursing low over the open meadow, hunting with that classic, buoyant flight style. Earlier, an American Kestrel was also spotted perched near the entrance, scanning the field below. A beautiful day with a dynamic mix of raptors, waterfowl, and spring migrants—Round Lake didn’t disappoint.
