With 16 in the group, we started out in the parking lot of the old Ranger Station on Flat Mt. Road. And we stayed there
for almost an hour, as we encountered a busy, mixed flock right off the bat! Excellent views of Yellow-throated Warbler,
Gray Catbird and Black-throated Green Warbler were highlights. Eventually we moved on into the canopied trail just at
the end of the parking lot, where Michelle spotted a stunning Scarlet Tanager, which everyone enjoyed, even though it
induced several cases of "tanager neck". The field which was once quite open is now densely grown up with a nice selection
of young trees, though this makes observation more difficult. An obliging Brown Thrasher popped out to give some great
looks, as well as a Chestnut-sided Warbler, either in transitional plumage or a young male (dull, greenish-yellow cap). A
Blue-headed Vireo was also seen in similarly less than prime plumage. Black and White Warblers were present in some
numbers, and a N. Parula and Indigo Bunting were glimpsed. We also made aquick pass at the Forest Service test plot,
where we failed to find any Field Sparrows but did scare up a Chipping Sparrow, as well as a nice maleHooded Warbler
on the entry road. A Ruby-throated Hummer was hanging around the Jewel Weed in the field, and a N. Flicker zoomed by,
while an Eastern Phoebe put in a brief appearance. Activity was well down by 10, so we finished up around 10:30, having seen
and/or heard 30 species. Thanks to all who joined us for making this such a fun and productive morning!
