THE BIRDS OF IVY CREEKRiver View Farm in Albemarle County was developed around 1870 by Hugh Carr, an emancipated African-American. By 1889 he had amassed more than 200 acres along Ivy Creek near the mill village of Hydraulic, a thriving black community. Additional land was purchased by Conly Greer, whose wife inherited the land from her father, Hugh Carr. The floodplain along Ivy Creek was inundated by the establishment of the South Rivanna Reservoir in the mid-1960’s. At about the same time active farming on the tract began to wane. The farm and adjacent tracts were acquired by The Nature Conservancy in 1975, 1979, and 1981 with an additional 38 acres of reservoir frontage donated by the City of Charlottesville, resulting in a total of 215 acres. The Ivy Creek Foundation was established in 1979 to manage the site with maintenance provided by Albemarle County Parks and the City of Charlottesville. Ecological CommunitiesWith the cessation of farming, 152 acres reverted to hardwood forest dominated by American beech, white oak and tulip poplar, the mix dependent upon slope and the age of the particular stand. There are still extensive areas of Virginia and short-leaf pines and some understory red cedar, reflecting the earlier seral stages of development. There are several tracts, totaling 18 acres, that are maintained in late oldfield succession by semiannual mowing. Additionally there are two small pastures comprising 16 acres that are being managed by semiannual burning to reestablish warm-season grassland habitat. In addition to forest edge associated with the rights-of-ways, oldfields and grasslands, the developed area around the barn, education building, and parking lot (10 acres) provides similar edge habitat. Siltation in the upper reservoir along the channel of Ivy Creek has produced several stands of rush, sedge, and willow with some sycamore (3 acres). These wetlands may eventually develop into riparian forest, a habitat lost when the reservoir was formed. Projected plans to increase the level of the reservoir will obliterate this habitat. Seasonal DistributionOf the 163 species recorded for Ivy Creek, 76 species (47%), are migrants occurring only during the seasons of passage. There are 36 species that occur all year long, of which 29 are regular (18%) while 7 species are occasional permanent resident visitors (4%). In winter, 17 species (10%) are winter residents not present during the summer, while during the summer breeding season, 25 species that are absent in winter regularly occur (15%) and 9 species (6%) migrate into the area but are only breeding season visitors. Avian CommunitiesThe deciduous forest habitat, including remnant patches of conifers, supports the major avian community on the site, characterized by 30 breeding species. At present there is no breeding bird community associated with the grasslands although this habitat provides foraging sites throughout the year. The other avian community involves the oldfield habitat, forest edge, and developed areas around the educational building with 35 breeding species. While the reservoir and its shoreline attract certain characteristic species that are grouped below under a water/littoral habitat category, this assemblage does not form a distinct avian community.. In addition to bird records obtained during my weekly visits, and more frequent visits during migration, valuable records were also obtained from Dan Bieker, Paul Blair, Matt Etterson, Jenny Gaden, and other members of the Monticello Bird Club. The records of the “First Saturday Bird Walks” conducted by the Monticello Bird Club for the Ivy Creek Foundation were also quite valuable, especially for earlier years. Confirmation of breeding is dependent upon finding a nest under construction or with either eggs or young. Additionally, breeding is confirmed by seeing adults taking food to an appropriate nest site, adults carrying a fecal sac, or recently fledged young being attended by adults. For some species (e.g., killdeer) breeding is confirmed if a distraction display indicative of a nearby nest or the presence of fledged young is noted. Species with confirmed breeding status are indicated by “*”. Breeding is considered probable if males are observed maintaining a territory for an extended period or pairs are observed in mate-guarding behavior, courting or copulating. Species with probable breeding status are indicated by “#”. Breeding is considered only possible if adults are simply observed on the site at a time when nesting would be expected, and is indicated by “$”.. Deciduous forest, included mixed conifer-hardwood stands Breeding season Wood duck* Wild turkey* Mourning dove* Yellow-billed cuckoo# Barred owl* Ruby-throated hummingbird$ Red-bellied woodpecker* Downy woodpecker* Hairy woodpecker# Northern flicker# Pileated woodpecker* Eastern wood-pewee# Acadian flycatcher# Great crested flycatcher# Yellow-throated vireo$ Red-eyed vireo* Blue jay* American crow* Carolina chickadee* Tufted titmouse* White-breasted nuthatch* Carolina wren* Blue-gray gnatcatcher* Wood thrush* Gray catbird* Pine warbler* Louisiana waterthrush# Scarlet tanager# Northern cardinal* Brown-headed cowbird* Winter Black vulture Turkey vulture Sharp-shinned hawk Cooper’s hawk Red-shouldered hawk Red-tailed hawk Mourning dove Barred owl Red-bellied woodpecker Yellow-bellied sapsucker Downy woodpecker Hairy woodpecker Northern flicker Pileated woodpecker Blue jay American crow Fish crow Common raven Carolina chickadee Tufted titmouse Red-breasted nuthatch White-breasted nuthatch Brown creeper Carolina wren Winter wren Golden-crowned kinglet Ruby-crowned kinglet Eastern bluebird Hermit thrush American robin Yellow-rumped warbler White-throated sparrow Dark-eyed junco Northern cardinal Purple finch American goldfinch Oldfield/forest edge Breeding Season Rock Dove* Mourning dove* Chimney swift* Ruby-throated hummingbird# Red-bellied woodpecker* Downy woodpecker* Northern flicker# Eastern phoebe$ Blue jay* American crow* Tree swallow* Barn swallow* Carolina chickadee* Tufted titmouse* Carolina wren* Blue-gray gnatcatcher* Eastern bluebird* American robin* Gray catbird* Northern mockingbird* Brown thrasher* European starling* Prairie warbler* Common yellowthroat* Eastern towhee* Field sparrow* Song sparrow* Northern cardinal* Indigo bunting* Common grackle* Brown-headed cowbird* Orchard oriole* Baltimore oriole* House finch* American goldfinch# Winter season Black vulture Turkey vulture Sharp-shinned hawk Cooper’s hawk Red-tailed hawk Rock dove Mourning dove Red-bellied woodpecker Yellow-bellied sapsucker Downy woodpecker Northern flicker Blue jay American crow Fish crow Carolina chickadee Tufted titmouse Carolina wren Golden-crowned kinglet Ruby-crowned kinglet Eastern bluebird American robin Northern mockingbird European starling Cedar waxwing Yellow-rumped warbler Eastern towhee Field sparrow Fox sparrow Song sparrow Swamp sparrow White-throated sparrow Dark-eyed junco Northern cardinal House finch American goldfinch Water/Littoral Breeding season Green heron* Canada goose* Wood duck* Mallard* Killdeer* Belted kingfisher$ Winter season Canada goose Mallard Green-winged teal Hooded merganser Belted kingfisher Species Accounts Abundant status indicates that many individuals of the species will always be observed. Species described as common will be regularly seen but not on every visit and not often in large numbers. Uncommon species regularly occur in smaller numbers and will be observed on about half of the trips during the indicated season. Occasional indicates that a species is present in low numbers and/or is irregular in its occurrence. Occasional species can be expected to be observed on some trips during the indicated season.. Rare species are known from the site on the basis of no more than a few records. Pied-billed Grebe Uncommon migrant in November and early December and throughout March until mid-April. Seldom more than a few individuals at any one time. Double-crested Cormorant Occasional late summer visitor (mid-August) and migrant from mid-September to mid-November and in April and May. Great Blue Heron Common visitor to the shore of the reservoir throughout the year as long as feeding sites remain ice-free. Great Egret Rare visitor in late summer (late July) through early October. There is only a single record in the spring on 20 April 2001 Green Heron Common summer resident from mid-April to the end of September. Dan Bieker observed recently fledged downy young in an alder thicket in mid-June.. Black Vulture While a permanent resident in Albemarle County, black vultures are uncommon visitors from late August through the winter until late April. There are no summer records. Turkey Vulture Common visitor throughout the year, usually seen flying over the fields and forest but occasionally perched on snags along Martin’s Branch or the shore of the reservoir. Canada Goose Common to abundant permanent resident throughout the year except when the reservoir is completely ice-covered. During the winter the population increases with the arrival of other wintering individuals. Over 200 birds were noted on 15 December 1999. Although some are still flocked, pairs occur in early February. The geese nest by early April in sedge patches along the shore or on the silt bars. Adults with goslings seen as early as the 20 April and the first week in May. During the period of molt, they are uncommon on the reservoir, especially when water level is low. Wood Duck Common summer resident from early February until mid-November. Birds arrive paired and nest in tree cavities within the deciduous forest. A group of 13 birds seen on 29 March. Females with broods seen in late May, late June, and mid-July (13 July2001). In the fall a flock of 10 birds was seen on 22 October 2001 and another flock of 9 birds on 1 November 2002. Gadwall Rare spring migrant; 3 birds on 25 March 2002. American Black Duck Occasional fall migrant, usually associating with mallards. Records for late September, November, and early December. Mallard Common permanent resident, most frequently observed in shallow water along the Ivy Creek arm of the reservoir above the peninsula. Broods observed 30 May, 4 June, 12 June, 15 June, 26 June, and 1 August. A total of 25-30 birds present on 1 November 2002, indicative of the arrival of migrants and winter residents. Blue-winged Teal Occasional spring (11 March to early May) and fall (late September to early October) migrant, feeding in shallow water along silt bars off the peninsula trail. One late summer record on 20 July 2004. Northern Pintail Rare spring migrant (12 and 21 February 2002, 14 April 2004). Green-winged Teal Occasional spring (29 March) and fall migrant (17 September to 10 October), but less frequently seen than blue-winged teal. Rare winter visitor. Ring-necked Duck Uncommon during spring migration (19 – 29 March), singly or in small flocks. Lesser Scaup Rare migrant. Record by Dan Bieker (no date) and 19 March 2002 off peninsula trail. Hooded Merganser A pair of birds on Ivy Creek arm of the reservoir off the peninsula trail on 4 April 2001. Male seen again on 23 April. Although reported to nest in Albemarle County, no indication that these observations were summer resident birds. One winter record of male and female on 19 December 2002. Red-breasted Merganser Rare migrant. A single female was seen along Ivy Creek west of the peninsula trail on 17 May 2004. Osprey Uncommon migrant in the spring, from the third week of March and mainly during April but birds seen as late as 5 June, and again in the fall from late September to early November. Swallow-tailed kite Rare spring visitor. One record on 3 May 2003. Bald Eagle Rare winter (early January), fall (early November) and spring (mid-May) visitor. Sharp-shinned Hawk Common fall migrant (15 August – 9 November), uncommon winter resident (5 December – 28 January) and uncommon spring migrant (11 March – 20 April), usually in forest edge habitats. On 22 September 1999 there was continuous movement of around 50 individuals along the edge of the forest along the red trail in the south oldfield. Cooper’s Hawk Rare spring (6, 11, and 27 April) and fall (16October, 4 November) migrant and rare late summer visitor (20 August 2001) and uncommon winter visitor (December to late February). Red-shouldered Hawk Uncommon permanent resident, but more frequently observed in the spring and rarely seen in the winter. No evidence of nesting at Ivy Creek. Broad-winged Hawk Uncommon spring (14 April – 6 June) and fall (30 September) migrant. Red-tailed Hawk Uncommon permanent resident, seen most frequently in the spring and winter, rarely observed in the summer, and only occasionally in the fall. No evidence for breeding at Ivy Creek. American Kestrel A single bird observed by Dan Bieker over several days during the summer near the barn, entered a nest box, but did not remain. Peregrine Falcon Rare migrant. One record on 14 Apil 2004. Wild Turkey An occasional permanent resident, although records only span the period from the first week in March to the first week in June. Hen with several flying young flushed from the cedar/ autumn olive mature oldfield between the red trail (near the junction with the orange loop trail) and Martin’s Branch on 31 May. Sora Rare fall migrant. A single bird was flushed from the north oldfield on 8 September 1999. American Coot Rare fall migrant. A single bird was observed along the silt bars in reservoir on 27 November 2000. Killdeer Uncommon summer resident from mid-March until mid-November. Pair of birds on 6 May 1999 on silt bar, one bird performing the broken-wing distraction display and assumed to have chicks but they could be found. Lesser Yellowlegs Uncommon spring migrant from late April to early May. No fall records. Solitary Sandpiper Common spring migrant from mid-April to late May, as many as a dozen birds along the silt bars on 4 May 1999. Late summer records on 28 July 2001 and 6 August 1999, and an uncommon fall migrant during the last week in September to the first week in October. Spotted Sandpiper Uncommon spring migrant from mid-April to late May. Two late summer records on 1 August 1998 and 15 August 2002. One fall date on 8 October 2002. American Woodcock Rare spring migrant; on 24 February 2001 a bird flushed from forest edge habitat along the asphalt trail near the barn. In 2003 after the south grassland had been established for several years, Nancy Swygert heard a woodcock displaying on the evening of 12 March . Uncommon fall migrant; on 5 October 2001 a bird flushed on the forest edge along the pipeline right-of-way above Martin’s Branch and other records on 1 November 2002 and 19 November 2001. Ring-billed Gull Rare winter (23 February 2004, 25 February 2003) and spring visitor (4 March 2003). Rock Pigeon Uncommon permanent resident. Known to have nested in the barn, but in recent years with the closing of the barn doors this opportunity has been reduced. Mourning Dove Common permanent resident, observed every week of the year. Begins nesting in March, usually in red cedars around the education building (23 March 1999 nest 7’ up in red cedar but without eggs, female incubating two eggs in another red cedar on 30 March 1999). Black-billed Cuckoo Rare summer visitor. One record 25 July 2004 (Frank Blair). Yellow-billed Cuckoo Uncommon summer resident and migrant from the first week in May to the first week in October. Because of its reclusive behavior it is more often heard than seen. Great horned owl Rare spring visitor. A bird was seen several times during the first week in May 2003 on the recently burned north warm-season grass field. Barred Owl Permanent resident, but only one pair appears to be regular at Ivy Creek. Most frequently seen in the forest in the southwestern corner of the tract. According to Ron Kingston, a nest 15’ up in an American beech along the creek just north of the pipeline right-of-way in 1998 produced at least one fledgling. Dede Smith reported that barred owls have previously nested near the north end of the green trail. Common Nighthawk Rare migrant. Only two records: 2 September 1995 and 5 June 2000. Chimney Swift Common to abundant summer resident from the first week in May to the end of September. Earliest date, 7 April; latest date, 12 October. On 4 June 1999 adult seen breaking off dead twigs for nest material on the trees adjacent to the caretakers house where it probably nested in chimney. Ruby-throated Hummingbird Uncommon summer resident, but perhaps more common than observations suggest, especially in late summer. Occurs from the first week in May until the last week in September. Belted Kingfisher This specie is a common permanent resident from March through November and occasional during winter. Pairs seen along the shore of the reservoir, but appropriate nest habitat appears to be lacking along the immediate lakeshore, but birds could be using exposed banks some distance from the water’s edge. Red-headed Woodpecker The red-head is a rare permanent resident visitor. There is one record of a bird flying across the garden in front of the education building on 30 September 1999. Red-bellied Woodpecker This woodpecker is an abundant permanent resident in forest edge as well as the interior of the forest. Records for every week in the year. Adults observed feeding fledged young in walnut tree by barn on 31 May 2000. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Common winter resident and migrant from the first week in October to the second week in April. Downy Woodpecker Common permanent resident in both deciduous forest and forest edge habitats. Male observed escavating nesting cavity on 10 May 2004 on the drive near the caretaker’s house Hairy Woodpecker Unlike its sibling species, the hairy is an uncommon permanent resident. Most records are from the peninsula trail, but has been observed in other forested areas and in forest edge habitats. Northern Flicker Common permanent resident Pileated Woodpecker The various loud vocalizations as well as the territorial tapping of this common permanent resident is frequently heard. Fledglings just out of the nest cavity were observed along the green trail on 4 June 1999. Eastern Wood-pewee Common summer resident and migrant from the second week in April through the end of September. One late record obtained on 21 October 2003. Territorial in the sub-canopy of the deciduous forest, but also observed along the forest edge, including the area around the education building. Acadian Flycatcher Uncommon summer resident in understory forest habitat, primarily along Martin’s Branch. Most frequently observed during the period 1 May to 17 July. Not observed after the cessation of singing although birds are probably present. One early fall record on 30 September. Willow Flycatcher Rare spring migrant. One bird observed singing from willows on silt bar on 26 May 2000. Least Flycatcher Rare fall migrant. Two records – 9 September 2001 (Blair) and 16 September 2000. Eastern Phoebe Common spring (21 February – 25 May) and fall (7 September – 7 November) migrant and occasional winter resident. Scattered summer records suggest that phoebes might possibly nest in forest edge habitat around the education building/barn area but no evidence of nesting found when appropriate nest substrates were searched. Great Crested Flycatcher Common summer resident and migrant in the forest canopy from the last week of April until the third week in September. Eastern Kingbird Occasional spring migrant during the third week of April to the last week of May. Three summer records (1 July 1995, 20 July 2004, 4 August 2001) are probably of non-breeding birds or post-breeding birds from local breeding populations. One record on 18 August 2004 could be an early fall migrant. White-eyed Vireo Occasional spring migrant during the second and third week of May in forest edge habitat. In the fall they are uncommon migrants appearing in late July (27 July 2000), probably as post-nuptial wanderers from nearby breeding populations, and white-eyes continue to pass through until the end of September. Yellow-throated Vireo Uncommon migrant and summer resident in the deciduous forest, arriving in late April (30 April 1999) and remaining until mid-September (16 September 2003). Blue-headed Vireo Uncommon migrant in the spring from the first week in April until the first week in May and an occasional fall migrant in September and October. Warbling Vireo Rare spring and fall migrant; five records: 4 May 1999, 4 May 2002, 27 September 2001, 25 September 2003, and 25 September 2003. Philadelphia Vireo Rare spring migrant. Dede Smith reported a sighting by a reliable observer during the second week in May, 1999. Red-eyed Vireo Abundant summer resident and migrant in the deciduous forest. Dates of occurrence span the period 18 April to 6 October. Adult was seen feeding fledgling cowbird on 19 July 2003 by Paul Blair. Blue Jay Common permanent resident, seen in both forest and edge habitats during every week of the year. Blue jays are diurnal migrants, and during the seasons of passage they can be abundant. Large numbers of individuals have been observed, most notably on 30 September 1900, 24 April 2000, and 6 May 2000 when hundreds were seen flying over in loose flocks of 15 to 20 individuals. Only record of breeding was a blue jay carrying nest material on 7 April 2001, although unattended juveniles have been seen in late summer. American Crow In winter when roosting flocks occur in the deciduous forest, especially along Martin’s Branch and the upper yellow trail, this permanent resident is abundant. During the summer it is a common breeding species throughout the forest. Crow observed nest building in forest above the Martin’s Branch cove of the reservoir on 29 March 1999. Fish Crow While this species is a permanent resident in Albemarle County, it is rarely found during the breeding season at Ivy Creek. It becomes occasional in the fall, then uncommon in winter, with observation again being occasional in the spring. Paul Blair has one summer record on 3 July 2002. Common Raven Uncommon fall and winter visitor from mid-September to mid-January. Rare in the spring (8 April 2002). Purple Martin Occasional spring migrant in April and summer visitor in July and early August. Tree swallow This swallow is a uncommon spring and early summer resident. Ron Kingston recalled that a pair nested in the martin house along the forest edge east of the barn. Dates of occurrence span the period 6 April to 4 July. Northern Rough-winged Swallow Occasional breeding season visitor where it is seen feeding over the reservoir and grassland from 1 April to 17 July. Cliff Swallow This species is a summer resident nearby, nesting under the bridges spanning the reservoir adjacent to Ivy Creek. It is an uncommon visitor to Ivy Creek, feeding over the grasslands from May through August. Barn Swallow A common summer visitor, feeding over the reservoir and the grasslands from the first week in May to the middle of August. There are two early records: 8 April 2002 and 14 April 2004. Presently nests under the bridges over the reservoir, but at one time nested within the barn as evidenced by nest “scars” on the rafters. But since the barn has been closed, they are unable to nest there. Carolina Chickadee An abundant permanent resident in both forest and edge habitats. Nests in natural secondary cavities, but also in bluebird boxes. Nest building observed on 26 April 1999, female using cattail “fluff” collected at the end of the peninsula. Adult seen carrying food into bluebird box on forest edge on 1 May 2000. In winter chickadees can be found in mixed species flocks of titmouses, nuthtaches, kinglets, Carolina wrens, yellow-rumped warblers, and downy woodpeckers. Tufted Titmouse An abundant permanent resident, probably more apparent than the equally abundant chickadee because of its incessant singing both in summer and winter. Adult with nesting material observed on 26 April 1999. Adult seen carrying food into bluebird box on 4 June 1999. Recently fledged young with adults on 16 May 2000. Red-breasted Nuthatch An uncommon winter resident from early October (2 October 2000) to early May (1 May 2000), but its abundance varies from year to year, sometimes being rare (e.g., winter of 2000-2001). Usually found in conifer-dominated habitat, either pines within the forest or cedars in oldfield habitats. White-breasted Nuthatch Common permanent resident, recorded every week of the year. On 6 May 1999, adult was observed carrying food for young into nest cavity. Brown Creeper Rare fall migrant (mid to late October) and uncommon winter resident. Earliest arrival date recorded 20 November; latest date 6 April. Carolina Wren Abundant permanent resident, recorded every week of the year. Nest building observed on 13 March 2000 at the end of the peninsula. Adult observed carrying food for young at nest site under the eaves of the barn on 30 April 2001. Adults with at least four recently fledged young at end of peninsula on 15 June 2001. House Wren Occasional spring migrant (19 April – 19 May) and late summer visitor and fall migrant (1 August – 1 October). Almost all observations were in the edge habitats in oldfields and around the education building. Winter Wren This wren is an uncommon migrant and occasional winter resident from mid-October until the end of March. Frequents wooded stream edges from Martin’s Branch to quite small rivulets as well as along the shoreline of the reservoir. Marsh Wren Rare fall migrant. One record of single individual in rushes growing on silt bars adjacent to the peninsula trail on 22 September 1999. Golden-crowned Kinglet Common migrant and winter resident, primarily in forest habitat but also in edge. Recorded from 1 October to 10 April. Ruby-crowned Kinglet Common spring and fall migrant and uncommon winter resident. Dates of occurrence from 1 September to 11 May. Peak fall migration is from early October to the first week in November. Peak spring migration occurs during mid-April. Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Common summer resident, arriving in late March and remaining until mid-September. Present within the deciduous forest as well as edge habitats. Female observed gathering spider webs to add to a nest 50’ up in a tulip tree at the end of the peninsula on 24 April 2000. Nest building also observed on 27 April 2001, the nest located 25’ up in a honeysuckle tangle supported by a grape vine along the forest edge adjacent to Martin’s Branch. Eastern Bluebird Common to abundant permanent resident in forest edge habitats. Records have been obtained for every week in the year. Although most nest records are from bluebird boxes, a pair did nest in an old woodpecker hole 15’ up in a snag along the shoreline near the junction of the orange and peninsula trails. Female observed carrying food to this nest on 24 April 2000. Veery Rare fall migrant; two records one on 9 August 2003 and another on 1 September 2001. Gray-cheeked Thrush A rare fall migrant only recorded on 4 October 1997. Swainson’s Thrush Rare spring and fall migrant. Three records – 11 May 1999, 28 September 2003, and 7 October 1995. Hermit Thrush Common migrant and winter resident from 1 October to 14 April where it can be found within the forest feeding ‘robin-like” on the ground or foraging on fruit such as Asiatic bittersweet. Often heard given its “cluck” call note, but birds begin singing partial songs by the end of March. Noticeable increase in numbers during mid-March, indicative of the passage of migrants through the area. Wood Thrush Common summer resident in the deciduous forest from 20 April to 30 August, then uncommon through 13 September. Female with nest material observed on 19 May 1999 as well as 5 June 2000. Completed nest 10’ up in beech overhanging the green trail was found on 23 May 2002. Adult wood thrush observed feeding recently fledged cowbird on 1 August 2000. Another thrush seen feeding a recently fledged wood thrush on 13 August 2000. American Robin Robins occur every week of the year, but summer resident birds perhaps are different from the wintering population. Summer breeding population is uncommon with the only confirmation of breeding being adults carrying food to appropriate nest site (12 June 2000) or the presence of recently fledged young attended by adults (19 June 2002 and 6 August 1999). Post-nuptial flocks of robins can be observed feeding on fruiting trees as early as mid-July. During the winter the numbers of robins vary from abundant to common to uncommon, reflecting the nomadic search of wintering flocks for food, e.g., 100’s on 13 February 2001, over 500 on 5 February 2000, and around 1000 on 29 January 2001. Gray Catbird Common migrant and summer resident, arriving in late April (22 April 2002) and remaining through the fall (4 November 2000). They nest along forest edge or in the shrubby understory within the forest. Most frequently observed on the peninsula trail where adults were seen attending a recent fledgling on 11 July 2000. Catbird nest found 10’ up in alder thicket along the pipeline right-of-way at the creek crossing west of the red trail and 15’ up in an unidentified shrub along the lake shore. Northern Mockingbird Common permanent resident largely restricted to the edge habitat around the barn, education building, and caretakers house. Nest found on 2 June 2001, 6’ up in dogwood near the education building. Fledglings being attended by adults observed in mid-July and early August. Brown Thrasher Common migrant and summer resident in forest edge habitat from mid-March until late-October. There is one mid-November record. Most frequently observed in the south oldfield where it has nested in multiflora rose/autumn olive tangle with grape (16 May 2000). It is also an occasional winter visitor with dates of occurrence on 5 December 1998, 17 December 2000, and 29 January 2001. European Starling Common permanent resident, building nests in the wall of the barn in mid-April using holes drilled by woodpeckers, carrying food to young in mid-May, and fledglings being fed by adults during mid-July. After cessation of nesting they become uncommon in late summer and early fall. In the late fall and winter flocks return and numbers become common and occasionally abundant as flocks begin feeding in mown grass or other open areas. Cedar Waxwing Common to abundant migrant and winter resident from the first week of August through the second week in June, numbers varying with the availability of the fruit upon which they feed. As many as 200 birds were seen on 5 February 2000. Known to nest in Albemarle County; but there are no records for Ivy Creek during the breeding season except on 5 July 2003, 20 July 2004, and 1 August 2000. Blue-winged Warbler Occasional migrant with but six dates of record: 6 May 1995, 18 August 2004, 2 September 1995, 6 September 2002, 25 September 2001, 4 October 2000. Golden-winged Warbler Occasional fall migrant 5 –8 September Tennessee Warbler Occasional fall migrant from 8 September to 4 October, and rare spring migrant (27 May 2003). Paul Blair observed an early fall migrant on 26July 2003. Orange-crowned Warbler Rare fall migrant, 20 September and 4 October 2000. Nashville Warbler Rare spring and fall migrant, three records – 20 September, 29 September, and mid-May. Northern Parula Uncommon spring (22 April – 17 May) and fall migrant (6 September - 1 October). Yellow Warbler Uncommon spring migrant, 29 April – 11 May and rare late summer visitor (29 July 2004,15 August 2001) and fall migrant (6-29 September). Chestnut-sided Warbler Common migrant, 4 – 10 May and 18 August – 2 October. Magnolia Warbler Common migrant, especially numerous in the fall, 1 – 27 May and 24 August – 5 October. Cape May Warbler Occasional fall migrant; 20 September to 7 October. Black-throated Blue Warbler Occasional migrant during the first week in May and during a longer period in the fall from 5 September to 2 October. Yellow-rumped Warbler Common winter resident; common, sometimes abundant, spring and fall migrant. Present from 2 October to 10 May. Black-throated Green Warbler Uncommon spring (28 April – 4 May), rare post-breeding visitor (7August 2004), and common fall (7 September – 16 October) migrant. Blackburnian Warbler Uncommon spring and fall migrant; 3 – 10 May 2003 and 18 August – 27 September 1998. Yellow-throated Warbler Rare spring migrant (1 May 99) and occasional summer visitor, at least during the period 30 June – 1 August 2000 when a male was periodically singing at the end of the peninsula trail. Pine Warbler Uncommon migrant and summer resident in pine patches within the deciduous forest, from 28 February to 6 October. Female observed on 14 April 1999 gathering nest material by stripping thin pieces of bark from a red cedar. A second nest building record obtained on 7 April 2001. Species is also an occasional winter resident with records on 13 November 2000 and 5 December 1998. Prairie Warbler Occasional migrant and summer resident associated with conifers in oldfield habitats from 22 April to 20 September. Most recently only two males have been observed to be territorial, one in the north oldfield and another in south oldfield. Female with food for young observed on 3 June 1999. Palm Warbler Uncommon fall migrant, 4 September – 2 November, and rare early spring migrant (2 to 19 April). Bay-breasted Warbler Occasional fall migrant; three records - 13 September 2001, 16 September 2003, and 2 October 2000. Blackpoll Warbler Rare spring and fall migrant; 7 September 1998, 16 September 2003, 27 May 2003, 29 September 2003, and 18 August 2004. Cerulean Warbler Occasional fall migrant during the first and second week of September. Black-and-white Warbler Uncommon spring migrant (3 April – 11 May) and fall migrant (1 September – 4 October). Post nuptial wanderers from assumed nearby breeding populations observed in late July and early August. American Redstart Uncommon migrant, 19 April – 17 May and 1 September – 6 October. Occasionally recorded as a post-breeding visitor from presumed nearby nesting areas from July through August. Worm-eating Warbler Occasional late summer visitor and fall migrant. Nine records from 7 July to 1 September. Ovenbird Occasional spring migrant during the period from mid-April to the first week in May. Also recorded as a post –breeding season visitor on 17 July 2000 and 4 August 2001, and an occasional fall migrant, 6 – 30 September.
Louisiana Waterthrush Uncommon summer resident along Martin’s Branch and its tributaries as well as occasional along the lakeshore from early April (3 April) to the first week in August. No confirmed nesting records but paired birds observed and territorial encounters recorded, especially at the junctions of the White, Red, and Yellow trails. Kentucky Warbler Rare migrant. A single observation of a post-breeding wanderer from nearby breeding area on 23 August 1999 and a spring record on 6 May 2003. Common Yellowthroat Uncommon summer resident and migrant, present in the sedge-willow stands on siltbars and along the lakeshore of the Ivy Creek extension of the reservoir as well as in denser herbaceous patches in the south oldfield. On 20 July 2001 male was observed gathering food and feeding young. Present from 8 April to 22 October. Hooded Warbler Rare late summer visitor (15 August 2001) and rare spring (22 April 2002, 10 May 2003) and fall migrant (1-6 September 2001). Wilson Warbler Rare migrant; one record, 17 May 2004. Canada Warbler Occasional spring, late summer visitor and fall migrant. Recorded 6 – 16 May and 12 August – 7 September. Yellow-breasted Chat Occasional spring migrant in forest edge community during the first week of May and a rare late summer visitor (20 August 2001) and fall migrant (6 Sept 02). Scarlet Tanager Common summer resident territorial in the canopy of the deciduous forest from 24 April to 24 August. Lingering summer residents, or more likely migrants, observed through September with a latest date of 17 October 1999. Eastern Towhee Common permanent resident recorded every week of the year in oldfield-edge habitats. Nested 3’ up in a 6’ Virginia pine along the forest edge adjacent to the south oldfield. Fledged young accompanied by adults seen in mid-July. Chipping Sparrow Common, sometimes abundant, migrant from 4 April to 6 May and 27 September to 14 November. Three observations of summer visitors: 4 July 1998, 6 August 1999, and 15 August 2001. Clay-colored Sparrow Rare spring migrant; one record (22 April 2002). Field Sparrow Common migrant, uncommon summer resident, and occasional winter resident in oldfield habitats. There is a hiatus in observations in the fall suggesting that winter birds are probably a different population than the summer birds. Males begin singing in the third week of March. Female nest-building along the forest edge on 20 April. Adult gathering food for young on 24 May 2001; adult on a different territory from the previous record feeding recently fledged young on 15 June 2001. Savannah Sparrow Rare spring migrant; records 7 - 14 April in the grasslands. Rare fall migrant; record on 1 October 2001 near the education building and 17 October 2002 along the edge of the south grassland. Rare winter visitor; two birds observed along shore of silt island off end of peninsula trail (28 January 2002). Grasshopper Sparrow Rare fall visitor; single record on 7 September 2002 in planted millet in wildlife viewing area. Fox Sparrow Uncommon migrant and occasional winter resident from the first week in November until the first week in April. Most frequently observed in edge habitats. Song Sparrow Common migrant and winter resident from the end of September to the end of April. Song sparrow is also an occasional summer resident, maintaining territories along the edge of the reservoir, and remaining until late August. Female seen collecting nesting material on 19 June 2002 at the end of the peninsula trail. Lincoln’s Sparrow Occasional fall migrant; one record along edge of north grassland on 17 September 2001 and a second record in the watchable wildlife area on 5 October 2001, several on 5 October 2002 along the forest edge adjacent to the south grassland, and another beside the educational building on 14 October and 28 October 2003. Swamp Sparrow Uncommon, sometimes common, migrant and winter resident from late September to early May. Almost all records are from the sedge-willow association on the silt bars at the end of the peninsula trail, but also has occurred in the grain plantings in the watchable wildlife area. White-throated Sparrow Abundant migrant and winter resident from early September to mid-May. Most frequently observed in edge habitats, but does occur in the interior of the deciduous forest. White-crowned Sparrow Ocassional fall migrant; only five records – 21 October 2003, 24 October 2000, 28 October 2003, 29 October 2001, and 1 November 2002. Dark-eyed Junco Common migrant and winter resident, primarily in edge habitats. Dates of occurrence from 4 October to 24 April. Northern Cardinal Abundant permanent resident, present every week of the year. Some individuals are territorial by mid-March with nest construction beginning the first week in April and continuing through May. Fledged birds being fed by adults seen by the first week in June, but nest building for later nests observed through amid-June. Rose-breasted Grosbeak Occasional spring (4-17 May) and fall (1 September – 7 October) migrant. Blue Grosbeak Rare fall migrant; one record on 1 September 2001. Indigo Bunting Common migrant and summer resident in forest edge habitats. Present from 22 April to 10 October. Breeding records of an adult with recently fledged young as early as 30 May as well as on 1 July, nest building observed by Jenny Gaden on 3 July 2003, and an old nest found in peripheral branch of autumn olive along the forest edge in the north oldfield. Red-winged Blackbird Lacking extensive stands of cattails or oldfields without much coverage by trees, the available habitats at Ivy Creek do not meet this species’ ecological requirements. Thus it is an occasional spring migrant and winter visitor and an uncommon late summer visitor (2 August 2003) and fall migrant. Eastern Meadowlark Because of current pasture management practices in the region, eastern meadowlarks are very patchy in their distribution. Perhaps as the grasslands at Ivy Creek develop more spatial heterogeneity, this species may develop a local population. At present it is a rare visitor with a single record on 7 March 1998. Rusty Blackbird Occasional spring (23 March 1999) and fall (3 - 19 November) migrant Common Grackle Except for a few records in early February, the grackle does not occur during the winter at Ivy Creek. Spring migrants appear in late February with the species being common in May and June when it nests. The species becomes uncommon during July, but numbers increase to a peak in October when it is abundant in the forest, especially if there is a good mast crop. Brown-headed Cowbird Common migrant and summer resident, arriving in late February and present until the end of August, although becoming uncommon after mid-June. Only confirmed evidence of breeding of this social parasite was a fledgling being fed by a wood thrush on 1 August and another observation of a red-eyed vireo feeding a fledgling on 19 July. Orchard Oriole Occasional migrant and summer resident in forest edge habitat from 3 May to 28 July. Both male and female observed feeding fledglings on 11 July 2000 near the education building. Baltimore Oriole Uncommon migrant and summer resident from 22 April to 7 September. Female was observed feeding recently fledged young along the forest edge near the barn on 30 June 2000. Purple Finch Uncommon spring and fall migrant as well as winter resident from 25 October to 20 April, although there is a single earlier date on 13 September 2001. Most regularly observed at feeders and in oldfield habitats where it feeds on cedar “berries”, but also occurs with the deciduous forest, apparently feeding on tulip popular seeds. House Finch Uncommon permanent resident, but becoming common during the winter. While usually observed in the developed area around the education building, it does occur in other edge habitats in winter wherever fruits, like asiatic bittersweet, are available. Pine Siskin Rare winter visitor; a single record on 5 December 1998. American Goldfinch Common to abundant permanent resident in forest edge habitat, recorded every week in the year. It becomes especially noticeable when thistles are going to seed in July and August, since its nesting activity is dependent upon this plant, being one of the few perching birds that feeds its young on these seeds rather than on more ubiquitous insects. House Sparrow This species is a permanent, but highly localized, resident in the area. It is a rare visitor to Ivy Creek, being recorded only five times: 3 January 1998, 6 March 1998, 8 August 1999, 1 February 2003, and 6 September 2003. |
THE BIRDS OF IVY CREEKJohn L. Zimmermanupdated April, 2006
Spring: March – May Summer: June – August Fall: September – November Winter: December – February Abundant: many individuals, always observed Common: Regularly seen but not on every visit; not in large numbers Uncommon: regularly occur in small numbers; seen about half of visits Occasional: present in low numbers or irregular in occurrence Rare: known from only a few records
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