Spring migration of warblers has started and several species have been spotted and/or heard in the last two weeks. The Northern Parulas were among the first to arrive and can be heard singing hidden in the topmost leaves of the trees in the woods, near the creek. This species nests in our area and will be around until the end of September. The Yellow-rumped Warblers are here until mid May and will return in mid July to spend the winter. A Blue-winged Warbler was both seen and heard this week – this species does nest in the St. Louis area. A Cerulean Warbler has been heard in the Sycamores near the driveway. An additional sighting was made near the Horse Trail access to Deer Creek. This species typically nests in Sycamores near water and is considered an endangered bird. If LREC proves to be a nesting spot for Ceruleans, it would be a significant addition to our species list. A Hooded Warbler was both seen and heard along Deer Creek near the mulch pile, as was a Prothonotary Warbler.
Additional species include Northern Waterthrush and Ruby-crowned Kinglet both migrating through. Blue-grey Gnatcatcher and Great Crested Flycatcher both of which which nest in the area. Grey cheeked Thrush seen near the feeders.