We are approaching the end of the nesting season and the bird posting has been pretty quiet. But.....
BLACK SKIMMERS
We still have young Skimmers hiding in the heavy vegetation and groups of Black Skimmers continue to roost in the posting. The bird posting may be quiet, but important bird activity is happening in the area of the south end, Masonboro Inlet, Masonboro Island, the north end of Wrightsville and the local tidal creeks!!
We have a small group of Black Skimmers caring for chicks in the oceanfront area of the posting close to the point. These photographs and videos were taken in the last two weeks and each has it's own story to share.
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| This young skimmer chick was born at the very end of July. |
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| another young skimmer |
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| The adult Skimmers react when a large gull tries to take a fish from a fledgling. |
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| Parent skimmers are still feeding fledglings who are just learning to fly. |
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| Look for banded fledglings! |
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| Groups of skimmers on the oceanfront area of the colony close to the point. |
Videos are a great way to not only watch but a chance to listen to the activity!
LEAST TERNS & COMMON TERNS
All of the Least Terns AND Common Terns have left the posting, but training of fledglings in fishing and strong flying skills is happening as they prepare for migration. Feeding of fledglings by the parent birds will continue through migration as they improve their own fishing skills.
Least Terns and Common Terns continue to fly over the south end with fledglings and fishing continues in the inlet and along the Wrightsville Beach coast line.
OYSTERCATCHERS AND OTHER GUESTS
The Oystercatcher pair returns to the south end generally two hours before and after the High Tide time… and around mid-tide.
Royal and Sandwich Terns, as well as other migrating species, can also be found in the area.
Going back to see some of our earlier posts will give us a chance to check out what happened with nesting this summer!
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