*** CANCELED *** Photowalk to Roosevelt Wetlands *** CANCELED ***

This fairly new created wetland came to the attention of local birders when both a Black-bellied Whistling-Duck and a pair of Purple Gallinules were seen here in 2008. The duck(s) were seen again the next year, but have not been reported since and the gallinules are an infrequent visitor and perhaps nester. But if you want to “hear” the following species within the dense wetland vegetation it is the place to go; Least Bittern, Sora, Virginia Rail, Sedge Wren, Marsh Wren and Swamp Sparrow. Of course, with patience and a little enticing any of them may show themselves.

The following are just an example of birds you can see.
FALL: Usually by late September and early October the first wintering marsh birds have arrived. Because there are no trees there is a lot of sky to scan. Watch for migrating hawks and vultures anytime from late September into November. Also, check the tall power poles off to the west for Bald Eagle. Almost anything may show up during fall migration as far as passerines are concerned, like a White-crowned Sparrow did in 2017.

WINTER: Few ducks winter here, but occasionally a stray flock of Blue-winged Teal, Ring-necked Duck or Northern Shoveler. It’s a go-to spot to see a Northern Harrier during the winter season. The marsh birds are the highlight, so get there early to hear one calling.

SPRING-SUMMER: : Not a whole lot of birders get to this site during spring and summer. There are no major stands of trees to hold migrating passerines or woodland species. Expect to see a few Northern Cardinals, Loggerhead Shrike, Eurasian Collared-Dove, Boat-tailed Grackle, Red-winged Blackbird and Common Gallinule. Least Bitterns are common in the marsh. Listen for their soft coo-coo call. If you’re in the area in summer it might be worth a stop to see if any Purple Gallinules or Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks have returned. Also, if you happen upon any Mottled Duck types take the time to analyze them well to make sure there are not yet another Mallard X Mottled hybrid. The marsh looks to be a prime spot for Mottled Duck nesting.

INSIDER TIPS: There are no restrooms and a dirt parking lot that holds four vehicles, but you can also park up off the curb at the street, if necessary. You can walk all the way around the wetland. It is just under a mile in length.

***

Upcoming FCCP PhotoTours for 2023.
FCCP offers some of the most affordable instructional PhotoTours you can find anywhere. Our PhotoTours combined expert photography instruction (certified instructors), bucket list locations (Yosemite, Fall Color Tours; Yellowstone - Fall, Spring, Winter; Glacier National Park) and safety (retired medical professionals travel on all tours)

Watch the calendar for specific dates.
September - Yellow Stone in the Fall, Yellow Stone NP
October - Yosemite NP, California

***

My Recommended Retailers
Where you buy your gear matters. You expect to get what you ordered and you want to pay a low price for it. The retailers I recommend below are the ones I trust for my own purchases.

B & H Photo and Video — (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/buy/Great-Deals/ci/16478/N/4280521071?BI=4308&KW=&KBID=4736)

Adorama — The Photography People — (http://www.adorama.com/?kbid=64386)

**Lensrentals.com** — Rent the Best Cameras & Lenses Available (http://www.pjatr.com/t/TUJGRktHSkJGS0dJS0xCRkpOSkVN)

***

FCCP Membership Options:

Basic Membership — $50

Supporter Plus Membership — $100

We accept all major credit cards. We also accept Cash App, Venmo and Apple Cash/Pay. Contact us via email for additional options or to pay via phone, FCCP_Director@me.com