Well, I led the first trip out of the gate of the Verde Valley Birding & Nature Festival. I took 16 Early Worms (who get the birds) out at 6 a.m. to Tavasci Marsh. This is a rare phenom in AZ -- a natural, spring-fed marsh. It spreads out near the Verde River as it snakes through the town of Clarkdale.
All started auspiciously. As soon as I got out of the car, a small flock of White-faced Ibis flew overhead. By the time we wrapped up at 10 a.m., we had observed 49 species. I considered that pretty light (virtually no warblers, vireos, empids or waterfowl). But there were two major highlights: a pair of soaring Swainson's Hawks (a lifer for me) and a Solitary Sandpiper, which I've never seen in that county.
All told, the festival is enjoying record registration for its trips. I'm leading ones all four days, so tune in tomorrow for the next installment!
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