I must say, despite how many people came by to see the Kites, things were
generally orderly and under control with Maryland Birders. So much so that
my neighbors didn't mind the birders at all and invited them into there
yards. Our Maryland birders in my opinion were tops. It wasn't until other
bird organizations were advertising the Kites, then Birders from far and
away started showing up and were not getting the rules + regulations on my
reports to the MD Osprey. Before you know it, people were letting themselves
into my house like it was the headquarters at Blackwater.  Then my wife Mary
Ellen had a problem with it. Then the neighbors were seeing it as well. That
nice orderly Kite service we were providing became the free for all. 

Again, other than one or two MD Birders that went onto one of my neighbors
yards with out permission and with out being noticed by anyone. I don't even
think they knew any better. Other than that, I don't believe people from our
Clubs and Organizations are the problem. It's the other List servers and
hotlines that don't post the rules and regulations that go along with our
birds. When you come to MD, BRING YOU PROPER ETIQUITE! 

My reward for all of that has been you people and your kindness back to me.
Every time I say high to someone, like this weekend at the Kingbird, I get a
thank you and real nice words from people. I have been asked if I would do
it again if the Kites showed up. The answer would be yes. It's so much fun
to share with people. I gave, and have been given back ten fold.

 

On another note, which is a late posting. Deal Island at the end of the road
near the ramp, Parke and I walked down the path that continues on. Around
the second Picnic table we had a Sedge Wren. Also a few Marsh Wrens across
the little channel there. I did take some great pics of the Sedge Wren.

Sean McCandless

Elkton, MD