Day 23 and 24, Bodie Island, Hatteras and Ocracoke LightsDay 23 - 24 Three Lighthouses
North of where we are staying at Frisco, NC, are the Currituck Lighthouse (which we visited in the rain), and Bodie Island Light. The latter we did visit this day in sunshine. As a matter of fact it was a brilliant day with full sun all day and lots of stars at night. We even had a great sunset! (See). You folks that don’t get to see that can have that as a souvenir. We take the sunsets that God gives us and enjoy what they are. But back to the Lighthouses. The term “island’ should be used in a strict sense of interpretation as merely crossing a minimal bridge or a short causeway gets you to another island here along the Outer Banks. They are almost all (not quite) connected by a road. (Read below to see an example of non connected). There is one exception and that is the Bonner Bridge that connects Bodie Island to Pea Island.
The Bodie Island light has an ominous history, first erected in 1847 by a dubious fellow who had no experience building these. He placed brick as the foundation and in two years it was tilting so badly it had to be abandoned after two years of use. It was rebuilt and during the Civil War was a center of concern so the Confederates blew it up to avoid its falling into Union hands... This coast has a lot of traffic and a light is important to safety (There are shoals, sand bars and shallows). The builders were the same ones who built the Hatteras Lighthouse, so in 1872 it was completed. IT is 156 feet tall with 214 stairs, and the light ranges 19 miles. It’s light pattern (they are all different along the same waterway) is 2.4 seconds on, 2.5 off, 2.5 on, and 22.5 off (sic)
The Hatteras Lighthouse has also an interesting history but for a different reason. Authorized in 1799, and built in 1803, it was too short (90 feet) and its signal not strong enough to be seen soon enough. The original was gradually inundated by the changing water and sand even though starting out on shore, became located 1500 feet out in the ocean, eventually. Even though 60 feet was added to its height, it, too became too expensive to repair and so a new (the present) lighthouse was built in 1870. This one was on land and had a wooden plank base and was 198 feet to the pinnacle. Indeed, it was the tallest in the USA lighthouse system. But in time, this too was encroached by the sea and sand. And a storm destroyed the dunes in front of it. So,,(NOW THIS IS THE AMAZING PART), in 1999 the National park System approved the MOVING of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse some 2, 900 feet to its present position in 23 days . That is 4,200 tons and a 197 feet tall lighthouse. That is another story for another time. It is now 1500 feet from the seashore along with all the original buildings that were also moved. TRULY AMAZING FEAT. (Jim has a booklet on that if anyone wants to read it and see the pictures.). Its light pattern is a 7.5 second white flash, and can be seen 24 nautical miles.
The final light that we viewed on Wed was the Ocracoke Light on the Island of the same name. We did have to take a Ferry to see this lighthouse. (40 minute Free ride). And as we will be doing the same thing with the trailer tomorrow it was also a “Test Run” giving us a chance to see the Island and figure out the loading procedure as after 10:00 AM the lines get long. The Ferry can take only 24 cars at a time and less with trucks, There were four Ferries operating here from Hatteras Harbor to Ocracoke Island. (The far end from Ocracoke City). It is another ten miles to the Lighthouse and city where the Ferry to the Mainland is located. (Which we will take tomorrow. Review: we take two Ferries to get to the mainland.
The Ocracoke light is the second light and it is in the second different location. The first one was built on Seashell Island but the channel shifted one mile away from the lighthouse. A land battle ensued for a new site, and finally in 1822, for $50.00 the US Gov't purchased 2 acres and the present tower was built. It stands today and cost $11,000 when built. This included the keeper’s house. This lighthouse is painted all white and is unique in that respect compared to most lighthouses. The “paint” that is used, blends, lime, salt, Spanish whiting, rice, glue and boiling water. It is applied when still hot. Sounds like it would not wash off! The 4th Order Fresnel (Fray-nel) lens was dismantled by the Confederates, but relit by the Union with an oil burning type. Its beam can be seen 14 miles at sea. It is 77 feet high (Don’t ask me why it is so short …because it was built so early?)
During the day we lunched at the public Marina, and visited some stores (REALLY WE DID) to purchase some shells, and T-shirts. Jim always buys postcards at most every stop. “How many Jim?”
“Oh, I have sent out 40, and maybe there are 40 more to go”. Did you get one? J
So we pack up the trailer in the morning, beat the rain across Pamlico Sound to Swan Quarter on the mainland of North Caroline. We will be 4 days at Fairfield (try to find that!) and visit three NWR in that area. 1- Matamuskeet NWR, 2- Pocosin Lakes NWR and possibly 3- Alligator River NWR. There is a fourth at Swan Quarter NWR if time allows. All of these have lots of fresh water and we believe more warblers will be there. We will be “off the air” unless we find an internet connection nearby as the park (a small one) has none. See you next time possibly on the18th.or 19th.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Monday, May 11, 2009
Day 22 CURRITUCK LIGHT AND THE WRIGHT BROTHERS
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FORT HENRY LIGHT, OLD (1797) AND THE NEW ONE.(This is the oldest in the USA)Day 22 Currituck Light and Wright Brothers Memorial
The wind and rain started early this morning and continued all day. There were lots of “wind and rain” moments today.
But first it was “laundry day” and so that was the priority in the AM. This Park is on sand (DUH) on the Outer Banks (I will not give you a definition of the Outer Banks as there are many) so there is little need for parking pads and heavy gravel as seen in most parks. As long as the sand does not drift and has some growth on it, it keeps things in place, there is some woods here (pine) so that helps. We are on the “Back Bay”. The Laundry, swimming pool and public showers are all connected by a wooden patio deck. It was so windy today when we did the laundry, the large 8 X 4 wooden window had to be closed to keep us from blowing away. Laundry was $1.75 / load and the same for dryers. Times six (dryers and washers) =$10.50. Just in case you have to do that in an emergency.
The wind and rain started early this morning and continued all day. There were lots of “wind and rain” moments today.
But first it was “laundry day” and so that was the priority in the AM. This Park is on sand (DUH) on the Outer Banks (I will not give you a definition of the Outer Banks as there are many) so there is little need for parking pads and heavy gravel as seen in most parks. As long as the sand does not drift and has some growth on it, it keeps things in place, there is some woods here (pine) so that helps. We are on the “Back Bay”. The Laundry, swimming pool and public showers are all connected by a wooden patio deck. It was so windy today when we did the laundry, the large 8 X 4 wooden window had to be closed to keep us from blowing away. Laundry was $1.75 / load and the same for dryers. Times six (dryers and washers) =$10.50. Just in case you have to do that in an emergency.
CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE AND TUNNELS
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CURRITUCK LIGHT (1873) AT COROLLA NC
The laundry was finished and it was nearing noon so we ate lunch and then headed north to the very tip of the Outer Banks to a town called Corolla (NC). The ride there was through a driving rain all the way, mostly on the 2 lane, NC 12. This was a 90 mile, one way jaunt but the lighthouse is another historic one and beautiful in its original natural brick color. (see pics).
There were many shipwrecks on this portion of the darkened coast so in 1873-1875 the lighthouse was built to save lives. After an oil wick lamp was used a 7th order Fresnel lens was installed. It was served by the lighthouse keepers until 1939 when it became automated by the US Coast Guard. The duplex keeper’s house (there were three keepers) became more deteriorated until, in 1980, The Outer Banks Conservationists society gathered funds to restore it. Today it is a magnificent site with manicured grounds and because the lighthouse itself is not up to building codes today, a waiver must be signed before climbing the 214 steps to the 156 foot high Fresnel lens. It is 28 feet across at the base and 16 feet across at the parapet (top). IT is all red brick. Remember that lighthouse on the same coast must be different in coloration.
DID YOU KNOW? The manner in which the light was “flashed” before automation, involved a series of pulleys, cables and weights powered a clockwork mechanism beneath the lantern, much like a grandfather’s clock. The keeper had to crank the weights up by hand every two and ½ hours!!!!! No wonder they had three keepers.
Adjacent to the light is the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education with displays including a 1500 gallon aquarium which is free to the public. Many wonderful animals and bird displays are present and an ongoing lecture series. (Today was photography- we couldn’t stay).
The strip of ;land from about 20 miles south on the Outer Banks where NC 158 comes in from the west and joins NC 12 and 25 miles north to Currituck (Corolla) is solid with homes that are in the $500,000 to $2,000,000 range. That’s 20 miles of homes some 8-10 blocks wide in most places. No comment! Yes, there were many for sale signs.
By this time the rain was incessant and we wanted to tour the Wilbur and Orville Wright Museum at Kill Devils Hill. We stayed indoors. The outdoors takes auto route that leads to the hill that the first flight was taken and has markers showing the first four flights. The 4tth one was the longest at 185 feet. The winds that day in 1903 (October) were like today at 27 mph. In1902 the Wrights made over 1,000 glides in a glider, (in Dayton OH) to perfect stability before they attempted to put an engine on the plane. After the success here they both demonstrated in Europe and the USA and found that their control was much superior to any others. The US Army turned them down at first, but later got “on board” with them in joint efforts. This historic day was accompanied by the visionary Wright’s who brought with them …a camera to record the events and the site. Hence much has been recorded.
There were many shipwrecks on this portion of the darkened coast so in 1873-1875 the lighthouse was built to save lives. After an oil wick lamp was used a 7th order Fresnel lens was installed. It was served by the lighthouse keepers until 1939 when it became automated by the US Coast Guard. The duplex keeper’s house (there were three keepers) became more deteriorated until, in 1980, The Outer Banks Conservationists society gathered funds to restore it. Today it is a magnificent site with manicured grounds and because the lighthouse itself is not up to building codes today, a waiver must be signed before climbing the 214 steps to the 156 foot high Fresnel lens. It is 28 feet across at the base and 16 feet across at the parapet (top). IT is all red brick. Remember that lighthouse on the same coast must be different in coloration.
DID YOU KNOW? The manner in which the light was “flashed” before automation, involved a series of pulleys, cables and weights powered a clockwork mechanism beneath the lantern, much like a grandfather’s clock. The keeper had to crank the weights up by hand every two and ½ hours!!!!! No wonder they had three keepers.
Adjacent to the light is the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education with displays including a 1500 gallon aquarium which is free to the public. Many wonderful animals and bird displays are present and an ongoing lecture series. (Today was photography- we couldn’t stay).
The strip of ;land from about 20 miles south on the Outer Banks where NC 158 comes in from the west and joins NC 12 and 25 miles north to Currituck (Corolla) is solid with homes that are in the $500,000 to $2,000,000 range. That’s 20 miles of homes some 8-10 blocks wide in most places. No comment! Yes, there were many for sale signs.
By this time the rain was incessant and we wanted to tour the Wilbur and Orville Wright Museum at Kill Devils Hill. We stayed indoors. The outdoors takes auto route that leads to the hill that the first flight was taken and has markers showing the first four flights. The 4tth one was the longest at 185 feet. The winds that day in 1903 (October) were like today at 27 mph. In1902 the Wrights made over 1,000 glides in a glider, (in Dayton OH) to perfect stability before they attempted to put an engine on the plane. After the success here they both demonstrated in Europe and the USA and found that their control was much superior to any others. The US Army turned them down at first, but later got “on board” with them in joint efforts. This historic day was accompanied by the visionary Wright’s who brought with them …a camera to record the events and the site. Hence much has been recorded.
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RECORD OF THE FIRST FLIGHT LENGTHS
MODEL OF THE FIRST WRIGHT BROTHERS PLANE (OCT 1903)
That was it and as it was now near 6:00 PM and way past our meal time, we stopped at “Tippers’ (Italian) in Avon, for supper. Ruth with chicken linguine, and Jim with home made Lasagna. They were very good.
The return trip the rest of the 70 miles was fraught with puddles on the road and at one point with many opposing cars, (thanks for the “travel mercies”) a large puddle enveloped the car in water and I had to get control and slow down. I went 40-50 feet before being able to see out the window again... Fortunately the driver behind me was alert to slow also.
We lined up some stops along the way for tomorrow when the weather will improve (sunny, too) and arrived home after a stop for groceries at the “Food Lion” a local chain in the east. The wind had broken my fibre glass “spinner pole”, and the slide out awning was threatening to come lose. I tied it down and put the pole to rest.
Tomorrow another lighthouse and some birds as we only identified 17 today but one was new…the White Ibis. Thanks for reading.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
The Funnel of Delmarve Peninsula
Day 20, (May 9) to the tip of Delmarva Peninsula
IT was a toss up between heading to Tangier Island in Chesapeake Bay (the west side of the peninsula) to the place where people still speak an Elizabethan dialect from the early settlers, 30 years ago, or head for the tip of the Delmarva Peninsula and visit the Eastern Shore NWR and Barrier Reef HQ. The latter won out as it appeared that the migrant birds would hit that piece of small real estate easier than the Island. Although there were seabirds on the trip over and back, but it was a 3 hour layover on the Island before the return trip on the Ferry, and how much ice cream could we eat while waiting.
Heading down US 13 was still a trip through some really fine farmland especially tomatoes and a crop yet unnamed that is set in four rows of plastic covers, alternating with rows of uncut rye as either a barrier or water holder. The men were out in the fields today getting ready to open up the plastic for growth. Perhaps they were peppers, or squash of some type. We will check on that and add the results later. There were many fields of tomatoes getting ready and the potatoes were in blossom already so you can see how quickly the season comes on here.
We arrived at the NWR after passing such Eastern Shore towns as; Machipongo where the “poorhouse farm” was once located it is now a winery center; Nassawadox, the only pace on the east coast that has a drive through for clams on the east coast. (Called Machipongo Clam Shack”; Machapreague, the “Flounder Capital of the World”; and the town of Parksley, a Norman Rockwell type of town that has the Eastern Shore RR Museum meticulously restored . The Center for Visitors was manned by two more volunteers, these being two retired teachers from PA. They were more than generous in their help to find birds. This Center has a one way glass so the birds in their “yard” cannot see motion inside. Good for the kids for sure. The accessible part of the Refuge is small and diverse. The day was not a good one for birding as by now the day had reached the mid 80’s and the wind was up to 30 mph from the SW. Nice for living, but birds ‘unfavorite’ time. We tried the trails, watched in the trees and listened intently, but only picked up a dozen bird specie. None were new ones, but that still was a great place to be.
On the way back we decided to look into Kiptopeke State Park as that has a banding station for bird in the fall when the migration is on. NB: Note that the peninsula shape is ideal for birds to funnel southward in the fall. IT is truly a "Funnel shape". Here we saw the WW2 merchant ships that have been used as reefs in the bay (some nine of them). Also were the first Brown Pelicans and one Shearwater that we were looking for. A long walk around the banding area only made us hotter as now inland the temps exceeded the mid 80’s. Because of the great birding in the fall this park as a great many trails and “mist net” stations for banding the birds at that time. Our bird count for the day was right around 45, with two new ones.
We stopped for gas as the price was at $2.02 and that was the cheapest all along the way. Cigarettes are at $4.50 a pack if anyone is interested. HA! There are lots of Crab places and seafood places as one might expect here along the Coast. The chicken industry is big as well and Tyson has a meat packing plant hirer near Melfa.
Tonight is our first steak on the grill and then we will internet, take down the awning before dark, and of course try another flavor of ice cream. Ruth likes the “Marsh Mud” and I have tried many already and probably will go with Coffee tonight.
We move to Cape Hatteras tomorrow and will be staying at the campground right on the Ocean.The Delmarva Sorry no pictures tonight we are on "borrowed Wi Fi
IT was a toss up between heading to Tangier Island in Chesapeake Bay (the west side of the peninsula) to the place where people still speak an Elizabethan dialect from the early settlers, 30 years ago, or head for the tip of the Delmarva Peninsula and visit the Eastern Shore NWR and Barrier Reef HQ. The latter won out as it appeared that the migrant birds would hit that piece of small real estate easier than the Island. Although there were seabirds on the trip over and back, but it was a 3 hour layover on the Island before the return trip on the Ferry, and how much ice cream could we eat while waiting.
Heading down US 13 was still a trip through some really fine farmland especially tomatoes and a crop yet unnamed that is set in four rows of plastic covers, alternating with rows of uncut rye as either a barrier or water holder. The men were out in the fields today getting ready to open up the plastic for growth. Perhaps they were peppers, or squash of some type. We will check on that and add the results later. There were many fields of tomatoes getting ready and the potatoes were in blossom already so you can see how quickly the season comes on here.
We arrived at the NWR after passing such Eastern Shore towns as; Machipongo where the “poorhouse farm” was once located it is now a winery center; Nassawadox, the only pace on the east coast that has a drive through for clams on the east coast. (Called Machipongo Clam Shack”; Machapreague, the “Flounder Capital of the World”; and the town of Parksley, a Norman Rockwell type of town that has the Eastern Shore RR Museum meticulously restored . The Center for Visitors was manned by two more volunteers, these being two retired teachers from PA. They were more than generous in their help to find birds. This Center has a one way glass so the birds in their “yard” cannot see motion inside. Good for the kids for sure. The accessible part of the Refuge is small and diverse. The day was not a good one for birding as by now the day had reached the mid 80’s and the wind was up to 30 mph from the SW. Nice for living, but birds ‘unfavorite’ time. We tried the trails, watched in the trees and listened intently, but only picked up a dozen bird specie. None were new ones, but that still was a great place to be.
On the way back we decided to look into Kiptopeke State Park as that has a banding station for bird in the fall when the migration is on. NB: Note that the peninsula shape is ideal for birds to funnel southward in the fall. IT is truly a "Funnel shape". Here we saw the WW2 merchant ships that have been used as reefs in the bay (some nine of them). Also were the first Brown Pelicans and one Shearwater that we were looking for. A long walk around the banding area only made us hotter as now inland the temps exceeded the mid 80’s. Because of the great birding in the fall this park as a great many trails and “mist net” stations for banding the birds at that time. Our bird count for the day was right around 45, with two new ones.
We stopped for gas as the price was at $2.02 and that was the cheapest all along the way. Cigarettes are at $4.50 a pack if anyone is interested. HA! There are lots of Crab places and seafood places as one might expect here along the Coast. The chicken industry is big as well and Tyson has a meat packing plant hirer near Melfa.
Tonight is our first steak on the grill and then we will internet, take down the awning before dark, and of course try another flavor of ice cream. Ruth likes the “Marsh Mud” and I have tried many already and probably will go with Coffee tonight.
We move to Cape Hatteras tomorrow and will be staying at the campground right on the Ocean.The Delmarva Sorry no pictures tonight we are on "borrowed Wi Fi
Friday, May 8, 2009
Day 18 and 19 Chincoteague and Assateague
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THE PRANCING COLT
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The next day (Fri) we needed to take more than an hour to get to the north section of the NWR on Assateague. As the road does not run through the salt marshes, we headed inland to US 13, then north on VA 113t on 395 and two more roads (all good) to reach the Visitor Center at Assateague. There are three units there, first the state park (State of Maryland) that is adjacent to the beach, then the Assateague Island National Seashore (National Park Service) and the third is Chincoteague N W Refuge (US Fish and Wildlife Service) (actually on Assateague Island). You have that all straight by now! The Visitors Center was awaiting some fog delayed students for some educational programs when we stopped. There are only two miles of accessible roads, but if you have an ORV (Off Road Vehicle) permit, you can use the beaches at certain times and in certain places. Here again we explored all the roads and a few trails. We saw some Little Blue Herons, Another Towhee, and a good look at the Great Crested Flycatcher once more. More than 45 birds so it was a good day. IN the morning I did see the Rose Breasted Grosbeaks on my walk around. Oh, yes we saw a flock of Orchard Orioles on lunch break. He says “ Queeto”, “Queeto”, and “Queeto” and is beautiful in yellow, and rufous colors. Ruth did get some more horses and a young colt hat was prancing in one of the turn arounds..
We departed about 3:00 , stopped at another state park briefly, called Pokemoke. IT was quiet as the heat of the inland air was now up to 80 degrees F. By the time we stopped for a few groceries and returned to camp near the Ocean it had dropped to 72 F. Very comfortable, and the sun was still shining. . Rain threatens again this evening but the Minotaur shot has been moved up to 7:35 so we may get to watch it.
Day s 18 and 19 Chincoteague and Assateague
It is really confusing to sort out the geography here, as the NWR is actually on the Island of Assateague, but as it is so long it parallels Chincoteague and is accessible from the latter. The horses are on Assateague, both in the VA section (south end) and the Maryland section (more northerly). We visited both of them during these two days. For this blog I will descr9ibe them as “South section” and “North section “.
We proceeded to the South section on Thursday and after stopping at the visitor center and getting maps and info (and a T shirt) we started to make the rounds and locate birds and of course those famous ponies and horses. We did just both. Birds were decent especially the shore birds and many flocks of Indigo Buntings that were on the migration trail, as well as Blue Grosbeaks. Both stand out in their blue colors (males) and the females (browns) with them. The entry to both of these sections is accessed by a long 3-5 mile long) causeway which skirts over the rivers, sloughs and salt marshes.
Once on the Island it looks like any sand dune with lots of pines and shrubs along the way. Again there were lots of Dunlins, white rumped sandpipers, yellow legs, two kinds of lovers, and a few yellow warblers and yellow rumped warblers. We did not see any Osprey on the Islands. The day (#18) was overcast and threatened rain in the evening (it did).
After birding and getting our pictures we headed for the Creamery to download e mail and get some ice cream. Home made right there and they are open 365 days a year from 8: Am until 10:00 Pm. That works for me.
Then we did want to try the seafood here so went to Don’s Seafood and Restaurant where we tried the fare. Ruth had a plate of scallops and a side potato and salad, while I tried the Dream Combo with shrimp, scallops, and crab meat. This was under melted cheese in a two small cups. Excellent.
Then we tried to catch the liftoff of the Minotaur Rocket from the marina here looking across to Wallops Island (NASA). It was delayed and then postponed until tomorrow. It was a good thing we came home as a storm came up suddenly and soaked everything off and on for the rest of the night.
It is really confusing to sort out the geography here, as the NWR is actually on the Island of Assateague, but as it is so long it parallels Chincoteague and is accessible from the latter. The horses are on Assateague, both in the VA section (south end) and the Maryland section (more northerly). We visited both of them during these two days. For this blog I will descr9ibe them as “South section” and “North section “.
We proceeded to the South section on Thursday and after stopping at the visitor center and getting maps and info (and a T shirt) we started to make the rounds and locate birds and of course those famous ponies and horses. We did just both. Birds were decent especially the shore birds and many flocks of Indigo Buntings that were on the migration trail, as well as Blue Grosbeaks. Both stand out in their blue colors (males) and the females (browns) with them. The entry to both of these sections is accessed by a long 3-5 mile long) causeway which skirts over the rivers, sloughs and salt marshes.
Once on the Island it looks like any sand dune with lots of pines and shrubs along the way. Again there were lots of Dunlins, white rumped sandpipers, yellow legs, two kinds of lovers, and a few yellow warblers and yellow rumped warblers. We did not see any Osprey on the Islands. The day (#18) was overcast and threatened rain in the evening (it did).
After birding and getting our pictures we headed for the Creamery to download e mail and get some ice cream. Home made right there and they are open 365 days a year from 8: Am until 10:00 Pm. That works for me.
Then we did want to try the seafood here so went to Don’s Seafood and Restaurant where we tried the fare. Ruth had a plate of scallops and a side potato and salad, while I tried the Dream Combo with shrimp, scallops, and crab meat. This was under melted cheese in a two small cups. Excellent.
Then we tried to catch the liftoff of the Minotaur Rocket from the marina here looking across to Wallops Island (NASA). It was delayed and then postponed until tomorrow. It was a good thing we came home as a storm came up suddenly and soaked everything off and on for the rest of the night.
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THE STORM
The next day (Fri) we needed to take more than an hour to get to the north section of the NWR on Assateague. As the road does not run through the salt marshes, we headed inland to US 13, then north on VA 113t on 395 and two more roads (all good) to reach the Visitor Center at Assateague. There are three units there, first the state park (State of Maryland) that is adjacent to the beach, then the Assateague Island National Seashore (National Park Service) and the third is Chincoteague N W Refuge (US Fish and Wildlife Service) (actually on Assateague Island). You have that all straight by now! The Visitors Center was awaiting some fog delayed students for some educational programs when we stopped. There are only two miles of accessible roads, but if you have an ORV (Off Road Vehicle) permit, you can use the beaches at certain times and in certain places. Here again we explored all the roads and a few trails. We saw some Little Blue Herons, Another Towhee, and a good look at the Great Crested Flycatcher once more. More than 45 birds so it was a good day. IN the morning I did see the Rose Breasted Grosbeaks on my walk around. Oh, yes we saw a flock of Orchard Orioles on lunch break. He says “ Queeto”, “Queeto”, and “Queeto” and is beautiful in yellow, and rufous colors. Ruth did get some more horses and a young colt hat was prancing in one of the turn arounds..
We departed about 3:00 , stopped at another state park briefly, called Pokemoke. IT was quiet as the heat of the inland air was now up to 80 degrees F. By the time we stopped for a few groceries and returned to camp near the Ocean it had dropped to 72 F. Very comfortable, and the sun was still shining. . Rain threatens again this evening but the Minotaur shot has been moved up to 7:35 so we may get to watch it.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
DAY 17 AT DELAWARE BORDER
Day 16 SOUTHERN DELAWARE- LIGHTHOUSES AND WW 2
This Tuesday we looked south of the campground to see what was just between the Maryland border and Lewes Delaware. We had not explored this section of land. In between these points are two lighthouses on land and a number of wildlife viewing areas. The first objective was the State Park at Henlopen just a block away from the Lewes Ferry docks.
This Park has a number of features relating to WW2. In May of 1945 just after the war ended, a German submarine surrendered to the US Marines here and were interred first at Fort Miles (now the park land) and then in northern New Jersey. Also from WW 2 the giant 12 inch gun emplacements are still present at the preserved Fort Miles along with the fire tower, Battery 519 and the barracks. On the beach atop a large dune are the “off limits” nesting areas for the Piping Plover. These birds are “late” arriving this year due to the inclement weather. (Six consecutive days of rain.) In 1964 the US Gov’t. Returned the land to the state of Delaware turned the Fort into a tourist attraction and it was made into a 543 acre park. Much of the beach at the park is only accessible for fishermen with special $150,00 permits to surf fish. One access road that led to Gordon Pond (see later) was “Liaise Faire” to us. We had been warned not to mess with trespass laws.
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FORT ,MILES 12 INCH GUN, BARRACKS AND ANTI-SHIP,ANTI-AIR BATTERIES. (3”)
On the beach atop a large dune are the “off limits” nesting areas for the Piping Plover. These birds are “late” arriving this year due to the inclement weather. (Six consecutive days of rain.) In 1964 the US Gov’t. Returned the land to the state of Delaware turned the Fort into a tourist attraction and it was made into a 543 acre park. Much of the beach at the park is only accessible for fishermen with special $150,00 permits to surf fish. One access road that led to Gordon Pond (see later) was “Liaise Faire” to us. We had been warned not to mess with trespass laws.
Also at Henlopen State Park was a former site of the immigration service’s holding camp for immigrants who came into the country with diseases or were very ill. They remained here until they were well and then released. Over a period of 35 years (1884-1918) some 200,000 of them were processed through. There is no facility there at this time.
The birds were minimal here but a friendly Wood Thrush helped the day count.
Then we worked our way to the southern end of this park by driving 15 miles roundabout to the other end and a pond called Gordon’s Pond. This site of 100 acres had been a Pirate den , a salt mine, and more recently a cooperative agreement among the various agencies to make it wildlife Preserve. There are many excellent biking and hiking trails here, and many youth camping sites. We met some retired ladies from D.C. who shared our telescope with us to spot a Wilson ’s phalarope. This is the bird that spins in the shallow water to stir up the food. It was a beautiful bird and a first for Ruth and me.
We drove by the homes and beautiful landscaped yards in Henlopen Acres that wound around the streets to show their spring blossoms and beautiful manicured lawns. The trees were tall and the colors vibrant and varied. The dominant bush was the many deep colors of the Azalea Bush. Yet few birds in all this “over cover”.
.JPG)
.JPG)
FENWICK ISLAND (DEL) LIGHTHOUSE .--- OSPREY AND MATE ON NEST
The last effort of the day was to drive to the very southern border of the state (borders with MD) and locate the lighthouse that marks the border between the two states. With only one short “turn back” we located it on the “inside bay”.
This lighthouse is on the site referred to as the “Transpeninsular Line” and was establish in the 1700 by agreement with the King of England and the US Government. It marked the line between the state of PA at that time and the COUNTY of Maryland, and the state of Delaware. The survey was undertaken by 4 men, two from Delaware and two from Maryland. It stretched east and west past the center of the state 35 miles west. It is (the lighthouse) 78 feet high and has a third order Fresnel lamp. Not in use today it was presented to Friends of the Lighthouse in the 1960’s. It is not used today as almost all lights are automatic and electronically operated as “front” and “back” lights. Both residences (the lighthouse keepers and the assistants) are occupied still.
FACT: Did you know that over 400 US ships were sunk off the coast of the US during WW2?
.JPG)
THE TRANSPENINSULAR LINE PLAQUE THE ORIGINAL STONE BEARING THE
SEALS OF THE PENNS (NORTH) AND
CALVERTS (SOUTH SIDE) (1769)
The rain held off today until we started back and the prediction was that we will not have rain tomorrow when we break camp at least until afternoon. We will head for Chincoteague as the next camping spot. Thanks for reading and send an e mail anytime to: crazy4birds@comcast.net with any comments or questions. I will design a short quiz in the next few blogs. Just to keep you on your toes!!! (About the trip of course).
This Tuesday we looked south of the campground to see what was just between the Maryland border and Lewes Delaware. We had not explored this section of land. In between these points are two lighthouses on land and a number of wildlife viewing areas. The first objective was the State Park at Henlopen just a block away from the Lewes Ferry docks.
This Park has a number of features relating to WW2. In May of 1945 just after the war ended, a German submarine surrendered to the US Marines here and were interred first at Fort Miles (now the park land) and then in northern New Jersey. Also from WW 2 the giant 12 inch gun emplacements are still present at the preserved Fort Miles along with the fire tower, Battery 519 and the barracks. On the beach atop a large dune are the “off limits” nesting areas for the Piping Plover. These birds are “late” arriving this year due to the inclement weather. (Six consecutive days of rain.) In 1964 the US Gov’t. Returned the land to the state of Delaware turned the Fort into a tourist attraction and it was made into a 543 acre park. Much of the beach at the park is only accessible for fishermen with special $150,00 permits to surf fish. One access road that led to Gordon Pond (see later) was “Liaise Faire” to us. We had been warned not to mess with trespass laws.
.JPG)
FORT ,MILES 12 INCH GUN, BARRACKS AND ANTI-SHIP,ANTI-AIR BATTERIES. (3”)
On the beach atop a large dune are the “off limits” nesting areas for the Piping Plover. These birds are “late” arriving this year due to the inclement weather. (Six consecutive days of rain.) In 1964 the US Gov’t. Returned the land to the state of Delaware turned the Fort into a tourist attraction and it was made into a 543 acre park. Much of the beach at the park is only accessible for fishermen with special $150,00 permits to surf fish. One access road that led to Gordon Pond (see later) was “Liaise Faire” to us. We had been warned not to mess with trespass laws.
Also at Henlopen State Park was a former site of the immigration service’s holding camp for immigrants who came into the country with diseases or were very ill. They remained here until they were well and then released. Over a period of 35 years (1884-1918) some 200,000 of them were processed through. There is no facility there at this time.
The birds were minimal here but a friendly Wood Thrush helped the day count.
Then we worked our way to the southern end of this park by driving 15 miles roundabout to the other end and a pond called Gordon’s Pond. This site of 100 acres had been a Pirate den , a salt mine, and more recently a cooperative agreement among the various agencies to make it wildlife Preserve. There are many excellent biking and hiking trails here, and many youth camping sites. We met some retired ladies from D.C. who shared our telescope with us to spot a Wilson ’s phalarope. This is the bird that spins in the shallow water to stir up the food. It was a beautiful bird and a first for Ruth and me.
We drove by the homes and beautiful landscaped yards in Henlopen Acres that wound around the streets to show their spring blossoms and beautiful manicured lawns. The trees were tall and the colors vibrant and varied. The dominant bush was the many deep colors of the Azalea Bush. Yet few birds in all this “over cover”.
.JPG)
.JPG)
FENWICK ISLAND (DEL) LIGHTHOUSE .--- OSPREY AND MATE ON NEST
The last effort of the day was to drive to the very southern border of the state (borders with MD) and locate the lighthouse that marks the border between the two states. With only one short “turn back” we located it on the “inside bay”.
This lighthouse is on the site referred to as the “Transpeninsular Line” and was establish in the 1700 by agreement with the King of England and the US Government. It marked the line between the state of PA at that time and the COUNTY of Maryland, and the state of Delaware. The survey was undertaken by 4 men, two from Delaware and two from Maryland. It stretched east and west past the center of the state 35 miles west. It is (the lighthouse) 78 feet high and has a third order Fresnel lamp. Not in use today it was presented to Friends of the Lighthouse in the 1960’s. It is not used today as almost all lights are automatic and electronically operated as “front” and “back” lights. Both residences (the lighthouse keepers and the assistants) are occupied still.
FACT: Did you know that over 400 US ships were sunk off the coast of the US during WW2?
.JPG){kind=spacer}
THE TRANSPENINSULAR LINE PLAQUE THE ORIGINAL STONE BEARING THE
SEALS OF THE PENNS (NORTH) AND
CALVERTS (SOUTH SIDE) (1769)
The rain held off today until we started back and the prediction was that we will not have rain tomorrow when we break camp at least until afternoon. We will head for Chincoteague as the next camping spot. Thanks for reading and send an e mail anytime to: crazy4birds@comcast.net with any comments or questions. I will design a short quiz in the next few blogs. Just to keep you on your toes!!! (About the trip of course).
Monday, May 4, 2009
Day 13 Bombay Hook NWR-a new bird!
.JPG)
.JPG)
Day 13 Bombay Hook NWR and a new bird
RED FOX WALKING ACROSS MUD FLATS
THE 18TH CENTURY ALLEE HOUSE ON THE NW REFUGE
It sounds like a old shipmaster’s term for a tool used in the Far East. No it is not. The name comes again, from the Dutch Settlers who used the term for the marshland and called it “Boompies Hooek” which translated from the German means ‘thicket’ or ‘point of trees’. It was purchased (the land) from Chief Sachem Kahansink for …”a musket, three fowlers of powder, three Mats coats, one anckor of liquors and one kittle. “. The trees are gone from the storm of 1878, but the stumps are still there. It like, Prime NWR has fresh water pools and salt water flats making it ideal for all kinds of birds and wildlife. For example we saw a fox walk across a mud flat, and right up to our car parked beside the road. He examined it closely before moving on.
This then is the NWR we toured today. IT is north about 24 miles, through the many and vast winter wheat fields. This is certainly good farm land. This NWR has a “drive around “system and although 14 miles in its entirety, can be completed in pieces which we elected to do.
IT was raining a fine mist and some heavier all day, but we donned our raingear and headed out. It was good that we didn’t postpone it. We identified more than 55 birds including the Hudsonian Godwit, a new entry for us. I will have to check to see if the Forster’s Tern was new also.
The visitor center (most NWR have them), was small but adequately staffed. They are always helpful and can pint out details that help each visitor. This site has four large freshwater ponds that are inside the salt marshes so travel allows us to see both at the same time. It too has controls for water flow from a fresh water source named Finis Pool (The end?) The shorebird count was similar to previous days, but the warblers were increasing in number. Ruth saw a favorite bird the Blackburnian warbler with its bright orange and black streaks that made her day..JPG)
There are 1400 acres of crops raised to feed the migrating birds , by the local farmers in an agreement with the Fish and Wildlife Svc. (Department of the Interior).There are areas where geese and some ducks are herded into nets to be banded each fall. A bait, using corn entices them into the area and a cannon goes off scaring them into the nets that drop down on them. Quickly the work is done and they are numbered with bands for identification of where and when then released.
This then is the NWR we toured today. IT is north about 24 miles, through the many and vast winter wheat fields. This is certainly good farm land. This NWR has a “drive around “system and although 14 miles in its entirety, can be completed in pieces which we elected to do.
IT was raining a fine mist and some heavier all day, but we donned our raingear and headed out. It was good that we didn’t postpone it. We identified more than 55 birds including the Hudsonian Godwit, a new entry for us. I will have to check to see if the Forster’s Tern was new also.
The visitor center (most NWR have them), was small but adequately staffed. They are always helpful and can pint out details that help each visitor. This site has four large freshwater ponds that are inside the salt marshes so travel allows us to see both at the same time. It too has controls for water flow from a fresh water source named Finis Pool (The end?) The shorebird count was similar to previous days, but the warblers were increasing in number. Ruth saw a favorite bird the Blackburnian warbler with its bright orange and black streaks that made her day.
.JPG)
There are 1400 acres of crops raised to feed the migrating birds , by the local farmers in an agreement with the Fish and Wildlife Svc. (Department of the Interior).There are areas where geese and some ducks are herded into nets to be banded each fall. A bait, using corn entices them into the area and a cannon goes off scaring them into the nets that drop down on them. Quickly the work is done and they are numbered with bands for identification of where and when then released.
GREAT BLACK BACKED GULL FEEDING
We spent the day observing the birds and the fox that ran across a mud flat and then right up next to our car. He stood there expecting a handout I believe, but wandered off eventually. He was a sight to behold with all that mud and the rain had matted his fur something terrible. An original”Bad Hair Day”. The plant ‘bicolor lespedeza’ is panted for food for the birds. There is also planted millet, buckwheat and autumn olive. At one end of a road an 18th century Queen Anne period home is open on weekends for tours. Built in 1753, it stands today. It is restored complete with period furniture.
A few of the newer birds today were: Magnolia Warbler, Snow Goose (1), Forster’s Tern, Pintail Duck, Sedge and House Wrens, Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, White Eyed Vireo and the Yellow Warbler. IT was a fine birding day in spite of the rain.
Afterwards we scoped out the laundry spot for tomorrow, and found tat McDonald’s did have Wi-Fi albeit at a cost. We used that to send and receive and will do that tomorrow as it is right across the street (DE #1) from the laundry...
The capital of Delaware, Dover, is just up the road and has a population of just 24,000. The largest city is Wilmington with 89,000 residents. IT is not a crowded state.
A few of the newer birds today were: Magnolia Warbler, Snow Goose (1), Forster’s Tern, Pintail Duck, Sedge and House Wrens, Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, White Eyed Vireo and the Yellow Warbler. IT was a fine birding day in spite of the rain.
Afterwards we scoped out the laundry spot for tomorrow, and found tat McDonald’s did have Wi-Fi albeit at a cost. We used that to send and receive and will do that tomorrow as it is right across the street (DE #1) from the laundry...
The capital of Delaware, Dover, is just up the road and has a population of just 24,000. The largest city is Wilmington with 89,000 residents. IT is not a crowded state.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
THE FERRY ACROSS DELAWARE BAY
.JPG)
EASTERN KINGBIRD
FERRY TERMINAL AT CAPE MAYDay 11. The Ferry across Delaware Bay
THE "PINK HOUSE"
So what American president said “There can be no greater issue than that of conservation in this country…”?
We will get back to that a bit later, but first we pack up the trailer and prepare to board the Cape May NJ, to Lewes (pron. Lew-is) DE Ferry and move our campsite one more time. The Ferry was the SS Cape Henlopen. I think this is number 5 campsite.. We had purchased our tickets earlier and arrived an hour before departure, giving us a chance to visit the Terminal. As I said it is the finest terminal of the many that we have been in throughout the world. We hit the gift shop and the coffee shop and took a brief tour of the facility. Upstairs is a huge Lounge that delivers catering services for weddings, anniversaries, etc. There are also on the second floor, meeting rooms with set ups for electronic presentations. There is even a passenger overpass from the terminal to the loading platform!! The foyer is massive.
At any rate we loaded on time (9:30AM) and headed out to the Delaware Bay on an overcast day. I anticipated that we might see some sea birds and we did see a flight of Northern Gannets with their large wings swooping sharply to find food. There were about 20 of them so that was a pleasant sighting. The last time we saw them was in Newfoundland. The trip was quite uneventful with just three decks on this ship and the usual lounge, food shop, and resting areas. (No overnight accommodations on this one.)
The departure from the ship was smooth and as there were only about 50-60 cars, one motorcycle and us it was quick. Ruth guided us on the route to locate the campground, and we made one stop for groceries (gotta have food). The community of Georgetown that we stopped in was a very mixed ethnic community. I saw good exchanges between people in that store that I did not see very often in a community. There was a good deal of humor and greeting exchanges. Gasoline is at $1.93/gal.
Let us remember that Delaware (The FIRST state) had one of the very first communities in the “Colonies’ from the western world (Lewes) in 1631, which was shortly after the Plymouth community was settled. These people were Dutch. (“Of course”, you say?) It was to be a whaling center, and one year after being burned by the Siconese Indians (The Nanticoke Indians still survive), was rebuilt and in the War of 1812 shelled by the British. (A cannonball still resides in the wall of a bar in town.)
We did arrive at the G and R Campground and found it very spacious. George the manager personally walked us to the campsite and made us feel welcome. That day was a day of rest for us, after setting up and getting situated. This heavily wooded area will be good for birding we think. (It was, as we will later see).
Day 12- We explore Delaware Bay birding sites.
Each morning I try to walk the perimeter of the park to find any birds that might start the day off. There were four this morning including the Goldfinches at our feeders. (We put up two feeders, one water dish and a hummer feeder at each campground that we can do this.)
There are many beaches and salt flats and marshes along this coast and we will arrange our visits in groups of three of four. The first day we covered both Big Stone Beach and Slaughter. The former was almost clear of birds as it was a very public place. (The maps don’t tell you this) We moved to Slaughter Beach and away from the beach (there were many homes there) we found a fine pond with our first Glossy Ibis and an assortment of other water birds. A “senior” lady who lives there came out while we were parked and shared some things about the area with us. We saw our first hummingbird while standing there. She was excited about the birds, but was a novice I am sure.
The NW Reserve called “Prime Hook NWR” is on the edge of these two beaches and covers some 10,000 acres along the marshes of Delaware Bay. It is a mix of fresh and saltwater wetlands stretching from Slaughter Beach on the north to Broadkill River on the south. The name “Prime” comes from the earlier settlers (DUTCH), who discovered an abundance of purple plums. So they called the area Priume Hoek or Plum Point. Over the years it became “Prime”. Less than ½ of the acreage is in freshwater marshes (4,200 acres) to provide feeding and nesting for migrating birds. Like many NWR, it is built with a series of structures to control water levels allowing marsh plants like wild rice, millet and rice tick to grow. Tens of thousands of shorebirds like dunlin, sandpipers, and plovers feed here. We see many of them each day. In the fall it is the migrating ducks and geese that dominate Over 100,000 Snow Geese and 80,000 ducks are at the refuge at the fall peak. Some of the Refuge is tidal salt marsh which is the nursing grounds for crab, fish and other invertebrates. There are also forested lands adjacent to, and in the NWR which are habitats of the migrating and local songbirds. Finally, the Delmarva Peninsula Fox Squirrel which lives here is endangered.
We found lots of people fishing and birding and as it was Saturday many were out doing both. This day we saw our first Bald Eagle on the trip, along with 61 other species. Significant birds that were seen were; Black Throated Green W., Indigo Bunting, Glossy Ibis, Ruby Throated Hummingbird (also at camp site) , lots of Osprey on the nests, Eastern Towhee, American Redstart, Common Yellowthroat W., and the Blue Grosbeak. We also listened to a Whip-poor-will just off the trail but could not see him..
The rain held off again today and that is twice the prognosticators were wrong. HOORAY!
It looks like another laundry day tomorrow unless the day is bright. We will trade good weather for laundry.
The president that made the statement about conservation was… Teddy Roosevelt of course. You know Yellowstone National Park and all that! Any questions?
THE "PINK HOUSE"
So what American president said “There can be no greater issue than that of conservation in this country…”?
We will get back to that a bit later, but first we pack up the trailer and prepare to board the Cape May NJ, to Lewes (pron. Lew-is) DE Ferry and move our campsite one more time. The Ferry was the SS Cape Henlopen. I think this is number 5 campsite.. We had purchased our tickets earlier and arrived an hour before departure, giving us a chance to visit the Terminal. As I said it is the finest terminal of the many that we have been in throughout the world. We hit the gift shop and the coffee shop and took a brief tour of the facility. Upstairs is a huge Lounge that delivers catering services for weddings, anniversaries, etc. There are also on the second floor, meeting rooms with set ups for electronic presentations. There is even a passenger overpass from the terminal to the loading platform!! The foyer is massive.
At any rate we loaded on time (9:30AM) and headed out to the Delaware Bay on an overcast day. I anticipated that we might see some sea birds and we did see a flight of Northern Gannets with their large wings swooping sharply to find food. There were about 20 of them so that was a pleasant sighting. The last time we saw them was in Newfoundland. The trip was quite uneventful with just three decks on this ship and the usual lounge, food shop, and resting areas. (No overnight accommodations on this one.)
The departure from the ship was smooth and as there were only about 50-60 cars, one motorcycle and us it was quick. Ruth guided us on the route to locate the campground, and we made one stop for groceries (gotta have food). The community of Georgetown that we stopped in was a very mixed ethnic community. I saw good exchanges between people in that store that I did not see very often in a community. There was a good deal of humor and greeting exchanges. Gasoline is at $1.93/gal.
Let us remember that Delaware (The FIRST state) had one of the very first communities in the “Colonies’ from the western world (Lewes) in 1631, which was shortly after the Plymouth community was settled. These people were Dutch. (“Of course”, you say?) It was to be a whaling center, and one year after being burned by the Siconese Indians (The Nanticoke Indians still survive), was rebuilt and in the War of 1812 shelled by the British. (A cannonball still resides in the wall of a bar in town.)
We did arrive at the G and R Campground and found it very spacious. George the manager personally walked us to the campsite and made us feel welcome. That day was a day of rest for us, after setting up and getting situated. This heavily wooded area will be good for birding we think. (It was, as we will later see).
Day 12- We explore Delaware Bay birding sites.
Each morning I try to walk the perimeter of the park to find any birds that might start the day off. There were four this morning including the Goldfinches at our feeders. (We put up two feeders, one water dish and a hummer feeder at each campground that we can do this.)
There are many beaches and salt flats and marshes along this coast and we will arrange our visits in groups of three of four. The first day we covered both Big Stone Beach and Slaughter. The former was almost clear of birds as it was a very public place. (The maps don’t tell you this) We moved to Slaughter Beach and away from the beach (there were many homes there) we found a fine pond with our first Glossy Ibis and an assortment of other water birds. A “senior” lady who lives there came out while we were parked and shared some things about the area with us. We saw our first hummingbird while standing there. She was excited about the birds, but was a novice I am sure.
The NW Reserve called “Prime Hook NWR” is on the edge of these two beaches and covers some 10,000 acres along the marshes of Delaware Bay. It is a mix of fresh and saltwater wetlands stretching from Slaughter Beach on the north to Broadkill River on the south. The name “Prime” comes from the earlier settlers (DUTCH), who discovered an abundance of purple plums. So they called the area Priume Hoek or Plum Point. Over the years it became “Prime”. Less than ½ of the acreage is in freshwater marshes (4,200 acres) to provide feeding and nesting for migrating birds. Like many NWR, it is built with a series of structures to control water levels allowing marsh plants like wild rice, millet and rice tick to grow. Tens of thousands of shorebirds like dunlin, sandpipers, and plovers feed here. We see many of them each day. In the fall it is the migrating ducks and geese that dominate Over 100,000 Snow Geese and 80,000 ducks are at the refuge at the fall peak. Some of the Refuge is tidal salt marsh which is the nursing grounds for crab, fish and other invertebrates. There are also forested lands adjacent to, and in the NWR which are habitats of the migrating and local songbirds. Finally, the Delmarva Peninsula Fox Squirrel which lives here is endangered.
We found lots of people fishing and birding and as it was Saturday many were out doing both. This day we saw our first Bald Eagle on the trip, along with 61 other species. Significant birds that were seen were; Black Throated Green W., Indigo Bunting, Glossy Ibis, Ruby Throated Hummingbird (also at camp site) , lots of Osprey on the nests, Eastern Towhee, American Redstart, Common Yellowthroat W., and the Blue Grosbeak. We also listened to a Whip-poor-will just off the trail but could not see him..
The rain held off again today and that is twice the prognosticators were wrong. HOORAY!
It looks like another laundry day tomorrow unless the day is bright. We will trade good weather for laundry.
The president that made the statement about conservation was… Teddy Roosevelt of course. You know Yellowstone National Park and all that! Any questions?
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