[Maine-birds] Gulf of Maine migrant fallout - Tom Johnson report

Adding to the reports of the fallout starting October 4th, Tom Johnson reports from the Gulf of Maine, where he is aboard a NOAA research vessel, that land-birds were widespread at sea on October 5th. He and colleague David Vander Pluym recorded 30 passerines around the ship. He has posted some terrific photos here:

flickr.com/bonxie88

A combined day list for eBird is here:

http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S11721980

Among Tom's photos, there is one of a Yellow-rumped Warbler feasting on a euphasid shrimp (aka krill), which I doubt is listed among the usual prey items for a species soon to switch to wax myrtle. (The ship probably has these krill scattered on the deck if they have been doing net-tows.) Tom's photos of Peregrine Falcons are amazing too, with good comparisons of ages (look at soft parts, wing molt, as well as patterning). And be sure to check out the picture of a Pomarine Jaeger showing who is boss at sea. Thanks, Tom!

Louis Bevier

Fairfield