ACES // Pitkin County Open Space: Fall Migration Birding at Jaffee Park

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Monday, September 9, 2024, 7-10:30 am
Weather: Mostly Sunny
Location: Jaffee Park, Aspen, CO

As the morning warmed up, bird activity popped in the cottonwood canopy along the river: in one spot we watched several western wood-pewees, warbling vireos, mountain chickadees, and a Townsend’s warbler, each utilizing various features of this habitat to forage for what they eat in their particular ways. It was a special highlight when an olive-sided flycatcher was perched right next to a western wood-pewee in the top of a snag in excellent view. They even stayed put while we rotated through the scope for detailed observations. This was the best possible opportunity to compare these two very similar species – it is almost unheard of to have them perch side by side! The Townsend’s warbler was also a special treat to see, as these migratory birds only pass through the Roaring Fork Valley in fall and are very uncommon. We saw dippers regularly as we walked upstream, for a total of 11 for the morning. Their behaviors were fascinating to watch, as always. Other highlights included a flock of turkey vultures circling on a rising thermal column of air, the unique and dramatic geology of the lower river canyon, and waxwings feeding fledglings. Join us on Thursday for more excellent fall birding on the Moore Open Space!

Species List: