Pedernales Falls State Park Prothonotary Warbler Nest Box Study: Fall Sparrows & Old Settlers' Graveyard

Prothonotary Warbler Occurrence In Texas

Central Texas draws the western line for the Prothonotary Warbler range. This species occupies much of eastern North America up to the southern boarder of Ontario Canada.
Prothonotarys' nest in natural cavities but also readily use nest boxes located on or near water. Flooded swamps represent ideal habitat but they will also nest along rivers or small bodies of water.
In May 2007 I saw a brightly colored male Prothonotary Warbler at Pedernales Falls State Park bird blind. After some research I learned male birds have been seen building nests in neighboring counties to Blanco County. Further research revealed a pair of Prothonotary Warblers successfully nested at Heard Wildlife Sanctuary in McKinney, Texas.
In December 2007 I decided to undertake a nest box study at the park. January through February 2008 I hiked the entire Pedernales River and tributaries within park boundaries, in an effort to choose the best sites. Habitat selection proved a challenge do to high flood levels along the river.
Five sights were eventually selected where two nest boxes each were placed. Most boxes were attached to trees however two were attached to metal poles. These boxes were monitored from March through June 2008 on a weekly basis. A Breeding Bird Study was conducted at each nestbox location in 2008 and will be continued in 2009.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Fall Sparrows & Old Settlers' Graveyard

Fall in Texas Hill Country could not be nicer! Today, even with a late start at the bird blind, I found six species of sparrow including the first Dark-eyed Junco of the year. Other species included a Field, Vesper, Lincoln's, Chipping, and the Rufous-crowned Sparrow. Four Pine Siskins and several Orange-crowned Warblers were also noteworthy, and Ruby-crowned Kinglets were abuntant in migration today.
I then proceeded to mountain bike across the trammel crossing to the far side of the park where I was in search of an old settlers' graveyard. With a little persistence I found this graveyard near the trail that borders the property with a fence line.
I spent two hours at this cemetery reflecting on the passing of my father one week ago. I came away with no photos for today's journey, only good spirit, love and reverence for all life.