by Lottie Bushmann and Edge Wade

On Saturday, September 26, there was a joint field trip to Rock Bridge Memorial State Park along with the Missouri Birding Society (formerly ASM). In all, 24 birders including 5 leaders showed up to cover the trails at the Devil’s Icebox parking lot, as well as the Gans Creek and Karst trails. We ended up finding 49 species in all. It was a lovely day, followed by lunch on the parking lot (for those that could find a parking space). Everyone wore masks and practiced social distancing (aided by the small groups of 4-5 birders). CAS would like to give a shout out of thanks to the following leaders that so willingly gave their time: Edge Wade, Pete Monacell, Eric Wood, and Greg Leonard. It was a welcome event in the time of Covid. Highlights of the day included:

Ruby-crowned kinglets, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Vireos: Yellow-throated, Red-eyed, and White-eyed, and warblers: Ovenbird, Common Yellowthroat, Black-and-white, Tennessee, Nashville, American Redstart, Northern Parula, Bay-breasted, Blackburnian, and Chestnut-sided. MBS plans to host more joint events in the future. We’re looking forward to more adventures!