Sightings: Davis Park Field Trip

By Lynn Mitchell, TAS Volunteer

This Red-shouldered Hawk captured a squirrel at Davis Park during a bird walk. Photo by Mic McCarty

On the morning of Sept. 20, twelve participants joined Mic McCarty, field trip coordinator, for a field trip at Davis Park, one of the lesser-known parks in Hillsborough County. While the park is often frequented by dog walkers, it is increasingly recognized by nature enthusiasts and bird watchers as a hidden gem for observing a variety of bird species.

The two lakes on the property provide excellent opportunities to see birds foraging, preening, and bathing, or perching high above the fields, attentively watching for movement that may signal their next meal.

The early hours of our visit provided multiple chances to observe two Cooper’s Hawks interacting atop one of the tallest Cypress trees. Initially, one hawk was perched alone, but was soon joined by another. As we watched from a distance, it was apparent the two were not a pair and the second was quickly chased out of the area.

Continuing along the shoreline of the largest lake, Mic set up a scope for closer observation of Green Herons foraging. As one of the hawks flew overhead, we witnessed a heron skillfully blending in with its surroundings by posing motionless like a reed — a learned survival technique when exposed to a potential predator.

As we walked through the wooded areas of the park, we saw and heard numerous fall migrants. Three different species of vireos were identified during our slow progress through the trees. Additionally, the group observed a Northern Parula, a Carolina Chickadee, a Downy Woodpecker and two Prairie Warblers foraging in the same tree as several Tufted Titmice. Titmice are known for frequently leading mixed-species foraging flocks.

The morning concluded with quite a commotion involving two species of woodpeckers and a mockingbird harassing a Red-shouldered Hawk as it pursued its prey. The hawk unexpectedly landed on a branch just above our heads, clutching what appeared to be a young squirrel held tightly in its talons. This dramatic event marked the end of our walk through Davis Park, reminding us that it was not a fortunate day for the local grey squirrel population!