I visited NH’s coast for the first time this year – there hasnt been the need, as inland migration this year has been phenomenal.  A good day was had, highlighted by astounding views of 2 Cape May Warblers on Star Island, which also hosted a Prairie Warbler and 2 American Golden Plovers on Star Island.  I swung by Hampton Harbor on the way home.  The exposed mud on the southern end of the Harbor held 46 white-rumped sandpipers, quite a high count for NH, which were feeding with the continuing red knot.  I caught up with the avocet, a state bird for me (thanks Steve).  The gull flock contained two adult lesser black-backed gulls, more than 200 bonaparte’s gulls, and a juvenile little gull (rare age class for NH).  Also about 14 Forsters Terns.

Henrys Pool had a about 14 of each Lesser and Greater Yellowlegs, and 26 short-billed dowitchers.

Rare juvenile little gull, both species and age type

Green-winged Teal, Common Eider, Wood Duck

One of two Cape May Warblers

Star Island 9/11/2011