Health & Fitness
Saving Dobbins Mountain, Update On Eastern Bluebirds
A hike up the mountain revealed a wooded wonderland habitat for birds and other forms of wildlife.
I was invited to a Hike and Learn at the Rollins Ranch. The purpose was to see that the mountain (aka Magic Mountain) was a pristine woodland and home many species of birds and wildlife. I really wanted to see for myself what would be lost if the GDOT succeeds with plans to blast and build the 411 Connector though the mountain.
After turning into the Ranch's drive, I drove pass the well kept grounds and ponds on the winding road following the green arrow signs. I rolled my window down and heard Eastern Bluebirds singing which made me feel right at home. It was a lovely drive to the starting point of the hike.
I got there early enough to mingle and meet the other hikers. One of note was Giff Beaton. He has written several books on birds and wildlife in Georgia. Dang, I forgot to bring my book for him to sign. The Atlanta Audubon Society was represented as was the Defenders of Wildlife.
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Although I didn't get any "bird shots," many birds were singing and calling. I tried to stay close to Joshua Spence who is the naturalist documenting the birds on this mountain. He identified by sound the White-Eyed Vireo and Blue-Headed Vireo, two birds I have yet to see but I can now say I have "heard" them. Both Summer and Scarlett Tanagers where also identified.
Joshua has documented 79 species of bird so far on the mountain and surrounding grounds. Three have been listed on the "concern" list: Red-Headed Woodpecker, Rusty Blackbirdn and the Cerulean Warbler.
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I did get a picture of a female Pond Slider laying eggs in a swallow hole she had dug and one of a young Black Racer before he darted off into the leave litter. These were very cool sightings!
After seeing this beautiful mountain with my own eyes I am convinced that it must be protected and saved from being blasted apart for a road.
Update: The pair of Eastern Bluebirds have started their second nest. I checked the nestbox and found four eggs. With our high temps, I added a thick piece of Styofoam to roof to help keep the eggs from baking.
Peace and Happy Birding!
Jean is a host on Birds & Blooms Magazine’s Community Forums and is the lone, bird crazy author of the blog The Joy of Bird Watching and Living a Simple Life.