We visited The Conneaut Sandspit Area in Ashtabula County from about 11:30AM to 2:45PM. The rain, wind, and 45 degree temperature was brutal, staying consistant the whole time. Upon our arrival, what appeared to be 3 pairs of Common Eiders, were flying out of the harbor past the lighthouse, and out of sight behind the breakwall. We were unable to get the scope on them. Our other highlights were two groups of Brant, with 15 flying west, and 11, which landed in the sandspit approach bay, providing great views, photos were taken. 2 Black Scoters, 3 White-winged Scoters, and 6 Greater Scaup, were harbor area finds. A Merlin at the ballfield at the top of the hill was also a nice find. There were numerous unedentifiable flybys well off shore. Ryan Golterman was the only other person/birder at The Sandspit to brave the elements. He was with us for the 15 and 11 Brant, the 3 White-winged Scoters, and the 2 Black Scoters. Nothing like The Sandspit on a rainy day!!!
 
Bob and Denise Lane /Mahoning County 


                                          
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