Metzger Marsh: Eurasian Wigeon, Red-necked Grebe

Today (Tuesday March 17) the main impoundment at Metzger Marsh (Lucas County, just north of Rt. 2 and just east of Bono) held at least 3000 waterbirds, mostly ducks and American Coots, with a couple of rarities thrown in: a male Eurasian Wigeon and a Red-necked Grebe in winter plumage.

The Eurasian Wigeon was well to the south of the main road that runs east-northeast along the north side of the impoundment. It was associating with American Wigeon. Through the telescope it was a good view, but it would have been tough to pick out with binoculars.

The Red-necked Grebe was farther east, most easily seen from the parking area at the boat launch near the end of the road. From that point the bird was off to the southeast, in the same general area as many ducks and coots. (If you're unfamiliar with the layout of Metzger Marsh, you can find a detailed map by going to the BSBO birding pages and following the links for "Birding hotspots: directions and maps".)

Among the regularly occurring birds, Redheads were the most numerous ducks, with roughly 1300 present. There were also large numbers of Gadwalls, Ring-necked Ducks, Mallards, American Wigeon, and Lesser Scaup. Many of the birds were far enough from the road that a telescope was necessary to identify them.

Metzger Marsh should remain productive for large numbers of waterfowl through the end of March at least.