The powerline right-of-way has somewhat unexpectedly become one of the most interesting and productive hotspots in the City of Williamsburg for a wide variety of species. Perhaps most interestingly, it is situated along a morning commuting route for gulls during the winter, which has made it the most reliable location in the City for both Great Black-backed and Herring Gulls. The greatest movement is typically within an hour of sunrise. Where the gulls are coming from and going to isn’t clear. There may also be an afternoon movement here but not enough survey effort during the winter months has been put forth to determine if this is the case. The best strategy for viewing the gulls is to wait near the parking area until they fly over; a scope may be helpful. The hope is for a Lesser Black-backed Gull to one day be recorded here. Also in the atypical powerline cut species department, what may be the only regularly nesting Osprey in the city limits is found on the large transmission tower right next to the parking lot.
More typical for powerline cuts, several early successional species can be reliably found here that are difficult to find elsewhere within the corporate limits of Williamsburg. During the summer months, these species include Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, and Wild Turkey (a nest was found here once). In the fall, sparrows abound here with over 100 individuals of several species (White-throated, Song, Swamp, Field, and Chipping) being reliably found. Someday a White-crowned or Lincoln’s may show up here so keep an eye out for them. Additionally, 12 species of warblers (highlighted by Nashville, Cape May and Louisiana Waterthrush) have been recorded here, although it is likely that quite a few more will be recorded with additional survey effort. From mid-October through at least November a surprising number of lingering neotropical migrants have been found here. This list includes Red-eyed Vireo (10/24/2018), Nashville Warbler (10/22/2017), Magnolia Warbler (11/1/2019), Traill’s Flycatcher (10/15/2017), and 2 Common Nighthawks (10/10/2018).
A small marshy area about a quarter of a mile from the parking lot often holds the lion’s share of the Swamp Sparrows. This wet spot may one day host a Sedge or Marsh Wren.
The boundary between the City of Williamsburg and York County is approximately 1/3rd of a mile from the parking lot, just past the marshy area.
Accessibility: The land here is owned by a mix of private entities (including the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation), however access to the public is permitted. Many people who work nearby take advantage of this powerline cut for lunchtime walks. The best parking option is typically to find a spot in the parking lot at the entrance to the powerline cut. The parking here belongs to the landowner of the small business park here, however there are often ample spaces where the odd birder or two can park without issue.The easement is maintained through periodic brush cutting by Dominion Energy.
eBird Hotspot: Maynard Drive Power Line Cut
—Nick Newberry