These Spotted Sandpipers took delight in walking along the edge of a wooden barrier that holds the sand from washing into one of the ponds at Pea Island. They are probably looking for insects. The coloration and lack of spotting on their breasts indicate that these are "first winter" birds. Pea Island is located right on the cusp where the summer and winter ranges for these birds touch.
This Gray Catbird is in a sad state. It is apparently deep into its molt. Its black cap is nearly gone and its whole appearance is uncharacteristically messy. The rufous vent, size, and color leave little doubt as to what it is, however. Catbirds inhabit Pea Island in all months.
The Bodie Island Lighthouse still stands across Oregon Inlet, just north of Pea Island.
This Cloudless Sulfur Butterfly is neither on Pea Island nor is it a bird. It's on Roanoke Island across Pamlico Sound, enjoying the flowers of the Elizabethan Gardens.
A Palamedes Swallowtail Butterfly also enjoys the delights of the Elizabethan Gardens.
