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Rare in the US, this bird is now in NOVA
You can now see this bird just minutes from your home. | Photo via Flickr
Birders and casual nature lovers alike will be intrigued by this bird, rarely seen in the US, which is now flocking to Great Falls Park in Northern Virginia. Typically, the red-flanked bluetail inhabits regions from Siberia and northeastern China to western Russia and parts of Scandinavia.
In the last couple of years, the bird has traveled further east and west, now being found in other US states like Alaska and California, along with British Columbia and Mexico.
Let’s dive into the specifics. Where have they been seen at Great Falls Park? According to their website, there’s one bird between the river and the steep hillside on the Virginia side of the Potomac River, above the upper/northern parking lot.
So why are they in Virginia? The answer is not exactly clear. However, some possibilities include a change in their genetic makeup, tailwinds that directed them east, or a navigation error.
If you’ve had the chance to see the bird, we’d love to see your photos.
Asked
Asked
🔎 Which of these birds is native to NOVA?
A. Eurasian collared dove B. Great horned owl C. Red-flanked bluetail D. European starling
Alexandria’s restaurant scene is growing. The Commodore will open its second location in Old Town Alexandria tomorrow, March 12, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5 p.m. That’s just a little more than 24 hours before you can indulge in burgers and house-made cocktails. (ALXnow)
Real Estate
A 100-year-old property is on sale for just under $2 million in Alexandria. The property includes six bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms. I’m dreaming of hosting a dinner party in this backyard. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Listen
Good news for concert lovers — Wolf Trap in Vienna has added more performances to its summer lineup. Check it out. I’m tempted to get tickets to see Wilco. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Coming Soon
Chef Victor Albisu, the Annadale native behind the chain Taco Bambas, is opening a new restaurant in Vienna. Electric Bull is expected to open at 176 Maple Ave. W. this spring. The spot will offer a butcher counter along with live-fire cooking. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Community
The Adopt-a-Park program in Alexandria is making its return this spring. There will be an event on Wednesday, March 18 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for applicants to connect with volunteers and city staff, ask questions, and better prepare. Apply here. (ALXnow)
Seasonal
Tysons Corner Center is joining in on the fun by hosting a variety of cherry blossom events, along with other seasonal festivities like celebrations for Easter. Mark your calendars for these three different events. And while your calendar is out, why not add these March events? (FFXnow)
Plan Ahead
The track for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix is official. The free event will take place from Saturday, Aug. 22 to Sunday, Aug. 23, and the course features a 1.7-mile loop with seven turns. Scope out the course map. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Closing
Two Arlington businesses are saying goodbye.Barley Mac in the Rosslyn neighborhood closed its doors on Monday, March 9, and Coffee Republic in Crystal City closed last week. To fill the void, why not try one of these newer establishments around NOVA? (ARLnow)
Art
The Old Town Alexandria waterfront will soon have a new art installation. The piece “Now or Never” by artist Alicia Eggert is expected to open Saturday, March 21. Get a sneak peek. (The Alexandria Brief)
Eat
Surreal Global Kitchen in National Landing is now offering “All You Can Dream” brunch for $35 a person. This deal is every Saturday and Sunday, and includes classics like waffles and made-to-order eggs.
Finance
According to Motley Fool Money, the average person with $5,000 in credit card debt pays $1,200+ in interest every year. The solution? An expert-approved balance transfer card with 0% interest for up to 21 months. Learn more + apply.*
Health
If food noise and constant hunger are exhausting, MEDVi offers clinician-guided GLP-1 care built for real life. It starts with an evaluation by a licensed U.S. provider, followed by ongoing monitoring and dosage adjustments. See if you qualify + start an intro month at $179.‡*
The Buy
We’ve got something just for you: the perfect handbag for every occasion. Add these five bags to your closet + complete any look, any time.
👜 Everyday: On sale for over 50% off, American Leather Company’s hobo bag has multiple pockets + a top zip closure to secure all your essentials
💄 Date night: This versatile leather wristlet and clutch brings style + elegance to any outfit.
🎶 Concert: A chic, stadium-approved clear bag is a wardrobe must-have. We love this one’s durable and trendy design.
🌴 Spring break: Enter vacay mode with this boho rattan bag that easily converts to a crossbody with the included detachable strap.
🧳 Workday: This leather leather Kate Spade tote can fit your laptop, wallet, and more — get it while it’s 68% off.
I recently started “A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara, and after only 100 pages, I’m already hooked. Where do you shop for books around NOVA? Shoutout your favorite local bookstore.
Now that the weather is improving, find a spot in the grass to enjoy your next read.
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‡Prescription-only GLP-1 treatment requires evaluation by a licensed U.S. provider. Treatment is provided only if medically appropriate; not all patients qualify. Results vary. Compounded medications, if prescribed, are prepared by licensed U.S. pharmacies and are not FDA-approved as finished products. See program terms for details.
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