Date: 11/28/25 7:31 am From: Phil Brown <ecocmail...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Essex County Ornithological Club December 05 Meeting - Birds At Rest with Roger Pasquier
Friday, December 5, 7:45pm Birds at Rest ECOC Meeting 7:30-7:45pm In-person | Morse Auditorium, PEM Please see the ECOC web site for tickets and Zoom information https://massbird.org/ecoc Free and open to the public
Birds need sleep as much as we do, and they have evolved some unique habits to match their intensely energetic lifestyles. Ornithologist and author Roger Pasquier discusses the evolution and benefits of avian sleep, including recent discoveries that some long distance flyers can even sleep while in flight! Other birds sleep in short bouts of several seconds or a few minutes, then wake up to look around for danger before going back to sleep. Human impacts like artificial light, noise and climate change are changing how and where birds can get a good night’s rest.
A book signing for Birds at Rest: The Behavior and Ecology of Avian Sleep (2025) follows the program.
This event is cohosted by PEM and made possible by a gift from The Echo Charitable Foundation.
BIO: Roger Pasquier is an associate in the Department of Ornithology at the American Museum of Natural History. His career has been in ornithology and in conservation, at BirdLife International, World Wildlife Fund-US, the Environmental Defense Fund and the National Audubon Society. He is the author of several books on birds, including Watching Birds: An Introduction to Ornithology, Masterpieces of Bird Art: Seven Hundred Years of Ornithological Illustration, Birds in Winter and, most recently, Birds at Rest: The Behavior and Ecology of Avian Sleep. A native New Yorker, Pasquier’s favorite birding places are Central Park and the Peruvian rainforest.
-- Phil Brown Webmaster for: Essex County Ornithological Club <ecocmail...>
Date: 11/27/25 11:15 am From: John Hepburn <john.hepburn...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Greater White-fronted Goose, Newton
HI Birders, There is currently a Greater White-fronted Goose in the Newton Cemetery off Walnut St. When seen at ~1:45pm it was on the lawn by the 2nd pond. Chris Hepburn Newton
Date: 11/27/25 10:41 am From: <gkmills...> Subject: RE: [MASSBIRD] MA RBA: western vagrant wave yesterday
Happy Thanksgiving. My grandson and I went to Sterling this morning to look for the Ross's Goose. There were now Canada Geese to be seen that area. We had several large flocks of Starlings and a Red-Tailed Hawk. Kathy Mills Holden, MA
-----Original Message----- From: <massbird-approval...> <massbird-approval...> On Behalf Of Josh Sent: Thursday, November 27, 2025 8:29 AM To: MassBird <massbird...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] MA RBA: western vagrant wave yesterday
Hi MassBirders,
Quite a wave of western vagrants found around the state yesterday! Thanks to folks for posting these to the MA RBAs on Discord and GroupMe:
The previously reported Say’s Phoebe at Cumbies in Middleboro was also still present as of yesterday, and the Townsend’s Warbler in Matt Garvey’s neighborhood of Chestnut Hill was seen again the day before. A Tundra Swan, seen by many recently at Cherry Hill Reservoir in Newbury, sadly turned up dead yesterday morning: https://ebird.org/checklist/S286216645
The previously reported Say’s Phoebe at Cumbies in Middleboro was also still present as of yesterday, and the Townsend’s Warbler in Matt Garvey’s neighborhood of Chestnut Hill was seen again the day before. A Tundra Swan, seen by many recently at Cherry Hill Reservoir in Newbury, sadly turned up dead yesterday morning: https://ebird.org/checklist/S286216645
Date: 11/26/25 7:35 am From: Sue McGrath <newburyportbirders...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Thanks for the bounty
Birders,
For many years I've wanted to post this on Massbird in this season. Many of you have heard me read this at my Thanksgiving Bird Walks in Newbury growing fields.
Enjoy the birds, the harvest, nature, family & friends.
Good birding, Sue
Sue McGrath Newburyport, MA
Let us give thanks for a bounty of people Max Coots:
For generous friends, with smiles as bright as their blossoms. For feisty friends as tart as apples; For continuous friends who, like scallions and cucumbers, keep reminding us that we’ve had them. For crotchety friends, as sour as rhubarb and as indestructible; For handsome friends, who are as gorgeous as eggplants and as elegant as a row of corn; and the others as plain as potatoes and as good for you. For friends as unpretentious as cabbages, as subtle as summer squash, as persistent as parsley, as endless as zucchini, and who, like parsnips, can be counted on to see you through the winter. For old friends, nodding like sunflowers in the evening-time. For young friends, who wind around like tendrils and hold us.
We give thanks for friends now gone, like gardens past that have been harvested, but who fed us in their times that we might live.
Observation start time: 10:15:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 3.75 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Strong (3) NW winds with gusts up to 25 km/hr until 1 PM when they moderated slightly; Temperature went from 3-4°C; Cloud cover -- Cumulus clouds were racing across the sky throughout most of the day. Watch began with 25% cloud cover and ended at 75% when I left.
Raptor Observations: No migrating raptors seen Non-migrating -- 2 RT Hawks, at least one of which was an adult
Since Saturday (which was to be my last day of this season) had rained most of the day, I decided to go to the Rock on Sunday hoping for some migrants on what should have been (according to the wind) a productive day. Unfortunately, no hawks chose to migrate on my last day for this season's hawk watch. My thanks to those who came to count with me, during a fairly unproductive season, with its main biright spot being the sighting of an adult Golden Eagle, which unfortunately did not show up when others were present.
Non-raptor Observations: A Raven was seen flying over the Rock at one point ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks, Steve Tysz
Weather: Mostly cloudy to start; cloud-cover steadily decreased until nearly zero at the end of the watch. Wind NW 5-11 mph. Temperature 39-43 F.
Raptor Observations: A baker's dozen of migrants, highlighted by yet another early-morning, adult Golden Eagle just after 8:30 EDT. Otherwise a disappointing tally on a day with favorable winds. Four Bald Eagles stubbornly refused to depart (one adult, three immature birds), as did several Red-tailed Hawks. Our regular trio of Black Vultures put in an appearance at 11:07.
Non-raptor Observations: Mourning Doves (9; impatient for us to go away and leave them in peace to eat the millet I spread on the hilltop), Blue Jays (2), American Crows (5), Common Ravens (7 in one group), Black-capped Chickadees (2), Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Eastern Bluebirds (2), American Robins (5), American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Junco. A possible Evening Grosbeak flew across the hilltop and plunged silently in the woods; I could make out a squarish, solid white patch in the secondaries before it disappeared. Side note: I dislike the standard terms "unkindness," "conspiracy" and "treachery for a gathering of Ravens â how about a "nevermore" or a "quoth" of Ravens? I really need to get out less. ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Date: Mon, 24 Nov 2025 23:39:04 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/24 Fenway Highlights
The ruby-crowned kinglet was sure a nice way to end my birding today. This was at 4:05, in the now famous (thanks to the very late American Redstart) hackberry . Double-crested Cormorant 1 Ring-necked Duck 14 Hooded Merganser 2 Red-tailed Hawk 1 Cooper's Hawk 1 immature Sharp-shinned Hawk 1 adult Carolina Wren 1 Ruby=crowned Kinglet 1 SEE ABOVE Dark-eyed Junco 8 White-throated Sparrow 18 Song Sparrow 12
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Visitors: Approx. 40 hikers and 10 dogs. Several hikers stopped to ask how the watch was going. One dog stopped to see if I had any treats for it.
Weather: Gusty winds from the WNW, averaging 8-12 mph but gusting regularly to 18-21 mph in the first hour, and then easing off a bit after that with occasional gusts up to 17-18 mph. Temps from 39 to 41 F, mostly sunny skies until the last hour when the clouds coming in from the NW really thickened up and cut off most of the sunshine. Visibility was good, but the 3100-3700 ft cloud base blocked views of the top of Stratton Mt and the mid-NH mountains.
Raptor Observations: A slow day, which wasn't surprising at this time of year, especially with very gusty winds. Even the local birds only popped up once or twice. I ended the session early after going almost 2 hours without seeing anything in the air except a single local Red-tail.
Non-raptor Observations: Few non-raptors either: Blue Jay - 2 Snow Bunting - 3
Predictions: 10-15 mph SW winds and cloudy skies are predicted so we probably won't conduct a watch on Tuesday. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 14:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Rain in the morning didn't end until almost 1 PM. Relatively clear skies (65%) became overcast skies by 3 PM, and did not start clearing until 3:15 such that by the time I left there was only 35% cloud cover. Light (1) NW winds became almost non-existent by 3 PM. Temperature went from 4-5°C.
Raptor Observations: Only one migrant noted
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Date: 11/23/25 10:46 am From: Madeleine Linck <madeleine.linck...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Eastern bluebirds at the feeder in Rehoboth
I have four that appear to be males coming each morning to eat up the mealworms and soldier fly larvae. We typically have bluebirds nesting in our yard, but no way of knowing if any of these are from the two broods that fledged this summer.
Observation start time: 11:30:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks, Steve Tysz
Weather: After morning showers, mostly cloudy (dense stratus; cloud-cover 90% decreasing to 70%); valley fog early (Mt Tom and Mt Holyoke floated in a sea of mist); wind NW 6-9 mph. Temperature 42-43 F.
Raptor Observations: Usually reliable NW winds produced yet another disappointing flight. The Sharp-shin, very late at this site, was a happy surprise. Not counted as migrants: six Bald Eagles (2 adults and 4 immature birds), two Red-tailed Hawks. Non-raptor Observations: Mourning Doves (4), Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crow, Eastern Bluebirds (7), American Goldfinches (12+ in one flock), Dark-eyed Juncos (5). ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Date: 11/22/25 7:18 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] "Birding the South Shore" report 11/22
Thanks to Strickland Wheelock for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Sun, 23 Nov 2025 01:51:35 +0000 (UTC) From: Strickland Wheelock <skwheelock...> Subject: "Birding the South Shore" report 11/22
Some trips can be challenging weather-wise and this trip today [11/22] fell into the category - light cool rain from the start at 7 am to noon. Fortunately we had a hearty group of participants and when the weather cleared, we hiked the Westport Town Park and Gooseberry Neck to finish the day.The rainy part of the morning we explored 3 bodies of water for ducks & other water birds, then a stop at Emile Ruecker Park for passerines. The duck part went well with initially 16 species that included 4 N Shovelers, 5 N Pintails, 40 Hooded & 30 Red-b Mergansers, 20 Gadwall,25 Am Wigeon [missed our Eurasian Wigeon], all 3 Scoters, I C Goldeneye, 1 Ruddy Duck, 40+ Bufflehead, etc. Along with the ducks were several Horned Grebes, Coot, both Red-thr & Common Loons, Brant, Gt Blue Herons.At the Emile Ruecker Refuge in the light rain, had 1 surprise Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Hermit Thrushes, 4 species ofwoodpeckers including 1 Sapsucker, both Turkey & Black Vultures, Wht-thr Sparrows, Carolina Wrens, E Bluebirds, many Am Goldfinches & House Finches, Cardinals Cedar Waxwings, 4 Wild Turkeys, 3 deer After semi-drying out at lunch, we headed to the Westport Town Park for a quick walk/birding to show the folks this wonderful habitat - 1st bird we see is a Merlin teed up for us to study well - part way down the trail were flocks of Cedar Waxwings feeding on berries, Ruby-cr Kinglets, Catbirds, Cardinals, Mockingbird, Goldfinches, Red-tailed Hawk, Wht-thr Sparrows, etcLast stop was Gooseberry Neck at low tide. Due to time, we walked straight out to the Point to enjoy the Harlequin Ducks, Great Cormorants, many scoters & eiders & Red-thr Loons, several Yellow-rumped Warblers along the trail, Dunlin - overall, very quiet for Gannets, interesting gull species & other shorebirdsOverall in these mixed weather conditions, we ended the day with 18 species of ducks and 65 species. We were blessed with a hearty crew of participants and like normal, great co-leaders [Leslie Bostrom, Lindsay Neubeck-Brown, Ed Bogle] doing all the driving & working with the participants on spotting & ID questions.Dec. is filled with the weekend Cape Cod trip, X-Mas counts & holidays. Our next day trip if interested is our New Year Madness trip where we head to the North Shore to rack up all the special species in the area to start your2026-year bird list on a high note.https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/ drumlin-farm/98801-new-year-birding-madness
My observation regarding returning wintering waterfowl et al is that they are tied into ice; the icing of northern water ways/ponds. These birds have a habit of staying as close to northern places as open water allows. When a winter thaw occurs, some birds leave (north?); then freezing occurs later in the month/early Feb and the birds are back. It can be subtle; not all leave, but seeing ponds inland which thawed and seeing ducks appear, then knowing they are frozen later the birds are gone. When I was doing the Nantucket CBC years ago, some would mention ducks would leave during warm spells and return when it got colder.
Recent years are staying warmer later. Loons are getting iced in lakes/ponds when the cold arrives and there are organizations which rescue them.
> On 11/21/2025 5:17 PM EST <blafley...> wrote: > > > Hello, > > By my experience and other accounts this fall has been a slow season for waterfowl migration. The past few days I have taken a couple walks in N Quabbin and checked some local ponds and it seems migration has picked up as I have come up with 19 species of waterfowl and large numbers of a couple species: > > Canada Geese 120 > American Wigeon 1 > Mallard 25 ish > Black Duck 110 ish > Green-winged Teal 2 > N Pintail 1 > Ring-necked Duck 19 > Greater Scaup 13 > Lesser Scaup 1 > WW Scoter 1 > Long-tailed Duck 1 (Gate 37) > Bufflehead 12 > C. Goldeneye 1 > Hooded Merganser 21 > Common Merganser 25ish > Great Cormorant 1 (L. Mattawa) > Horned Grebe 1 (Gate 35) > Red-necked Grebe 1 (Gate 35) > Common Loon 5 > > Bill Lafley > New Salem > <blafley...>
Pelagic trip aboard the UNH research boat "Gulf Challenger" along with scientists from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and UNH. Woods Hole researchers were collecting copepods from deep water at Wilkinson's Basin just east of Jeffrey's Ledge. UNH researcher was retrieving ocean floor monitor.
We cruised directly over Jeffrey's Ledge out to Wilkinson's Basin (point 6) where we used a seine net to collect copepod samples. We then cruised for a short while south along the outer edge of Jeffrey's Ledge where we retrieved the ocean floor monitor.
The weather was fair, but the ride out was choppy and wet (not expected) as the wind shifted into the NE and bow splash prevented surveys from the bow. The ride back was much better as the wind and seas eased up a bit. ENE winds 10 knots, seas 1 to 3 feet. Mount Washington was nicely visible 115 miles to the NW!
Count of birds east of the Isles of Shoals only. Inshore birds not counted.
Common Eider 13 migrating south over Wilkinson's. Black Scoter 4 migrating south over Wilkinson's. duck sp. 8 migrating south (scoter or eiders) Atlantic Puffin 2 Razorbill 10 Dovekie 39 large alcid sp. 3 alcid sp. 2 Black-legged Kittiwake 36 mostly over Jeffrey's Ledge in small groups. Bonaparte's Gull 1 Ring-billed Gull 2. Uncommon in Jeffrey's Ledge basin area. American Herring Gull 17 Great Black-backed Gull 13 loon sp. 3 migrating south Northern Fulmar 34. Mostly light morph birds, but at least 3 dark morph.
Noteworthy comments for the day:
* A few pockets of birds spread out (mostly) around the areas traveled. * The majority of Fulmar were on the outer (eastern) edge of Jeffrey's Ledge. * Newly arrived Dovekies and a single Puffin. Surprisingly zero Murres. * No late lingering Great Shearwaters or jaegers seen. * A couple of migrating loons and sea ducks.
Marine Mammals:
Humpback Whale - 2. Both crossing in front of the boat and fluking just north of Old Scantum. Photos of the underside of one of the whales was obtained and the whale has been identified as "Fenway" by Dianna Schulte of the Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation.
Dolphin sp. - At least 3 on two separate observations. Quick, brief views.
By my experience and other accounts this fall has been a slow season for waterfowl migration. The past few days I have taken a couple walks in N Quabbin and checked some local ponds and it seems migration has picked up as I have come up with 19 species of waterfowl and large numbers of a couple species:
Canada Geese 120 American Wigeon 1 Mallard 25 ish Black Duck 110 ish Green-winged Teal 2 N Pintail 1 Ring-necked Duck 19 Greater Scaup 13 Lesser Scaup 1 WW Scoter 1 Long-tailed Duck 1 (Gate 37) Bufflehead 12 C. Goldeneye 1 Hooded Merganser 21 Common Merganser 25ish Great Cormorant 1 (L. Mattawa) Horned Grebe 1 (Gate 35) Red-necked Grebe 1 (Gate 35) Common Loon 5
Date: 11/20/25 8:14 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/20 Blue-headed Vireo and Bald Eagle at Chestnut Hill, Etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:02:21 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/20 Blue-headed Vireo and Bald Eagle at Chestnut Hill, Etc.
The Wild Turkeys, Blue-headed Vireo, and one of the two Brown Creepers were on Chestnut Hill Rd. near the reservoir. All the rest of the birds were at the Chestnut Hill Reservoir. I birded here from 11:00-1:30.
Pied-billed Grebe 1 Double-crested Cormorant 1 Great Blue Heron 1 amazingly camouflaged against the slaty-blue rocks of the the reservoir Ruddy Duck 35 Ring-necked Duck 4 scaup sp. 1 by itself American Coot 16 usual spot on the water Bald Eagle 1 arrived two minutes after I did!; adult Red-tailed Hawk 1 accipiter sp. 1 hawk sp. 2 Wild Turkey 4 SEE ABOVE BLUE-HEADED VIREO 1 SEE ABOVE; IN A BLOOMING WITCH HAZEL (so early to be blooming? Brown Creeper 2 SEE ABOVE Golden-crowned Kinglet 3 together with other birds in mixed flock, including a Brown Creeper
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Visitors: Kim Brookes came to discuss my hawkwatch and hawks in general
Weather: Very light (1) NNW winds with a maximum gust of 10 km/hr in the first hour but lessening significantly as the day went on; Temperature -- 0-3° C; Cloud cover -- extensive throu8ghout -- 95-98-90%
Raptor Observations: No migrating raptors Non-migrating -- 1 RT Hawk
Non-raptor Observations: First Hermit Thrush seen at this site, a DE Junco and usual residents
Predictions: Tomorrow the winds will be mostly SW, starting out light and increasing during the day. I will not be on site. However, Saturday the winds will be moderate from the NW which may bring migrants. I will be there most of the day, and I expect Saturday will be the last day of the Pinnacle Rock Hawkwatch this year. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Visitors: About 50 hikers, 12 dogs, 2 bicylists.
Weather: A slightly odd day for November weatherwise - almost no wind. What little there was started from the NE and swung around to ESE before going almost entirely calm. The temperature at the summit hovered around 40 F. High, thin-ish clouds all day, with a low layer starting around 2200 ft north of us that rose as the session progressed. Milky sunshine turned into bright light by the end. There was a light haze everywhere, but Mt Washington was still visible with the naked eye.
Raptor Observations: The birds didn't have much to work with today. The few that I saw had to circle a lot to gain altitude, or just flapped their wings more than usual. Of the local raptors, only the Red-tails made more than a single appearance.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 15 (single skein) Blue Jay - 1 Amer Crow - 53 (groups of 35 & 18 that both flew up the NE side of the mountain before heading south) Comm Raven - 1 Snow Bunting - 12 Downy WP - 1 (male) E Bluebird - 1 (calling as it flew by)
Predictions: No watch is scheduled for Friday - I will be out of pocket. Expecting cloudy skies, temps in the low 40's and 10-15 mph SW winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Paul Vanderhoof, Tom Gottschang
Visitors: About 30 hikers, and one bicyclist on a road bike.
Weather: A sunny day with a light haze layer, but all of the mountains with ski trails popped out in the bright light (Mt Snow, Stratton, Bromley and Okemo.) Snow-covered Mt Washington and one of the Franconia Notch mountains (Flume?) were both visible to the naked eye (125 mi.) The NW winds in the first hour were a bit brisk with gusts up to 16 mph, but they calmed down after that, averaging 4-7 mph. Despite all of the sunlight, the temps held between 33 and 35 F for the 4 hours that we were on the mountain.
Raptor Observations: Many thanks to Paul and Tom who hiked up the mountain to help out.
We managed to eke out only 8 migrating birds despite what should have been good migrating conditions. One of the juvenile Bald Eagles was trying to pass as a Golden. It had slighty droopy wings that morphed into a mild dihedral at one point, and we couldn't see any white underneath, probebly because it was heavily backlit. In the end, the head and tail projections were just not right for a Golden, but at least it was migrating.
Non-migrating raptors: Bald Eagle - 2 (1 Ad, 1 Juv) There might have been another adult, but we never saw more than 1 at a time. Cooper's Hawk - 1 Red-shoulder - 1 (Ad) Red-tail - 3 (2 Ad, 1 Juv) Maybe more
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 10 (4 + 6) Blue Jay - 1 Comm Raven - 2 DE Junco - 1 We didn't see the Snow Bunting flock today.
Predictions: For Thursday, light N to ENE winds with cloudy skies in the morning and partly cloudy in the afternoon. Temps from the mid-30's to 40 mph. Eric will go up. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 11/19/25 4:23 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/19 Fenway Highlights-American Wigeon, Nashville Warbler, Etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Wed, 19 Nov 2025 23:35:07 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/19 Fenway Highlights-American Wigeon, Nashville Warbler, Etc.
In the fall, this place is best birded near and at sunset. That is when the birds are the most vocal and active. Thus was the case this evening when I found more than half of all the sparrows I had, the Swamp Sparrow, the sapsucker, and the Nashville Warbler
Great Blue Heron 1 AMERICAN WIGEON 1 rare here; opposite the soccer goal net Ring-necked Duck 19 Hooded Merganser 7 Red-tailed Hawk 1 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1 landed in oak at beginning of ROW O; immature male NASHVILLE WARBLER 1 at 4:22 feeding in the elm at end of ROW D (next to compost rows Dark-eyed Junco 15 White-throated Sparrow 55 SEE ABOVE Song Sparrow 9 Swamp Sparrow 1 near aforementioned compost rows
Date: 11/18/25 7:32 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/18 Great Pond in Randolph Highlights
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Wed, 19 Nov 2025 01:39:58 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/18 Great Pond in Randolph Highlights
I birded here from 11:20-3:40. I started at the Oak St. end and walked along the left side all the way out to the end of the dike. I then exited via the Norroway Rd. exit
Great Blue Heron 1 Green-winged Teal 5 much lower numbers than on 11/14 Ring-necked Duck 2 compare with two hundred on 11/14 Scaup sp. 5 Barrow's Goldeneye 1 ad. male continues for many days now Common Goldeneye 25 Ruddy Duck 62 Hooded Merganser 31 Bufflehead 46 Belted Kingfisher 2 Hairy Woodpecker 1 usual location Northern Flicker 2 Common Raven 1 Cedar Waxwing 5 F.O.F.
P.S. the smaller body of water near Norroway Ave. is a part of Great Pond, and noy Norroway Pond. The reason the road is Norroway Rd. is due to NORROWAY BROOK running behind the houses on the right side. Norroway Brook leads out of Norroway Pond, WHICH IS PART OF the POWERS FARM! It runs out to that small section of Great Pond that I've already mentioned.
Date: 11/18/25 12:18 pm From: Jim Guion <jim_guion...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] RFI Birding near Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, Argentina
Since we are now NOT going to to Tanzania this January due to recent unrest in the country...
...my wife and I are NOW planning to go to trekking in Patagoniain late January 2026.
We will be mostly in Argentina, but will be in Chile for Torres del Paine NP.
We are looking for recommendations for guides and birding locations in 2 areas:
1 - We are planning several days in Buenas Aires prior to our tour and are interested in day trips in and around that area.
2 - Near the end of our tour, we will have 2 free days in Ushuaia. Here, we are thinking one day cruising the Beagle Channel and seeing the penguin colony on Martillo Island, then one day birding in Tierra del Fuego NP.
We will also be hiking and have some free time in these locations, but don't think we'd have time to get a guide:
*
El Chalten
*
El Calafate
*
Puerto Natales
*
Torres del Paine NP
Thanks for any info.
Please send off list.
If anyone else wants the info, I can compile it and forward.
Date: 11/17/25 7:35 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/14 Barrow's Goldeneye, Etc. at Great Pond in Randolph
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Tue, 18 Nov 2025 01:42:54 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/14 Barrow's Goldeneye, Etc. at Great Pond in Randolph
I started at the extreme southern end and walked along the left side and out to the dike.
Green-winged Teal 36 Ruddy Duck 70 Hooded Merganser 3 Ring-necked Duck 200 Scaup sp. 1 Barrow's Goldeneye 1 at the bend in the dike with commons Common Goldeneye 15 Bufflehead 15
Observation start time: 12:00:00 Observation end time: 13:45:00 Total observation time: 1.75 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Strong (3) NW winds with a maximum measured gust of 39km/hr. Temperature went from 1-2°C. Cloud cover went from 75-50%
Raptor Observations: No raptors seen either migrating or not migrating -- winds were possibly too strong
Non-raptor Observations: Only two birds seen in flight - a gull and a blue jay
With the wind so strong and the cold temperatures I left earlier than I had planned.
Predictions: Winds will again be too strong on Tuesday so I will not be on site. Wednesday, the winds will be more moderate and NW winds will shift to WNW, but I will not be on site. I expect to be on site Thursday when lighter NW winds are predicted. Wednesday and Thursday may bring some late migrants. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 10:15:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 5.25 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Carole Powers
Visitors: Oliver Kleinbub stopped by to chat on his weekly hike, and Michelle Meredith, Elly Ragone and her two friends, Matt Scott, Manisha Nandakishore, Sky Umesha, and Bren Hutchinson all were interested to learn more about hawks and sat down for my small lecture on hawks and hawk watching.
Weather: Strong (3) NW/WNW winds throughout watch moderating slightly at 2 PM, with a maximum gust of 45 km/hr. Temperature went from 6-8-7°C; Cloud cover was heavy throughout the day from 70-90-75% with clouds moving rapidly across the sky. Raptor Observations: No migrating raptors seen Non-migrating - Three RT Hawks
Non-raptor Observations: Birds - 88 Canada Geese (flocks of 65 and 23, exact count from photographs), one Raven and the usual feeder birds.
Predictions: Winds will again be strong from the West and WNW, continuing into Tuesday. They will moderate slightly on Wednesday but I will not be present. It's late in the season and strong winds may discourage migrants, as they seem to have done yesterday. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Date: 11/17/25 12:28 pm From: <sohzendeh...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Next Bear Creek, Saugus, walk on Sunday November 23, 9 am; report for November 16 walk
Folks,
The next walk at Bear Creek Sanctuary in Saugus is on Sunday, November 23 at
9 am. Details at the end of this email.
The walk on November 16 was attended by over 25 people. The morning started
out lovely with mild temperatures but soon a sharp southwest wind kicked up.
Thereafter it was hard to keeps optics focused and certainly hard to
photograph wildlife. Cammy Kaynor, who contributed the majority of photos
to the ebird list (see below) managed to heroically provide recognizable
images of some of the birds we saw.
Thanks to Brendan Burke for fulfilling list-keeping duties. If you were
there yesterday, the following link will allow you to share the list:
Here are details for attending the walk at this property on November 23:
Bear Creek is an upland sanctuary built on the WINWaste (formerly
Wheelabrator) landfill at the northeast corner of Rumney Marsh in Saugus and
Revere. Access information is below. Wear waterproof walking shoes and be
prepared to hike 3 4 miles. The property is mostly very open, so be
prepared for sun, wind and weather.
This walk is free and open to the public, but also note that this property
is accessible by invitation only and visitors need to be chaperoned at all
times. Please allow roughly 4 hours for this field trip. The actual length
of the trip depends on conditions and the birds present. It's usually
difficult to break up the party if you need to be somewhere in the early
afternoon. Come prepared to stay with the group.
WINWaste company has graciously stocked up on some extra pairs of
binoculars, so if you or someone you know wants to learn about birds and
birding, come on down. Please let Geoff Wilson <s2ary...>
<mailto:<s2ary...> know you're coming so we can have a head count.
Bear Creek Sanctuary access is via the WINWaste plant, 100 Salem Turnpike
(Rte 107), Saugus. The rotary at the intersection of Rtes 60 and 107 is
about 1 miles southwest of the plant and about 1 mile east of Rte 1 exit on
Rte 60. When traveling northeast on 107, if you go over the Ballard Street
bridge (just after a set of lights) youve gone too far turn back. Here is
a link to google maps:
When you arrive, drive through the plant gates, park in the parking lot
immediately and wait for the group. Please do not drive farther into the
property without an escort.
Date: 11/16/25 3:31 pm From: <blafley...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] The coyote and the geese
Hello,
Yesterday AM stopped at a large cornfield to check for birds and spotted a coyote trotting across the field. On the other side of the field there was a flock of 100 or so geese. The coyote was headed right toward the geese and the geese froze and had their heads up. The coyote came to within 10-15 yards of the geese stopping a couple times to dig and forage and then just moved alongside them ignoring them. The geese stood there not making a sound and watching. Coyote finally just moved away. It almost seemed like the coyote knew that if it went for the geese they would fly away and the geese knew that if the coyote went for them they could fly away. Interesting encounter to watch.
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Visitors: Jun Mao and Eduardo Sastre were both interested in hearing more about hawks and hawk migration
Weather: Moderate (2) NW winds with a maximum gust of 16 km/hr. Temperature -- It was cold; went from 0-3°C; Cloud cover -- Day started with about 8% on the SE horizon; Gradually clouds moved in from the west. Although in the north they still seemed to be together, as they moved toward the Rock, they broke up into wispy strands; eventually toward the end of the watch the sky was 95% cloud covered with all being very high and wispy cirrus clouds.
Raptor Observations: Only one migrating raptor -- an adult RT Hawk One non-migrating RT Hawk
Non-raptor Observations: Other than the feeder birds and a Blue Jay, the only other birds seen were a flock of about 100 Canada Geese that passed the Rock at 2:30 PM.
Predictions: After tonight's rain, the weather is expected to clear and winds will shift to the west becoming strongest (20 mph) around noon and diminishing slightly. These strong west winds will continue into Monday and possibly into Tuesday as well, before diminishing significantly on Wednesday. While west winds are not the most favorable for hawk migration, they may bring some late migrants. This will probably be the last week I will be on the Rock, although I may extend the watch into next weekend. Also, at this point I know I will not be there on Friday (rain is predicted) and either Tuesday or Wednesday (probably Wednesday). If you do decide to come any day next week, dress warmly in layers. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks, Steve Tysz
Weather: AM: mostly sunny with cirrus clouds. PM: Mostly cloudy, with stratus filling in from the west. Wind WNW 5-7 mph in the morning, shifting to W 3-5 mph in the afternoon. Temperature 37-42 F.
Raptor Observations: The morning saw a decent flight, taking advantage of the WNW winds; the shift to W winds after noon led to an abrupt drop in activity. I arrived (for the second day in a row) too late to see an adult Golden Eagle, but stayed late enough to get excellent looks at two light-morph Rough-legged Hawks and a tardy juvenile Broad-winged Hawk. The first RLHA, a juvenile, flew right over my head, disappeared in the trees on the west side of the hill, then returned to hover-hunt, kestrel-fashion, the south field. When it dropped out of sight again, I turned to scan the north horizon, where -- lo and behold -- the second Rough-leg was hover-hunting half a mile away. Meanwhile, the juvie Broad-wing passed high overhead directly above me. Wow. Not counted as migrants: 2 Black Vultures, adult Bald Eagle.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Geese (ca. 620 in ten skeins), Mourning Doves (9), Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jays (2), American Crows (41), Common Ravens (4), Tufted Titmouse, Eastern Bluebirds (10 in one flock), American Robins (6), American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Juncos (3). ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Misha Conaway, Tom Gottschang
Visitors: Approximately 50 hikers and one out-of-breath runner who appeared wearing a light shirt and nylon running shorts - he didn't stay up on the platform very long.
Weather: A cold, breezy day with some sunshine. 37-39 F, NW winds averaging 6-9 mph with semi-regular gusts at 15 mph and above. Very good visibility, with Mt Greylock and the VT mountains covered with snow, shining in the sunlight. The cloud base started at about 4,000 ft and rose to about 8,000 by 2 pm. Mostly cumulus clouds that thickened into a mass punctuated by blue sky openings here and there.
Raptor Observations: Many thanks to Tom Gottschang and Misha Conaway for hiking up to join me at the summit.
Our first time up here after waiting out very strong winds and occasional rain over the past 5 days. We were very happy to see the Rough-legged Hawk, a fairly rare visitor here. 19 birds is a decent count here for this time of the year.
Non-migrating raptors: TV - 1 Bald Eagle - 2 (Ad and Juv) Red-tailed Hawk - 3 (1 Ad, 2 Juv)
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 58 (skeins of 40 and 18) Red-bellied WP - 1 Snow Bunting - 10 Blue Jay - 1 Comm Raven - 4 Amer Robin - 1
Predictions: For Saturday, plenty of welcome sunshine until about 2 pm, WNW winds at around 10 mph, and temps just reaching 40 F. We're hoping for another reasonable count, and another special bird. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks, Steve Tysz
Weather: Cloud-cover slowly increased: 5% > 10% > 40% > 70%; sprinkles of rain began shortly after the watch ended. Wind NW, veering to W late in the last hour, 5-10 mph. Temperature 38-41 F.
Raptor Observations: Steve saw an adult Golden Eagle about 20 minutes before I arrived. Sigh. Red-tails led the way. Eight species of migrants were tallied, a good result this late in the season. One lone Turkey Vulture was a surprise. Not counted as migrants: 3 Black Vultures, 3 Bald Eagles, several hunting Red-tailed Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations: BIRD(S) OF THE DAY: A flock of 12 noisy Evening Grosbeaks that whooshed through headed SW. Canada Geese (ca. 60 total, in three skeins), Blue Jays (2), American Crows (2), Common Ravens (2), Black-capped Chickadees (2), Tufted Titmouse, Eastern Bluebirds (2), American Robins (15), Red-winged Blackbirds (flock of ca. 30).
Predictions: Possibly a continuation of today's flight, until the wind shifts to W early in the afternoon. ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Moderate (2) WNW-NW winds with maximum gusts of 15 km/hr; temperature hovered between 6-7° C; Cloud cover was virtually 100% throughout the day with very small patches of blue appearing now and then; At the end of the watch rain was moving in from the north and a rainbow appeared due north of the site.
Raptor Observations: Only three migrating raptors seen -- a UR, an adult Bald Eagle and an adult Golden Eagle Non-migrating -- an immature RT Hawk was seen several times
Notes on the GE sighting: At 1:15 PM I was beginning to think that the sighting of the adult BE half an hour into my watch had not been the good omen I had thought as I had only seen one other migrating raptor (a UR). Then at 1:20 PM I spotted a large dark bird NNE of my site. As it moved toward the north (the Four Pines) I got it in my scope and began following it. The bird began to soar and as it soared although I could see no features on it, but it was clear that the head was much smaller than the tail. The wings were broad, but did not give the impression of a broad plank that a BE would give. Given the broad and very large wings, the dark body , and the small head in comparison to the tail, I suspected the bird was indeed a Golden Eagle adult. After the bird soared a bit, it then peeled out of its soar, and it became clear that the bird was heading south toward the Rock. I quickly grabbed my camera and took several burst of film as it not only headed toward me, but flew over my head less than fifty feet above me. As it passed overhead I tried taking some more photos of the bird. I then watched it fly due south toward Boston. Given the bird's size, its totally dark appearance (with no white on either the wings or the tail), and small head compared to its tail, I felt sure that the bird was indeed an adult Golden Eagle. [Looking at the photos in my camera, although a golden head was not visible the very robust body and the six splayed primaries seemed to confirm the ID] {I hoped that adjusting the lighting on my computer would reveal the subtle features and golden head, but unfortunately the one burst of photos that were in decent focus only reveal light patches on the head, even when I increase the contrast, and no other features}
Non-raptor Observations: Two groups of Canada Geese were seen (flocks of about 20 birds and one of 7); and one Dark-eyed Junco was seen in addition to the birds at the feeder.
Predictions: Should be good NW winds, possibly continuing into Saturday ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 10:45:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 5.25 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Moderate (2) WSW-WNW winds with maximum gusts of 17 km/hr; temperature -- 3-4°C; Cloud cover -- watch began with 100%; around 1PM some clearing began such that by 2 PM only 60% of the sky was covered in clouds. However, around 2:15 PM clouds started moving in from the west such that by 3 PM 80% of the sky was cloudy
Raptor Observations: Five migrating raptors seen Non-migrating raptors -- a local CH (probably from Pine Banks) and at least 2 RT Hawks, including at least one adult
A CH flew over my head and landed in the tower. As it flew higher a Raven flew up and landed next to it. After what appeared to be some bickering, the CH flew off and off to Pine Banks
Non-raptor Observations: In addition to the now regular feeder birds, two Dark-eyed Juncos and the aforementioned Raven were present
Predictions: Tomorrow's winds will mostly be from the WNW switching to the NW in the afternoon. These winds are favorable for migration at this site and will continue into Friday and possibly Saturday. Unfortunately I will not be on the Rock on Friday (which looks to be the best day of the three) due to a medical appointment. Hopefully, someone will be able to be on site that day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Date: 11/12/25 4:45 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/11 and 11/12 Fenway Highlights-American Redstart, Etc. Unless,noted, all birds from today
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
* Date: Thu, 13 Nov 2025 00:20:04 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/11 and 11/12 Fenway Highlights-American Redstart, Etc. Unless noted, all birds from today
Great Blue Heron1 Green-winged Teal 1 Wood Duck 1 Ring-necked Duck 6 Red-tailed Hawk 2 MERLIN 1 both days, near dusk atop cell tower (next to Boston Fire Dept. Headquarters) Cooper's Hawk 1 yesterday Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1 minimum Carolina Wren 2 Hermit Thrush 2 yesterday; near each other Gray Catbird 1 American Redstart 1 yesterday; I believe it left last night Nashville Warbler 2 one war memorials, one in silver maple next to Boylston St. Bridge Common Yellowthroat 1 yesterday Dark-eyed Junc0 15 both days White-throated Sparrow 20 both days Song Sparrow 12 both days Swamp Sparrow 2 together in Row W or ROW V
I stopped by the pig farm on Division Road in Westport looking for Black Vulture. I found one, but there was a large sitting raptor in one of the bare trees in the back. With bins it looked black, but in the scope it was brown....and large. It was back to and a branch was hiding its neck and top of back. Facing away I could only see the brown face and bill, which was smaller than expected for a bird this large, as it appeared hunched over. The back was brown mottled with lighter brown. The tail was charcoal black tipped with a thin white line above which got larger when the bird bent over more. I could not get a better look as the bird was low enough to be hidden by the buildings/trees the farther north I walked along Division. I could only see the trees from the south end which has the access to the field.
Finaly the bird moved; the white area covered the rump with a blackish tail band. The bird was dropping down lower and disappeared behind the before mentioned buildings and trees giving only a few seconds of view. So I never saw the under parts nor under wings.
I believe this can only be an immature Golden Eagle.
Prior to this I walked Ocean View Farm in Dartmouth. In the field at the end of the access path to the left has several cattle and there was one Western Cattle Egret.
Glenn
Glenn d'Entremont: <gdentremont1...> Stoughton, MA
Date: 11/11/25 6:59 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/4 American Redstart at Fenway Victory Gardens, Etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Wed, 5 Nov 2025 00:18:46 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/4 American Redstart at Fenway Victory Gardens, Etc.
I birded today on this windy day from 12:00-4:00. Nice to get the redstart towards the end. It was at the beginning of Row C and Row D, in the same area as yesterdays warblers, etc . American Black Duck 100+ wild guess Wood Duck 2 continuing for many days; near Boylston St. Bridge Hooded Merganser 1 F.O.F. (1st of fall) Red-tailed Hawk 1 accipiter sp. 1 hawk sp. 1 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1 female children's play area; later in victory gardens (in elm, where else?) Carolina Wren 1 Hermit Thrush 1 Common Yellowthroat 1 beautiful in full sun, facing me American Redstart 1 female type; SEE ABOVE American Tree Sparrow 1 F.O.F. Swamp Sparrow 2 one within gardens, one without White-throated Sparrow 25 both sides of Muddy River combined Song Sparrow 9 Dark-eyed Junco 11 only one was in the gardens, others other side of river
Observation start time: 10:15:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 1.75 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Moderate (2) W-WNW winds with gusts up to 21 km/hr; temperature -- 1-2°C; Cloud cover -- 100 % -- in last 15 minutes of watch light snow flurries started falling and I decided to leave earlier than originally planned
Raptor Observations: No migrating raptors One or two RT Hawks not migrating
Non-raptor Observations: A Raven and a Gray-headed Junco were seen as well as Downy Woodpecker, BC Chickadee, and Tufted Titmouse at the feeder
Predictions: Tomorrow's SW-WSW predicted winds not particularly promising although they will bring slightly warmer weather, and I plan to be on site. Thursday's winds will shift toward the NW and continue into Friday and possibly Saturday. These are the most propitious winds at this site, but I will not be able to be on site on Friday. Hopefully, someone else will be able to cover the site that day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report. This bird is now gone.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:17:22 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 10/30 Townsends Warbler Brookline YES
I had the bird at 2:15. It was in a favorite tree, i.e. the black birch on the left side of #17 Clearwater Rd. in Brookline. (the house with the pale blue color)
Date: 11/11/25 12:42 pm From: <kjsejkora...> <kjsejkora...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] RFI Birding while on safari in Tanzania
Hello Jim,
Sounds like a good trip. I'm envious.
You are probably already aware, but just in case you aren't, the Merlin bird app from Cornell has the ability to download 'libraries' for different parts of the world, including several locations in Africa. If you have Marlin installed on your smart phone, you may want to download the applicable libraries before you leave. Many of the libraries contain audio files as well, such that you can hear what a given species sounds like, and even better, the Marlin app can use its 'Sound ID' feature to provide an identification of the species it is "hearing". Granted, it isn't always 100% accurate, but it's a start. Having said all that, and as much as I like Merlin, I still prefer a hard-copy field guide to tote along.
Enjoy your trip when the time comes.
Ken Sejkora
East Falmouth
________________________________
From: <massbird-approval...> <massbird-approval...> on behalf of Barbara Volkle <barb620...>
Sent: Tuesday, November 11, 2025 2:44 PM
To: <massbird...> <massbird...>
Subject: [MASSBIRD] RFI Birding while on safari in Tanzania
Thanks to Jim Guion for this post.
Barbara Volkle
Northborough, MA
<barb620...>
*
From: Jim Guion <jim_guion...>
Subject: RFI Birding while on safari in Tanzania
Date: Mon, 27 Oct 2025 23:56:52 +0000
My wife and I are planning to go to Tanzania in late January 2026.
The main thing we will do is to attempt climbing Mt Kilimanjaro with a
group.
We are hoping for some good birds while doing that, but don't know how
that will go.
We are also looking at going on safari after the climb, for 4 or 5 days,
just a short one. While we will enjoy seeing the animals, we will be
far more excited to see new birds!
We are hoping that anyone on the list who has done such a safari with
birding can share with us how it went and what company they went with.
There are sooooo many safari companies out there, that it is impossible
to figure out whether any of them are any good at what they do, let
alone if they are any good at birding!
Thanks for any info.
Please send off list.
If anyone else wants the info, I can compile it and forward.
Date: 11/11/25 11:54 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] RFI Birding while on safari in Tanzania
Thanks to Jim Guion for this post.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
From: Jim Guion <jim_guion...> Subject: RFI Birding while on safari in Tanzania Date: Mon, 27 Oct 2025 23:56:52 +0000
My wife and I are planning to go to Tanzania in late January 2026. The main thing we will do is to attempt climbing Mt Kilimanjaro with a group. We are hoping for some good birds while doing that, but don't know how that will go.
We are also looking at going on safari after the climb, for 4 or 5 days, just a short one. While we will enjoy seeing the animals, we will be far more excited to see new birds!
We are hoping that anyone on the list who has done such a safari with birding can share with us how it went and what company they went with. There are sooooo many safari companies out there, that it is impossible to figure out whether any of them are any good at what they do, let alone if they are any good at birding!
Thanks for any info. Please send off list. If anyone else wants the info, I can compile it and forward.
Date: 11/11/25 11:34 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Brookline Bird Club Young Birder Scholarships
Thanks to John Nelson and the Brookline Bird Club for this announcement.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
From: John Nelson <jnelson...> Date: Tue, 28 Oct 2025 10:09:50 -0400 Subject: Brookline Bird Club Young Birder Scholarships
The Brookline Bird Club will again offer two Bill Drummond Young Birder Scholarships to nurture interest in bird study and conservation among young birders. 2026 scholarships will cover the full cost of the Coastal Maine Bird Studies for Teens program at National Audubon's Hog Island camp on *June 21-26, 2026.* The cost includes housing, boat travel, and all meals.
Scholarship recipients will be responsible for transportation costs to and from the camp. Applicants must be New England residents, ages 14-17 as of June 1, 2026, and must submit a written application and two letters of reference. Preference will be given to applicants with individual or family BBC memberships. To be considered a member, an applicant may join the clubat the time of application. A youth membership for one year is $10.All completed applications and references must be received by the BBC scholarship committee by *February 16, 2026*. Selection and notification of recipients will be completed by *March 12, 2026*. For instructions and an application form, check the BBC website at
Date: 11/11/25 11:22 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 10/27 Fenway Highlights
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Mon, 27 Oct 2025 22:26:34 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 10/27 Fenway Highlights
Most birds were in the Fenway Victory Gardens. I birded here from 11:20-3:00
Wood Duck 3 Cooper's Hawk 2 together; one diving on another; also aerial duetting occurring Northern Flicker 1 Brown Creeper 1 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 2 Hermit Thrush 7 four in one berry tree Common Yellowthroat 1 Row C White-throated Sparrow 20 Song Sparrow 10 Swamp Sparrow 1 Dark-eyed Junco 8 Common Grackle 200
Date: 11/11/25 8:39 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Townsend's Warbler Brookline (now gone)
Thanks to Matt Garvey for getting the word out about this now-departed bird.
I've posted this report because it is of note, and removed his address for privacy.
It pays to look in your own backyard!
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
From: Matt <mattpgarvey...> Subject: Townsend's Warbler Brookline Date: Sun, 26 Oct 2025 18:24:39 -0400
Late this afternoon, already running late to coach a baseball game, I had a Townsendâs Warbler in my Brookline yard. Folks are welcome to go for it tomorrow, but please donât come any earlier than 8:30 ( we have 3 kids to get out the door by then) and be mindful it's a busy residential street. Sorry I couldn't get word out sooner. . Just help yourself to the backyard (please don't ring), as I'll be working from home but will try to pop out when not on Teams calls.
Finally an overcast morning with no wind & cool temperatures which boded for a busy morning - given a small team [4] this morning, we kept a few long nets closed and worked with just 5 short nets and 2 Long nets. Like every morning at this private property, the Goldfinches, Bluebirds, Yellow-rumps, sparrows, etc were swirling around & over us.Not a surprise, the birds were quickly getting caught with a nice mixture that included 2 Red-b Nuthatches, 3 Ruby-cr Kinglets, Wht-thr & Chipping & Swamp Sparrows, several Juncos, Cardinal, Bluebirds, 2 Robins [shockingly not a Goldfinch on this 1st net check] Once we processed those 18 captures, the 1st long net we checked on our 2nd net check had approx. 14 birds caught that included 3 Cedar Waxwings, 4 Cowbirds, 1 Ruby-cr Kinglet, 1 Cardinal, 2 Bluebirds plus several Juncos, Yellow-rumps, Wht-thr Sparrows. In the end, we had processed 67 birds which was a team project on the 3 net checks when we closed for the morning despite birds flying all around us of various species. In the last 6 mornings of banding this site, we have processed over 300 captures comprising 31 species. Around the nets waiting to be caught are the Rusty & Red-w Blackbirds, Winter Wrens, Pine Siskins [fly over], plus 3 species of woodpeckers & others.
Date: 11/10/25 9:28 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 10/24 Clay-colored Sparrow and Mourning Warbler at Fenway Victory,Gardens
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Fri, 24 Oct 2025 19:47:37 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 10/24 Clay-colored Sparrow and Mourning Warbler at Fenway Victory Gardens
There was a pretty Clay-colored Sparrow in a mixed flock on the grassy area behind the black chain link fence (opposite the ends of Row U Row V and Row W). At least one of the Mourning Warblers continues. As I was walking on the asphalt path that parallels Boylston St., a Mourning Warbler flew across my path and landed in the plot opposite Row F. Thankfully it called once, so I was able to know what it was. It flew back to the other side of the asphalt path and went somewhere. I birded from 12:00-3:00.
Wood Duck 2 Cooper's Hawk 1 imm. Red-tailed Hawk 1 imm. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 2 in the elm end of Row D (next to compost) Eastern Phoebe 1 Golden-crowned Kinglet 1 Gray Catbird 1 Mourning Warbler 1 Clay-colored Sparrow 1 with three Field Sparrows, juncos, etc. Field Sparrow 4 White-throated Sparrow 10 Song Sparrow 15 Dark-eyed Junco 16
Date: 11/10/25 8:54 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 10/22 And Yet Another Mourning; Six Warbler Species Today in Fenway
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Wed, 22 Oct 2025 23:36:58 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 10/22 And Yet Another Mourning; Six Warbler Species Today in Fenway
A bird popped up onto the picket fence near the end of ROW M (left side). A Mourning Warbler. Different from yesterday's bird. That one had a very bright yellow underside. Across from the Forsythe Children's Dental Infirmary and the Emerald Necklace Conservancy Shattuck Building on Fenway (actual name of road) there was a nice songbird wave in the big oaks. At one time, they were screaming into a tree hole. This made them very easy to see. In this flock were three Black-throated Greens, one Nashville, one Blackpoll. a Golden-crowned Kinglet or two, and of course, the ever present Tufted Titmice.
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1 war memorials Golden-crowned Kinglet 1 min. Hermit Thrush 1 war memorials Mourning Warbler 1 See Above Common Yellowthroat 1 Row Z Nashville Warbler 2 max. Blackpoll Warbler 1 Black-throated Green Warbler 3 two bright, one not so much See Above Yellow-rumped Warbler 2 min. Field Sparrow 3 together on grassy strip at end of Row D Swamp Sparrow 1 White-throated Sparrow 14 Song Sparrow 10 Dark-eyed Junco 1 MONARCH 1
Date: 11/10/25 8:44 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Next Bear Creek, Saugus, walk on Sunday November 9, 9 am; report for October 19 walk
Thanks to Soheil Zendeh for this report.
While the upcoming trip notice is a bit late, the trip report is still of interest.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
From: <sohzendeh...> Subject: Next Bear Creek, Saugus, walk on Sunday November 9, 9 am; report for October 19 walk Date: Wed, 22 Oct 2025 10:59:26 -0400
Folks,
The next walk at Bear Creek Sanctuary in Saugus is on Sunday, November 9 at 9 am. Detail at the end of this email.
Note that there are NO WALKS on Sundays October 26 or November 2.
On the October 19 walk, it was evident that a large number of migrant sparrows (mostly Savannahs) that we saw on the previous walk (October 5) had departed, perhaps with the cold front of the previous week. Nevertheless, there were still a lot of American Pipits around, plus a couple of Bobolinks and respectable counts of Savannah and Song Sparrows. I also saw a photo of a very pale Savannah Sparrow taken by one of the participants -- probably an Ipswich. I'll try to get that photo posted to this ebird list. The highlights were: -Uncharacteristically tame Eastern Coyote, probably young of last winter, who wouldnât scamper away but instead stayed in one place pawing the ground endlessly -Juvenile American Golden Plover which was misidentified by the intrepid leader (you know who) as a Black-bellied and later correctly identified by Tim Brown checking his photos against Merlin on line. Thank you Tim. -And very tame Eastern Garter Snake which curled and uncurled, striking out as though it was a rattler but not retreating to hide.
Bear Creek Sanctuary (restricted access), Essex, Massachusetts, US Oct 19, 2025 9:10 AM - 12:29 PM Protocol: Traveling 2.887 mile(s) 38 bird species (+1 other taxa)
Canada Goose 2 Mallard 6 American Black Duck 20 Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon) 10 Mourning Dove 13 American Golden-Plover 1 Wilson's Snipe 4 American Herring Gull 50 Great Black-backed Gull 1 Double-crested Cormorant 80 Great Egret 4 Great Blue Heron 2 Cooper's Hawk 1 Northern Harrier 2 Bald Eagle 1 Red-tailed Hawk 2 Downy Woodpecker 1 American Crow 3 Black-capped Chickadee 2 Tree Swallow 2 Carolina Wren 1 European Starling 50 Northern Mockingbird 2 American Robin 1 House Sparrow 4 House Finch 6 Purple Finch 1 American Goldfinch 3 Field Sparrow 2 White-throated Sparrow 3 Savannah Sparrow (Savannah) 50 Savannah Sparrow (Ipswich) 1 Song Sparrow 15 Eastern Towhee 1 Bobolink 2 Black-and-white Warbler 1 Common Yellowthroat 1 Palm Warbler 1 Northern Cardinal 3
Here are details for attending the walk at this property on November 9:
Bear Creek is an upland sanctuary built on the WINWaste (formerly Wheelabrator) landfill at the northeast corner of Rumney Marsh in Saugus and Revere. Access information is below. Wear waterproof walking shoes and be prepared to hike 3 â 4 miles. The property is mostly very open, so be prepared for sun, wind and weather.
This walk is free and open to the public, but also note that this property is accessible by invitation only and visitors need to be chaperoned at all times. Please allow roughly 4 hours for this field trip. The actual length of the trip depends on conditions and the birds present. It's usually difficult to break up the party if you need to be somewhere in the early afternoon. Come prepared to stay with the group.
WINWaste company has graciously stocked up on some extra pairs of binoculars, so if you or someone you know wants to learn about birds and birding, come on down. Please let Geoff Wilson <s2ary...> know you're coming so we can have a head count.
Bear Creek Sanctuary access is via the WINWaste plant, 100 Salem Turnpike (Rte 107), Saugus. The rotary at the intersection of Rtes 60 and 107 is about 1½ miles southwest of the plant and about 1 mile east of Rte 1 exit on Rte 60. When traveling northeast on 107, if you go over the Ballard Street bridge (just after a set of lights) youâve gone too far â turn back. Here is a link to google maps: http://tinyurl.com/326v87d.
When you arrive, drive through the plant gates, park in the parking lot immediately and wait for the group. Please do not drive farther into the property without an escort.
Date: 11/10/25 8:28 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 10/19 Connecticut and Mourning Warblers Fenway
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this post.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
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Date: Tue, 21 Oct 2025 20:37:03 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 10/19 Connecticut and Mourning Warblers Fenway
The warbler call that I heard today in the victory gardens in Row W was the same as the call from two days ago in Row U. This was after seeing the silent Connecticut Warbler in Row K on that day. Thus, rhe headline in my post!
Date: 11/10/25 8:10 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 10/21 Mourning Warbler at Fenway Victory Gardens at 2:00
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
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Date: Tue, 21 Oct 2025 20:20:12 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 10/21 Mourning Warbler at Fenway Victory Gardens at 2:00
As I was walking down ROW W, I repeatedly heard an interesting call. The bird was moving up the row. I ran back up the row to plot 19 (the plot with the sign on its post that reads ROW W-19-30, very conspicuous). I caught up to the bird in the tomato plants along the back fence of this plot. Great looks of this bird with bright yellow underside with some yellow on its throat. It's a 1st winter female). The bird flew over to the next row ROW V
Date: 11/10/25 8:00 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/10 Interesting Encounters with the American Redstart, Etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
* Date: Mon, 10 Nov 2025 23:53:30 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/10 Interesting Encounters with the American Redstart, Etc.
I birded in the Fenway from 12:00-4:00. When I reached the gardens, I saw the American Redstart in its usual place, i.e, the Hackberry tree behind huge plot A-10. (Row A is the asphalt row that also serves as a cut-thru path for people, and runs parallel to Boylston). Shortly afterwards, a vicious mockingbird, attempting to have all the berries for itself, drove the bird off. I waited for about fifteen minutes and gave up. About two hours later, as I was wrapping things up, I made another pass at the hackberry, which is opposite 1179 Boylston St.Sure enough, she was there in the tree. Shortly afterwards, she flew off in the direction of the Muddy River. I went in that direction and refound the bird in the elm tree at the end of ROW D. Shortly after that, the bird seemed to be gone from there, so I went to the plot in ROW D where the bird spends the night. Voila! the bird was in that plot, i.e. Row D-08.
Great Blue Heron 1 Ring-necked Duck 7 Hooded Merganser 1 opposite Avenue Louis Pasteur accipiter sp. 1 Red-tailed Hawk 2 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1 ROW D in the pine Carolina Wren 1 Gray Catbird 1 ROW D American Redstart 1 Nashville Warbler 1 stunning at the end of ROW X; also in middle of ROW W White-throated Sparrow 30 incl. ten in the yews at Emmanuel College Song Sparrow 10 Swamp Sparrow 1 Dark-eyed Junco 8
Even with the breeze, sunny skies, 5 of us were straight out extracting, ageing, sexing, recording & banding 74 captures - our high number after recently banding 71 birds. Flocks of birds were moving about nonstop from the beginning - 1st net check had 18 captures in the 7 open nets - next check one net had 20 netted. We feel lucky that today and other recent days have not been overcast and little wind because our captures would be crazy numbers.The large majority were Goldfinches followed by Juncos, Wht-thr Sparrow - in the mix where Yellow-rumped Warblers, Ruby-cr Kinglets, Field & Song & Chipping Sparrows, Cardinals, banded TitmouseOther species near the nets were Winter & Carolina Wrens, several species of woodpeckers, Red breasted & Wht breasted Nuthatches, etc
Date: 11/10/25 11:10 am From: <sohzendeh...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Next Bear Creek, Saugus, walk on Sunday November 16, 9 am; report for November 9 walk
Folks,
The next walk at Bear Creek Sanctuary in Saugus is on Sunday, November 16 at
9 am. Detail at the end of this email.
The walk on November 9 was attended by 9 people who initially found few if
any passerine migrants sparrow numbers very low (except for Whitethroats)
and warblers practically non-existent. But eventually some of the normally
expected late fall and winter passerines (Snow Buntings, Horned Larks,
American Pipits, Eastern Meadowlark) put in an appearance and a Short-eared
Owl flushed from underfoot thank you Jamie!
We ended up watching the Shorty at a moderate distance for a while it
landed on a raised dirt pile in plain view after flying over our heads. A
few crows apparently saw it fly by and arrived on the scene, hoping to
harass it, as is their custom theyre playful and in the past we have
watched Shorties playing air games with them. Its not clear that the
Shorties enjoy it, but who knows.
In this case, the crows initially did not see where the Shorty had landed,
but by flying back and forth, they located it and two or three of them
landed on the same dirt pile. Everybody was looking at each other
quizzically. There were no audible sounds from any of the participants. The
crows kept looking at the owl as though they were puzzled why arent you
flying so we can play? The owl was hunched down and kept looking at them
and then around but just would not give them the satisfaction. Eventually,
all the crows left and the owl stayed behind, still on its dirt mound.
I posted a couple of owl-crow images to the eBird list:
Speaking of playing around (or raptor harassment?), large murmurations of
starlings were in the sky a number of times, harassing or being harassed by
the resident Coopers Hawk. Im hoping one of the walk participants got
photo images they can share.
Thanks to Brendan Burke for fulfilling list-keeping duties. If you were
there yesterday, the following link will allow you to share the list:
One other thing: Some weeks ago, our intrepid cinematographer, Mat Clark,
was with us and later submitted this YouTube video he wanted me to share
with yall:
Here are details for attending the walk at this property on November 16:
Bear Creek is an upland sanctuary built on the WINWaste (formerly
Wheelabrator) landfill at the northeast corner of Rumney Marsh in Saugus and
Revere. Access information is below. Wear waterproof walking shoes and be
prepared to hike 3 4 miles. The property is mostly very open, so be
prepared for sun, wind and weather.
This walk is free and open to the public, but also note that this property
is accessible by invitation only and visitors need to be chaperoned at all
times. Please allow roughly 4 hours for this field trip. The actual length
of the trip depends on conditions and the birds present. It's usually
difficult to break up the party if you need to be somewhere in the early
afternoon. Come prepared to stay with the group.
WINWaste company has graciously stocked up on some extra pairs of
binoculars, so if you or someone you know wants to learn about birds and
birding, come on down. Please let Geoff Wilson <s2ary...>
<mailto:<s2ary...> know you're coming so we can have a head count.
Bear Creek Sanctuary access is via the WINWaste plant, 100 Salem Turnpike
(Rte 107), Saugus. The rotary at the intersection of Rtes 60 and 107 is
about 1 miles southwest of the plant and about 1 mile east of Rte 1 exit on
Rte 60. When traveling northeast on 107, if you go over the Ballard Street
bridge (just after a set of lights) youve gone too far turn back. Here is
a link to google maps:
When you arrive, drive through the plant gates, park in the parking lot
immediately and wait for the group. Please do not drive farther into the
property without an escort.
Date: 11/10/25 11:03 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] eBird Report - Fruitlands Museum, Harvard, 100-132 Prospect Hill,Road, Oct 18, 2025
Thanks to Rita Grossman for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
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From: Rita Grossman <rgibesgrossman...> Date: Sat, 18 Oct 2025 20:19:07 -0400 Subject: Fwd: eBird Report - Fruitlands Museum, Harvard, 100-132 Prospect Hill Road, Oct 18, 2025
---------- Forwarded message --------- From: <do-not-reply...> Date: Sat, Oct 18, 2025 at 6:57=E2=80=AFPM Subject: eBird Report - Fruitlands Museum, Harvard, 100-132 Prospect Hill Road, Oct 18, 2025 To: <rgibesgrossman...>
Fruitlands Museum, Harvard, 100-132 Prospect Hill Road, Worcester, Massachusetts, US Oct 18, 2025 7:30 AM - 9:41 AM Protocol: Traveling 1.9 mile(s) Checklist Comments: Sunny, crisp, 35F at start - 49F at finish. Nothing dramatic, but beautiful and plentiful sparrows, robins and blue jays. 27 species (+2 other taxa)
Canada Goose 2 F-O Cooper's Hawk 1 In tree near wood's exit in front of Alcott House section. hawk sp. 1 Brief glimpse near looking out from woods below Pergolas site of large raptor/vulture soaring out of sight and view blocked by trees= . Red-bellied Woodpecker 5 Downy Woodpecker 1 Northern Flicker 3 Blue Jay 16 American Crow 2 Black-capped Chickadee 19 Tufted Titmouse 14 White-breasted Nuthatch 4 Red-breasted Nuthatch 1 Carolina Wren 2 European Starling 1 Northern Mockingbird 2 Eastern Bluebird 6 American Robin 19 Cedar Waxwing 2 House Finch 8 American Goldfinch 5 Chipping Sparrow 2 Dark-eyed Junco 8 White-throated Sparrow 17 Savannah Sparrow 6 Song Sparrow 12 Swamp Sparrow 5 new world sparrow sp. 17 Approximate estimate of the many sparrow we saw at the New Meadow and at the meadow exiting the woods near Alcott House and meadow across from exit. Rapidly moving sparrows that dropped out of site. Yellow-rumped Warbler 4 Northern Cardinal 3
Date: 11/10/25 10:14 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 10/19 Connecticut Warbler in Fenway Victory Gardens
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
* Date: Sun, 19 Oct 2025 19:41:19 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 10/19 Connecticut Warbler in Fenway Victory Gardens
I birded the Fenway from 10:00-1:00. As I was walking down Row K, near the main entrance to the victory gardens, I flushed a warbler from the weeds in the row itself. (not from someone's garden plot) I could see that it had an olive-yellow back. It flew into the plot next to the spot where i saw it. I waited for three minutes until the bird showed itselj and revealed that it was a Connecticut Warbler. I was excited to see my first WALKING Connecticut! Great looks! I later heard it calling from Row V or Row W, in the wildest, densest of all the plots. Good Luck
Cooper's Hawk 1 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1 they love willows; seen in a war memorial willow Eastern Phoebe 1 Ruby=crowned Kinglet1 in that elm tree CONNECTICUT WARBLER 1 Black-throated Green Warbler 1 war memorials area; preferring willows Yellow-rumped Warbler 1 min. Swamp Sparrow 1 White-throated Sparrow 300 combined numbers from war memorials area and victory gardens Song Sparrow 12 Dark-eyed junco 1 MONARCH BUTTERFLY 1 Clouded Sulphur 1 Cabbage White 3
Date: 11/10/25 10:03 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Eastern Phoebe 10/18
Thanks to George Gove for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Subject: Esstern Phoebe Date: Sat, 18 Oct 2025 13:14:12 From: George Gove
I heard and finally saw an Eastern Phoebe at Wachusett Meadow in Princeton. When I finally saw it, it was perched on the Crocker Barn. This may be a late sighting for this species.
Date: 11/10/25 9:43 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 0/17 Fenway Highlights
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
* Date: Fri, 17 Oct 2025 20:31:28 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 10/17 Fenway Highlights
Red-tailed Hawk 1 caught a rat uh-oh Cooper's Hawk 2 accipiter sp. 1 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1 end of Row E in that elm Eastern Phoebe 2 Common Raven 2 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 2 Golden-crowned Kinglet 1 Carolina Wren 3 Nashville Warbler 1 in birch in war memorials area Field Sparrow 1 Swamp Sparrow 3 Qhite-throated Sparrow 20 Song Sparrow 10 Dark-eyed Junco 10 Common Grackle 50 Italian Lizard 1 Cabbage White 6
Another potential big capture day this Friday but only 4 experienced team members plus a small breeze in the beginning that picked up shortly made us cautious.Like always, birds were actively feeding in the grasses, weeds and along the marsh to the point we only opened 8 nets. After 3 net runs, we already had 47 extractions keeping us nonstop busy extracting, ageing, sexing, banding and recording until the breeze was blowing the nets around to the point we closed by 10:45 am.What was surprising was the 1st net run, we had captured 6 different species we didn't catch Wes when we caught 71 birds [15 species]. One surprise was a Purple Finch that we rarely catch - otherdifferent species were Hermit Thrush, Blue Jay, C Yellowthroat, Chickadee & Titmouse.Otherwise, the large majority caught were Goldfinch, Wht-thr Sparrows, Juncos & House Finches, Yellow-rumped Warblers plus a few Cardinals, Chipping SparrowsNow daily the Rusty Blackbirds are calling & perching near the nets teasing us.Sat. morning will have little wind, maybe a little cloud cover which bodes for a very busy day. Strickland Wheelock Uxbridge MA
Date: 11/10/25 9:19 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 10/16 American Bittern in Fenway, etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
* Date: Thu, 16 Oct 2025 23:37:37 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 10/16 American Bittern in Fenway, etc.
I saw a bird I flying over the Fenway Victory Gardens last evening that I thought might be an American Bittern. It turned out to be just that!
American Bittern 1 war memorials area roosting in a willow; thanks to a man for telling me Great Blue Heron 2 Wood Duck 2 Red-tailed Hawk 2 Sharp-shinned Hawk 1 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 2 ad. male and a female Eastern Phoebe 2 Common Raven 2 max. Brown Creeper 1 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 2 Golden-crowned Kinglet 3 Hermit Thrush 2 in gardens warbler sp. 1 Dark-eyed Junco 50 incl. flock of thirty near children's playground near Boylston St. Bridge White-throated Sparrow 35 Song Sparrow 10 Swamp Sparrow 1 Chipping Sparrow 1
Date: 11/10/25 8:55 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] moderator - technical issues
The technical issues plaguing massbird from mid-October to early November are resolved. Thanks for your patience.
I did promise posters that I would forward queued posts, and will now do so.
I will not forward the many hawkwatch posts from that time frame. Instead, you can find the archives reports of hawk watches here: https://hawkcount.org . I encourage you to visit this fascinating site.
Please share your sightings, observations, announcements. Massbird relies on YOUR posts to remain vital.
What are you observing about this season's migration? Are you seeing irruptive species? The first birds of winter? Let us know!
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA barb6202theworld.com
Observation start time: 10:15:00 Observation end time: 14:45:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks, Steve Tysz
Visitors: John Marion, who helped a lot with spotting.
Weather: Cloud-cover diminished steadily from 75% to 5%. Wind NW/WNW 4-9 mph. Temperature 54-57 F.
Raptor Observations: Five migrants tallied. Not counted as migrants: 3 Black Vultures, 2 Bald Eagles (adult and immature), accipitrine species, 2 Red-tails.
Non-raptor Observations: Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crows (3), Common Ravens (group of 7), Black-capped Chickadees (2), Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Eastern Bluebirds (4), Hermit Thrush, American Robins (15), American Goldfinch. Numerous, annoying ladybird beetles. ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Date: 11/10/25 8:31 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] a view from the East Asian-Australasian Flyway
Thanks to Mary Margaret Halsey for supplying this story to share here:
Flying Free -
A new study found migratory shorebird populations - like the flock of bar-tailed godwits pictured here - are declining due to hunting and fishing nets in China. Between August and March, more than 50 million shorebirds migrate south along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. Pit tops in Singapore and along China's coast are popular on this route, so the researchers surveyed 29 of these locations and found more than 47,800 birds are killed annually and observed significant reductions in 11 bird species. The research team, which was led by ecology and evolutionary biology professor David Wilcove and associate research scholar Dan Liang, recommends removing nets once harvest season ends, using colorful nets, and enacting stricter enforcement. The findings were published in September in the journal NATURE ECOLOGY & EVOLUTION.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 09:30:00 Total observation time: 0.5 hours
Official Counter: Observers: Jon Skinner
Visitors: Nothing noted
Weather: The mountaintop was covered in clouds most of the morning. Rain was expected in the early afternoon.
Raptor Observations: The summit was clear as Jon Skinner hiked up in morning but clouds closed in as he arrived. He contacted Eric who had been watching from the Sterling airport down below. Eric noticed that the cloud cover was moving lower, so Jon left after 30 minutes without seeing any raptors. Thanks for the effort!
Non-raptor Observations: Jon saw some Evening Grosbeaks fly by on his way down the mountain.
Predictions: Rain is expected all day Monday, so we won't conduct a watch. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 11/9/25 2:38 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/9 American Redstart and Nashville Warbler Continue Fenway,Victory Gardens
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Sun, 9 Nov 2025 21:22:37 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/9 American Redstart and Nashville Warbler Continue Fenway Victory Gardens
11:45-3:00 Ring-necked Duck 4 Hooded Merganser 2 Cooper's Hawk 1 immature Northern Flicker 1 American Redstart 1 ad. female still in the Hackberry Tree opposite 1179 Boylston St. (near Boylston Street Bridge) Nashville Warbler 1 stunning adult male ROW D again; often in hackberry also Swamp Sparrow 1 White-throated Sparrow 25+ Song Sparrow 10
Date: 11/8/25 9:40 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Mission Possible - double success
Thanks to Strickland Wheelock for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Sun, 9 Nov 2025 05:12:02 +0000 (UTC) From: Strickland Wheelock <skwheelock...> Subject: Mission Possible - double success
Folks are signing up for a trip [Mission Possible] to somewhere - goal is to find the rarest bird within 2 hrs of Drumlin Farm WS & that goal I only determine the day before by checking all the ebird hotlines in NE - then from that location with the target bird [hopefully to be seen], then we then need to come up with gameplan for the balance of the day hopefully finding more rarities.This Sat. 11/08, our target bird was the Brown Booby being seen often from Sesuit Harbor's breakwater on Cape Cod - another super rarity has been a Cave Swallow hanging around with some Barn Swallows at the same location - my concern would be if the Booby had moved on, maybe feeding down Corporation Beach but these 2 rarities were worth the shot.We drove straight down from DF to the breakwater under mild conditions, little breeze & no rain once we arrived - unfortunately no Brown Boody on the breakwater or flying around. We did enjoy a few Sanderlings, all 3 Scoter species, Long-tailed Ducks, Red-thr & C Loons, 1 close in Gannet when suddenly the Brown Booby came soaring in close, low over the water & passing over the jetties a few times checking out the channel giving everyone awesome looks and pictures for the camera folks.While that was going on, suddenly some Barn Swallows flew up the channel along with a Cave Swallow mixed in - now the folks ere torn to keep admiring this Booby performance or separate the Cave Swallow out from the Barn Swallows - a task several of the group were able to do= Finally the Booby flew low close by us heading to the west when several shorebirds suddenly arrived - several Blk-b Plovers, Dunlin & Sanderlings landed on the breakwater plus 1 Ruddy Turnstone with a Forster's Tern flying nearby - also a pair of Brant flew by - unfortunately the rain also arrived driving us back to the vans.From the Harbor, we headed east to Herring Pondhoping to see this HY male Tufted Duck - rain stopped & we were treated toa pond loaded with many species for everyone to enjoy - 100+ Ruddy Ducks, Am. Wigeon, Greater Scaup, Bufflehead, Ring-necked Ducks, Green-winged Teal, Red-b Merganser, Coot, Pied-billed Grebes, Kingfisher, Gt Blue Heron, Mute Swans, Canada Geese - Yellow-rumped Warblers called from the trees nearby - missed the Tufted Duck.After lunch, off to Fort Hill for a quick stop where we had a few interesting birds - a late Parula Warbler, Merlin, Meadowlark, several Flickers, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Bluebirds, Brant, Black Ducks - time to head back to DF with 1 very quick stop at Scusset=C2=A0 Beach checking the end of the canal - here we enjoyed Bonaparte & Laughing Gulls by the breakwater, Surf Scoters, Red-thr & C Loons, Brant, many C Eiders to end a very successful day - 70 species including the 2 target species! Thanks like always to Leslie Bostrom, Ed Bogle, Lindsay Neubeck-Brooks for all their driving & birding expertise plus a wonderful group of enthusiastic birders sucking in all these special species. Strickland Wheelock Uxbridge Ma
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Visitors: Oliver Kleinbub stopped to chat for a while, and Tevin Dok, Alonso Bolanos, and Kenneth Lee also expressed interest in finding out more about hawk watching on the Rock.
Weather: Light to moderate (1-2) W-WNW-NW winds with maximum gusts of 28 km/hr, but most other gusts in the teens; temperature went from 10-13-11°C; cloud cover -- The day began with mostly overcast sky with some clearing beginning in the west. As the overcast sky dissipated cumulus clouds started moving in from the west, but cloud cover decreased fairly steadily until near the end of the watch there were only patchy cumulus clouds in the sky.
Raptor Observations: Only one RT Hawk seemed to be migrating One other RT Hawk was not migrating
Non-raptor Observations: A Dark-eyed Junco was seen on the Rock under the feeder that had the usual birds -- Tufted Titmice, BC Chickadees, and a Downy Woodpecker. A White-breasted Nuthatch was seen for the first time on the feeder a well.
Predictions: Tomorrow (Sunday) the winds will be from the east and rain is forecast for the afternoon continuing into Monday, so I do not plan on being on the Rock either day. Starting Tuesday, however and continuing into Saturday the winds will be westerly, with northwest winds predicted for Friday and continuing into Saturday. So far we have not had much movement of Bald Eagles, Turkey Vultures, or Red-tailed Hawks, so I'm hopeful that the colder weather will prompt them to move south. Additionally, mid-November is when 5 of 7 Golden Eagles have been seen from this site, between the dates of November 12-15, so I'm hoping one might show up again. Unfortunately, I have a medical appointment on Friday, so I'm also hoping someone can cover the Rock that day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 10:15:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 3.75 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Andrew Sharp, Leif Charbonneau
Visitors: Hundreds of weekend hikers and a few bicylists.
Weather: The overnight rain lingered longer than predicted so clouds were still very low in the morning and covered the mountain in fog until 10:30. As the clouds lifted, cumulus clouds began to form in streaks with a base at approx 5000'. There was still a fairly thick haze in the air. As the day went on, the humidity dropped, the visibility increased to reveal all of the regular landmarks, and the clouds began to disperse. Winds were solid out of the West at 8-12 mph all session with regular gusts of 16-20 mph, and frequently over 20 at the end. Temps were in the low 50's all session.
Raptor Observations: My thanks to Leif Charbonneau and Andrew Sharp who hiked up around 8 am and spent 2 hours in the thick fog waiting for me to arrive and/or for something to happen. They did manage to hear the call of a passing Evening Grosbeak and saw a flock of about 10 large finches with noticeable wing bars - likely WW Crossbills or Pine Grosbeaks.
We didn't see any migrating raptors today. I'm guessing that the morning fog, low clouds and strong West winds discouraged birds from moving today, or kept them moving below our sight lines.
The local raptors consisted of 3 Red-tails (1 Ad, 2 Juv) that popped up fairly regularly, a pair of adult Bald Eagles who tangled with each other for a a short time, and a gorgeous adult Red-shouldered Hawk that flew across the north side of the mountain in bright sunlight twice, giving us great views each time.
Non-raptor Observations: Blue Jay - 2 Comm Raven - 5 Snow Bunting - 10 Since his sightings occured before I started the official watch, Andrew will list the Grosbeak and large finch sightings on his personal eBird report.
Predictions: Sunday's forecast calls for winds from the E to ESE at 5 to 15 mph, cloudy skies and temps in the 40's and low 50's. Rain is expected about 2 pm so the watch will be shortened. East winds have been rare here in the last few weeks, so I'm not sure how the birds will react. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 11/7/25 9:32 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Fenway Warblers, Etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
* Date: Fri, 7 Nov 2025 21:35:12 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: Fenway Warblers, Etc.
1:00-4:00 Great Blue Heron 1 Green-winged Teal 2 Wood Duck 1 Ring-necked Duck 2 Red-tailed Hawk 3 two adults together; one immature Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1 minimum Brown Creeper 1 oak next to Japanese bell American Redstart 1 exact same behavior and places as yestersay Nashville Warbler 1 ROW D near beginning Common Yellowthroat 1 YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT 1 ROW V; flew across path heading towards ROW U Dark-eyed Junco 12 White-throated Sparrow 20 Song Sparrow 10 Swamp Sparrow 1
Date: 11/7/25 3:14 am From: Phil Brown <ecocmail...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Essex County Ornithological Club - Friday, November 14 meeting - Birding Iceland with Shawn Carey
*Friday, November 14th, 7:45pm Birding Iceland: Land of Midnight Sun—Grimsey & Flatey Islands ECOC meeting 7:30-7:45pm In-person | Morse Auditorium, PEM **Free and open to the public*
Please see https://massbird.org/ecoc for registration and / or Zoom details Iceland abounds with natural splendor: waterfalls and glaciers, panoramic views and otherworldly landscapes. During the summer months, Iceland’s round-the-clock sunlight draws in a panoply of nesting birds: Atlantic puffins, razorbills, guillemots, phalaropes, godwits and more. Come along with wildlife photographer and Mass Audubon instructor Shawn Carey as he shares images and stories from his journey to Iceland, with a special focus on two Icelandic islands that attract thousands of nesting seabirds each summer. You’ll learn some helpful wildlife photography tips along the way. /This event is co-sponsored by the Peabody Essex Museum./Shawn Carey, cofounder of Migration Productions, travels extensively to nature hotspots and produces bird and wildlife related multimedia presentations, videos and photo workshops. Originally from Pennsylvania, Carey moved to Boston, Massachusetts in 1986 and has been photographing birds and other wildlife for over 25 years. He has been teaching wildlife photography for Mass Audubon for the past 18 years. He is on the board of directors for Eastern Mass HawkWatch, where he serves as Vice President. He is also on the advisory board for the Massachusetts Audubon Society and Mass Audubon Museum of American Bird Art. Shawn co-founded Migration Productions in 1996 with Jim Grady and the two have produced all its projects; Carey provides almost all digital photography used in their productions. His photos have been published in the /Boston Globe/, the /New York Times/, /Science/magazine and many other publications. “I LOVE the natural world; if it walks, crawls, flies, swims or slithers…I’ll photograph it!” he says.
-- Phil Brown Webmaster for: Essex County Ornithological Club <ecocmail...>
Date: 11/6/25 6:50 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/6 American Redstart Continues in Fenway, Etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Fri, 7 Nov 2025 00:52:43 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/6 American Redstart Continues in Fenway, Etc.
I birded here from 1:00-4:30. The redstart was in the same area as it was yesterday (or was it the day before). Near the Boylston St. Bridge. In the two hackberries behind Row A-10. It then went to nearby Row D-08. Here, it was on the ground, in bushes, etc. Great looks down low. I watched it until 4:30, when it must have went to bed. Lots of brush and evergreens here. What an engaging little gal.
Great Blue Heron 1 Wood Duck 2 Green-winged Teal 1 wide, pond-like section of the river near the Kelleher Rose Garden F.O.F. Northern Flicker 1 Hermit Thrush 1 Gray Catbird 1 AMERICAN REDSTART 1 See Above Dark-eyed Junco 40 Maximum; on opposite side of the river from the gardens White-throated Sparrow 15 various locations Song Sparrow 16 various locations Swamp Sparrow 1 in gardens; calling and seen
Date: 11/6/25 3:38 am From: Craig Gibson <cbgibson...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] 11/5 Bald Eagle and Sparrows in Fenway, etc.
Barbara,
Hope all is going well on your adventures in Texas!
You were missed by all on Monday night!
Best,
Craig
> On Nov 6, 2025, at 12:39 AM, Barbara Volkle <barb620...> wrote: > > Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report. > > Barbara Volkle > Northborough, MA > <barb620...> > > * > > Date: Wed, 5 Nov 2025 23:03:51 +0000 (UTC) > From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> > Subject: 11/5 Bald Eagle and Sparrows in Fenway, etc. > > > I birded in the Fenway from 1:00-4:15. I didn't have time to cover the victory gardens' > > Wood Duck 2 long continuing > Bald Eagle 1 adult soaring > Cooper's Hawk 1 > Golden-crowned Kinglet 1 > Hermit Thrush 2 one near Emmanuel College, one war memorials > Dark-eyed Junco 28 > White-throated Sparrow 35 > Song Sparrow 12 > Swamp Sparrow 2 > > Paul Peterson > <petersonpaul63...> > Boston
Observation start time: 12:30:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Very strong (3) WNW winds throughout watch with a maximum gust of 45 k/m, but most gusts in the 20's; cloud cover -- 50% with cumulus clouds moving across the sky; temperature --10-9°C
Raptor Observations: No migrating raptors Only one UR noted - seemed to be turned back by the wind before it got halfway to the Rock
Non-raptor Observations: One junco noted
Predictions: Wednesday's SW winds not promising. Thursday's WNW winds will start out very strong, but moderate slightly in the afternoon. I may go to the Rock in the afternoon. To find out if I'm there, please call my cell -- 781-873-9358. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
The Crow Patrol has lost a dear friend in the recent passing of Bob Fox, age 97, who was with us from the very beginning. Bob was endlessly fascinated by the Crows and, together with his beloved wife Dana, spent many cold winter nights observing and enjoying the remarkable activity around the staging areas and overnight roosting trees along the Merrimack River. He brought decades of expertise in counting large numbers of birds and made a lasting contribution to our official Winter Crow Roost Counting Guide. A true hall-of-famer in the birding world, Bob’s sharp eye, generous spirit, and love for the natural world will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
The blog has been updated:
Sept. 29: aerial views and a glorious sunset
Oct. 14: staging areas and spectacular recap video
Oct. 15: Stunning sunset and Siberian Crabapples
Oct. 16: recap of Crow Talk at Memorial Hall Library, Andover, MA
Date: Mon, 3 Nov 2025 23:22:03 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/3 Fenway Highlights. 11:40-3:00
Black-crowned Night- Heron 1 Great Blue Heron 1 Wood Duck 2 Cooper's Hawk 1 Red-tailed Hawk 2 Brown Creeper 1 in one of the two hackberries Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1 ditto Nashville Warbler 1 ditto Yellow-rumped Warbler 1 ditto Common Yellowthroat 1 White-throated Sparrow 20 Song Sparrow 6 Dark-eyed Junco 1
Date: 11/3/25 8:42 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Wachusett Mountain (03 Nov 2025) No Migrating Raptors - no watch on Tuesday
Date: Mon, 3 Nov 2025 21:42:33 +0000 From: <reports...> Subject: Wachusett Mountain (03 Nov 2025) No Migrating Raptors - no watch on Tuesday
Wachusett Mountain Princeton, Massachusetts, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Nov 03, 2025 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 2.5 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Visitors: About 45 hikers, 8 dogs and 2 bicyclists.
Weather: Mostly cloudy all morning, with some patchy blue sky off to the west and north. The clouds were high strato-cumulus until the late morning when lower dark cumulus clouds began to move in. Moderate to heavy haze, especially to the east, with a temperature inversion (36 F down in Sterling, 46 F at the base of Wachusett) aggravated by high humidity. 8-12 mph SW winds with gusts to 20 mph.
Raptor Observations: No migrating birds and only 4 local raptors (Merlin, Red-shoulder, adult Red-tail and juvenile Bald Eagle) sticking their heads up in 2.5 hours, so with low dark clouds coming in on the solid SW wind, I closed down at noon.
Non-raptor Observations: The non-raptors were the most entertaining birds of the day, with a flock of Snow Buntings (the first of the year up here) swirling around the summit several different times, and a good-sized flock of Juncos pecking on the ground, then ducking into the bushes as a Merlin dove on them.
Blue Jay - 3 Comm Raven - 2 Amer Robin - 1 Snow Bunting - 12 DE Junco - 22 passerine sp - 1
Predictions: A wind advisory is in effect for Tuesday with WNW winds averaging 20-25 mph with gusts over 40 mph possible. We will not conduct a watch. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
