Observation start time: 09:45:00 Observation end time: 12:15:00 Total observation time: 2.5 hours
Official Counter: Observers: Bill Rasku
Visitors: None mentioned. Eric entered the data here, but was not present for the watch.
There is construction on the fire road portion of North Rd. Be careful around the machinery if you walk up during the work week.
Weather: A blustery day with W winds averaging 12-16 mph with gusts over 25 mph. Temps never made it above the freezing mark. Cloud coverage started at 20%, soon increased to 95% and then cleared to 30% as Bill was leaving. Visbility was excellent although the cloud cover was low enough to block the view of the VT mountains.
Raptor Observations: You just can't keep Bill off of the mountain some days. He hiked up to the North Rd observation point. There were just a few raptors out today in the strong westerly winds.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 10 duck sp - 3 gull sp - 5 Amer Crow - 4 Comm Raven - 3 Red Crossbill - 1 WB Nuthatch - 1 Plus one male R-N Pheasant in the road on the drive out - probably a stocked bird.
Predictions: No watch planned, but you never know when Bill, Marty or Paul might get the itch to hike up. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 11/29/23 2:14 pm From: Fred Bouchard <frederickbouchard...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Belmont Great Horned Owls Put On Brief Show, 11/29/23, 4:40pm
Heard local GHOWs outside window, unusually early evening. Went to front
yard to hear more clearly. Called my neighbor over as he was parking next
door. I pointed out the owls' distinctive triplet, one low one a third
higher (say, C + E). As we listened, one flew in silhouette to the top of a
35' spruce across the street. Immediately the other flew in and they mated
for 3". We flipped our wigs!
--
<frederickbouchard...>
78 farnham st
belmont 02478 ma
617-484-6692
www.fredbouchard.wordpress.com
'One ought, every day, to hear a little song, read a good poem, sip a tasty
wine,
see a fine picture, and if possible, to speak a few reasonable words.'
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
(1749-1836)
Instructions for living a life:
*Pay attention.Be astonished.Tell about it.*
--- Mary Oliver (1935-2023)
Date: 11/29/23 2:22 am From: Nicholas Komar <mocinno65...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Possible Short-tailed Shearwater, Barnstable County, Nov 28, 2023
On Tuesday shortly after noon I photographed a dark shearwater at Corporation Beach. Based on review of photos, I believe this could be Short-tailed Shearwater. Photos and description/discussion are available on eBird at https://ebird.org/checklist/S155406109. If not Short-tailed Shearwater,
Observation start time: 13:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 1.5 hours
Official Counter: Observers: Marty McNamara
Weather: Temps in the low 40's, mostly cloudy, WNW winds in the teens with gusts to almost 30 mph
Raptor Observations: Marty gave it the old college try and went up to the North Rd observation point for 90 minutes in the afternoon, but there were no raptors, migrating or otherwise, to be seen in the face of the strong winds.
Eric entered the data here, but was not present on the mountain.
Predictions: No watch planned at this time. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 11:15:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 3.25 hours
Official Counter: Observers: Paul Vanderhoof
Weather: Cool, windy day with temps in the low 40's and brisk W to NW winds that increased around noon into the teens with gusts to 25 mph. Mostly sunny. Some haze over the VT mountains, and heavy cloud cover at the northern horizon (VT and NH.)
Raptor Observations: Paul made his observations from the North Rd overlook, where conditions were comfortable at first with sun on the overlook and the west winds mostly blocked by the nearby trees (new winter gear helped too!) Of course, the sun moved behind the trees just as the wind picked up. He got some nice looks at passing raptors. Just before noon, an immature female Sharpie passed low nearby. A few minutes later, an adult eagle passed directly overhead at medium height heading SW at the same time as a local RT was moving in the same direction down below.
Paul also got some nice looks at active local Red-tails and Bald Eagles, along with the local winter passerines which kept him entertained between the migrants.
Non-migrating raptors: Bald Eagle - 2 (both immatures, dogfighting with each other) Red-tailed Hawk - 3 (all adults. Just before noon, one was chasing a tight flock of 100+ birds - blackbirds or starlings? Later, all 3 were near each other with two interacting and showing clear male/female size dimorphism.)
Eric entered the data here, but was not present on the mountain. Non-raptor Observations: Canada goose - 95 (approx number) fly-by Downy WP - 1 Amer Crow - 27 fly-by Comm Raven - 1 BC Chickadee - 1 GC Kinglet - 1 WB Nuthatch - 1 Snow Bunting - 7 Pine Siskin - 3 Red Crossbill - 5 Amer Goldfinch - 1 Song Sparrow - 1 Grackle - 2 passerine - several flocks of unidentified birds.
Predictions: No watch planned. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 3.5 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks
Weather: Partly to mostly cloudy; cloud-cover was high and thin (cirrostratus?). Wind NW 2-10 mph, diminishing and shifting to WNW late. Temperature 31-34 F.
Raptor Observations: Two Red-tails. Not counted: immature Bald Eagle (appeared to be the same bird seen daily for several weeks now), Red-tail. We did not see a single Golden Eagle all season.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Geese (flock of 13), Mourning Doves (3), Blue Jay, American Crow, Common Raven, American Robins (flock of 29+), American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Juncos (6), Red-winged Blackbird.
Although we have had seasons with fewer migrating raptors (usually the result of fewer hours of coverage), this one felt depressingly anemic. Especially so, when it is stacked up against the sensational seasons recorded at several other New England sites -- kudos to you folks! Not only were raptors scarce, but many non-raptors were no-shows or almost so: few Canada Geese, no Snow Geese, one measly flock of ducks all fall, only two Snow Buntings, no Horned Larks, no Shrikes, strikingly few warblers (both numbers and species) -- the list goes on and on... Predictions: Last day -- we are done. ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Date: 11/26/23 2:06 pm From: Bill Lafley <blafley...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Where are all the birds?
Hello,
That seems to be the question of the fall and although I don’t have a definitive answer this AM I walked at Gate 31 in New Salem and encountered a couple flocks of songbirds. On the way out there was a mixed flock of what I estimated to be 35-40 (probably missed many) birds moving high over the road from one pine stand to another as the road passes through a lot of pine (mostly White with some Pitch Pine mixed in).
Bill Lafley New Salem <blafley...>
Quabbin Reservoir--Gate 31, Franklin, Massachusetts, US Nov 26, 2023 9:34 AM - 11:28 AM Protocol: Traveling 2.1 mile(s) 22 species
Mallard 43 American Black Duck 5 Ring-necked Duck 12 Hooded Merganser 12 Common Merganser 10 Ring-billed Gull 1 Bald Eagle 1 Belted Kingfisher 1 Downy Woodpecker 1 Blue Jay 2 American Crow 3 Black-capped Chickadee 14 Tufted Titmouse 4 Golden-crowned Kinglet 5 White-breasted Nuthatch 2 Red-breasted Nuthatch 3 Brown Creeper 2 Red Crossbill 2 Jip, jip, Jipping around the boat ramp area Pine Siskin 6 American Goldfinch 6 Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 42 White-throated Sparrow 5
I had great looks at a magnolia warbler at Squantum Point Park in Quincy at
coordinates
42.30029° N, 71.03775° W today around 3 PM. Looks like the last reported
sighting in eBird this year for the park was early October. It was a
female/immature with faint white wing bars, light streaking on flanks, and
vibrant yellow belly. I got good looks at the black tipped tail with white
underside. Really beautiful bird. Total of 26 species sighted.
We have a grandson getting married near the Dingle Peninsula next spring. Would anyone who knows a local birder who knows the local geography and birds please email me at : <petegilmore79...>
Date: 11/25/23 12:45 pm From: Phil Brown <ecocmail...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Essex County Ornithological Club December 01, 2023 Meeting Reminder - The Everglades: Before and After
Friday, December 1, 2023, 7:45pm The Everglades: Before and After ECOC meeting 7:30-7:45pm In-person | Morse Auditorium, PEM Please pre-register (*see below) and bring your ticket with you Or join on Zoom (*see below) Free and open to the public
The Florida Everglades are the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Join Tom Tyning, naturalist, birder and Berkshire Community College professor of environmental science, on an exploration of the remarkable mix of physical and biological features that make the Everglades a unique ecosystem on Earth. Major efforts are now underway to restore the natural flow and quality of water to Everglades National Park. Tyning will briefly describe the history and ecological importance of this enormous “river of grass” and highlight some of the Everglades’ 360 species of birds, as well as reptiles, insects and wildflowers.
This event is co-hosted by the Peabody Essex Museum and supported by the Lowell Institute.
About the Presenter
Tom Tyning has been a Professor of Environmental Science at Berkshire Community College since 1999. Previously, he was a field biologist and Master Naturalist for Mass Audubon for 24 years. He also served for 15 years as an adjunct professor in the Environmental Studies Program at Antioch New England Graduate School, at Springfield College and at MCLA. For 25 years, he wrote a weekly nature column for the Springfield Union-News. He also authored A Guide to Amphibians and Reptiles.
Tyning was instrumental in jumpstarting the installation of salamander tunnels in Amherst, MA and creating the Massachusetts Herpetological Atlas through Mass Audubon. He received both his BS (Wildlife Biology) and Masters (Organismic and Evolutionary Biology) from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Date: 11/25/23 11:05 am From: Karsten Hartel <karstenehartel...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Ash-Throated Flycatcher at Danehy Park
Seen well about noon time at Sherman St. end of Park. Mostly low in large willows. No Camera. Very pale *Myiarchus *being quite active in low vegetation and not teeing -up.
Date: 11/25/23 3:22 am From: Essex County Ornithological Club <ecocmail...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Essex County Ornithological Club December 01, 2023 Meeting
The Everglades: Before and After with Tom Tyning
[IMAGE]
Friday, December 1, 2023, 7:45pm The Everglades: Before and After ECOC meeting 7:30-7:45pm In-person | Morse Auditorium, PEM Please pre-register here and bring your ticket with you Or join on Zoom here Free and open to the public
The Florida Everglades are the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Join Tom Tyning, naturalist, birder and Berkshire Community College professor of environmental science, on an exploration of the remarkable mix of physical and biological features that make the Everglades a unique ecosystem on Earth. Major efforts are now underway to restore the natural flow and quality of water to Everglades National Park. Tyning will briefly describe the history and ecological importance of this enormous “river of grass” and highlight some of the Everglades’ 360 species of birds, as well as reptiles, insects and wildflowers.
This event is co-hosted by the Peabody Essex Museum and supported by the Lowell Institute.
About the Presenter
Tom Tyning has been a Professor of Environmental Science at Berkshire Community College since 1999. Previously, he was a field biologist and Master Naturalist for Mass Audubon for 24 years. He also served for 15 years as an adjunct professor in the Environmental Studies Program at Antioch New England Graduate School, at Springfield College and at MCLA. For 25 years, he wrote a weekly nature column for the Springfield Union-News. He also authored A Guide to Amphibians and Reptiles.
Tyning was instrumental in jumpstarting the installation of salamander tunnels in Amherst, MA and creating the Massachusetts Herpetological Atlas through Mass Audubon. He received both his BS (Wildlife Biology) and Masters (Organismic and Evolutionary Biology) from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Date: 11/24/23 6:36 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Danvers to Salisbury scouting trip
Thanks to Strickland Wheelock for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
* Date: Sat, 25 Nov 2023 01:01:17 +0000 (UTC) From: Strickland Wheelock <skwheelock...> Subject: Danvers to Salisbury scouting trip
One of the exciting parts doing birding trips is the scouting, finding new locations to show folks plus myself. The trip to be is Sat 12/9 from MetroWest Drumlin Farm called Salisbury/Plum Island - to be posted next week.
This Friday 11/24 was cool and breezy, but very productive with 79 species, several special ones.New to me & Leslie Bostrom was the Putnamville Reservoir site in Danvers - a wonderful mixture of ducks, shorebirds & passerines.Right off a pair of Red Crossbills, both Kinglets - then in the water 4 N Shovellers, many Ruddy Ducks & C Mergansers, Green-w Teal, Bufflehead, both scaup species, Coots, C Loon, Killdeer, Semipalmated Plovers & Gt Yellowlegs -a total of 35 species in maybe 30 minutes. Stopped next at the Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm to enjoy a E Screech Owl, 1 Lapland Longspur mixed in a flock of N Horned Larks plus many Savannah Sparrows.Plum Island was a very quick stop finding many N Pintails & Gadwalls & Green-winged Teal plus a Blk-b Plover, Tree & 1 Field Sparrows & when we heard of a Long-eared Owl at Salisbury Beach SP - off we went. On the way to Salisbury, made a quick stop at Perkins Park to enjoy Cedar Waxwings, 4 immature Blk-cr Night-Herons, Hooded Mergansers, Green-w Teal, Gt Blue Heron & others.The highlight of the day was this beautiful Long-eared Owl low in a Cedar Tree in Salisbury !! After enjoying the owl, we scanned the breakwater & ocean for what we could find - a Merlin flew along the breakwater flushing 2 Purple Sandpipers and several Sanderlings - in the ocean were many Wht-w Scoters plus a few Surf & Black Scoters, several C Eiders, nice flock of Long-tailed Ducks, both Red-thr & Common Loons, a few distant flying Blk Guillemots & N Gannets. Our next to last stop was along River Rd in W Newbury checking the C. Goldeneyes for a Barrow's [no luck], viewing more Greater Scaup & Bufflehead - along the road were a few Yellow-rumped Warblers.Official last stop was Cherry Hill Reservoir where we had many Common Mergansers plus a few Hooded, Bufflehead, many Ruddy Ducks, Greater Scaup,, Green-w Teal plus Gt Blue Heron. Hated leaving stuck at 79 species - needed a vulture, Ring-necked Duck, something to hit 80 for this wonderful day of scouting.Besides this trip 12/9 to the Newburyport/Salisbury area, there are 4 other day trips posted - means more scouting.
Date: 11/24/23 6:14 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/24 Jamaica Plain Ducks
Thanks to Paul Peterson for these two reports, which I've combined for clarity.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
* Date: Fri, 24 Nov 2023 20:54:47 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/24 Jamaica Plain Ducks
I birded the chain of four ponds in Jamaica Plain from 11:45-2:30. I started at Leverett, and ended at Jamaica:
Great Blue Heron 1 NORTHERN PINTAIL1 LEVERETT POND Green-winged Teal 2 ditto Mallard x American Black Duck 1 Ward's Pond Wood Duck 4 ditto Ring-necked Duck 8 including six L.P.; two J.P. Hooded Merganser 55 including fifty-three Jamaica Pond Brown Creeper 1 Golden-crowned Kinglet 3 Carolina Wren 1 White-throated Sparrow 2 Dark-eyed Junco 8
Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Boston
* Date: Fri, 24 Nov 2023 21:10:54 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: GadwallX Northern Pintail Hybrid on Leverett Pond in Jamaica Plain
Correction on that previous post. I should have looked at my Sibley before posting. I now think this duck is a hybrid NorthernPintailXGadwall hybrid. The head color isn't correct, nor is the bill color for pintail.
Observation start time: 10:15:00 Observation end time: 14:15:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks
Visitors: Highlight of the day (really) was meeting a local resident with his adorable, snow-white pomsky (Pomeranian-husky mix).
Weather: Mostly sunny; cloud-cover (low-scudding cumuli) increased from 30% to 50%, then decreased almost to zero by the end of the watch. Wind NW, gusting up to 17 mph. Temperature 40-42 F.
Raptor Observations: Goose eggs. Not migrating: two Bald Eagles (adult and the regularly seen immature bird), two Red-tailed Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations: Mourning Doves (4), American Crows (10), Common Ravens (2), Black-capped Chickadees (2), American Robin, American Goldfinches (4), American Tree Sparrow (first of the season), Dark-eyed Junco, Red-winged Blackbird.
Predictions: Skipping tomorrow (weather forecast is virtually identical to today's). Will try again on Saturday, with moderate NW/WNW wind predicted. ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
This afternoon there were 3 Black Vultures soaring behind Whole Foods on Route 9. Obviously they are making healthier food choices than the Fish Crows that hang out at McDonalds.
Date: 11/24/23 11:21 am From: Pamela Sowizral <psowizral...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Great birds at Drumlin Farm
The past week has been wonderful birding at Drumlin Farm starting with last Sunday when Jay D. found a western kingbird which was relocated a day later, and again this morning (southwest corner of the crops / Boyce field). Full species list from November 21-24 below. Along with the WEKI, highlights include snow buntings, pine siskins, YB sapsuckers, a late eastern phoebe, orange-crowned warbler, and purple finches.
Date: 11/24/23 3:46 am From: <blafley...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] White-winged Crossbills - New Salem
Hello,
Yesterday AM we walked from the house to the reservoir to primarily look for the salmon moving up Hop Brook from Quabbin. Did not see any salmon but on the way back we heard then saw 3 WW Crossbills in a White Pine heavily laden with pine cones. Hopefully they are moving in like the siskins and Red Crossbills to take advantage of the abundant pine cone crop. Also saw 32 W Turkeys in a farm field up the road. Brave souls.
Observation start time: 10:45:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 3.25 hours
Official Counter: Observers: Bill Rasku
Visitors: About a dozen hikers. A Thanksgiving Day morning hike up Wachusett Mt seems to be a tradition for a lot of people.
Weather: Moderate gusty winds from the NW, temps in the 40's, and generally sunny skies. Excellent visibility.
Raptor Observations: Bill didn't have any family obligations through mid-afternoon, so he took advantage of the good migration weather and spent several hours at the North Rd overlook. He was rewarded with a nice turnout of migrating birds, as well as a very active cohort of locals. A fair number of the migrating birds were too far from the mountain to get a solid ID.
Non-migrating raptors: Bald Eagle - 5 (3 adult, 2 imm. 2 of the adults were seen flying together a couple of times. There may have been more) Red-tailed Hawk - 4 (3 hanging out together.)
Non-raptor Observations: Amer Crow - 25 (flying east) Comm Raven - 6 DE Junco -1 WB Nuthatch - 1
Predictions: We don't currently have any volunteers for Friday, but if you go up, please send Eric your sightings (his email address is in the Site Profile.) ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
It's eight pm on a calm moonlit evening in Belmont. Do you know where your Great Horned Owls are? My local pair were tooting softly out back in the big maple. -- <frederickbouchard...> 78 farnham st belmont
Date: 11/22/23 10:53 am From: Matt S. <accipiter22...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Parking at Great Pond Reservoir in Randolph?
Hi All,
I am going to attempt to see the Barrow's Goldeneye that is hanging out at Great Pond Reservoir in Randolph, but I cannot tell from a map where I am able to park there. Can anyone lend some assistance?
Date: 11/22/23 8:43 am From: BBC Pelagics <bbcpelagics...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 12/2 BBC Pelagic– Space Available!
Hello Massbirders, The Brookline Bird Club is running a pelagic trip to the Nantucket Shoals on December 2, 2023 (originally scheduled for 11/18 but delayed due to weather). We'll be taking the Helen H out to look for sea ducks, alcids, tubenoses, jaegers and any other birds and marine wildlife we can find and have some spots left for those interested. You can find more information about the trip and sign up using this link:
Date: 11/21/23 6:33 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/21 Pine Banks Park Winter Wrens, Sapsucker, etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
* Date: Tue, 21 Nov 2023 23:54:56 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/21 Pine Banks Park Winter Wrens, Sapsucker, etc.
I birded this beautiful place in Malden and Melrose from 12:30-3:40.
accipiter sp. 1 Hairy Woodpecker 1+ Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1 Common Raven 1 Golden-crowned Kinglet 3+ constantly moving about WINTER WREN 2 in small cattail marsh at dead-end of esker White-throated Sparrow 20+ Song Sparrow 5 Swamp Sparrow 1 in the small, above-mentioned cattail marsh Dark-eyed Junco 10
Observation start time: 09:45:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 3.75 hours
Official Counter: Observers: Bill Rasku, Dave Brown
Visitors: 15 hikers and 2 riders on horseback passed by.
Weather: Suuny skies morphing to high thin clouds at noon and then darkening somewhat at 1 pm. Temps in the low to mid-30's, winds from E and SE at 4-7 mph and increasing to 12 mph around 1 pm. Great visibility.
Raptor Observations: We saw 7 migrating raptors today from 4 different species, which is a good result for this time of year. Oddly, we didn't see any local raptors flying around. The watch was held at the North Road observation point on the NW slope of Mt Wachusett, rather than at the summit.
Non-raptor Observations: A good day for non-raptors. Dave ID'ed a Red Crossbill, and a Barred Owl was heard calling. Other birds: Canada Goose - 6 (fly-by) Pileated WP - 1 Blue Jay - 4 Amer Crow - 40 Comm Raven - 2 BC Chickadee - 1 WB Nuthatch - 1
Predictions: Rain all tonight and through the 1 pm hour on Wednesday, so no watch is planned. We're also not planning on conducting a watch on Thanksgiving Day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 11/21/23 5:39 pm From: Matt S. <accipiter22...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] November 21, 2023 BBC North Shore Waterfowl Expedition: The Great Fowling. 26 waterfowl species
Hi All,
Dave Williams led a great waterfowl search today on the north shore, encompassing Putnamville Reservoir, Cherry Hill, and Parker River. It was a fun time; I had never been to Putnamville before, which looks like a great little spot with good viewing. We ended up at 26 species of waterfowl on the trip, and 58 species overall. The highlight (for me) was a septet of shovelers at Parker River that were right along the shore at Stage Island Pool. We had a rare peep sighting with some semipalmated plover at Putnamville, and an Eagle show at Lot 7 of Parker, where we got to see a juvenile land right at the end of the rocks, posing for a while. There was a LOT of activity further out at both Lot 1 and Lot 7, but heat shimmer doomed IDs...I like to think there were multiple lifers out there teasing me. It was a really fun trip with a great group and Dave is a great leader; if you want to learn more about ID'ing waterfowl I highly recommend his trips.
After the BBC trip ended I hung around Parker River and hit a few spots to see what land-birds were around, and aside from some snow bunting and tree sparrows there was not a ton. I keep hoping for a lifer lark sparrow to drop on my head. Overall, the trend I've seen of lower winter sparrows seems to be continuing.
That's all for now,
Matt S. Newton,MA <Accipiter22...> -----------------------
Topsfield Fairgrounds, Essex, Massachusetts, US Nov 21, 2023 7:15 AM - 7:44 AM Protocol: Stationary 6 species
Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) 2 Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) 2 American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) 1 European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) 16 American Robin (Turdus migratorius) 1 House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) 3
Date: 11/21/23 1:29 pm From: Lynette Leka <lynetteleka...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] Matt Clark video from Bear Creek walk on Nov 19
what a fabulous video! thanks so much for sharing!
------------------------------------
(by)..."not noticing birds in one's daily environment, one misses a whole segment of life on earth that can deliver joy every day." Bruce M. Beehler, 2019
Lynette Leka
Newbury, MA 01951
email: <lynette.leka...>
On Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at 11:29:42 AM EST, Soheil Zendeh <sohzendeh...> wrote:
Our friend Matt Clark shot some video on Sunday's Bear Creek walk -- I just got it and so did not include it in the trip summary I sent yesterday. I think it's his best video that I've seen. Don't miss the slow-motion segment which shows how Lapland Longspurs strip grass seeds to feed themselves; it is a must watch.
Date: 11/20/23 7:27 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Northampton-Amherst Christmas Bird Count Sunday, December 17, 2023
Thanks to Janice Jorgensen and Amanda Kallenbach for this announcement.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
From: "Janice F. Jorgensen" <jjpcpanama...> CSubject: Northampton-Amherst Christmas Bird Count Sunday, December 17, 2023 Date: Sun, 19 Nov 2023 12:21:31 -0500
The largest birding event in Western Massachusetts is the Northampton Christmas Bird Count. It covers 24 hours (rain, sleet, snow, or shine) from midnight to midnight on December 17th, 2023. The goal for the 24 hours is to find, identify, and count all birds within a 15-mile diameter “count circle” centered in the Hadley Cemetery on Cemetery Road.
Some folks start searching at midnight for owls. Others begin at sunrise. Some spend the entire day, others a couple of hours. No one is too young or too senior to participate. Beginners are welcome – we’ll make sure you join a group with at least one experienced birdwatcher. We hope you’ll join us for this great day. You will probably make new friends, learn a bit, laugh a lot, and get a great workout. We’ll be hosting a Zoom meeting for participants before the event to get everyone up to speed
Can I sign up to be a Feeder Watcher? You can even participate from home as long as you are within the CBC circle. You can count birds that visit your feeders. Check to be sure you are in the circle, and please contact the compilers at <cbc...> to be included. Feeder watchers will receive the FEEDER WATCHER compiling sheet on Saturday afternoon. If you did not receive one, email <cbc...> , and we will send you one.
SAVE THIS DATE. MANO CBC December 17, 2023
Janice F. Jorgensen and Amanda Kallenbach- Co-compilers <cbc...> Northampton (MANO) CBC https://tinyurl.com/CBCMANO
Janice F. JorgensenHadley, MA 01035 <jjpcpanama...>
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 13:45:00 Total observation time: 3.25 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks
Weather: Sunny; cloud-cover 0-5%; wind NNW~NW~N 5-13 mph. Temperature 33-36 F.
Raptor Observations: Seven migrants, including three straggling Turkey Vultures and one Harrier that quartered the hilltop. Buteos continue to disappoint. Not counted as migrants: immature Bald Eagle, 2-3 Red-tailed Hawks. Two Red-tails locked talons and executed a somersault high in the air.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Geese (est. 100 in a single flock), Blue Jay, American Crows (7), Common Raven, Black-capped Chickadee, Pine Siskin perched in a tree, American Goldfinches (13), Dark-eyed Juncos (12). ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Marty McNamara
Visitors: Approx 20 hikers and several dogs. One person stopped and asked about our work.
Weather: The temperature hung in around 31F for the entire session. NW to NNW winds at 4-7 mph, with gusts to 15 mph during the 1st hour, 12 mph in the 2nd & 3rd hours, and calming in the final hour. Sunny all day, with fine visibility.
Raptor Observations: The watch was conducted at the North Rd observation point (.78 mi NW from and 486 ft lower than the summit.) The birds were getting some lift by circling, so there was probably some thermal activity. The juvenile bald eagle that appeared around noon time and the sub-adult at 1:20 pm both flew quite close and gave us good looks. Today's count puts us over 300 Bald Eagles for the season for the 2nd year in a row.
Non-migrating raptors: Bald Eagle - 2 (adult and juv) Red-tailed Hawk - 2 (at least 1 adult) Unident. buteo - 1 (a distant bird, likely a Red-tail)
Non-raptor Observations: Canada goose - 142 (migrating groups of 32 & approx 110) Amer Crow - 23 (10 migrating W, and 13 headed east) Comm Raven - 2 GC Kinglet - 4 (on the road up) WB Nuthatch - 1 (on the road up)
Predictions: Tuesday's forecast is for partly cloudy skies, temps in the low to mid 30's, low humidity, and 5-10 mph E to ESE winds. Bill wants to give it another try at North Rd which should be well sheltered from the wind. ======================================================================== 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: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks
Weather: Mostly sunny (cloud-cover went from 0% to 25%); wind light WNW shifting to W. Temperature 54-58 F.
Raptor Observations: Zero. Zip. Nada. Not counted as migrant: immature Bald Eagle. Found an owl pellet on the picnic table; there being no paint to watch drying, I was thereby enthralled.
Non-raptor Observations: Mourning Dove, Blue Jays (4), American Crow, Common Raven, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, American Robins (3), Pine Siskin, American Goldfinches (2), Dark-eyed Juncos (10). ======================================================================== 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: Bill Shapiro, Jack Miano
Weather: Moderate (2) WNW winds became stronger with gusts of 18 mph before switching to stronger (3) NW winds with maximum gusts of 13 mph. Cloud cover - watch began with 0% before cumulus clouds moved in. Clouds then mostly moved out before another group of cumulus clouds mostly covered the sky by the end of the watch. Temperature went from 3-7° C.
Raptor Observations: Fair movement of rotors for this late in the season. Almost all Red-tailed Hawks and most that could be aged were adults. Non-migrating -- there seemed to be a male and female Cooper's Hawk and at least three RT
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: This is the final day of what has been in numbers an average hawkwatch season, but in many other ways has been an anomaly, primarily due to the lack of favorable wind conditions during the month of October. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
We'll be hosting a ZOOM event in early December to preview the roosting season, explore the new roost counting guide, and to celebrate and "welcome back" this amazing annual avian spectacle!!
Observation start time: 12:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Observers: Bill Rasku
Visitors: None reported
Weather: An almost totally cloudy sky with rain most of the morning opened up to an almost totally cloudless sky within 3 hours. Temps dropped from noon to 3 pm. Solid N to NW winds. Only the base of Mt. Monadnock was visible at noon, but completely visible by 3 pm.
Raptor Observations: You just can't keep some people off of the mountain. Bill Rasku thought that there might be something to see after the rain passed this morning, so he went up to the North Rd observation point at noon. He only saw two migrating raptors, but they were good ones. A Northern Harrier passed close to the mountain at 1:52, and then our first Rough-legged Hawk of the season also flew past nearby. The RL was a dark morph with no white on it at all. It was a noticeably long-winged bird with the characteristic RL dihedral - up sharply from the body and flattened out along the rest of the wing. We've been waiting for this bird all season!
Non-raptor Observations: Mallard - 3 (fly-by) duck sp - 8 (fly-by) Blue Jay - 5 Amer Crow - 3 Comm Raven - 1 Downy WP - 1
Predictions: Sunny but with strong W winds on Sunday. No plans to hike up, but if the inspiration strikes you, please send your sightings to Eric at the email address on the Site Description page. ======================================================================== 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: Strong to moderate NW winds with gusts up to 15 mph; Cloud cover went from 45-30%, but most of the sky to the north and northwest was cloudless. Temperature was 5° C
Raptor Observations: Two RT seen migrating One adult RT was not migrating
Non-raptor Observations: A great Blue Heron was observed
Predictions: Hoping that the very strong NW winds today blew some birds to the coast. Tomorrow's winds will be from the W but somewhat lighter, and will be the last day of the fall hawkwatch at this site. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Date: 11/18/23 4:56 pm From: Bill Lafley <blafley...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] Not a Morning Birder
Hi Shilo,
That is an impressive list of birds, good job. As a long time birder I would like to add another perspective on early morning birding. I go out early most mornings to spend time at local ponds, lakes and walking in local natural areas to discover birds that are there. I find birds are more active and vocal earlier in the day so the chances of finding interesting species locally increase. I spend little time driving around going to places where other birders found birds (I don’t get eBird alerts) because I would much prefer to be walking in the woods or observing a wetland than driving my car. Sure I may not amass as impressive list of birds for the month or year or whatever time period one wants to choose but I find the time spent in the outdoors and the sense of discovery of what I might find to be more fulfilling than a long list of bird species on a computer somewhere. As for the second cup of coffee I have a Yeti to sip between walks.
Bill Lafley New Salem <blafley...>
> On Nov 18, 2023, at 8:33 AM, Shilo McDonald <smcdonald...> wrote: > > Good Morning MassBird, > I'm not a morning birder. I reserve my mornings for futzing around in > the native plant garden, restocking the backyard feeders, and having > that first cup of freshly ground coffee. > > I mention it, because people assume as a birder, I'm an early morning > birder. Nope. I do most of my birding after 10 AM. I'm more alert by > then. My eyes and ears are wide open. And I've probably already had my > second cup of freshly ground coffee. :-) > > So, if you're not a morning person. Or if you're not an early morning > birding person. No worries. You don't have to be to see great birds. > In fact, not one of the birds in this list, did I see before 10:30 AM. > And these were my Life Birds! > > Date Time Species Location > 13-NOV 1:45 PM Western Tanager (Manomet) > 5-NOV 12:30 PM Summer Tanager (Gloucester) > 4-NOV 1:15 PM Tufted Duck (Holyoke) > 12-SEP 12:15 PM Ash-throated Flycatcher (Chatham) > 12-JUL 4:45 PM Blue Grosbeak (Falmouth) > 6-JUL 11:00 AM Northern Bobwhite (Dartmouth) > 1-JUN 11:15 AM Cerulean Warbler (Marblehead) > 3-MAY 6:30 PM Red Phalarope (Lynn) > 5-MAY 10:30 AM Red-necked Phalarope (Rockport) > 30-JAN 12:30 PM Western Grebe (Winthrop) > 22-JAN 11:00 AM Trumpeter Swan (Northbridge) > 9-JAN 11:15 AM Loggerhead Shrike (Saugus) > > Happy (mid-morning to late afternoon) Birding! > > Shilo McDonald > Lynn, Massachusetts > <SMcDonald...>
Date: 11/18/23 1:18 pm From: Mark Fairbrother <bogelfin...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Cattle Egret and Wilson's Warbler 11.18
We had the Cattle Egret near the airport in Northampton this afternoon, in the little pasture just by the north end of the runway. It was on the roof of one of the small buildings, then foraging in the grass along the airport fence. We then found the continuing Wilson's Warbler flitting around in the little park just behind the greenhouses at Mt. Holyoke College in South Hadley.
Date: 11/18/23 5:28 am From: Shilo McDonald <smcdonald...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Not a Morning Birder
Good Morning MassBird, I'm not a morning birder. I reserve my mornings for futzing around in the native plant garden, restocking the backyard feeders, and having that first cup of freshly ground coffee.
I mention it, because people assume as a birder, I'm an early morning birder. Nope. I do most of my birding after 10 AM. I'm more alert by then. My eyes and ears are wide open. And I've probably already had my second cup of freshly ground coffee. :-)
So, if you're not a morning person. Or if you're not an early morning birding person. No worries. You don't have to be to see great birds. In fact, not one of the birds in this list, did I see before 10:30 AM. And these were my Life Birds!
Date Time Species Location 13-NOV 1:45 PM Western Tanager (Manomet) 5-NOV 12:30 PM Summer Tanager (Gloucester) 4-NOV 1:15 PM Tufted Duck (Holyoke) 12-SEP 12:15 PM Ash-throated Flycatcher (Chatham) 12-JUL 4:45 PM Blue Grosbeak (Falmouth) 6-JUL 11:00 AM Northern Bobwhite (Dartmouth) 1-JUN 11:15 AM Cerulean Warbler (Marblehead) 3-MAY 6:30 PM Red Phalarope (Lynn) 5-MAY 10:30 AM Red-necked Phalarope (Rockport) 30-JAN 12:30 PM Western Grebe (Winthrop) 22-JAN 11:00 AM Trumpeter Swan (Northbridge) 9-JAN 11:15 AM Loggerhead Shrike (Saugus)
Date: 11/18/23 3:40 am From: Denise Cabral <goshawk3...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Black Vultures, Palmer-Wilbraham line
Driving on rte 20 on the Palmer-Wilbraham line yesterday about 2:45 pm, spotted a pair of Black Vultures circling fairly low. Really great look.
Denise Cabral Brimfield
Observation start time: 14:30:00 Observation end time: 15:15:00 Total observation time: 0.75 hours
Official Counter: Observers: Bill Rasku
Visitors: The inestimable Mary Jane Rasku.
Weather: Warm with temps near 60, very strong SW winds, mostly cloudy. Raptor Observations: No watch was planned because of the strong SW winds, but Bill took his wife up to the North Rd observation point to check out the view, and saw a Sharpie go by. It's all good! They didn't see any local raptors in the short time that they were up there.
Predictions: Rain is predicted overnight and into the morning. We're not planning on conducting a formal watch. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 11/17/23 1:34 pm From: Cliff Cook <ccook13...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] BBC Ipswich River Sanctuary Trip Cancellation
The Brookline Bird Club field trip scheduled for tomorrow, saturday November 18 at Ipswich River Mass Audubon sanctuary has been cancelled due to anticipated por weather conditions.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Bill Rasku
Visitors: Between 30 & 40 hikers and various dogs. It was nice to have Carl and Peggy drop by again.
Weather: The wind was higher than predicted last night (7-9 mph with higher gusts), more W than WNW, and there was a moderate to heavy band of brownish haze that extended to about 3,000 ft, possibly indicating a temperature inversion.
Raptor Observations: The birds either weren't impressed with the weather, or there just aren't many birds left. Only 2 local raptors spotted, and 4 migrants.
Non-raptor Observations: duck sp - 5 Blue Jay - 4 Amer Crow - 27 (all heading east) Comm Raven - 3 DE Junco - 1 CG Kinglet - 1
Predictions: No plans for conducting a watch for the next few days. Strong SW winds on Friday, rain on Saturday morning, and strong W winds on Sunday. Monday currently looks like the next likely day. Still looking for our first Rough-legged Hawk. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 11/16/23 2:25 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Program Cancellation: Belle Isle Marsh Birding Trip for Sat,11/18/2023
Thanks to Matthew Nash for this update.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
From: "Nash, Matthew (DCR)" <matthew.nash...> Subject: Program Cancellation: Belle Isle Marsh Birding Trip for Sat 11/18/2023 Date: Thu, 16 Nov 2023 15:44:17 +0000
The Birding Belle Isle (aka an oasis for birds) program scheduled for Saturday, Nov 18th 7:30-8:30 am at DCR's Belle Isle Marsh in East Boston has bee=n cancelled due to an inclement weather forecast. This program is sponsored by the DCR, Brookline Bird Club and Friends of Belle Isle Marsh.
Matthew Nash Visitor Services Supervisor DCR North Region Coastal District One Eliot Circle Revere, MA 02151 (781) 656-1485
Date: 11/15/23 5:04 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Great Pond Randolph Thirteen Duck Species, etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Wed, 15 Nov 2023 23:47:24 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: Great Pond Randolph Thirteen Duck Species, etc.
This place was absolutely alive with birds, especially ducks. It is famous in the fall for its ducks. I birded from 1:00-4:05 p.m. I started at the very southern end (Oak St.) I then walked the path from there(hard to find) that goes along the entire edge of the southern half of the reservoir on the Randolph side. Then it was out to the entire length of the dike. I exited via Norroway Ave.
Great Blue Heron 2 Northern Pintail 5 "the arm" near Norroway Ave. American Wigeon 5 Green-winged Teal 41+ including twenty on "the arm" American Black Duck 4 Mallard Duck 63 thirty on "the arm" Ring-necked Duck 300 wild guess; spread out Lesser Scaup 3 scaup sp. 12 Ruddy Duck 200 wild guess; spread out Bufflehead 12 BARROW'S GOLDENEYE 1 almost all way down dike if coming from Randolph side Common Goldeneye 25 Common Merganser 22 Hooded Merganser 71 twenty on "the arm" near Norroway Ave. American Coot 27 Belted Kingfisher 2 "the arm"; their usual area) Hairy Woodpecker 1 Brown Creeper 1 WINTER WREN 2 one at marshy pond near beginning of dike; one near Oak St. in dense brush (seen) Golden-crowned Kinglet 8 exact count Swamp Sparrow 4 in above-mentioned marshy pond American Tree Sparrow 1 on dike Song Sparrow 4+ Snow Bunting 50 flying around at Braintree treatment plant; seen from dike
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks
Visitors: A couple from Fairfield, CT, on a quad. Ronnie, a garden designer.
Weather: Mostly sunny; light NW to N winds. Temperature 35-39 F.
Raptor Observations: Another meager flight, despite the favorable wind. This may be my last day, depending on the weather forecast for the coming week.
Non-raptor Observations: Blue Jays (6), American Crows (3), Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Juncos (4). ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Date: 11/14/23 6:32 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] RFI -- red crossbill feeding observations
Thanks to Dr. Cody Porter for this request.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...> *
From: C <empidonaxdvg...> Date: Tue, 14 Nov 2023 16:53:09 -0600 Subject: RFI -- red crossbill feeding observations To: <GABO-L...>, <Massbird...>, <birdnet...>, <mou-net...>, <NATURENB...>
Hi all,
I’m writing to follow up on my previous requests for observations of eastern red crossbills feeding on conifers. Given that Christmas Bird Count season is rapidly approaching, I figured now would be a good time to remind folks about the types of observations I’m collating as a part of a multi-year project on crossbill feeding ecology. This is also an interesting time of year from a crossbill foraging perspective, as this is when crossbills begin shifting to feeding on conifers other than those they were feeding on throughout the late summer and early fall.
I’m looking for audio recordings of crossbill calls from the eastern US/Great Lakes with information on the conifers the birds are feeding on. The recordings do not have to be made with any advanced equipment – most phone recordings are sufficient. Pictures of the conifer cones are most helpful. However, if you are comfortable with conifer identification, notes on which conifers birds are feeding on are also valuable.
Based on contributions from several folks across the eastern US, I’ve accumulated over 600 (!) records of eastern red crossbills and the conifers they’re feeding on. If you’re interested, I’ve posted a little blurb on my website (https://ckporter.weebly.com/eastern-red-crossbill-ecology.html) illustrating and describing the preliminary data for type 12, the crossbill I have the most data for and am most interested in for this project.
Although there are some intriguing patterns in the data so far, describing the feeding ecology of type 12 and other eastern call types will require much more data across many seasons and years. So, if you have crossbills in your area, please consider uploading recordings and conifer information to eBird. I’ve also created an iNaturalist project (link below) where observations can be uploaded. If you don’t use eBird or iNaturalist, please feel free to send me any observations directly.
Thanks a ton for considering my request. Please feel free to reach out with any questions! Also, please pass this onto anyone you think might be interested in participating.
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Light to moderate (1-2) NW-NNW winds, with maximum gusts of 14 mph (at end of day). Cloud cover varied throughout the day. The watch began with 50% cirrus, but cumulostratus clouds moved in until about 75% of the sky was covered. These clouds then moved out such that only 15% of the sky was covered. More clouds then moved in until 95% of the sky was covered, but then moved out and cumulus clouds moved in such that at the end of the watch 40% of the sky was covered. Temperature went fro 1-5°C
Raptor Observations: Only two RT Hawks observed migrating
Predictions: Tomorrow looks worse than today. Winds from NW are not predicted to be strong again until after Saturday's predicted rain. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 13:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 1.5 hours
Official Counter:
Observers: Bill Rasku
Visitors: Occasional hikers
Weather: A cloudier day than what was forecasted. NW winds at 8-14 mph, gustier laster in the afternoon. Temps in the high 30's to low 40's.
Raptor Observations: Eric got waylaid by a faulty furnace at home, so our observation plans went by the wayside. Bill took time out of his day to make a quick run up to the North Road overlook in case the sky cleared. It didn't in the 90 minutes he was up there, but he saw 2 Red-tails move through. Good effort!
Predictions: Partly cloudy, temps in the 40's, moderate WSW to SW winds. Not much interest in hiking up for these conditions. Thursday looks like a much more inviting day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 11/13/23 7:20 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/11 Pine Siskins at D. Blakely Hoar Sanctuary, ETC.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Tue, 14 Nov 2023 01:21:16 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/11 Pine Siskins at D. Blakely Hoar Sanctuary, ETC.
In Brookline:
Cooper's Hawk 1 Red-tailed Hawk 1 Winter Wren 1 boardwalk behind tennis courts(annual favorite spot Golden-crowned Kinglet 4 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 2 Swamp Sparrow 4 Red-winged Blackbird 40 Common Grackle 50 Pine Siskin 9 heard calling immediately; eventually came to alders next to me Raccoon 1 in its perennial hole(seven or more years now?
Date: 11/13/23 7:14 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/13 Sears Land in Weston Highlights
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Tue, 14 Nov 2023 01:15:06 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/13 Sears Land in Weston Highlights
I went to try to find the two Blue-winged Teal that were reported on the Weston Station Pond in the Boston Sunday Globe. No luck. This pond is a part of the ninety acre Sears Land. There are fields, swamp, ponds, and woods here.
Northern Shoveler 1 ad. male Green-winged Teal 5 Wood Duck 1 American Black Duck 3 Mallard Duck 14 accipiter sp. 1 Hairy Woodpecker 1+ BLUE-HEADED VIREO 1 beautiful; pond Winter Wren 1 edge of swamp Golden-crowned Kinglet 1 Hermit Thrush 1 White-throated Sparrow 10 weedy area below Mass Central Rail Trail Wayside(narrow path parallels rail trail for a bit Dark-eyed Junco 7 most with above species Red Squirrel 3 Gray Squirrel 1+ White-tailed Deer 1 RIVER OTTER 2 Weston Station Pond; hunting, eating; cute and AWESOME!!
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 3.5 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Light (2) N winds, with maximum gusts of 14 mph; Cloud cover - concentrated cumulus clouds covering 95-90% of the sky; Temperature -- (-)1-1°C
Raptor Observations: no movement of raptors An adult RT perched on a nearby pine and five hikers got to view it through my scope. There was also what appeared to be a non-migrating CH
Non-raptor Observations: 2 Ravens, 11 Crows together on the nearby tower, and 20 American Robins were birds identified that were one interest
Predictions: moderate to light winds are not terribly promising. Tuesday may be better as NW winds will increase in strength ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Light (1) NW-NNW winds, with maximum gusts of 8 mph; Cloud cover -- the watch began with 20% cloud cover with most clouds on the SE horizon. Gradually, clouds moved in from the west until about 60% if the sky was covered. These clouds then moved out until only 7 % of the sky was covered, with almost all clouds on the eastern horizon. As I left cirrus clouds were beginning to move in from the west. The temperature when I started was (-)3°C and only got up to 2° at the end of the watch
Raptor Observations: No raptors were observed at all
Non-raptor Observations: 5 Dark-eyed Juncos were feeding in the pines and on the ground at the beginning of the watch. There were also 2 Common Ravens flying together
Predictions: Tomorrow NW winds will be increasing in the morning up to 10 mph before getting less strong. These less strong winds will continue into Wednesday. The strong NW winds may bring migrants ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 3.5 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Light (2) N winds, with maximum gusts of 14 mph; Cloud cover - concentrated cumulus clouds covering 95-90% of the sky; Temperature -- (-)1-1°C
Raptor Observations: no movement of raptors An adult RT perched on a nearby pine and five hikers got to view it through my scope. There was also what appeared to be a non-migrating CH
Non-raptor Observations: 2 Ravens, 11 Crows together on the nearby tower, and 20 American Robins were birds identified that were one interest
Predictions: moderate to light winds are not terribly promising. Tuesday may be better as NW winds will increase in strength ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 09:45:00 Observation end time: 14:45:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Bill Rasku, Marty McNamara
Visitors: At least 200 hikers (including several unhappy infants) and lots of dogs. Carl and one of his hiking buddies dropped by.
Weather: The sunny skies that were predicted didn't fully show up until almost 1:00 pm, and the winds, although northerly, were often less than 4 mph. There was a bit more haze in the air than yesterday, so Boston was a bit difficult to see, but the cloud cover to the north was high enough that we could make out the ghostly white shape of Mt Washington through binoculars. Temps were in the low to mid 30's.
Raptor Observations: With 60% cloud cover until noon and light winds all day, the birds were getting little lift, and most were seen down low. Even gulls were having to repeatedly flap their wings while trying to circle up on thermals. The surprise bird of the day was a single late Turkey Vulture.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 17 (fly-by) gull sp - 7 (circling in the general vicinity of the Fitchburg City landfill) Blue Jay - 4 Amer Crow - 72 (migrating) Comm Raven - 3 Downy WP - 1 BC Chickadee - 4 T Titmouse - 1 WB Nuthatch - 1 DE Junco - 2 GC Kinglet - 1 Song Sparrow - 1 passerine - 2
Predictions: Sunny to partly cloudy, temps in the mid-30's to low 40's, and light winds, mostly from SW. Eric can't make it, but Bill might go up.
Wachusett Mt ski area has started to make snow, so walking on the lower part of the auto road is no longer an option. Hikers will have to use marked trails, or walk up the North Rd or Administration Rd from Westminster/W. Princeton Rd. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 11/12/23 2:18 pm From: MJ Keeler <maryjane.keeler...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
My usuals are visiting the feeders, altho they seem to get a little bit of
a late start because of the cold. The Blue Jays certainly let the
neighborhood know when I’m coming out with food. Putting out safflower is
good for the cardinals - they like it.
On Sun, Nov 12, 2023 at 4:50 PM Josh <opihi...> wrote:
> Hi MassBirders,
>
> I’m not seeing chickadees at my feeders lately, but still seeing and
> hearing plenty out in the woods beyond our yard. As Bill suggests, I think
> there’s so much other food out there that they don’t feel the need to hang
> around our feeders. Only birds coming to feeders with much regularity here
> are woodpeckers on the suet. Also like Bill, I’ve noticed lots of Pine
> Siskins around the past few weeks; none at my feeders, though a couple came
> by the bird bath this morning after I cleaned and refilled it last night.
> Both siskins and goldfinches have been going to town on my wife’s
> Anise-Hyssop patch the past few days, they *love* those seeds. (Good plant
> for hummingbirds too, when they’re in town)
>
> Good birding,
>
> Josh
>
>
> Joshua S. Rose, Ph.D.
> Amherst, MA
> https://www.facebook.com/opihi >
> Vice-president, Hampshire Bird Club
> https://hampshirebirdclub.org/ >
> Northeast Chapter head, Dragonfly Society of the Americas
> https://www.dragonflysocietyamericas.org/northeastdsa >
> Citizen science pages:
> http://bugguide.net/user/view/2399 > https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/opihiman > https://ebird.org/profile/MTk1MTQw/US-MA >
>
>
> > On Nov 11, 2023, at 6:07 AM, <blafley...> wrote:
> >
> > Hello,
> >
> > I have had the same experience here in New Salem. I started feeding
> birds about a month ago and had hardly any birds for a couple weeks. With
> the weather getting colder and we have had a couple light ice storms birds
> are starting to show up.
> > I mentioned in a post a while ago that I think one of the reasons may be
> the abundance of natural food, especially White Pine. Never seen so many
> cones on the trees. On walks around here I encounter flocks (some quite
> large) of Pine Siskins everywhere but have only had one at the feeder and
> only saw it once.
> >
> > Bill Lafley
> > New Salem
> > <blafley...>
> >>
> >> *
> >>
> >> From: Walt Webb <waltwebb24...>
> >> Date: Fri, 10 Nov 2023 15:24:25 -0500
> >> Subject: No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
> >>
> >>
> >> My backyard feeders have been up for two weeks and yet there have been
> no
> >> chickadees visiting them. Has anyone else noticed this absence at their
> >> feeders? Or what could explain it
> >>
> >> Walter Webb
> >> Westwood, MA
> >> <waltwebb24...>
> >>
> >
>
>
>
Date: 11/12/23 1:44 pm From: Josh <opihi...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
Hi MassBirders,
I’m not seeing chickadees at my feeders lately, but still seeing and hearing plenty out in the woods beyond our yard. As Bill suggests, I think there’s so much other food out there that they don’t feel the need to hang around our feeders. Only birds coming to feeders with much regularity here are woodpeckers on the suet. Also like Bill, I’ve noticed lots of Pine Siskins around the past few weeks; none at my feeders, though a couple came by the bird bath this morning after I cleaned and refilled it last night. Both siskins and goldfinches have been going to town on my wife’s Anise-Hyssop patch the past few days, they *love* those seeds. (Good plant for hummingbirds too, when they’re in town)
> On Nov 11, 2023, at 6:07 AM, <blafley...> wrote: > > Hello, > > I have had the same experience here in New Salem. I started feeding birds about a month ago and had hardly any birds for a couple weeks. With the weather getting colder and we have had a couple light ice storms birds are starting to show up. > I mentioned in a post a while ago that I think one of the reasons may be the abundance of natural food, especially White Pine. Never seen so many cones on the trees. On walks around here I encounter flocks (some quite large) of Pine Siskins everywhere but have only had one at the feeder and only saw it once. > > Bill Lafley > New Salem > <blafley...> >> >> * >> >> From: Walt Webb <waltwebb24...> >> Date: Fri, 10 Nov 2023 15:24:25 -0500 >> Subject: No Chickadees Yet at Feeders >> >> >> My backyard feeders have been up for two weeks and yet there have been no >> chickadees visiting them. Has anyone else noticed this absence at their >> feeders? Or what could explain it >> >> Walter Webb >> Westwood, MA >> <waltwebb24...> >> >
Date: 11/12/23 7:46 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Birding the NH coast - Sat
Thanks to Strickland Wheelock for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Sun, 12 Nov 2023 14:08:16 +0000 (UTC) From: Strickland Wheelock <skwheelock...> Subject: Birding the NH coast - Sat
Sat. 11/11 was a challenging day - no rain on a sunny day but the non-stop strong breeze from the north kept the temperatures on an extra cool side - maybe cold possibly. The wind kept the passerines buried for the most part but the only plus was that the wind was from the north keeping the seas flat allowing for many good finds & looks.This hardy group of participants left Drumlin Farm/MetroWest sanctuary & headed for a quick stop at Salisbury Beach SP hoping for an owl [no luck] but did enjoy a N Harrier working the marsh & a Cooper's Hawk working the parking lot.Next stop was Dodge Pond in Hampton where we enjoyed a nice mixture/looks of 2 Pied-billed Grebes, 1 Coot, several Ring-necked Ducks, many Mallards & a few Black Ducks, 1 Gt-Blue Heron. Next stop at Hampton Beach SP was a highlight where we were surrounded by swirling flocks of approx.150 to 200 Snow Buntings - what a show - nearby 2 cooperative N Horned Larks allowed for close looks in the short grass. On the breakwater was 1 Sanderling but quiet on ocean birds.Next stop was Eel Pond where we enjoyed a nice mixture of Buffleheads, Lesser & Greater Scaups - on the opposite side of the road was Jenness Beach were scanning the ocean we encountered many Red-thr Loons and a few Common Loons - another surprise highlight of the day was a lone Pacific Loon relatively close to where we were viewing - than a Blk-legged Kittiwake passed by a little further out - on the ocean were many Surf Scoters mixed with a few Black & Wht-winged Scoters plus Red-breasted Mergansers & Long-tailed Ducks - not a bad stop!Quick stop at Goss Farm looking for passerines - not many but did enjoy an E Bluebird & Red-tailed Hawk.Next stop was Rye Harbor SP where the wind was blasting - did have a very late Barn Swallow, a few Snow Buntings in the grass and all the same mix of scoters, a few C Eiders & Long-tailed Ducks plus many Red-thr Loons around the Point.Next stop was especially productive at the pull off for Pulpit Rocks - close up were 2 Red-necked Grebes that everyone had great looks at, a little behind them were a pair of Horned Grebes - then a Blk Guillemot flew in & landed - again many of all the sea ducks and loons to enjoy, esp as the sun was lighting up the beauty of the Surf Scoters which were common at all spots.Another pull off before Odiorne Point we came across another surprise mixed among all the sea ducks & loons was a female King Eider - always a challenge separating from the female C Eiders.Last real stop was the bridge off Rt 1a at Odiorne Point looking for shorebirds given low tide - given low tide, no Whimbrel or Yellowlegs but ended with a Lesser Blk-backed Gull - a bird I am told has been in the same area for 14 years. In the end, this hardy group of birders enjoyed 56 species with many highlights along the way - for most all, the Snow Bunting show at Hampton Beach SP swirling around us was the top highlight of many. Like always, thanks to Dan Fournier, Leslie Bostrom and Lindsay Neubeck for all their work helping the participants locating the birds plus all their field spotting - a great team.
Observation start time: 10:15:00 Observation end time: 15:15:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks
Weather: Variably cloudy (cumulus; cover 50%, decreasing to 25%). Wind NW 3-12 mph. Temperature 41-44 F.
Raptor Observations: No printable comments.
Non-raptor Observations: Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crows (40), Tufted Titmouse, Eastern Bluebirds (flock of 9), American Goldfinches (2), Dark-eyed Juncos (10), blackbird species (3). ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Raptor Observations: 2 SS migrating An RT Hawk and an SS were not migrating Official counter was not on site
Non-raptor Observations: An RB Woodpecker and a Dark-eyed Junco were observed ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Bill Shapiro, Darren Josey, Jack Miano
Visitors: In addition to the many hikers, including members of the Appalachian Mountain Club,Darren Josey and his 4-year old daughter, Esther, stopped to observe with us for a short while, and Hanang Himawan stopped to talk about the hawks being seen at the Rock over the years and hawk migration in general.
Weather: Moderate to strong (3) NW winds throughout the day, with maximum gusts of 17 mph; Cloud cover began at 3%, and gradually increased as cumulus clouds moved in from the northwest until 35% of the sky was filled with scattered cumulus clouds. The clouds then moved south of the Rock, with the whole northern sky being cloudless and at the end of the watch there was 0% cloud cover. Temperature went from 2-6°C before dropping back to 5°C
Raptor Observations: A fairly good movement of raptors with mostly TV's (more than half the total number of raptors, and a new daily record for this site) and most of the other birds were RT Hawks. At least two and probably more RT's were not migrating today
Non-raptor Observations: 30 Canada Geese were migrating; at least one Common Raven was in the area, and about 50 American Robins were seen flying south, but whether they were migrating or merely leaving a roost for the day, only to return, is unknown.
Predictions: On Sunday winds will be less strong and mostly from the NNW. These winds seem to be favorable for continued migration, which may continue into Monday with equally strong NW winds. The longer-range prediction is that winds from the NW will become stronger on Tuesday morning, which again may bring more migrants.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Date: 11/11/23 3:32 pm From: Fred Bouchard <frederickbouchard...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] great horned owl continues in belmont
hi birders
we've heard at least one, sometimes two,
quietly calling not far from an ajar night window.
this has been fairly consistent since october 1.
time can vary -- early evening, early morning.
typically, on a single note: hu-hu-hu-hoo-hoo.
another may return the call from a short distance.
we've had screech owls annually in the aug/sept window,
but this is new -- and a delight.
fred b & mary ellen rigano
--
<frederickbouchard...>
78 farnham st
belmont 02478 ma
617-484-6692
www.fredbouchard.wordpress.com
'One ought, every day, to hear a little song, read a good poem, sip a tasty
wine,
see a fine picture, and if possible, to speak a few reasonable words.'
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
(1749-1836)
Instructions for living a life:
*Pay attention.Be astonished.Tell about it.*
--- Mary Oliver (1935-2023)
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Bill Rasku, Paul Vanderhoof, Tom Gottschang
Visitors: At least 250 people who hiked up the mountain, including quite a few families with young kids, plus at least 40 dogs.
Weather: A cool, sunny day that was made cold by an 8-12 mph NW wind that sometimes gusted up to 18 mph - in other words, a classic mid-November day for hawk migration. There was a light haze in the air but visbility was very good to excellent. The only keeping us from seeing Mt. Washington was a persistent bank of clouds at 3500 - 4000 ft to the north. We could see snow on a couple of south-facing ski trails at Bromley, and a lot of snow in the air near other VT ski areas.
Raptor Observations: The Red-shoulders came on strong today. Their flight is running later than usual this year. Bill and Eric both saw an eagle that could have been a Golden, but couldn't nail down the ID for certain. We had quite a few distant birds that we couldn't ID.
Non-migrating raptors: Bald Eagle - 3 (all imm) Red-tailed Hawk - 4 (2 adult, 2 imm. Miniumum number - repeated appearances all day)
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 52 (migrating) egret sp - 1 (migrating - a distant large, all-white bird with a wide wingspan and trailing legs) gull sp -10 (likely Ring-bills that were circling over the Fitchburg city landfill) Comm Merganser - 2 (flyby) Blue Jay - 4 Comm Raven - 2 Amer Crow 172 (163 migrating SW/W, and 9 heading E) DE Junco - 4 BC Chickadee - 4 WB Nuthatch - 2 GC Kinglet - 1
Predictions: Another good day for the migration - sunny, a few degrees colder, and slightly gentler (5-7 mph) NNW winds. We plan on hiking up. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 08:45:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5.25 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Weather: Light (1) WNW winds shifted to slightly stronger (2) W winds; Cloud cover was 100% the entire watch; Temperature went from 5-8°C
Raptor Observations: Only one migrating raptor A non-migrating immature RT was harassed by a CH that was also not migrating
Non-raptor Observations: 30 migrating Canada Geese and one Raven
Predictions: Stronger NW winds may bring migrating raptors ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Date: 11/11/23 2:12 pm From: Aimée Sands <amsproductions...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
Hardly any chickadees, only 2 or 3 titmice, 1 woodpecker, no nuthatches in Jamaica Plain near Forest Hills Cemetery. Very unusual and worrisome.
Aimée Sands
<amsproductions...>
> On Nov 11, 2023, at 3:43 PM, Richard George <richard...> wrote:
>
> I can vouch for plenty of Chickadees on feeders in Wakefield at the moment; I don’t know that they’ve ever really been absent over the summer & fall.
>
> —
> Richard George
> Wakefield MA
> <richard...>
>
>> On Nov 11, 2023, at 10:20 AM, Barbara Volkle <barb620...> wrote:
>>
>> Thanks to Walt Webb for this follow up.
>>
>> Barbara Volkle
>> Northborough,MA
>> <barb620...>
>>
>> *
>>
>> From: Walt Webb <waltwebb24...>
>> Date: Sat, 11 Nov 2023 09:44:55 -0500
>> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
>>
>>
>>
>> Hi, Bill (and Linda),
>>
>> Paul Kinnaly in next-door Dedham also reports an absence of chickadees at
>> his feeders. Despite the availability of natural food, it would seem to me
>> that there still should be at least a few curious chicks visiting feeders.
>> Oh, well, I'm not too concerned and expect them to find my
>> elders eventually (especially when the winter weather begins to settle in).
>>
>> Walt Webb
>> Westwood, MA
>> <waltwebb24...>
>
Date: 11/11/23 12:48 pm From: Richard George <richard...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
I can vouch for plenty of Chickadees on feeders in Wakefield at the moment; I don’t know that they’ve ever really been absent over the summer & fall.
—
Richard George
Wakefield MA
<richard...>
> On Nov 11, 2023, at 10:20 AM, Barbara Volkle <barb620...> wrote:
>
> Thanks to Walt Webb for this follow up.
>
> Barbara Volkle
> Northborough,MA
> <barb620...>
>
> *
>
> From: Walt Webb <waltwebb24...>
> Date: Sat, 11 Nov 2023 09:44:55 -0500
> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
>
>
>
> Hi, Bill (and Linda),
>
> Paul Kinnaly in next-door Dedham also reports an absence of chickadees at
> his feeders. Despite the availability of natural food, it would seem to me
> that there still should be at least a few curious chicks visiting feeders.
> Oh, well, I'm not too concerned and expect them to find my
> elders eventually (especially when the winter weather begins to settle in).
>
> Walt Webb
> Westwood, MA
> <waltwebb24...>
Date: 11/11/23 8:36 am From: Johnathon Benson <johnathonl87...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
Not only just for feeders. This year I've seen a remarkably low number of
Chickadees. This is probably anecdotal, but at my feeder I've only recorded
4 all season.
Johnathon Benson
Waltham, MA
On Sat, Nov 11, 2023, 11:28 AM Marty Burns <mistermarty55...> wrote:
> We are getting plenty of customers, including chickadees, at our
> Northampton feeder. I wonder if this is an east-vs-west feeder issue and if
> so, why that would be.
>
> Mary Burns
> Florence, MA
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Nov 11, 2023, at 10:32 AM, Barbara Volkle <barb620...>
> wrote:
> >
> > Thanks to Walt Webb for this follow up.
> >
> > Barbara Volkle
> > Northborough,MA
> > <barb620...>
> >
> > *
> >
> > From: Walt Webb <waltwebb24...>
> > Date: Sat, 11 Nov 2023 09:44:55 -0500
> > Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
> >
> >
> >
> > Hi, Bill (and Linda),
> >
> > Paul Kinnaly in next-door Dedham also reports an absence of chickadees at
> > his feeders. Despite the availability of natural food, it would seem to
> me
> > that there still should be at least a few curious chicks visiting
> feeders.
> > Oh, well, I'm not too concerned and expect them to find my
> > elders eventually (especially when the winter weather begins to settle
> in).
> >
> > Walt Webb
> > Westwood, MA
> > <waltwebb24...>
>
>
Date: 11/11/23 8:22 am From: Marty Burns <mistermarty55...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
We are getting plenty of customers, including chickadees, at our Northampton feeder. I wonder if this is an east-vs-west feeder issue and if so, why that would be.
Mary Burns Florence, MA
Sent from my iPhone
> On Nov 11, 2023, at 10:32 AM, Barbara Volkle <barb620...> wrote: > > Thanks to Walt Webb for this follow up. > > Barbara Volkle > Northborough,MA > <barb620...> > > * > > From: Walt Webb <waltwebb24...> > Date: Sat, 11 Nov 2023 09:44:55 -0500 > Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders > > > > Hi, Bill (and Linda), > > Paul Kinnaly in next-door Dedham also reports an absence of chickadees at > his feeders. Despite the availability of natural food, it would seem to me > that there still should be at least a few curious chicks visiting feeders. > Oh, well, I'm not too concerned and expect them to find my > elders eventually (especially when the winter weather begins to settle in). > > Walt Webb > Westwood, MA > <waltwebb24...>
Date: 11/11/23 7:24 am From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
Thanks to Walt Webb for this follow up.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
From: Walt Webb <waltwebb24...> Date: Sat, 11 Nov 2023 09:44:55 -0500 Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
Hi, Bill (and Linda),
Paul Kinnaly in next-door Dedham also reports an absence of chickadees at his feeders. Despite the availability of natural food, it would seem to me that there still should be at least a few curious chicks visiting feeders. Oh, well, I'm not too concerned and expect them to find my elders eventually (especially when the winter weather begins to settle in).
Date: 11/11/23 3:13 am From: <blafley...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
Hello,
I have had the same experience here in New Salem. I started feeding birds about a month ago and had hardly any birds for a couple weeks. With the weather getting colder and we have had a couple light ice storms birds are starting to show up. I mentioned in a post a while ago that I think one of the reasons may be the abundance of natural food, especially White Pine. Never seen so many cones on the trees. On walks around here I encounter flocks (some quite large) of Pine Siskins everywhere but have only had one at the feeder and only saw it once.
Bill Lafley New Salem <blafley...> > > * > > From: Walt Webb <waltwebb24...> > Date: Fri, 10 Nov 2023 15:24:25 -0500 > Subject: No Chickadees Yet at Feeders > > > My backyard feeders have been up for two weeks and yet there have been no > chickadees visiting them. Has anyone else noticed this absence at their > feeders? Or what could explain it > > Walter Webb > Westwood, MA > <waltwebb24...> >
Date: 11/10/23 5:04 pm From: Ian Nisbet <icnisbet...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
I put up my sunflower feeder in early October and there was a chickadee on it within 16 seconds. There have been plenty since -- at least a dozen every day.
Ian Nisbet, North Falmouth
On 11/10/2023 7:48 PM, Barbara Volkle wrote: > Thanks to Walt Webb for this post. > > Barbara Volkle > Northborough,MA > <barb620...> > > * > > From: Walt Webb <waltwebb24...> > Date: Fri, 10 Nov 2023 15:24:25 -0500 > Subject: No Chickadees Yet at Feeders > > > My backyard feeders have been up for two weeks and yet there have been no > chickadees visiting them. Has anyone else noticed this absence at their > feeders? Or what could explain it > > Walter Webb > Westwood, MA > <waltwebb24...> >
Date: 11/10/23 4:52 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
Thanks to Walt Webb for this post.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
From: Walt Webb <waltwebb24...> Date: Fri, 10 Nov 2023 15:24:25 -0500 Subject: No Chickadees Yet at Feeders
My backyard feeders have been up for two weeks and yet there have been no chickadees visiting them. Has anyone else noticed this absence at their feeders? Or what could explain it
Date: 11/10/23 3:22 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Black-headed Gulls, Snipe Harriers, Etc. Belle Isle
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Fri, 10 Nov 2023 21:44:29 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: Black-headed Gulls, Snipe Harriers, Etc. Belle Isle
I arrived at Morton St. on the Winthrop side of Belle Isle and immediately saw the two Black-headed Gulls on the water. I also covered the main section of Belle Isle:
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Observers: Bill Rasku, Paul Vanderhoof
Visitors: Our friends Carl and Albert stopped by, along with a contingent of hikers.
Weather: A mostly overcast day, but with a narrow streak of blue far to the N and NE. Temps in the mid-40's with strong gusty winds out of the W. A light bluish haze in the air, but visibility was very good except for some of the VT mountains.
Raptor Observations: A light day for raptors, but Bill was rewarded with two Golden Eagles (an adult and an immature) that flew at or below the horizon line. Otherwise, a mix of Bald Eagles, Red-shoulders and Red-tails. Non-migrating raptors: Bald Eagle - 3 (2 adult, 1 imm) Red-tailed Hawk - 2
Non-raptor Observations: The biggest day this season for migrating Canada Geese in 21 different groups including a slightly odd group of 2. Crows passed by all day in variously sized groups - all heading East (to the roost in Lawrence?) Also our first Eider of some type - the first in quite a while here. Paul saw his first Pine Siskins of the season down at the base of the mountain, flocking with goldfinches and chickadees.
Canada Goose - 466 (migrating) Comm Loon - 1 (migrating) eider sp - 1 Blue Jay - 3 Amer Crow - 84 (flying East) Comm Raven - 5 Pine Siskin - 2 Amer Goldfinch - x BC Chickadee - x WB Nuthatch - 2 GC Kinglet - 1 passerine sp -4
Predictions: We'll be going up this weekend. Hoping for a strong flight on Saturday - solid NW winds (10+ mph), clear skies and temps in the 40's.
Sunday should also be a good day with slightly gentler winds but cooler temps (mostly in the 30's.)
If you come up, dress very warmly. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Nice walk at Gate 35 this AM. Comfortable at first but wind picked up and dropped the comfort level. Through the scope watched a beautiful coyote run along the far shore for several minutes. It paused several times.
Bill Lafley New Salem <blafley...>
Quabbin Reservoir--Gate 35, Franklin, Massachusetts, US Nov 10, 2023 8:12 AM - 10:16 AM Protocol: Traveling 2.58 mile(s) Checklist Comments: Watched coyote through scope as it ran, pausing frequently, along far shore of cove. 5.25 miles round trip. 27 species
Canada Goose 5 American Black Duck 6 White-winged Scoter 3 Bufflehead 2 Common Merganser 12 Ruddy Duck 1 Horned Grebe 3 Mourning Dove 1 Greater Yellowlegs 2 Flushed from shore. Large shorebird with prominent white rump. Landed and gave good scope views. Long yellow legs and long slightly upturned bill. Dunlin 1 Small, plump peep on point of sandy island. Long, slightly downcurved bill and darker upper breast. Ring-billed Gull 32 Common Loon 8 Accurate count Bald Eagle 3 Red-bellied Woodpecker 1 Downy Woodpecker 2 Pileated Woodpecker 1 Blue Jay 5 American Crow 2 Black-capped Chickadee 5 Tufted Titmouse 4 Golden-crowned Kinglet 1 White-breasted Nuthatch 1 American Robin 4 Pine Siskin 9 Dark-eyed Junco 34 White-throated Sparrow 4 Song Sparrow 1
Date: 11/10/23 1:00 pm From: Steven Simpson <steveshrike...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Kite Over Burlington
A literal heads-up: I saw (what I believe to be) a Mississippi Kite flying West over Market Basket in Burlington at 3:50 this afternoon (Friday). Steven Simpson Arlington
Date: 11/9/23 8:26 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/9 Long-billed Dowitcher at Belle Isle, Etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Thu, 9 Nov 2023 22:59:58 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/9 Long-billed Dowitcher at Belle Isle, Etc.
I first hit the small sliver of Belle Isle off Saratoga St.. I then went over the bridge into Winthrop to bird the Morton St. section of Belle Isle. I was looking for the Black-headed Gulls. I also had the Long-billed Dowitcher on my mind:
Great Blue Heron 3 sliver of Belle Isle Red-tailed Hawk 1 LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER 1 Morton St. mudflats Dunlin 3 Greater Yellowlegs 1 Bonaparte's Gull 25+ Laughing Gull 4 Swamp Sparrow 3 sliver Field Sparrow 1+ sliver
Paul McPartland then drove me to Castle Island/Pleasure Bay in South Boston so that I perhaps could find the Forster's Terns:
Common Loon 1 Red-throated Loon 3 Ruddy Turnstone 6+ usual spot near entrance out onto the dike and the first sluice Golden-crowned Kinglet 1 Yellow-rumped Warbler 1 Swamp Sparrow 1 Dark-eyed Junco 2 SNOW BUNTING 3 at and near the grassy circle on the dike
Observation start time: 09:45:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: Gary Adamson, John Weeks
Weather: Cold (temperature 33-39 F), with NW wind 3-12 mph in the morning, tapering to 2-8 mph in the afternoon. Cloud-cover increased steadily from near zero to 95% by watch's end.
Raptor Observations: Honestly, another day of frustration. Even with NW wind all day, the birds simply won't come this way. Our entire season is beginning to resemble a rounding error for many other sites...
Non-raptor Observations: Most of the local birds were silent and seemed to be hunkered down. Canada Geese (43), Barred Owl, Blue Jay, American Crow, Common Ravens (3), Eastern Bluebirds (6), Hermit Thrush, Purple Finch, Pine Siskin, American Goldfinch, finch species (5), Dark-eyed Juncos (3), Song Sparrow.
Predictions: Tomorrow's forecast is unpropitious: freezing rain in the morning, with cloudy skies and variable, southerly winds in the afternoon. No watch planned. ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Observation start time: 07:45:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7.25 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Bill Shapiro, Bud Porter
Weather: Day began with very strong (4) NW winds with gusts of 18 mph, and only moderated to level 3 with gusts up to 12-13 mph continuing throughout the afternoon. Cloud cover began with low lying clouds covering about 25% of the sky. The sky gradually cleared until only 3% of the sky had clouds making following and/or finding birds in blue sky difficult. Later in afternoon cirrus clouds moved in and at end of watch were covering about 50% of the sky. Temperature started at 0° C and only rose to 4°C.
Raptor Observations: Given the winds I had expected more birds and until I was packing up had only had a small movement of raptors. Fortunately, Bill Shapiro was on the Rock with me as I was packing up and shouted "Ten raptors on the horizon!" Thus, just before leaving we added 11 TV's which were moving together, more than doubling our count. Non-migrating raptors -- early in the day two CH were seen moving N-NE probably being blown by the wind. There were also at least two and possibly more RT that were not migrating
Non-raptor Observations: Most surprising were two grackles migrating. Other interesting birds seen were about 120 migrating Canada Geese, 4 DC Cormorants, a Yellow-shafted Flicker, 2 Common Ravens, and a Dark-eyed Junco.
Predictions: After tomorrow's predicted rain, Friday will have moderate to strong W winds, changing to NW on Saturday and continuing into Sunday. Conditions this weekend may be good for migrating hawks. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
<b>Pinnacle Rock</b><br>Malden, Massachusetts, USA<br><br><table border=1><tr><td colspan=4 bgcolor=c0c0e0><b>Daily Raptor Counts: </b>Nov 08, 2023</td></tr><tr><td><b><font color=2020c0>Species</font></b></td><td><font color=2020c0>Day's Count</font></td><td><font color=2020c0>Month Total</font></td><td><font color=2020c0>Season Total</font></td></tr><tr><td>Black Vulture</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td></tr> <tr><td>Turkey Vulture</td><td align=right>11</td><td align=right>15</td><td align=right>37</td></tr> <tr><td>Osprey</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>18</td></tr> <tr><td>Bald Eagle</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>7</td></tr> <tr><td>Northern Harrier</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>2</td></tr> <tr><td>Sharp-shinned Hawk</td><td align=right>4</td><td align=right>6</td><td align=right>88</td></tr> <tr><td>Cooper's Hawk</td><td align=right>1</td><td align=right>1</td><td align=right>13</td></tr> <tr><td>American Goshawk</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td></tr> <tr><td>Red-shouldered Hawk</td><td align=right>1</td><td align=right>1</td><td align=right>6</td></tr> <tr><td>Broad-winged Hawk</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>8</td></tr> <tr><td>Red-tailed Hawk</td><td align=right>2</td><td align=right>6</td><td align=right>6</td></tr> <tr><td>Rough-legged Hawk</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td></tr> <tr><td>Golden Eagle</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td></tr> <tr><td>American Kestrel</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td></tr> <tr><td>Merlin</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>1</td><td align=right>7</td></tr> <tr><td>Peregrine Falcon</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>1</td></tr> <tr><td>Unknown Accipiter</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>2</td></tr> <tr><td>Unknown Buteo</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>2</td></tr> <tr><td>Unknown Falcon</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>4</td></tr> <tr><td>Unknown Eagle</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td><td align=right>0</td></tr> <tr><td>Unknown Raptor</td><td align=right>2</td><td align=right>2</td><td align=right>17</td></tr> <tr><td><b><font color=c02020>Total:</font></b></td><td align=right><font color=c02020>21</font></td><td align=right><font color=c02020>32</font></td><td align=right><font color=c02020>218</font></td></tr></table><br><br><table cellspacing=2 cellpadding=2><tr><td>Observation start time: </td><td>07:45:00 </td></tr><tr><Td>Observation end time: </td><Td>15:00:00 </td></tr><tr><td>Total observation time: </td><td>7.25 hours</td></tr><tr><td>Official Counter</td><td>Craig Jackson</td></tr><tr><td>Observers: </td><td>Bill Shapiro, Bud Porter</td></tr></table><br><br><b>Weather:</b><br>Day began with very strong (4) NW winds with gusts of 18 mph, and only moderated to level 3 with gusts up to 12-13 mph continuing throughout the afternoon. Cloud cover began with low lying clouds covering about 25% of the sky. The sky gradually cleared until only 3% of the sky had clouds making following and/or finding birds in blue sky difficult. Later in afternoon cirrus clouds moved in and at end of watch were covering about 50% of the sky. Temperature started at 0° C and only rose to 4°C.<br><br><b>Raptor Observations:</b><br>Given the winds I had expected more birds and until I was packing up had only had a small movement of raptors. Fortunately, Bill Shapiro was on the Rock with me as I was packing up and shouted "Ten raptors on the horizon!" Thus, just before leaving we added 11 TV's which were moving together, more than doubling our count. Non-migrating raptors -- early in the day two CH were seen moving N-NE probably being blown by the wind. There were also at least two and possibly more RT that were not migrating<br><br><b>Non-raptor Observations:</b><br>Most surprising were two grackles migrating. Other interesting birds seen were about 120 migrating Canada Geese, 4 DC Cormorants, a Yellow-shafted Flicker, 2 Common Ravens, and a Dark-eyed Junco.<br><br><b>Predictions:</b><br>After tomorrow's predicted rain, Friday will have moderate to strong W winds, changing to NW on Saturday and continuing into Sunday. Conditions this weekend may be good for migrating hawks.<br><br><hr>Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<a href="mailto:<crleja1949...>"><crleja1949...></a>)<br>More information at <a href="https://hawkcount.org">hawkcount.org</a>: [<a href="https://hawkcount.org/siteinfo.php?rsite=239">Site Profile</a>] [<a href="https://hawkcount.org/day_summary.php?rsite=239&ryear=2023&rmonth=11&rday=08">Day Summary</a>] [<a href="https://hawkcount.org/month_summary.php?rsite=239&ryear=2023&rmonth=11">Month Summary</a>]<br><br><hr><br>
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 13:15:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Observers: Bill Rasku, Kurt Mangsen, Paul Vanderhoof
Visitors: Some hikers - none stayed very long.
Weather: Very cold and windy, although mostly sunny. Temps 35-39 F, NW winds in the teens with gusts to 26 mph.
Raptor Observations: Bill and the team lasted as long as they could in the cold and strong winds. The birds were getting good lift, especially early on, probably from the winds. Very few birds were seen down low, and most were at quite a distance from the mountain.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 20 (migrating) Blue Jay - 1 Amer Crow - 31 (migrating) Comm Raven - 15 Amer Robin - 29 (migrating) WB Nuthatch - 1
UL (Unidentified Leaf) - many (mimicking Sharpies)
Predictions: For Thursday, freezing rain early in the morning and light rain until about 2 pm. No watch will be conducted.
Friday's weather is predicted to be mediocre at best (low 40's and 10-20 mph W winds. We'll probably save our energy for the weekend when NW winds return. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Great time of year to check out your local ponds and lakes. Over the past week or so there has been lots of waterfowl on the move. Mallards Black Ducks Canada Geese Brant - Orange WMA N Pintail - Harvard Pond L. Scaup- S. Spectacle Pond/Kiwanis Pk G. Scaup - Lake Mattawa Bufflehead - L. Mattawa/Kiwanis Pk./ S Spectacle Pond(14!) C. Merganser - L Mattawa/Quabbin Red-breasted Merganser - Quabbin Common Loon - Quabbin Red-necked Grebe - Quabbin Green-winged Teal - Orange WMA/Harvard Pond Blue-winged Teal - Orange WMA Wood Duck - Kiwanis Pk Ring-necked Duck - Kiwanis Pk (135) Hooded Merganser - Orange WMA/Quabbin White-winged Scoter - L Mattawa
Date: 11/8/23 5:44 am From: Perls, Thomas T <thperls...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] Belize guides?
The most fantastic birding experience in Beliz is Chan Chich lodge. They have two birding walks a day. We saw many endemics. Fantastic lodging and food as well (your son will love the pool!).
Also they have expeditions to the mountains where we saw king vulture, royal eagle, bat falcon, alpomato falcon, white hawk and a river boating trip to see birds and fantastic mayan ruins with all three trogans. You can either drive from Belize City but a six-eight hour drive. Better for much less money and much more comfort to fly in and out on Javier Air service. There is an air strip 20 min from the lodge.
Thomas Perls MD
On Nov 8, 2023, at 8:30 AM, Pete Sperber <psperber...> wrote:
Hi everyone!
My family and I will be in Belize for a week in February and my 13 year old son and I are hoping to hire a guide to help us do some birding while we're there. I was hoping the Massbird community might have some names and contact information for some guides in Belize.
Please contact me directly with any thoughts, suggestions or ideas you may have.
Date: 11/8/23 5:18 am From: Pete Sperber <psperber...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Belize guides?
Hi everyone!
My family and I will be in Belize for a week in February and my 13 year old son and I are hoping to hire a guide to help us do some birding while we're there. I was hoping the Massbird community might have some names and contact information for some guides in Belize.
Please contact me directly with any thoughts, suggestions or ideas you may have.
Date: 11/7/23 7:30 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/7 Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Etc. at Arnold Arboretum
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Tue, 7 Nov 2023 18:52:24 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/7 Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Etc. at Arnold Arboretum
I was quite surprised to walk up Bussey Hill Rd. in the arboretum when I looked down into the deciduous, natural, oak woods and beheld an adult male ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK in one of those two dead trees. It was interested in the tree hole. A Northern Flicker came and drove it away, only for it to return tp that spot. I birded here from9:40-12:30.
Red=tailed Hawk 1 Mourning Dove 35 Common Raven 1 Golden-crowned Kinglet 1+ Winter Wren 1 calling from edge of marsh about four hundred yards down from the visitors center Carolina Wren 3 Yellow-rumped Warbler 1+ Northern Cardinal 20 ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK 1 See Above White-throated Sparrow 15 Swamp Sparrow 2 in marsh opposite visitors center Common Grackle 60 PURPLE FINCH 1 seen from cement berm in marsh opposite visitors center House Finch 30 White-tailed Deer 1 Easteern Chipmunk Gray Squirrel dragonfly sp. (big, blue ode)
Date: 11/6/23 8:14 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/6 Great Variety in Winthrop
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Tue, 7 Nov 2023 01:28:34 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/6 Great Variety in Winthrop
I birded in Winthrop from 1:15-4:30. I started at Belle Isle Marsh on Winthrop side, then to Belle Isle Cemetery, then Lewis Lake, then Fisherman's Bend Park, then Crystal Cove, then Winthrop
Red-necked Grebe 1 in front of middle sister Horned Grebe 1 Red-throated Loon 5 Black-crowned Night-Heron 1 flew out of Lewis Lake at night Grerat Egret 2 Great Blue Heron 1 Lewis Lake Brant 5 Hooded Merganser 5 Lewis Lake Common Eider 9 Bufflehead 18 Red-tailed Hawk 1 Semipalmated Plover 1 with plovers and Dunlin Black-bellied Plover 16 Dunlin 21 Morton St. next to boat yard Greater Yellowlegs 9 including eight Crystal Cove Lesser Yellowlegs 1 Belle Isle from very long boardwalk Monk Parakeet 1 Lewis Lake Dark-eyed Junco 12 Field Sparrow 1 cemetery with juncos White-throated Sparrow 3 with above two species LAPLAND LONGSPUR 1 Winthrop Beach calling, then seen
Observation start time: 09:45:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 3.25 hours
Official Counter: Observers: Bill Rasku, Kurt Mangsen
Visitors: In addition to the usual groups of hikers, John Neiman and his shy Sheltie, Gus, came up to visit.
Weather: Mostly overcast all day, but the clouds were high and let through quite a bit of light in the morning. There was a shelf of darker clouds that formed a line just north of us, yet there was less haze to the north. Winds from the SE all session, but the upper level clouds seemed to be moving in a different direction. Temps in the mid-40's all day. Rain began to threaten around 1 pm, so we headed down the mountain before it arrived.
Raptor Observations: Not a busy day with the SE winds and the threatening skies. Five of the Red-tails in the second hour kettled up together to the west of us before flying off.
Non-migrating raptors: Bald Eagle - 2 (1 adult and 1 not aged) Red-tailed Hawk - 3
Non-raptor Observations: Our first "more than a handful" group of migrating Crows this season, and the largest group of Snow Buntings that we've seen this year.
Canada Goose - 3 (two groups) Amer Crow - 33 Comm Raven - 2 Snow Bunting - 16 Amer Robin - 1 DE Junco - 1
Predictions: Warmer temps on Tuesday, but the strong SW and WSW winds will probably keep down the flight, so we won't be conducting a watch.
Wednesday will be clear and cold, with brisk NW winds, so the flight should be good. We'll probably go up for as long as we can take the cold. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
--
<frederickbouchard...>
78 farnham st
belmont 02478 ma
617-484-6692
www.fredbouchard.wordpress.com
'One ought, every day, to hear a little song, read a good poem, sip a tasty
wine,
see a fine picture, and if possible, to speak a few reasonable words.'
— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
(1749-1836)
Instructions for living a life:
*Pay attention.Be astonished.Tell about it.*
--- Mary Oliver (1935-2023)
Commentary from Jon Skinner on Bald Eagle count: This appears to possibly be the highest count of Bald Eagles in the state. This was the first day with NW winds in about a week and looked to be a great window for eagles to be migrating.
When it came to determining if a bird was a migrant, I was conservative about making the call. All of the birds I counted as migrants followed the same pattern of behavior: slowly climbing a thermal before gliding off in a southerly direction. I didn't follow every bird to make sure they continued moving but at this time of year, I feel like that behavior is a good indicator of a migrating bird.
For the eagles that I determined weren't migrating, I saw behavior that included simply flying any other direction than south, diving steeply, etc. There were a few birds (mostly sub-adults) that engaged in "sky-dance" behavior and didn't seem keen on moving south even after watching for a little while, so I counted them as locals. it's possible they did eventually move on.
12 Common Raven 9 American Black Duck 1 Common Loon 1 Purple Finch
Predictions: No formal count planned. Please email any sightings and data to Brian Rusnica at <14hawks8owls...> ======================================================================== Report submitted by Brian Rusnica (<brian_rusnica...>) Mount Watatic information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks
Visitors: I had a grand conversation, which offered some compensation for one hour's worth of zero migrants, with local resident Roger Hinkel. A couple with a toddler passed by; the husband was in shorts! They visited last year also, with their two dogs instead of the baby. Finally, birders Debbie Munson and Andy Schroeder spent an hour or so with me; Debbie spotted the eagle, which unfortunately didn't migrate.
Weather: Northwest winds 2-9 mph (which should have been ideal), but the clouds steadily increased and thickened, squelching what thermals there were at the outset. Temperature 50-56 F.
Raptor Observations: Three buteos and three vultures. Not counted as migrants: immature Bald Eagle, two hunting Red-tails.
Non-raptor Observations: Very little activity on the Hill today, aside from the to-ing and fro-ing of the Juncos (16). Blue Jays (2), American Crow, Golden-crowned Kinglets (2 or 3), Chipping Sparrow (unexpected). ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Observation start time: 07:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7.75 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers:
Visitors: Among the many hikers Steven Marcello and Patrick Jakubik stopped to ask me about the details of hawk migration. Bill Shapiro also came with his friend and his friend's son but did not stay to observe hawks (as nothing was being seen)
Weather: Light (1) West winds changed to WNW and strengthened slightly to level 2; maximum gusts were 8.5 mph; Cloud cover -- started as 95 % and stayed about the same until 2 PM when it started to clear to 70% and continued clearing until the end of the watch.; Temperature -- 6-12-11 C
Raptor Observations: 2 SS Hawks seen soaring and heading SE were presumed to be migrants
Non-raptor Observations: More than 50 American Robins were observed flying south in the morning. Whether these were migrants or just birds flying from a nighttime roost to feed is impossible to tell
Predictions: Tomorrow Monday winds will be mostly from the east, so I do not expect any movement. Tuesday will bring winds from the SW, and those winds are predicted to shift to the NW on Wednesday and beginning fairly strong and moderating throughout the day. Wednesday may be the most productive day for migrating hawks that we have had on the Rock for quite some while. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Date: 11/5/23 6:23 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] NH Coast Field Trip for Brookline Bird Club (King Eider, BTGreen, Warblers, Whimbrel)
Thanks to Steve and Jane Mirick for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Sun, 5 Nov 2023 17:19:34 -0500 From: Steve Mirick <smirick...> Subject: NH Coast Field Trip for Brookline Bird Club (King Eider, BTGreen Warblers, Whimbrel)
Jane and I led our annual Field Trip for the BBC along the NH coast today. We had about 15 intrepid birders join us in search of rarities. Unfortunately, the mega-rarities seem to be in Maine and Massachusetts lately, and we had to work for what we got in NH. But the weather was great and the company was spectacular!
We birded from 9:15 AM to 3:00 PM visiting Hampton Beach State Park, Bicentennial Park in Hampton, Eel Pond in Rye, Pulpit Rocks in Rye, and Odiorne Point State Park in Rye. Our group was "all over the place" as people came and left and came back over the day. The report of a roosting BARN OWL in Salisbury, MA caused havoc with the trip as people went down to see it! 🙂
We ended up with about 66 species of birds, but also had 5 species of butterfies (Cabbage White, Orange Sulphur, Clouded Sulphur, MONARCH, and RED ADMIRAL) and 1 species of dragonfly (Autumn Meadowhawk).
Canada Goose Gadwall 2 Continuing females in Eel Pond American Black Duck 13 Green-winged Teal 1 in Eel Pond Ring-necked Duck 3 in Eel Pond Lesser Scaup 7 in Eel Pond KING EIDER 1 Continuing female. Today at Pulpit Rocks in Rye. We missed it on the first attempt, but got it the 2nd time. Common Eider Surf Scoter White-winged Scoter Black Scoter Long-tailed Duck Bufflehead Red-breasted Merganser Horned Grebe Red-necked Grebe Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon) American Coot 1 in Eel Pond Black-bellied Plover 33 in Hampton Harbor and Rye Harbor WHIMBREL 1 continuing bird in harbor by "Wooden Bridge" at Odiorne in Rye. Record late date for New Hampshire. Greater Yellowlegs 4 Sanderling 23 Dunlin 120 in Hampton harbor Black Guillemot 3 Bonaparte's Gull 18 Ring-billed Gull Herring Gull Great Black-backed Gull Lesser Black-backed Gull 1. "Woody" the adult LBBG continues from Wooden Bridge in Rye. Red-throated Loon 53. Not a large number migrating, but lots in the water. Common Loon 10 Great Cormorant 1 Double-crested Cormorant 1,124. Almost all if these counted migrating in several large flocks in morning. A high count for November. Great Blue Heron 3 Northern Harrier 2 Sharp-shinned Hawk 1 Red-tailed Hawk 4 Red-bellied Woodpecker Downy Woodpecker Peregrine Falcon 3 Blue Jay American Crow Black-capped Chickadee Tufted Titmouse Horned Lark 10 at Hampton Beach SP Ruby-crowned Kinglet 2 at Odiorne Point SP Golden-crowned Kinglet 5 Carolina Wren European Starling Northern Mockingbird Eastern Bluebird Hermit Thrush 1 at Odiorne American Robin House Sparrow American Pipit 1 House Finch American Goldfinch Snow Bunting 70 at Hampton Beach SP Dark-eyed Junco White-throated Sparrow Song Sparrow Swamp Sparrow Palm Warbler (Western) 1 at Odiorne Point SP Yellow-rumped Warbler 3 at Odiorne Point SP BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER 2 very late birds. Incredibly TWO for the day. One at Bicentennial Park in Hampton and one at Odiorne. Northern Cardinal
Observation start time: 09:45:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Dan Rossman, Tom Gottschang
Visitors: Hundreds of hikers today, and lots of dogs (especially Golden Retrievers.)
Weather: The day started out darker than what was forecasted last night. A small patch of sunlight appeared for a short time around 10:30 am, but there was no substantial blue sky until noon, so thermal activity was limited. Mild W to WNW winds instead of the forecasted NW winds. Temps held in the low 50's all day. There was a moderate haze that kept the views of Boston very fuzzy, and we couldn't see Mt Greylock or the VT mountains at all.
Raptor Observations: A great day for Bald Eagles - we counted 29 migrating birds and at least 4 locals. This was our highest daily BE total ever for a November day, and was our 2nd highest daily total ever. BE ages - Adult 9, Sub-adult - 1, Immature - 14, Juvenile - 1, not aged - 4 (probably not adults.) However, we were surpassed by the flight at Mt. Watatic where Jon Skinner reported seeing 78 Bald Eagles today, all but 9 of which were migrating.
With the dark skies, west winds and no thermals, the birds didn't start moving until 10:45 am, but kept moving through steadily after that. The birds were able to get good height using the moderate winds for uplift.
Non-migrating raptors: Bald Eagle - 4 (2 adults, 2 imm. Minimum number - repeated appearances all day.) Cooper's Hawk - 1 Red-tailed Hawk - 2 (both adults)
Non-raptor Observations: (includes birds seen on the hikes up and down) Snow Bunting - 2 Blue Jay - 2 Amer Crow - 5 (unusual up here, possibly migrating) Comm Raven - 3 BC Chickadee - 1 Tufted Titmouse - 2 DE Junco - 6
Predictions: Cool temps starting in the 40's and dropping into the high 30's by noon, with 5-6 mph NE to SE winds and mostly cloudy skies. It could be good eagle weather again. Bill Rasku will hike up in the morning to arrive by around 10 am. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 11/5/23 6:03 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 11/4 Hammond Pond and Houghton Garden
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Sun, 5 Nov 2023 19:35:57 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 11/4 Hammond Pond and Houghton Garden
I birded here from 11:00-3:30 p.m. Pied-billed Grebe 2 Great Blue Heron 2 Ring-necked Duck 35 Hairy Woodpecker 1 Northern Flicker 1 Eastern Phoebe 1 Common Raven 1 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1+ Golden-crowned Kinglet 8 one in full crown display=WOW! Winter Wren 1 across from the Houghton Garden gate that's almost at the train tracks Carolina Wren 3 Yellow-rumped Warbler 10 White-throated Sparrow 20 Swamp Sparrow 2 Song Sparrow 7 Common Grackle 150 PURPLE FINCH 2 at Chestnut Hill Station! in tree top at edge
Date: 11/5/23 4:06 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Pelagic spots available for BBC Nov 18 (weather date Nov 19), Nantucket Shoals Trip
Thanks to Naeem Yusuff for this announcement.
Go to www.brooklinebirdclub.org and scroll down page to find the link to registration.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Sun, 5 Nov 2023 15:13:03 +0000 (UTC) From: Naeem Yusuff <naeem.yusuff...> Subject: Pelagic spots available for BBC Nov 18 (weather date Nov 19) Nantucket Shoals Trip
There are a few spots still available for the BBC pelagic trip Nov 18 (weather date Nov 19) to the Nantucket Shoals.More information (including the registration link) can be found at November 18, 2023 BBC Pelagic Registration - Brookline Bird Club November 18, 2023 BBC Pelagic Registration - Brookline Bird Club Eric Swanzey |
Regards,Naeem Yusuff Brookline Bird Club Pelagic Committee Cambridge, MA
Date: 11/5/23 11:40 am From: Pamela Sowizral <psowizral...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Birds at Drumlin Farm
Some nice birds this week at Drumlin Farm. This morning's check list below - surprise was a brown thrasher. Other species from this past week included clay-colored and white-crowned sparrows, palm and pine warblers, great blue heron, chipping sparrow, yellow-bellied sapsucker, and purple finches.
Pam Sowizral
Mass Audubon's Drumlin Farm
Lincoln
Canada Goose 2
Mallard 5
Wild Turkey 3
Mourning Dove 2
Killdeer 1
Sharp-shinned Hawk 1
Red-shouldered Hawk 1
Red-tailed Hawk 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 1
Downy Woodpecker 5
Northern Flicker 1
Blue Jay 4
American Crow 5
Common Raven 1
Black-capped Chickadee 1
Tufted Titmouse 4
Golden-crowned Kinglet 1
White-breasted Nuthatch 5
Carolina Wren 8
European Starling 28
Brown Thrasher 1
Northern Mockingbird 3
Eastern Bluebird 10
Hermit Thrush 1
American Robin 60
Cedar Waxwing 32
House Sparrow 7
American Pipit 20
House Finch 15
American Goldfinch 2
Dark-eyed Junco 15
White-throated Sparrow 25
Savannah Sparrow 9
Song Sparrow 17
Swamp Sparrow 2
Red-winged Blackbird 15
Brown-headed Cowbird 4
Northern Cardinal 9
Northern Saw-Whet Owls are so special which a group of participants from Drumlin Farm experienced 1st hand Thus night. Our evening started at 5:30 pm at River Bend Farm in Uxbridge exploring one trail at the Farm. At the taller tree line, our evening started with a bang having a Barred Owl fly in and sat over our heads starring at us - further back towards the field, a Saw-Whet started squealing at us as we walked by - once in the field. a pair o= f Gt Horned Owls were calling in the distance - all this was an appetizer.C= lose by is a longtime banding site of N Saw-whet Owls where we were given special permission to visit with only limited number of participants. Here the participants had the opportunity to walk with the banders to the net sies, watch the owls being extracted & returned to the banding table.The education we all were given in how to age and sex these owls by using weight, w= ing cord, molt of the wing feathers in detail and other features, how they determined the health of the owl, etc. Once the owl was completed examined and banded, the participants were shown how to hold the owl and to release = these precious owls. By 10 pm, we headed back to Drumlin Farm having experienced 10 owls being banded & examined and all participants blown away watching, learning and holding these owls. Sat morning, we banded a short time at this private residence on Uxbridge where we have banded for the past month, then closed the nets down for the season. In the short time banding, we caught 15 birds that included 10 Junco= s plus Goldfinch, Swamp & Song Sparrows. There still were surprising many passerines still flying about like Purple Finches, Cedar Waxwings, Yellow-r = Warblers, Cardinals, Goldfinches, 4 woodpecker species & many Juncos - a Sh= arp-shinned Hawk also made an appearance looking for a quick meal. Now the long wait until next spring to continue our studies at West Hill Dam. Overall, this fall banding season was exceptionally active everyday with large numbers and large variety of species.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: Gary Adamson, Janice Zepko, John Weeks
Visitors: Local resident John and his dog Oscar.
Weather: Cloudy all day (80-100% CLCV); dense haze to northeast. Wind SW early, then W 5-10, tapering off to nothing. Temperature 47-low 60s F.
Raptor Observations: The merest trickle of migrants. No coverage from 1:00 to 1:30 EDT. Non-raptor Observations: Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crows (2), Common Raven, Tufted Titmouse, Golden-crowned Kinglets (6+), Eastern Bluebirds (6), Hermit Thrushes (2), American Robins (61; 55 in one flock), Purple Finches (2), American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Juncos (5), Northern Cardinal.
Predictions: With NW winds predicted, there could be a decent flight tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: Gary Adamson, Janice Zepko, John Weeks
Visitors: Local resident John and his dog Oscar.
Weather: Cloudy all day (80-100% CLCV); dense haze to northeast. Wind SW early, then W 5-10, tapering off to nothing. Temperature 47-low 60s F.
Raptor Observations: The merest trickle of migrants. No coverage from 1:00 to 1:30 EDT. Non-raptor Observations: Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crows (2), Common Raven, Tufted Titmouse, Golden-crowned Kinglets (6+), Eastern Bluebirds (6), Hermit Thrushes (2), American Robins (61; 55 in one flock), Purple Finches (2), American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Juncos (5), Northern Cardinal.
Predictions: With NW winds predicted, there could be a decent flight tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Chris Eddy, Dan Rossman, Jean Hampel, JoAnne Hart
Visitors: Many hundreds of people on the summit today - hikers, sightseers who came up on the ski lift, and runners participating in a trail race (part of which involved carrying 10 lb bags of sand - oy!)
Weather: Overcast all day with high stratus clouds that only let filtered sunlight through occasionally. There was some sunshine in NH to our NW for the first few hours. Westerly winds starting at 7-10 mph, then easing to 1-3 mph by the end of the session. Temps from 47 to 56 F. Moderate haze most of the day - Mt Greylock and the VT mountains only became visible in the last hour of the watch. Raptor Observations: A very slow day, but with one bright spot - our 2nd Golden Eagle of the season (a 1 or 2 year old with some white showing out towards the "hands" on both the upper and lower sides of the wings, but little or no white on the base of the tail.) Kudos to Chris Eddy for spotting the eagle and noticing that it looked different than a BE, and to Dan Rossman for making the ID.
Only 3 TVs beyond that. The cloud cover wasn't letting much, if any, thermal activity form, and the westerly winds weren't providing much lift. The TVs were struggling to get any lift and had to flap their wings repeatedly. Pack Mondanock and Mt Putney both had few birds in the air.
Non-migrating raptors: Bald Eagle - 1 (immature)
Non-raptor Observations: Snow Bunting - 4 Blue Jay - 1 Comm Raven - 1 Amer Robin - 1 DE Junco - 4
Predictions: Sunday should be a better day for migrating birds - NW winds at 5-10 mph, 45-55% sun/cloud mix, and temps in the 50's. We will be hiking up to start the watch at 9 am EST (remember to turn your clocks back!) ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 11/4/23 12:31 pm From: <Dave...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Petersham-New Salem Quabbin trip November 4th
Good day all,
November 4th Athol Bird and Nature Club field trip to Quabbin Reservoir. 18 friends and members of the ABNC birded the New Salem and Petersham sections of North Quabbin from Gate 29 - Gate 40 Highlights included 40 Rusty Blackbirds in a small swamp with winterberry, a total of 60 Green-winged Teal in 2 locations. Plus many fun sightings and time with friends. The list is below.
Weather: Sunny, but with a 15-20 mph SW wind so we didn't conduct a watch.
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Mostly cloudy with temps in the upper 40's and mid-50's, 5-10 mph winds from W to WSW. Not a great wind direction, but the birds weren't moving today, so they should be ready to go again with a more tolerable wind speed.
The auto road is closed for the season, but the ski lift will be running on Saturday during the Food Truck fest at the ski area if you don't feel like hiking up. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Weather: Sunny, but with a 15-20 mph SW wind so we didn't conduct a watch.
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Mostly cloudy with temps in the upper 40's and mid-50's, 5-10 mph winds from W to WSW. Not a great wind direction, but the birds weren't moving today, so they should be ready to go again with a more tolerable wind speed.
The auto road is closed for the season, but the ski lift will be running on Saturday during the Food Truck fest at the ski area if you don't feel like hiking up. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 11:00:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 2.5 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: Gary Adamson
Weather: Strong SW winds; other weather data not recorded.
Raptor Observations: Twenty-one raptors, all but three of them Turkey Vultures, were undeterred by the day's headwinds. Not counted as a migrant: Red-tailed Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: American Crows (45+ in one murder). ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Observation start time: 11:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 3.75 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers:
Weather: Moderate (3) WSW winds changing to lighter (2) SW winds with gusts uo to 13 mph; Cloud cover -- 60-30-1-7%; Temperature -- 8-12??C
Raptor Observations: few raptors migrating
Non-raptor Observations: Most interesting sighting was a large dragonfly (probably Green Darner) flying around the Rock
Predictions: lighter SW winds are not promising although they may bring hawks, but I don't expect to be there. Sinday will have west winds which may be more promising ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
The Brookline Bird Club is seeking a volunteer Technology Coordinator (aka Chief Technologist) who is comfortable using and maintaining the Club's website and supporting other technologies used to communicate with members and among board members and volunteers. It is estimated that this work routinely averages about 3-5 hours weekly absent any unexpected troubleshooting.
The website runs on WordPress and integrates with CiviCRM, an open source CRM software designed for use by nonprofits. As needed, the Tech Coordinator will need to assist with developing and implementing design changes through WordPress. At the current time the Tech Coordinator is also responsible for content updates supplied by Club volunteers. This position also administers CiviCRM, software that handles membership management, event registration, and member communications.
Further details are available to serious candidates. We appreciate your interest! Are you interested in applying? Please email us at: <president...>
Date: 11/3/23 3:56 am From: Phil Brown <ecocmail...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Essex County Ornithological Club Meeting Reminder - November 10, 2023 - 7:45pm - Bicycling, Birding, and #BLM Across America in a Summer of Chaos
Through vivid photographs and videos, Dr. Scott V. Edwards, professor and curator of ornithology at Harvard University, brings us along on his 76-day, 3,800-mile bicycle trek across the United States in the summer of 2020, when the world was leveled by a pandemic and outraged by the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others. As he recollects riding through varied landscapes and communities with “Black Lives Matter” signs affixed to his bicycle, Edwards will reflect upon the people, landscapes and birds that he encountered, and convey the challenges, generosity and hope that inspired and surprised him throughout his journey. His two-wheeled story is a clarion call to people from all walks of life to enjoy the open road, make connections across divides and help break down stereotypes attached to people of color in the United States – all with binoculars in hand.
This lecture is made possible by a generous gift from The Echo Charitable Foundation. It is co-sponsored by the PEM.
About the Presenter
Dr. Scott V. Edwards’ interest in ornithology and natural history began when he was a child growing up in Riverdale, the Bronx, where he undertook his first job in environmental science at an environmental institute called Wave Hill. He received his undergraduate degree from Harvard in 1986. As an undergraduate, Edwards took a year off from his studies to learn what it is that biologists do. He spent six months volunteering at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC, then gained his first field experience assisting with research on the natural history and conservation of native birds in Hawaii and northern California.
He returned to Harvard to finish his degree, and enrolled in the PhD program in Zoology at the University of California, Berkeley. After 9 years teaching at the University of Washington, he returned to Harvard as a professor in 2003. His research on the evolution of birds has taken him around the world, and he has devoted his career to increasing the presence of BIPOC in the environmental sciences. He has won numerous awards both for his research and for his efforts to increase diversity in the biological sciences.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: Dick Haas, Gary Adamson, John Weeks
Visitors: Local resident John and his dog Oscar; John recently mowed the path around the perimeter of the blueberry field.
Weather: Clear, with a touch of haze, to start; variably cloudy in the afternoon (CLCV 40% > 30% > 5%). Wind NW 2-7 mph. Temperature 32-42 F. Patches of snow were plainly visible on the cliff face of Mt Tom.
Raptor Observations: Red-tails and Red-shouldered Hawks have been MIA thus far. Today saw what I hope is the beginning, albeit modest, of real movement by the buteos through this area. The Harrier was a gray ghost. Not counted as migrants: immature Bald Eagle, two Red-tailed Hawks. Non-raptor Observations: First SNOW BUNTINGS (2) of the season -- it's about time! Canada Geese (ca. 100), Common Loon, Blue Jay, American Crows (53), Common Raven, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Hermit Thrush, Purple Finch, Pine Siskins (flock of ca. 20), American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Juncos (11), ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Date: 11/2/23 6:22 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Wachusett Mountain (02 Nov 2023) 108 Migrating Raptors including a Golden Eagle
Date: Thu, 2 Nov 2023 23:36:16 +0000 From: <reports...> Subject: Wachusett Mountain (02 Nov 2023) 108 Migrating Raptors including a Golden Eagle
Wachusett Mountain Princeton, Massachusetts, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Nov 02, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Bill Rasku, Paul Vanderhoof
Visitors: The usual collection of hikers.
Bill Rasku did a great job anchoring the watch all day with help from Paul Vanderhoof.
Weather: A frosty, clear day with plenty of sun, and moderate NW winds all day. There was very little haze and visibility was excellent. Snow-covered Mount Washington was visible all day (126 miles distant.) Temps rose from 31 to 40 F, but even with the sun out, the winds made it bitterly cold.
Raptor Observations: The below-freezing temperatures and NW winds appear to have inspired the raptors to move today with over 100 counted. This was the largest flight of Red-shouldered Hawks for us all season, and Bill got a great view of the first Golden Eagle of the season here - an adult that nearly filled the view through his binoculars. Non-migrating raptors: Turkey Vulture - 2 Bald Eagle - 3 (1 adult, 2 imm) Red-tailed Hawk - 2
Non-raptor Observations: Snow Bunting - 4 (the largest number yet this season) Comm Loon - 2 (fly-by) Blue Jay - 1 Comm Raven - 3 BC Chickadee - 1 WB Nuthatch - 1 DE Junco - 1
Bill saw a Ruffed Grouse on his drive home.
Predictions: Sunny on Friday, but with 10-20 mph SW winds, we're going to skip the watch. Saturday and Sunday look to be more likely candidates. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 08:45:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers: Bill Shapiro
Weather: Light (2) NW winds throughout with gusts up to 9 mph; Cloud cover -- 10-0%; Temperature -- 0-5°C
Raptor Observations: Very few migrating raptors
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Tomorrow winds will be from the SW but stronger than today. May provide lift for migrating TV's. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Date: 11/1/23 7:09 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Surf Scoter and Black Scoters, Etc. at Jamaica Pond
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough,MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Wed, 1 Nov 2023 20:51:17 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: Surf Scoter and Black Scoters, Etc. at Jamaica Pond
I birded the chain of Jamaica Plain ponds from 2:00-4:30, starting at Leverett Pond and ending at Jamaica Pond:
Wood Duck 32 all but one at Leverett Pond Green-winged Teal 3 L.P. American Wigeon 2 L.P. Ring-necked Duck 3 Hooded Merganser 13 J.P. Surf Scoter 1 ad. male (leader of the scoter pack) Black Scoter 3 J.P. Ruddy Duck 6 American Coot 2 J.P. at the island Golden-crowned Kinglet 5 Yellow-rumped Warbler 1
Date: 11/1/23 11:40 am From: Denise Cabral <goshawk3...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Phoebe in Brimfield
There have been some pretty nutty birds here this fall, but just now, at 2 pm, I was entertained by a chipping Eastern Phoebe for about ten minutes. It was hopping around feeding on something in my gray birches, tail wagging when it sat still for a second.
Denise Cabral Paige Hill Rd Brimfield
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller
Observers: Bill Rasku, Marty McNamara, Paul Vanderhoof, Tom Gottschang
Visitors: Only hikers now that the auto road has been closed for the winter - maybe 30 people and several dogs, including 2 little Pomeranians that walked all the way up.
Weather: Chilly (38-44 F), mild WNW to N winds. Sunny in the morning, with cumulus clouds increasing to 50% coverage in the afternoon. Very mild haze, all landmarks were easily visible including the 2nd-level NH mountains (Passaconaway, Whiteface and the rest of the Sandwich Range.) We could make out a very fuzzy Mt Washington for a short while.
Raptor Observations: A fine day for migration, especially after 2 days of rain (no watches conducted on 10/29 or 10/30) and 4 days of unusually warm weather before that. We hiked up to arrive at 9 AM EST and started seeing migrating birds within 10 minutes. We had several kettles/streams of TVs - qty 10, 20, 18 & 10. The juvenile harrier came close enough for us to see the orange wash on its body and its owl-like face.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 40 (migrating. We're still surprised by how few times we've seen them pass by this season) DC Cormorant - 2 (migrating) gull sp - 8 Blue Jay - 2 Amer Crow - 6 (appeared to be migrating) Comm Raven - 6 BC Chickadee - 2 WB Nuthatch - 1 DE Junco - 2
Predictions: No watch on Wednesday - too cold and cloudy to justify the hike. Possible snow showers in the morning.
We expect to go up on Thursday (11/02) - sunny, temps in the high 30's to mid-40's, and 5-8 mph WNW to W winds. Should be another good migration day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Wachusett Mountain information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Craig Jackson
Observers:
Weather: Light(2) NW winds changing to even lighter(1) NNW winds at 12 PM; Maximum gust was 10 mph earlier in the morning but for most of watch highest gusts of wind were 6-7 mph; Cloud cover -- 10%; although southeast horizon had cirrus clouds, the sky from west to east was totally clear for most of the watch, with cumulus clouds beginning to appear 11 AM, but never covering more than 3% of that portion of the sky; Temperature went from 1-5C
Raptor Observations: Only one migrating raptor! Two distant probable RT Hawks were observed soaring before disappearing into the blue sky. Although they may have been migrating, they were not counted as doing so.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Tomorrow will have light winds from the North, before the predicted rain in the afternoon. Thursday, after Wednesday's rain, may bring migrants as winds will be from the West. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Craig Jackson (<crleja1949...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: John Weeks
Observers: John Weeks
Visitors: Local resident Paul, with his sweet-natured Australian Shepherd, Charlie. (Charlie jumped into the back of my Subaru last year while I was unpacking my gear -- an amusing and pleasant surprise.)
Weather: AM: sunny; slight haze; wind NNW 2-7 mph. PM: increasing cloudiness (CLCV 10% —> 50%); wind shifting from NW to NE, 2-8 mph. Temperature 39-46 F.
Raptor Observations: Mostly Turkey Vultures. First American Goshawk of the season, harassed by a Sharp-shin that looked like a blackbird up against the larger bird. While watching Juncos feeding on millet that I had scattered earlier, I heard a jet-plane-like whoosh approaching from behind me. it was produced by an adult Cooper's Hawk, probably a female, streaking towards the feeding Juncos. She came so close to my right ear that I could feel the pressure wave as she passed.
Non-raptor Observations: Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jays (2), American Crows (8), Common Raven, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, White-breasted Nuthatch, Eastern Bluebird, Purple Finches (3), Pine Siskins (50+; one flock alone contained at least 40 birds), American Goldfinches (3), Field Sparrow, Dark-eyed Juncos (18), Savannah Sparrows (4), Song Sparrow, Palm Warbler. ======================================================================== Report submitted by John Weeks (<aerie.john...>)
Date: 10/31/23 11:35 am From: Shilo McDonald <smcdonald...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Mass Bird Audio Recordings
Afternoon All, Thanks to Phil Brown's Yellow-headed Blackbird, I now have seen 337 species within the Commonwealth (Lifetime). And of those, I've submitted to eBird the audio recordings for 174 of them. (Recordings made with Voice Memo app on iPhone. Spectrogram analysis performed using Audacity for Mac.)
Parker River NWR, Essex, Massachusetts, US Oct 29, 2023 3:30 PM - 5:20 PM Protocol: Traveling 5.0 mile(s) Checklist Comments: Went to Plum Island after Doug Checkering's Celebration of Life. 49 species
Canada Goose 16 Mute Swan 2 North Pool. Gadwall 50 American Wigeon 4 Bill Forward Pool. Mallard 100 American Black Duck 500 Northern Pintail 40 Green-winged Teal 750 It's hard to count them all. This is a conservative estimate. And also -- easily the most Green-winged Teal I've ever seen altogether. Bill Forward Pool. Ring-necked Duck 4 Salt Pannes. Lesser Scaup 4 Scope views from the dike. Way in the back of the Bill Forward Pool. Bufflehead 2 Ocean side / Parker River. Pied-billed Grebe 1 in the North Pool. Seen from Hellcat Dike. Horned Grebe 1 Ocean side / Parker River. Mourning Dove 3 American Coot 2 Together in the North Pool. Seen from Hellcat Dike. Black-bellied Plover 20 Bill Forward Pool. Long-billed Dowitcher 4 Lesser Yellowlegs 4 Bill Forward Pool. Greater Yellowlegs 25 Bill Forward Pool. Red Knot 2 Bill Forward Pool. Sanderling 5 Bill Forward Pool. Dunlin 100 Bill Forward Pool. White-rumped Sandpiper 20 Bill Forward Pool. Herring Gull 32 Great Black-backed Gull 2 Common Loon 5 Ocean side / Parker River. Double-crested Cormorant 125 Great Egret 1 Great Blue Heron 1 Northern Harrier 1 Harassing a Red-tailed Hawk. Red-tailed Hawk 1 Perched atop the Hellcat Tower. Minding his own business. Preening mostly. Except for when he was harassed by an American Kestrel. Or when he was harassed by a Northern Harrier. Those jerks. ;-) American Kestrel 1 Scaring up the shore birds in Bill Forward Pool. Blue Jay 2 American Crow 1 Black-capped Chickadee 1 Golden-crowned Kinglet 1 Gray Catbird 1 American Robin 4 Cedar Waxwing 1 American Pipit 11 Flew over the dike all together. Vocalizing with a rising "pip-it" as they flew. American Goldfinch 1 Dark-eyed Junco 2 White-throated Sparrow 3 Song Sparrow 2 Swamp Sparrow 1 Red-winged Blackbird 3 Common Grackle 5 Common Yellowthroat 1 Yellow-rumped Warbler 1
Date: 10/31/23 7:40 am From: John Liller <john.liller...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Black Vulture in Worcester on 10/31/23
As I drove to Worcester Academy for work this morning, I had a Black Vulture being chased by a group of crows over the Rice Square School on Massasoit Rd in Worcester.
John
------------------ John Liller Mathematics Department Assistant Coach, Girls Varsity Soccer 81 Providence St. Worcester, MA 01604 Phone 508-754-5302 Fax 508-754-6571 <john.liller...>
WORCESTER ACADEMY is a co-ed day and boarding school for grades 6 to 12 and postgraduates. Our urban setting, diverse community, and challenging curriculum provide students with a solid, real-world education. Information at www.worcesteracademy.org.
