Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 13:15:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: David Brown, Eric Mueller, Ernie Leblanc, Greg McGuane, Jack Miano, Jeff Johnstone, Ted Purcell
Weather: Bluebird skies throughout duration with N/NW winds 5-12 mph. Temps ranged from 37???-52???F with excellent visibility.
Raptor Observations: We had some migrating Broad wings and Sharpies come thru at a relaxed pace.
Local Raptors: TV-13, BE-4, RT-4, BW-1, AK-1
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: D.C. Cormorant-3, Raven4, A.Crow-3, C.Grackle-1,M.Dove-2, Blue Jay-5, E.Starling-30+/-, H.Sparrow-10+/-, A.Robin-2, B.H.Cowbird-5, N.Cardinal-1, S.Sparrow-2, Field Sparrow-2, R.B.Woodpecker-2, W.N.Nut-1, Pine Siskin-1
Predictions: Tomorrow should be comfortable and productive as we will have temps in the low 60???s with light winds from the west. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: Mark Schoene, Ted Mara
Observers: Mark Schoene, Mark Schoene , Ted Mara
Weather: 9:15 am: 41 deg F. wind WNW 6 mph, no cloud cover, changing at 9:30 to an easterly sea breeze, wind ESE, 7-12, no cloud cover, visibility 15 K, for the rest of the watch.
9:30 am, 41 deg F; wind ESE, 7-12 mph.
10 am: 44 deg F, wind ESE, 7-12 mph.
11 am: 46 deg F, wind ESE, 7-12 mph.
12 noon: 48 deg F, wind ESE, 7-12 mph.
12:30 pm: 48 deg F, wind ESE, 7-12 mph.
Raptor Observations: 9:15 to 10 am: Two UAs: looked like a Sharp-Shinned and a Cooper???s Hawk, but couldn???t be sure at a distance.
10-11: no migrants
11-12: 1 TV and 1 UR
12-1 pm: 1 NH (12:15), 1 TV, 1 AK (1:18) and 1 Merlin (1:20)
Raptors that failed to migrate: 4 TVs, 1 NH and 8 UR
Non-raptor Observations: Other birds: The usual suspects, skies quiet for the entire shift.
Predictions: Guarded: E wind for most of the day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 4/25/24 8:38 am From: Shilo McDonald <smcdonald...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] TODAY at 7 PM
Posted with permission of the moderator.
It didn't take long into birding, before I began to recognize certain birds liked certain plants. And so I started taking note.
Studying some of my favorite birding hot spots (Plum Island, Nahant Thicket, Marblehead Neck, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary), I found many plants in common. And noticed - regardless of the location - the same bird species could be found in the same plants.
To find Cedar Waxwings, Northern Mockingbirds and Baltimore Orioles, I had to look no further than Highbush Blueberry, Black Chokeberry, and Winterberry bushes.
To find warblers (of just about every kind), I just had to point my bins at Serviceberry, Birch, and Oak trees (of just about every kind).
And to find sparrows, well, many are happy walking about within native ironweed, milkweed, sweetfern and asters.
So then, having learned all this, what did I do? Well, I added ALL of the above plants (and then some!) to my yard. But, don't just take my word for it, see for yourself, on Zoom today at 7 PM, a free webinar compliments of the Waltham Land Trust: http://www.walthamlandtrust.org
Come see what happens when native plants get added to a typical grass lawn.
Good birding, good bugging and good planting! Shilo McDonald Lynn, Massachusetts <SMcDonald...>
Observation start time: 13:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 1.5 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore
Observers: Mark Schoene Visitors: None
Weather: At the start of the watch, modest SW wind and sunny with only 20% cloud cover and 20 K visibility. But after the first hour, a very large, ominous cloud started moving in from the northwest and soon brought a sudden and steady rain which effectively ended the watch.
Raptor Observations: Six (6) migrant raptors were counted--four (4) SS and two (2) ML. both Merlins came in low and fast and passed overhead providing excellent views as they flew by.
Raptors that failed to migrate: several local OS including one that meandered around south of the platform carrying a White Perch for at least 25 minutes without landing to eat it or bring it to a nest. No AKs, NHs or BEs were seen today.
Non-raptor Observations: 2 Horned Grebes and 22 Long-tailed Ducks off the beach. Tree Swallows and Grackles still coming through in numbers.
Predictions: Sunny but cool at the start with favorable (NW & NNW) winds rather weak (6 to 7 mph) before turning to the E and SE by noon (EST). ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 4/24/24 2:12 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] McLaughlin Woods Vireos, Warblers, and Assorted Varieties
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this post.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Wed, 24 Apr 2024 18:35:28 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: McLaughlin Woods Vireos, Warblers, and Assorted Varieties
Hi, I birded at this quite remarkable place from 10:45-1:30.
Osprey 1 flyover Cooper's Hawk 1 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1 ad. fem. Eastern Phoebe 1 Blue-headed Vireo 2 together Common Raven 1 Winter Wren 1 wren sp. 1 House's plain face with Winter's dark flanks; on path leading to little league field (bottom field) Carolina Wren 2 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 5 Hermit Thrush 3 Black and White Warbler 1 { or two) Yellow-rumped Warbler 2 Eastern Towhee 4 (or five) two females Dark-eyed Junco 1 Field Sparrow 1 White-throated Sparrow 25 Savannah Sparrow 4 Chipping Sparrow 2
Date: 4/24/24 10:11 am From: <jim.berry3...> <jim.berry3...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Boone Park, Ipswich Town Wharf, and Kamon Farm, Apr 24, 2024
I'm forwarding 3 lists from this morning. Lotsa good birds around. Miles made the lists and they now go directly into my ebird account. (I was alone on the 3rd list.) Jim
Daniel Boone Park and Highland Cemetery, Ipswich
Apr 24, 2024 7:30 AM - 8:45 AM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: I met up with Jim Berry, Sue McGrath, Nancy Smith and MaryMargaret Halsey for a walk here. We looped the pond and found most of our birds west of Baker's Pond.
29 species
Mourning Dove 1
Double-crested Cormorant 1
Snowy Egret 3
Red-bellied Woodpecker 3
Downy Woodpecker (Eastern) 3
Hairy Woodpecker (Eastern) 1
Pileated Woodpecker 1 called once towards Baker's Pond on our way out
Great Crested Flycatcher 1 'wheep' calls heard twice then seen in canopy by water tower; Myiarchus flycatcher with rusty tail and yellow underparts
Blue Jay 5
American Crow 3
Black-capped Chickadee 4
Tufted Titmouse 7
Ruby-crowned Kinglet 6
White-breasted Nuthatch (Eastern) 4
Carolina Wren 3
American Robin 5 nest building on small building by water towers
House Finch 4
Purple Finch (Eastern) 2 female-types; singing [I saw 4 PUFIs together at one point -- jb]
American Goldfinch 2
Chipping Sparrow 4
Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 1
White-throated Sparrow 1
Song Sparrow (melodia/atlantica) 3
Red-winged Blackbird (Red-winged) 1
Brown-headed Cowbird 4
Palm Warbler (Yellow) 12
Pine Warbler 3
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle) 22
Northern Cardinal 2
Kamon Farm Conservation Area (ECGA), Essex, Massachusetts, US
Apr 24, 2024 9:40 AM - 10:20 AM
Protocol: Traveling
0.1 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: I returned to the site of the garganey and assured myself that it was no longer there--apparently a one- (two-?) day wonder. Ditto for the blue-winged teal pair. However, I saw and heard many more species than I did the other evening, the star of which was an adult male wood duck. If he is mated, the pair may be nesting nearby.
15 species
Canada Goose 2 pair, prob nesting at edge of wetland
Wood Duck 1 drake
Green-winged Teal (American) 2 ongoing pair
Great Egret 1
Great Blue Heron 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 2
Northern Flicker 4 2 heard only; 2 others seen but too distantly to discern underwing color.
Blue Jay 1
Tufted Titmouse 3
Carolina Wren 1 singing
American Robin 3
Song Sparrow 1
Eastern Towhee 1
Red-winged Blackbird 20 minimum number--all males
Northern Cardinal 3
Date: 4/24/24 9:47 am From: Fred Bouchard <frederickbouchard...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Cedar Waxwing Flock @ Maple Tree, 84/90 Farnham St, Belmont
Hi Folks We looked out the front window at lunch and spotted 30 +/- beautiful Waxwings, also lunching, on catkins of the budding maple. Not a Boho to be found among them... They are calling in their high quavery whistle. They may be gone in 10 or 20 minutes. Noon, Wednesday 24, 2024 ... a pop-up mini-eclipse moment... Fred Bouchard & Mary Ellen Rigano -- <frederickbouchard...> 78 farnham st belmont 02478 ma
Date: 4/23/24 6:50 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Grassland Bird Tour opportunity at Camp Edwards on Joint Base Cape Cod
Thanks to Emily Derbyshire Kelly at Camp Edwards for this announcement.
I've included the text of the announcement below her email.
Sorry for the delay getting this out. I don't know whether these tours are full.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
From: <emily.d.kelly2.nfg...> Subject: Grassland Bird Tour opportunity at Camp Edwards on Joint Base Cape Cod Date: Tue, 16 Apr 2024
Good morning,
The Massachusetts Army National Guard’s Natural Resource Program is hosting grassland bird tours in May on Camp Edwards at Joint Base Cape Cod. Four tours are available and last for approximately two hours. Attendees will have the opportunity to see a variety of grassland bird species. Please see the attached flyer for more information about the tour.
Emily Derbyshire Kelly Program Coordinator MANG Environmental & Readiness Center 3468 Beaman Street Camp Edwards, MA 02542 339-202-9341 *
Camp Edwards Grassland Bird Tours
The Massachusetts Army National Guard’s Natural Resource Program is hosting grassland bird tours in May on Camp Edwards. This is an unusual opportunity for avid birders, naturalists and photographers to walk through the Camp Edwards grasslands on a guide-led tour. There are several hundred acres of grassland managed on Camp Edwards at Joint Base Cape Cod. This thriving habitat, a rarity in the rest of Massachusetts, is home to a variety of grassland bird species including four state-listed species: Upland Sandpiper, Northern Harrier, Grasshopper Sparrow and the Eastern Meadowlark.
Other bird species you may encounter are the Clay Colored Sparrow, Prairie Warbler, and Brown Thrasher along with other shrubland/grassland species. Additional information on the grassland habitat is available at www.massnationalguard.org/ERC/natural_habitat.htm. For a look at fascinating research on Joint Base Cape
Each tour will cover approximately 150 acres of this rare and endangered habitat and will last around two hours. Attendees should bring sunscreen, tick protection, and water. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera. Photography is encouraged.
Tour Dates and Registration Information
Each tour is limited to 20 people and spots will be filled on a first come, first served basis. All tours are from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. Tour dates are:
• Saturday, May 18; registration deadline is Friday, May 10 • Sunday, May 19; registration deadline is Friday, May 10 • Saturday, May 25; registration deadline is Friday, May 17 • Sunday, May 26; registration deadline is Friday, May 17
Children over 10 years of age are welcome on the tour.
To register for a tour, please send an email to: <emily.d.kelly2.nfg...>, with your name, telephone number, and which tour date you would like. A confirmation email will be sent with further information including directions, base access, meeting place and parking.
Accessing Camp Edwards on Joint Base Cape Cod
Please remember, Camp Edwards is a restricted access facility and attendees must be registered to access the base. All attendees will be asked to provide their full names, driver’s license number and date of birth to complete the registration process
In West Roxbury. Parking is off Independence Dr. near V.F.W. Parkway. Almost certainly the one that had been hanging out at Allandale Woods, which is also in West Roxbury. Also, recently seen at D. Blakely Hoar Sanctuary in South Brookline and Leatherbee Woods in West Roxbury as well.
Turkey Vulture 1 Pileated Woodpecker 1 calling unseen in wild ravine Hairy Woodpecker 2 Swamp Sparrow 1 singing D. Blakely Hoar Sanctuary Rusty Blackbirds singing from wild ravine that backs up to Mt. Benedict Cemetery
Lepids:
Mourning Cloak 1 Hancock Woods American Lady 1 Hancock Woods Cabbage White 2 Hancock Woods and one D. Blakely Hoar Sanctuary Eastern Comma 1 D. Blakely Hoar Sanctuary
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Ernie Leblanc, Jeff Johnstone, Jim Guion, Joanne Hart, Richard Spedding, Steve Farrell
Visitors: Observers: Steve Farrell, Joanne Hart, Jeff Johnstone, Ernie Leblanc, Jim Guion, Eric Mueller, David Brown, Ted Purcell, Bob Michaud, David Small, Richard Spedding, Mark Morris. BIG lineup today but unfortunately a good flight didn't materialize.
Weather: We had clear skies today with south/southeast winds 0-13 mph and temps between 43-62âF. Visibility was excellent with distant haze. Infinite deep blue sky.
Raptor Observations: The movement of migrants we had was brief as Broad wings were rising and peeling quickly. Coopers Hawks stole the show with 3 dogfighting together for a bit. Itâs apparent that west is the best wind here at Adams Farm. âBlue Deathâ sky was a problem today.
Local Raptors: TV-24, OS-1, BE-2, CH-4, BW-6, RT-4
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: C.Goose-9, D.C.Cormorant-1, Gull species-5, Raven-4, A.Crow-4, B.Jay-17, R.B.Wood.-1, Y.B.Sapsucker-1 (d), N.Flicker-1, W.B.Nut.-1, M.Dove-2, W.T.Sparrow-2, Song Sparrow-2, Field Sparrow-1, E.Towhee-1, N.Cardinal-2, Starling-30+/-, H.Sparrow-10+/-, Pine Siskin-3, A.Goldfinch-1, Purple Finch-1 (s) ======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 4/23/24 5:54 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] White-eyed Vireo at McLaughlin Woods at 12:40 p.m., Etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this post.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Tue, 23 Apr 2024 17:24:06 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: White-eyed Vireo at McLaughlin Woods at 12:40 p.m., Etc.
I birded all of this place, ending at the top level (brushy level). This is where the WHITE-EYED VIREO was located. It was in the heaping pile of brambles on your right. I had heard a call repeated ad nauseam that I had assumed was an agitated titmouse. Once I found the vireo, I then realized it was he who was unendingly making the scolding call.
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 10:00:00 Total observation time: 1.5 hours
Official Counter: Ted Mara
Observers: Visitors: Dick Hughes just started coming to the watch in the past few days but we're hopeful he'll become a regular observer before long.
Weather: 830-9 Wind South 1-3 mph, 11deg C, Cloud Cover 0. Vis 20km 9-10 Wind South 2-5 mph, 12 deg C, Cloud Cover 0, Vis 20km
Raptor Observations: Migrants: one NH and one TV, both during the first half hour of watch.
Four local Ospreys did not migrate.
Non-raptor Observations: Other local birds: the usual suspects Predictions: Winds look good (9 to 15 mph out of the SW, WSW, W, WNW and NW) but forecast is for significant chance of rain from 9 am until at least 4 pm. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Hello All, This is unprecedented. I have no photos to share. :-D
At least not now anyways, but I will at 7 PM on Thursday.
To save the birds, you have to save the bugs. And to save the bugs, I plant native.
Doug Tallamy says our yards need to be 70% native to sustain the natural ecosystem. Well today, my yard is close to 90% native. But, it wasn't always like that...
At 7 PM on Thursday, see the remarkable transformation of a typical grass lawn turned into a native plant paradise. Free for all, on Zoom, compliments of the Waltham Land Trust: http://www.walthamlandtrust.org
Thank you.
Good birding, good bugging, and good planting, Shilo McDonald Lynn, Massachusetts <SMcDonald...>
Please join me at 7 PM on April 25 to hear the remarkable tale of A Backyard Re-imagined. A free webinar compliments of the Waltham Land Trust. Sign up here: http://www.walthamlandtrust.org
Observation start time: 05:15:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 11.25 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore
Observers: Christopher Godfrey, Eric Mueller, Janet Kovner, Julie Roberts, Mark Schoene, Paul Roberts, Ted Mara, Tom Wetmore
Visitors: Dawn Beckman, Tom Graham, Dick Hughes and Dexter.
Weather: Wind velocities were variable but moderate for the most part throughout the watch period and out of the W, NW or NNW. Not a cloud in the sky all day. Temps starting in the mid 30s and rising to mid 50s at end of watch.
Raptor Observations: Migrant counts per hour were rather modest until noon but increased to better levels thereafter. In all, 72 migrants passed including 48 Kestrels, and 11 Merlins. With plenty of sunlight all day, we got some really great views of birds that passed on the island itself, especially of Kestrels and Merlins. We also had no less than 4 Merlins that each perched in full view for several minutes on trees or brush and three of these only a short distance away on one of the two low sand hills we refer to as "middens". Raptors that failed to migrate: 2 BEs, several NH and one imm Red-tail.
Non-raptor Observations: Birds: 2 Purple Martins, Canada Geese, Black Ducks, a pair of nesting House Finches, a moderate flow of Tree Swallows early in the watch, Grackles, Red-winged Blackbirds, 8 Great Egrets and quite a few Mockingbirds, 2 of which continue their comedic territorial squabble immediately in front of often right on our watch platform.
Predictions: Tomorrow's forecast calls for weak to moderate winds out of the south and SSE all day which is probably not going to encourage many raptors to pass over the island. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Chris Eddy, Mark Morris
Observers: Dave Brown, Ernie Leblanc, Jack Miano, Jean Hampel, Joanne Hart, Ted Purcell
Weather: Today we had clear skies with chilly NW winds 12-17 mph and temps between 42-55âF. Visibility was excellent with some distant haze.
Raptor Observations: Most Broadwings passed single file or in very small groups relatively low, Quartering into our ridge line tacking into the wind if need be. We had 2 adult Bald Eagles pass mid afternoon one behind the other flapping with speed. Turkey Vultures were scarce.
Local Raptors: BE-5(3 ad.2 Imm) TV-6, CH-4, BW-2, RT-4, AK-1
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: Song Sparrow-2, B.Jay-6, H.Soarrow-8, E.Starling-50+/-, N.Flicker-1, A.Goldfinch-1, R.Crossbill-2, Field Sparrow-1, C.Grackle-4, C.Merganser-15, C.Goose-1, D.C.Cormorant-1, Raven-9, N.Cardinal-2, Palm Warbler-1, A.Crow-4, Tree Swallow-7, W.B.Nut-1, R.B.Woodpecker-1, B.H.Cowbird-2, M.Dove-2
Predictions: Tomorrowâs weather looks interesting as we will have a southerly wind flow increasing in the afternoon. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 4/22/24 1:20 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 4/23 - comments due - Horseshoe Crabs - Proposal to to the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) list as Special Concern status
As birders, we know how critical Horseshoe Crabs are to the health and size of populations of Red Knots and other shorebirds.
This email is here as a result of the Brookline Bird Club meeting 4/19 with featured speaker, Deborah Cramer, who painted a clear picture of the efforts needed to protect horseshoe crabs and their impact on shorebirds. Additional references are listed on the BBC link listed above.
Ross’ Goose is still on the MARC review list, and a couple have been in the state this spring. I don’t believe that either ever got posted to MassBird, I noticed them via eBird alerts. The first was almost a month ago, in Newbury, where Davey Walters spotted a trio within a flock of Snow Geese flying near Scotland Road on March 24. What may have been the same group was reported flying over Plum Island, and just over the state line in Hampton NH. A few people saw these birds the next day in the Scotland Road area, but they have not been reported since.
More recently, on April 15, Bev King found a Ross’ in the Slocum’s River Reserve of the Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust. It has continued to be found there through at least yesterday.
Kamon Farm Conservation Area (ECGA), Essex, Massachusetts, US Apr 21, 2024 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM Protocol: Stationary Checklist Comments: Party size estimated, as there were at least 50 birders there when I arrived. We were all there to see a drake GARGANEY in breeding plumage--a stunning bird. It was in a shallow, grassy pool on the south side of the road, and was with a pair of blue-winged teal and 3 green-wings. The pronounced white eyeline and the light blue sides outlined in white make this a beautiful bird. Dozens of others photographed it during the day as well as when I was there. This is my 2nd garganey for the county; I saw an im. male on PI on June 24, 1985, a bird that remained for over a month. 9 species
Canada Goose 2
Garganey 1 Party size estimated, as there were at least 50 birders there when I arrived. We were all there to see a drake GARGANEY in breeding plumage--a stunning bird. It was in a shallow, grassy pool on the south side of the road, and was with a pair of blue-winged teal and 3 green-wings. The pronounced white eyeline and the light blue sides outlined in white make this a beautiful bird. Dozens of others photographed it during the day as well as when I was there. This is my 2nd garganey for the county; I saw an im. male on PI on June 24, 1985, a bird that remained for over a month.
Blue-winged Teal 2 apparent pair Green-winged Teal 3 apparent pair and a 2nd male Double-crested Cormorant 1 in small pond just short of the main location Red-tailed Hawk 2 apparent pair soaring American Crow 1 Eastern Bluebird 1 Red-winged Blackbird 2 singing
View this checklist online athttps://ebird.org/checklist/S169726885
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller, Mark Morris
Observers: Eric Mueller, Jack Miano, Jeff Johnstone, Joanne Hart, Jon Skinner, Juliana Skinner
Weather: Clear skies to start with quickly increasing clouds with west winds 7-17 mph. Temps ranged between 39-47â F. Visibility was excellent today with good background of cloud cover.
Raptor Observations: The Broadwings were getting lift early as I switched tactics and scanned with my scope to get the birds rising. Consistent flight of BWâs with some small groups but a lot of single birds. Our 2 local Black Vultures continue their romance on the Starrett chimney.
Local Raptors: BV-2, TV-20, OS-1,BE-4, CH-4, RS-1, BW-6, RT-4, AK-1
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: Pine Siskin-2, Red Crossbill-6, A.Robin-2, N.Cardinal-2, W.T.Sparrow-1, N.Flicker-1, H.Sparrow-6, Starling10, A.Crow-8, Raven-13, B.Jay-4, Y.B.Sap.-1(D), Pil. Woodpecker-1(c), ,A.Goldfinch-5, M.Dove-3, C.Grackle-6, T.Swallow-2, Goose Species-12, R.B.Woodpecker-1, D.Woopecker-1, B.H.Cowbird-2
Predictions: Tomorrow should be another promising day weather wise with light NW wind and some sun. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore
Observers: Amy Maurer, Brian Rusnica, Harry Wales, Herrrick Wales, John Cannizzo, Judd Nathan, Julie Roberts, Kathryn Chihowski, Mark Schoene , Paul Roberts, Peter Duffy
Visitors: Andrea Cannizzo, Nancy Mirman, Dick Hughes, Cliff Cook, Jim McCoy, Leslie Kramer, Tom Graham, Vivian Yu, Harris Stein.
Weather: As was the case yesterday, the winds diminished somewhat during the middle part of the watch period which probably accounts for the lower than expected final migrant count. Temps were as expected, i.e., low 40s to high 50s.
Raptor Observations: A total of 65 migrants were counted including 32 Kestrels, 14 Sharp-shins and 5 Merlins. More than likely our final count would have been greater had wind velocities ramped up more as the watch went on as was forecast.
Two imm BEs engaged in a dog fight high above for several minutes. An adult Peregrine had to be deducted from the count when it returned southward later in the afternoon. Raptors that failed to migrate: Several NH, 4 BE including 2 adults, 5 TV and 1 imm Red-tailed Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: Birds observed: 6 Horned Grebes, Long-tailed Ducks, 5 Fish Crows, 2 Ravens, 5 American Crows, 22 Glossy Ibis, Red-breasted Mergansers, 1 Common Yellowthroat, House Finches, 2 Greater Yellowlegs.
Predictions: Moderate (10 13 mph) WNW and NW winds all day with temps low 40s to low 50s and sunny. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
On the Massachusetts Rare Bird Alert groupme Davey Walters reported this afternoon that Reinhard Vehring found a male Garganey, later viewed by severaladditional folks.
Flew SW from the original spot. He reports a nearby homeowner reported seeing it last week in this flooded field. Reported again later today.
Today Dan Fournier and I did a quick scouting trip for our Audubon CT Weekend trip this coming Sat where we covered all the planned stops from start to finish in one day - starting around Stafford Springs to New Haven to Stonington - getting a feel what migrants are back, check timing between locations, etc - actually very little birding and lots of driving. However our very 1st stop we did bird a little and what excitement immediately - singing Northern and Louisiana Waterthrushes, several Palm and Yellow-rumped Warblers, then a male Blk& Wht Warbler, Blue-headed Vireo, then Pine Warblers, many Ruby-cr Kinglets and Blue-grey Gnatcatchers at every stop, add to this a Veery and Hermit Thrush in the dirt road, several Towhees, 4 woodpecker species, Sapsuckers, Broad-winged Hawk plus all the expected species like Titmouse, Wht-b Nuthatches, Chipping Sparrows, etc - we found all these species with minimal birding because we knew we had to keep moving along to cover all the locations - hated to leave all these migrants & others but the plus is that these migrants are coming or are here!!Other locations we quickly visited had Warbling Vireos, C Yellowthroat, Virginia Rails,Rough-w Swallows, many Swamp and Wht-thr Sparrows, Blue-w Teal, N Pintail, Wood Ducks, Blk Vulture, Snowy & Common Egrets, Sharp-shinned Hawk - several spots we didn't get out of the car, just listened & moved on - net result that our quick 1st stop bodes well with still a week of more migration before the weekend trip - where each stop we will bird slowly enjoying all the beautiful songs that surrounded us this morning. Strickland Wheelock Uxbridge MA
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 15:45:00 Total observation time: 7.25 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller, Mark Morris
Observers: Bob Michaud, Eric Mueller, Ernie Leblanc, Jack Miano, Joanne Hart
Weather: After early morning showers, clouds persisted until mid afternoon with temps between 50-57âF. Winds were light and variable to start shifting to light from the west 0 -15 mph with very good visibility after morning low clouds.
Raptor Observations: The passing cold front in the morning delayed migrant activity for the most part until midday. Resting BWâs tried to get going early, but were having trouble getting lift and were searching for it. We had a few small kettles of 8,5,5. Osprey continue to pass north.
Local Raptors: TV-34, BE-4, RS-2, CH-4, RT-4, AK-1,OS-1, BV-2
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: B.H.Cowbird-1, Tree Swallow-5, Barn Swallow-1, A.Goldfinch-6, D.Woodpecker-1, R.B.Woodpecker-1, C.Flicker-2, D.C.Cormorant-1, R.Crossbill-8, G.B.Heron-3, A.Robin-14, N.Cardinal-2, Pine Warbler-2, Song Sparrow-2, Starling-8, H.Sparrow-6, E.Towhee-1, B.Jay-4, A.Crow-2, Raven-2, Fish Crow-2, E.Bluebird-1, M. Dove-2
Predictions: Tomorrowâs weather looks promising as we are going to have moderate west winds with increasing afternoon clouds to aid spotting.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore
Observers: Harry Wales, Herrrick Wales, John Cannizzo, Ken Mirmam, Levi Burford, Mark Schoene
Visitors: Andrea Cannizzo, Nancy Mirman, Margo Goetschkes, Steve Grinley, Gino Ellison and Yiyang Xu.
Weather: We were anticipating stronger and less fickle winds today but had to settle for rather weak and variable ones which, at the start of the 2 o'clock hour, were dead still. Fairly heavy cloud cover did make spotting birds somewhat easier.
Raptor Observations: A total of 11 migrant raptors passed through today including 2 Peregrines and 5 Merlins. Expected but absent from the count were both Sharp-shins and Kestrels.
Raptors that failed to migrate: several Osprey including local nesters, 3 Turkey Vultures, a couple of NH.
Non-raptor Observations: Other birds: Our nesting House Finch pair, 10 Cedar Waxwings, 6 Horned Grebes, 3 Great Egrets, 2 Ravens, 2 Fish Crows, 2 Common Loons, 12 Long-tailed Ducks, 1 Great Blue Heron and at least one very vociferous Mockingbird.
Predictions: The forecast calls for moderate velocity winds (8 to 14 mph) out of the WNW, W and WSW. This would definitely be favorable conditions for another good flight, especially for Sharp-shins and Kestrels. Sunny early on but turning cloudy in the late morning and early afternoon with temps in the high 40s to high 50s. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 4/20/24 3:10 pm From: <blafley...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] Very Ill Black Vultures in Connecticut
Probably gave them directions to the dumpster.
Bill Lafley
New Salem
<blafley...>
> On Apr 20, 2024, at 5:59 PM, GLENN D'ENTREMONT <gdentremont1...> wrote:
>
>
> Maybe "That was some great party!"? Seems to work for teenagers.
>
> Glenn
> Glenn d'Entremont: <gdentremont1...> Stoughton, MA
>> On 04/19/2024 10:59 AM EDT PAUL ROBERTS <phawk254...> wrote:
>>
>>
>> Today's Boston Globe reported in a story by Ava Berger that on April 7th the Animal Control Officer in Watertown, CT, found a Black Vulture unable to stand up or fly. Several hours later she found a second one nearby. The birds, thought to be dying, were taken to a raptor rehab center where they're examined. Poisoning was first feared, followed by fears of avian flu. X-rays indicated they hadn't been shot. Christine Cummings, director of the rehab center, "A Place Called Hope," said the birds acted like they were drunk. It turns out they were. The birds had gotten into a dumpster filled with old meats and bar fruit from cocktail drinks. The birds helped themselves. "They were basically falling on their faces like they were drunk, going in circles, spinning, spreading their wings out, and flopping and flailing around,' Cummings said." They were given plenty of fluids that evening and awoke the next morning "upright and grunting." Cummings said they were definitely hungover, with one holding its head pretty low.
>> They were fed a huge breakfast and held one more day before being released. I wonder what they told the other vultures when they got back to their roost?
>>
>> Best,
>> Paul
>>
>> Paul M. Roberts
>> Medford, MA
>> <phawk254...>
Date: 4/20/24 2:54 pm From: GLENN D'ENTREMONT <gdentremont1...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] Very Ill Black Vultures in Connecticut
Maybe "That was some great party!"? Seems to work for teenagers.
Glenn
Glenn d'Entremont: <gdentremont1...> Stoughton, MA
> On 04/19/2024 10:59 AM EDT PAUL ROBERTS <phawk254...> wrote: > > > Today's Boston Globe reported in a story by Ava Berger that on April 7th the Animal Control Officer in Watertown, CT, found a Black Vulture unable to stand up or fly. Several hours later she found a second one nearby. The birds, thought to be dying, were taken to a raptor rehab center where they're examined. Poisoning was first feared, followed by fears of avian flu. X-rays indicated they hadn't been shot. Christine Cummings, director of the rehab center, "A Place Called Hope," said the birds acted like they were drunk. It turns out they were. The birds had gotten into a dumpster filled with old meats and bar fruit from cocktail drinks. The birds helped themselves. "They were basically falling on their faces like they were drunk, going in circles, spinning, spreading their wings out, and flopping and flailing around,' Cummings said." They were given plenty of fluids that evening and awoke the next morning "upright and grunting." Cummings said they were definitely hungover,! with one holding its head pretty low. > They were fed a huge breakfast and held one more day before being released. I wonder what they told the other vultures when they got back to their roost? > > Best, > Paul > > Paul M. Roberts > Medford, MA > <phawk254...> >
Date: 4/19/24 7:54 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Pine Grosbeak/Red Crossbill ID-Ipswich
Thanks to Robert Ross for this post.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
From: Robert Ross <plumisl...> Date: Fri, 19 Apr 2024 16:33:21 -0400 Subject: Pine Grosbeak/Red Crossbill ID-Ipswich
I am going to surrender to the probabilities. What I was convinced was a Pine Grosbeak, seen this week at the Blue Grosbeak stakeout in Ipswich, was more likely a Red Crossbill. Several Red Crossbills have been reported on the Northshore. I found two today in the Martin Burns Wildlife Management Area in Newbury and had another in my neighborhood in Byfield. I've concluded my initial ID was likely wrong.
This revised ID doesn't account for what I thought was a white wing bar, but there was not enough black to be a White-winged Crossbill. There was a noticeable amount of grey behind and below the wing.
I think it is more likely, based only on now knowing Red Crossbills are in the area, this is what I saw.
Sorry for any undue excitement my report might have caused. Still, it's not bad to find a Red Crossbill. I'll take it!
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller, Mark Morris
Observers: Eric Mueller, Ernie Leblanc, Jack Miano, Jean Hampel, Joanne Hart, Paul Vanderhoof
Visitors: Andy Thompson from the Athol Bird & Nature Club stopped by, and Sundar Laks helped out for an hour or so. We hope to see both of you up here again.
We enjoyed having Wachusett Mt stalwart Paul Vanderhoof join us for the first time here. He dove right in and made a lot of first spots, and worked seamlessly with the team.
Weather: A kind of a "meh" combination of a bit too little sun and not quite enough wind in the morning. A bit of haze in the morning gave way to pretty clear air in the afternoon. Temps rose from 46 to 60 F. The winds came from various easterly directions until the late morning when they started to shift to the south.
Raptor Observations: The birds weren't very impressed with the lack of big thermal activity, nor the weak easterly winds early on. Other than the morning Turkey Vultures and one mini-kettle of 5 Broad-wings, the birds came through only in ones and twos, and they were generally flying at lower altitudes than the last few days. There seemed to be more activity from the local birds than from the migrants. Still, we can't complain too much about counting 84 migrating birds.
Local raptors: OS-2, TV-29, BE-4, CH-2, RS-1, BW-2, RT-4, AK-2
Non-raptor Observations: Non-raptors: D-C Cormorant-9, Mourning Dove-2, GB Heron-1, N. Flicker-1, Red-bellied WP-1, Hairy WP-1, Y-B Sapsucker (drumming)-1, Blue Jay-8, Amer Crow-11, Fish Crow-1, Comm Raven-4, Tree Swallow-1, Rough-winged Swallow-2, WB Nuthatch-1, E Starling-14, Amer Robin-1, Bluebird-1, House Finch-1, House Sparr-10, Field Sparr-2, Song Sparr-1, Wht-Thr Sparr-1, E. Towhee-1, Amer Goldfinch-4, House Finch-2, Pine Siskin-4, Comm Grackle-1, N. Cardinal-2
Predictions: A weak front will pass through overnight and bring along rain that's expected to last until at least 10 am on Saturday. Winds are expected to shift from the SW to W after the rain passes, and we hope to get in a half-day of observation time or more. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 4/19/24 6:41 pm From: <environment...> <environment...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] City Nature Challenge - Boston/Eastern Mass 4/26-29
Forwarded by Dave Peterson, Rockport https://www.bostoncitynaturechallenge.org/ Boston Area City Nature Challenge 2024 The City Nature Challenge is a fun worldwide collaborative bioblitz with cities across the world to observe the most species (April 26 - April 29) and then ID them (April 30 - May 6)! We'll be documenting urban biodiversity within the I-495 corridor, out to Stellwagen Bank, including Cape Cod and islands. Its simple, its fun, and it contributes to scientific data helping to better understand our world and our non-human neighbors!
Date: 4/19/24 8:37 am From: Laura M <magrinha97...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Piping Plovers in Boston
Hi all, last night I attended an interesting shorebird Zoom moderated by John Nelson. Speakers were Wayne Petersen and John Herbert of MassAudubon, Lisa Schibley of Manomet, and Andrew Vitz of MA Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. I learned that although shorebirds reported in Massachusetts over time are in steep decline (especially Hudsonian Godwit, Red-necked Pharalope and Whimbrel), there is one Massachusetts success story - the Piping Plover. Federally threatened in Massachusetts and endangered in the Great Lakes, Piping Plover numbers are currently increasing here by 10% per year! Twenty years ago, we had 150 pairs, while today we have 1,100 pairs in Massachusetts. They are even nesting in the City of Boston, behind the L Street Bathhouses in South Boston.
I also attended a Piping Plover talk about a month ago in Southie. At this talk, Coastal Waterbird Director Lyra Brennan said the plovers were first noted nesting near the bathhouse in 2017. Since then, nesting areas have been roped off and plover monitors put in place. There are three small beaches behind the bathhouse, which are separated by tall wooden fences. The bathhouse was closed for several years for renovations, which undoubtedly helped the birds. Now it is reopened for members. I'm told the two side beaches will be off limits and reserved for plover nesting, while the middle, larger beach will be open to bathers, with nesting areas marked off with strings and sticks.
The birds here are somewhat protected as no dogs are running off leash, however there is not much vegetation for them to hide in. They and their chicks are vulnerable to predation by crows, skunks or even coyotes. And high tides are getting higher, which can wash away nests and then the plovers have to begin again.
My last count at the beaches was 8 birds. To view the birds from the central bathhouse deck you must be a Boston resident and a member of the Curley Community Center - you can apply online if interested.
Date: 4/19/24 8:32 am From: <blafley...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Grebes, LT Duck - Gate 35 - New Salem
Hello,
This AM there were 8 Horned Grebes and a Red-necked Grebe, all in nice breeding plumage. Also a beautiful drake Long-tailed Duck. C. Loons (10) are in and it was nice to enjoy a few calling. Very quiet on the reservoir this morning as tomorrow fishing season opens on Quabbin and the buzz of motors will be evident.
Date: 4/18/24 4:09 pm From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 4/17 Blue-winged Teal at Franklin Park, Boston
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Thu, 18 Apr 2024 14:57:49 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 4/17 Blue-winged Teal at Franklin Park
Imagine my total surprise last evening when I found a Blue-winged Teal at the extreme end of Scarboro Pond, the golf course end. This was at 6:00 p.m. WOW!
Blue-winged Teal 1 Red-tailed Hawk 2 Killdeer 2+ Wild Turkey 1+ Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1 Hairy Woodpecker 2 Northern Flickers 8 (including two mating at the pond) Common Raven 1 on top of Shattuck Hospital Fish Crow 2 flyby at dusk; calling Hermit Thrush 1 Savannah Sparrow 8 so beautiful
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller, Mark Morris
Observers: Eric Mueller, Ernie Leblanc, Jack Miano, Mark Morris, Ted Purcell
Visitors: Several people on shopping runs stopped by to find out why we were shouting so much and pointing at the sky.
Weather: Bright skies with only high, thin clouds above us, temps in the 50's and low 60's, and a very light wind from the West. Low humidity gave us clear views throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: Our best daily count ever in the short history of this site, both for total migrating raptors (707), and for Broad-wings (683). And having a great crew of experienced hawk watchers made the count go very smoothly.
The day started slowly, probably because of the light winds, and late in the morning, we were wondering if we were going to see many birds. But once the sun got the ground heated up, the thermals kicked in, and at around 11:30 EST (12:30 EDT) the 'wings started coming through in droves. Many were spotted at and stayed at very high altitude, so I'm guessing that there were good northerly/westerly winds aloft for the birds to ride. The flight dropped off substantially after 1 pm.
Local raptors: Black Vulture-2, TV-17 (Eric started at 7:30 EST and missed much of the local roost coming up), BE-2 (1 ad, 1 imm), CH-3 (lots of courtship flight displays), BW-2, RT- 3 (2 ad, 1 imm with a flight feather sticking up on its left wing)
Non-raptor Observations: Non raptors: D-C Cormorant-5, Mourning Dove-1, N. Flicker-1, Red-bellied WP-1, Downy WP, Y-B Sapsucker (drumming)-1, E. Phoebe-1, Chimney Swift-1 (first of the year spotted by Ernie), Blue Jay-2, Amer Crow-4, Fish Crow-1, Comm Raven-6, Tree Swallow-2, BC Chickadee-1, T Titmouse-2, WB Nuthatch-1, E Starling-8, Amer Robin-2, Bluebird-2, A Goldfinch-2, House Finch-2, House Sparr-6, Field Sparr-2, Song Sparr-4, Wht-Thr Sparr-1, E. Towhee-2, Amer Goldfinch-1, House Finch-2, Pine Siskin-1, N. Cardinal-3
Predictions: A front is moving in from the south, and the chances of rain throughout the morning into the early afternoon range from 25% to 50%. Mark will make a last minute decision on whether to conduct a watch. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 4/17/24 5:45 pm From: Linda Ferraresso <tattler1...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] BBC trip Mount Auburn Cemetery, Apr 17, 2024
It was the official opening day at Mt Auburn Cemetery today! 14 birders joined Larry O'Bryan and I on this beautiful morning though we still needed gloves!
Cheers, Linda
Mount Auburn Cemetery, Middlesex, Massachusetts, US Apr 17, 2024 6:27 AM - 9:37 AM Protocol: Traveling 3.418 mile(s) Checklist Comments: BBC trip, co-led with Larry O'Bryan. Sunny spring day, 43-50 degrees, east wind. 32 species
Canada Goose 3 Mallard 3 Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon) 1 Mourning Dove 6 Double-crested Cormorant 1 Great Blue Heron 1 Osprey 1 Red-tailed Hawk 2 Red-bellied Woodpecker 5 Downy Woodpecker 5 Northern Flicker 2 Blue Jay 13 Black-capped Chickadee 4 Tufted Titmouse 8 Tree Swallow 1 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 7 Golden-crowned Kinglet 2 White-breasted Nuthatch 3 European Starling 3 Northern Mockingbird 1 Hermit Thrush 1 American Robin 46 House Sparrow 3 Chipping Sparrow 6 Dark-eyed Junco 2 White-throated Sparrow 12 Song Sparrow 2 Red-winged Blackbird 2 Brown-headed Cowbird 4 Common Grackle 13 Pine Warbler 1 Northern Cardinal 8
Date: 4/17/24 4:03 pm From: Robert Ross <plumisl...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Grosbeaks in Ipswich
Hello All:
Today I went to the private yard in Ipswich where a Blue Grosbeak was found earlier this week by Sue McGrath. The bird showed up for me around 1:30 PM and hung around for approximately 10 minutes. Beautiful bird.
When I first pulled up the house, and walked toward the feeders, I saw a red bird dart into a feeder with a blue roof, transparent sides, and birdhouse size holes on either end. I raised my binoculars just as it darted back out of the feeder and perched in a horizontal position on the deck rail.
Red head, red back, noticeably black wing surrounded by red, and at least one wing bar. Obviously larger than a House Finch and more close in size to the cardinals who were ubiquitous around the feeder. My instinct ID was Pine Grosbeak.
I raised my camera as it jumped back into the feeder and just as quickly darted out the opposite side and across a wetland behind the house toward a large stand of very tall pines. No shot at a photo.
I am quite sure this bird was a Pine Grosbeak, as I've seen many in my life (I grew up in Wisconsin in the 1970s where they were feeder birds). However, the other possibility is a Red Crossbill. I thought for sure I saw a different bill structure than the Crossbill. At that distance and with the quick view, I could have mistaken a Crossbill for the Pine Grosbeak.
So if you go to see the Blue Grosbeak, keep an eye out for a Pine Grosbeak or perhaps a Red Crossbill. I would be surprised if it was a Crossbill, but I'm glad to be corrected if so.
Date: 4/17/24 7:12 am From: Leslie Kramer <kramer.lf...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] BBC Walk at Willard Brook State Forest
3+ birders walked along Willard Brook, the driveway, Damon Pond and the
shelter this morning. Started out at 34 degrees, and warmed up to 37 with
bright, warming sun.
Willard Brook State Forest, Ashby US MA
Apr 17, 2024
7:02 AM
Traveling
1.20 miles
121 Minutes
All birds reported? Yes
Comments: Submitted from eBird for iOS, version 2.20.4 Build 2.20.28
1 Mallard
2 Mourning Dove
2 Turkey Vulture
1 Belted Kingfisher
1 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
2 Downy Woodpecker
1 Hairy Woodpecker
1 Pileated Woodpecker
2 Eastern Phoebe
3 Tufted Titmouse
2 White-breasted Nuthatch
2 Hermit Thrush
10 American Robin
4 Pine Siskin
26 American Goldfinch
6 Chipping Sparrow
2 Red-winged Blackbird
4 Louisiana Waterthrush -- Visual on all the birds. Seen by many.
Vocalizing.
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 10.5 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore, Paul M. Roberts, Ted Mara
Observers: John Cannizzo, Kathryn Chihowski, Mark Schoene, Paul Roberts, Steve Babbitt, Ted Mara
Visitors: Julie Roberts, Andrea Cannizzo, Dawn Beckman
Weather: Weak NMW winds for the first three hours then gave way to moderate winds out of the west. Mostly sunny skies broken by well spaced small but thick clouds meant that longer periods of fairly warm weather were punctuated by rather short colder ones.
Raptor Observations:
Another good day on Plum Island with 188 migrants counted, 143 of them Kestrels. We also enjoyed 18 Merlins flying through, five of them making a spectacular passage at low altitude, close to our platform and in just the right light during the 3 o'clock hour (see hourly note Paul Roberts' evocative description). Depending upon temperature and wind velocity, flight altitude of birds was either low or moderate to fairly high.
Raptors that failed to migrate: 3 BEs, 1 adult and 2 juv (one carrying an eel by the head), 5 NH including one adult male. Two very large (presumably female) Cooper's Hawks, both immatures, repeatedly flew southward into the refuge only to return northward back into the residential area of the island sometime later.
Non-raptor Observations: Birds: 2 Ravens, 11 Great Egrets, 5 Flickers.
Predictions: Weak N, NE, NNE and ESE winds temps in low 50s. Sunny and partly cloudy. Not very promising for our coastal location. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 13:15:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Official Counter: Eric Mueller, Mark Morris
Observers: Bill Fregeau, Eric Mueller, Ernie Leblanc, Jack Miano, Jeff Johnstone, Steve Farrell, Ted Purcell
Visitors: Several Adams Farm customers came over to find out what we were looking at. Long-time Athol birder Bill Fregeau came up to check out the watch and to lend a hand.
Weather: A sunnier day than yesterday that started with the dreaded blue screen of death, but fair weather cumulus clouds began to form in mid-morning and we had good backgrounds and call-out points to work with. After the morning dew burned off, the humidity dropped rapidly and we had great visibility for the rest of the day. We had almost calm air for the first 2 hours which had us a bit concerned, but W and NW winds picked up along with the cloud cover and gave the birds plenty of lift.
Raptor Observations: Another good day for the migrating birds, although without the "dam burst" of Broad-wings that we had yesterday. The flight increased hour by hour as the wind and the thermal conditions improved. Most of the team had family obligations after 1:00 pm EST, so we probably left some birds uncounted although the flight seemed to have slacked off by then.
Many of the birds were spotted high in the air again, although we had one group of Broad-wings that popped up behind the Athol Uptown ridge just to our south which gave us some much closer looks.
Local raptors - TV-65 (the biggest local roost that we've seen here in a while - some may turn out to have been migrants just spending the night here), BE-2 (1 adult, 1 imm), SS-1, CH-2, BW-2, RT-6.
Non-raptor Observations: Non-raptors: D-C Cormorant-1, Comm Loon-1, Gr Blue Heron-1, Mourning Dove-1 N. Flicker-2, Red-bellied WP-1, Y-B Sapsucker (drumming)-1, E. Phoebe-1, Blue Jay-4, Amer Crow-6, Fish Crow-2, Comm Raven-5, Tree Swallow-5, BC Chickadee-1, WB Nuthatch-1, E. Starling-12, Red-winged BB-1, Comm Grackle-6, Amer Robin-2, House Sparr-25+/-, Field Sparr-2, Song Sparr-6, Wht-Thr Sparr-1, E. Towhee-2, Red Crossbill-2, Amer Goldfinch-1, DE Junco-1, House Finch-2, Pine Siskin-1, Pine Warbler-2, N. Cardinal-2
Predictions: Tomorrow should be another good day weather-wise with mostly to partly sunny skies, temps in the 50's to low 60's, and gentle to moderate NW to WNW winds. The birds are moving, and with both bright conditions and a good background of clouds, they should be reasonably easy to spot with good optics. We welcome all help, so come up if you can. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 4/16/24 2:43 pm From: Brian Rusnica <velocicrafter...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] T 4/16 ...Backyard hawk migration continues (Townsend, MA)
Howdy folks,
More raptors on the move today from the porch in Townsend, MA. Similar conditions made for excellent spotting of extremely high birds against the puffy cumulus clouds. A few kettles of Broad-wings even formed at extreme altitudes; my largest was 17!
Migrants: Broad-winged Hawk 58 (all age-able birds were adults; groups of 17, 9, 6, 5 and many single-doubles) Bald Eagle 3 (2 Adults and 1 second-yr) Osprey 2 Sharp-shinned Hawk 2 American Kestrel 2 (yard bird!) Cooper's Hawk 1 (Juv) Red-tailed Hawk 1
Date: 4/16/24 10:45 am From: Leslie Kramer <kramer.lf...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Brookline Bird Club Annual Meeting, Friday, 4/19/24: All welcom!
All are welcome at our hybrid annual meeting, 7-9 PM, social hour 6:30
Zoom link on our website: www.Brooklinebirdclub.org
Harvard University Geologic Hall, 24 Oxford Street, Cambridge, MA
Free Parking: Oxford Street Garage, 52 Oxford Street
We will be presenting, for your vote, the slate of BBC Officers and
Directors, additional business items, and club updates.
After the business meeting, hear from our speaker Deborah Cramer, who
traveled from the tip of South America up into the Arctic, accompanying a
shorebird — the Red Knot — along one of earth’s longest avian migrations.
Along the way, she witnessed the birds’ extraordinary relationship with the
horseshoe crab, an ancient animal that comes ashore once a year to lay its
eggs in the sand. Join Deborah to explore how our health and the health of
shorebirds and horseshoe crabs are intertwined, and the increasing
importance of Massachusetts in this story. Deborah is the author of The
Narrow Edge: A Tiny Bird, An Ancient Crab, and An Epic Journey, which
received the Best Book Award from the U.S. National Academies of Science
and the Rachel Carson Book Award from the Society of Environmental
Journalists. She lives at the edge of the Great Marsh, walking through the
dunes, and kayaking in its bays and tidal creeks as often as she can.
Date: 4/16/24 10:03 am From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 4/15 Orange-crowned at McLaughlin Woods and American Bittern in Squantum
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
* Date: Tue, 16 Apr 2024 15:01:59 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 4/15 Orange-crowned at McLaughlin Woods and American Bittern in Squantum
McLaughlin Woods 11:15-1:20:
Brown Creeper 1 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1+ Golden-crowned Kinglet 1 Hermit Thrush 4 ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER 1 sumac and thorns tangle at basketball court and in orchard Dark-eyed Junco 7 Chipping Sparrow 18 White-throated Sparrow 7
SQUANTUM 4:15-7:50
AMERICAN BITTERN 1 flew in to Kennedy salt pan at 7:45 p.m.; right place, right time! Great Blue Heron 1 Great Egret 2+ Brant 150 approximately BLUE-WINGED TEAL 2 at Kennedy salt pan for two weeks or so Green-winged Teal 20 TURKEY VULTURE 14 together Osprey 4 Red-tailed Hawk 2 American Oystercatcher 5 Greater Yellowlegs 1 Eastern Phoebe 2 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 2 Golden-crowned Kinglet 1 Coyote 4 Mourning Cloak 1 F.O.Y. Carolina Wren 1+
Observation start time: 06:15:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 10 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore, Ted Mara
Observers: Christopher Godfrey, Judd Nathan, Kathryn Chihowski, Kathryn Chihowski, Mark Schoene, Paul Roberts, Peter Duffy, Susan Moses, Ted Mara
Visitors: Julie Roberts, Andrea Cannizzo, Cindy Gimbert, Tom Wetmore, John Stereman and Scott Granter.
Weather: Weak winds actually turned onshore by the 10 o'clock hour but turned WNW and finally west and strengthened greatly thereafter with gusts exceeding 30 mph at times.
Raptor Observations: Fairly feeble winds for the first few hours brought few raptors, but as WNW and W winds started ramping up during the 11 o'clock hour migrants started coming through in better numbers. And the last four hours of the watch period produced 229 additional birds, the bulk of them Kestrels often streaming through 5 or more at a time. Of the 329 total migrants, 278 were Kestrels.
Raptors that failed to migrate: several NH, 3 BE and several OS a few of which were local nesters. One large female CH is evidently a local nester.
Non-raptor Observations: Birds: The usual variety with several Great Egrets, 38 Double-crested Cormorants, several Ravens, Flickers.
Predictions: Favorable moderate WNW winds all day long with no rain and temps in the 50s and 60s. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA 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: Mark Morris
Observers: Bob Michaud, Chris Eddy, Dave Small, Eric Mueller, Jack Miano, Jeff Johnstone, Joanne Hart
Visitors: It was great to see Chris Eddy on the hill for the first time this season, if only for an hour or so, but she pitched right in with multiple sightings. Thanks to her sister June for bringing her up and for helping out with the count. Dave Small also came up with Jeff Johnstone to lend a hand. We're happy to see everyone's medical recoveries proceeding well.
It was nice to meet and talk to birder/photographers Elizabeth and Michael Cassinari, and to Claire Green (apologies for any misspellings.)
Weather: The day started with sunny skies but the entire Athol valley below us was covered in fog...an impressive sight. As the fog rose, it turned into scattered fair-weather cumulus clouds. As the day went on, the clouds thickened noticeably and became quite dark, although we had no precipitation. Cloud base was 6,000 to 8,500 ft. Temps rose from 40 to 61 F. The wind went from almost dead calm to 3-7 mph from WSW through the late morning, and then increasing to 10-12 mph from the West just after noon, and then 12-15 mph with 30 mph gusts by the end of the session.
Raptor Observations: Our first big flight of the season, with 220 Broad-wings, and double-digit numbers for Ospreys, Sharpies and Kestrels. This came 3 days earlier than the first big Broad-wing flight in April of last year.
The birds were taking advantage of the steady WSW winds in the late morning, and the numbers really took off as the wind increased substantially around noon, even with a shift to the W and WNW. Many of the birds, especially the Broad-wings were flying at very high altitudes, and we were lucky to have the clouds as a viewing background, although we undoubtedly missed a number of birds. We had a few groups of Broad-wings in low double-digit amounts, but most of them were seen singly or in 4-6 bird groups.
The most unusual sighting of the day was probably the 3 Osprey that we saw flying in a tight group - normally these birds fly solo. Mark also had a Gray Ghost male Northern Harrier early in the day that wasn't phased by the fog bank below us.
Local raptors - Black Vulture-2 (continuing local pair), TV-25, OS-1, BE-3 (2 ad, 1 imm), SS-1, CH-3, BW-1, RS-1, RT-5, AK-1.
Non-raptor Observations: Non-raptors: D-C Cormorant-7, Comm Loon-1, Gr Blue Heron-4, N. Flicker-2, Hairy WP-1, Red-bellied WP-1, E. Phoebe-2, Blue Jay-4, Amer Crow-10, Fish Crow-2, Comm Raven-2, Tree Swallow-10, WB Nuthatch-1, E. Starling-30, Amer Robin-2, House Sparr-16, Field Sparr-3, Song Sparr-4, Wht-Thr Sparr-2, E. Towhee-2, Amer Goldfinch-1, Purple Finch-1, Pine Siskin-4, N. Cardinal-2
Predictions: Should be another strong migration day, with mostly sunny skies, and temps up to 60F. Winds predicted to be 10-15 mph from WNW, but that birds didn't seem to mind it when the wind shifted in that direction late today. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 4/15/24 3:44 pm From: Brian Rusnica <velocicrafter...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] M 4/15 - Backyard raptor migration (Townsend, MA)
Howdy folks,
I had a great afternoon watching raptors migrate from my back porch in Townsend, MA. Right around 1:30pm I happened to catch the lead bird in a stream of five Broad-winged Hawks. That led me to spend the rest of the afternoon looking up between meetings, and I had some great results!
Date: 4/14/24 7:12 pm From: Jon Woolf <jswoolf01...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] NH Audubon Spring Pelagic Birding Trip 2024
Listfolk,
Spring is here, so it must be time for Massabesic Audubon Center's Spring Pelagic Birding Trip!
WHAT: An all-day trip into the Gulf of Maine, looking for pelagic birds (although we'll also check out any whales and other marine life that we encounter). As always, we've chartered the whale-watching boat /Granite State/ for this day of birding along Jeffreys Ledge and wherever else the birds may lead us. Steve Mirick will be on the microphone, Jane Mirick will be helping spot birds, and our hosts will be the highly skilled and experienced Captain Pete Reynolds and his crew. We'll leave dockside at 8am and stay at sea the whole day. We should return to Rye Harbor around 5pm.
WHEN: Monday, May 27 (Memorial Day).
WHERE: Meet dockside at Rye Harbor at 7:30AM for an 8:00AM departure.
WHAT TO BRING: Binoculars, of course. Plan on bringing a lunch; /Granite State/'s on-board snack bar will be open, but it serves primarily snack foods. A digital camera if you have one -- these trips often produce excellent photo opportunities for both birds and whales. Weather on the open water is unpredictable, so dress warm, in multiple layers in case you get too warm and need to take off a layer. Certainly bring sunscreen, and either sunglasses or a hat. Bring motion-sickness pills if you're vulnerable to seasickness. /Granite State/'s seating is mostly wooden benches, so a seat cushion is a good idea if you have trouble with sitting on hard surfaces.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Hopefully, good weather and lots of interesting birds! Every trip is different, of course, but past spring trips have produced Northern Gannets, Wilson's Storm-petrels, Great and Sooty shearwaters, Northern Fulmars, Red-necked Phalaropes in breeding plumage (a rare and impressive sight indeed), a number of migrants, and a number of near-shore species. We often get good looks at Common and Roseate Terns from the White/Seavey Island tern colony, and Black Guillemots also appear around the Isles of Shoals most years. We've also gotten good looks at several whales of various species. In 2017 we got a once-in-a-lifetime gem: a wandering BOWHEAD whale!
REGISTRATION: You must register in advance for this trip. We need a minimum of 30 people to pay for the trip. We've capped group size at 50 to make sure the boat doesn't get too crowded. Sadly, there has been one unpleasant change: due to increased costs, we've been forced to raise the price a little. A ticket will now cost $80 for NH Audubon members, $100 for non-members.
Contact either NHA or me with any questions you might have. When you sign up, *please* be certain that you leave a phone number where you can be contacted on Sunday May 26, in case we have to cancel due to weather. There is no rain date; we go on the 27th, or not at all.
To go with the trip, I will be running a 1-hour workshop from 6:30pm to 7:30pm on Thursday May 23, as a basic introduction to the most common pelagic birds and how to identify them. Since we generally see both whales and birds on these trips, the workshop also includes information on the common whales of the Gulf of Maine. This will be a virtual workshop, conducted online via a Zoom conference. It's free to anyone who has signed up for the trip on Monday; otherwise, the workshop will cost $5 for NHA members and $6 for non-members. It has a separate sign-up link: https://www.nhaudubon.org/event/introduction-to-pelagic-wildlife-webinar-may-2024/ <https://www.nhaudubon.org/event/introduction-to-pelagic-wildlife/>
If you want to sign up, please hurry -- there aren't many spots left, and they're going fast!
My thanks go out to all who have made these trips a success in past years, and I hope to see you again this year ... along with as many new faces as we can fit! :-)
-- Jon Woolf Manchester, NH (Massabesic Audubon Center Volunteer)
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore
Observers: Amy Maurer, Brian Rusnica, Dan Rossman, Harris Stein, Harry Wales, Herrrick Wales, Janet Kovner, John Cannizzo, Judd Nathan, Kathryn Chihowski, Mark Schoene, Mark Timmerman, Paul Roberts, Peter Duffy
Visitors: Our great crew of dedicated observers today (more or less in order of appearance on site) Janet Kovner, Judd Nathan, Amy Mauer, Brian Rusnica, Paul Roberts, Harry and Herrick Wales, Mark Schoene, Kathryn Chihowski, Mark Timmerman, Pete Duffy, Dan Rossman, John Cannizzo and Harris Stein.
Visitors: Julie Roberts, Andrea Cannizzo, Tom Wetmore, Sue McGrath, Cliff Cook, Fred Bouchard and Tom & Karen Gothchang.
Weather: West wind of moderate velocity all day with temps in the mid 40s to high 50s. Very variable cloud cover.
Raptor Observations: We were fortunate in having a moderate west wind all day that helped ensure a fairly good flight of 94 birds. As expected at this point in the season, Kestrels made up a goodly portion of our tally with 33 birds counted. And Sharpies also made a decent showing with 22 of them recorded. A single Broad-winged Hawk also came in at a high elevation during the 11 o'clock hour, so high in fact that we had to take a close look at a telephoto shot to ascertain its identity. Broad-wings are pretty rare out here on the island and we were more than glad to have it make an appearance. Raptors that failed to migrate: 3 BEs (2 juv and 1 adult), several NH including one adult male and several OS including a few local nesters.
Non-raptor Observations: Birds: Grackles, Tree Swallows, 2 Barn Swallows, 1 Fish Crow, 3 Ravens, 1 Snowy Egret, 4 Great Egrets, 2 Northern Gannets and a fairly steady flow of small (mostly warbler size) passerines during the first few hours.
Predictions: Weak WNW winds early on but strengthening somewhat and turning into the west as the watch progresses. Sunny to partly cloudy all day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 11:15:00 Total observation time: 4.25 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Dave Brown, Eric Mueller, Jack Miano, Jeff Johnstone, Joanne Hart
Visitors: Several Adams Farm customers came over to ask what we were looking at, and shared some of their raptor stories with us.
It was great to have Jack Miano join us for this first time at this site.
Weather: Clear, sunny skies to start the day, and then increasing high clouds as a front approached from the west. Temps 46 to 53 F, with W to SW winds at 5 to 10 mph, with occasional higher gusts. We ended the session when light rain began falling.
Raptor Observations: Quite a few of the migrating birds were flying at high altitudes - they were able to ride the strong tailwinds to great advantage.
Local raptors: TV-31, OS-1, BE-4 (2 ad, 1 imm, 1 not aged), CH-2, RS-1, BW-2, RT-5 (4 ad, 1 juv)
Non-raptor Observations: Non-raptors: Mourning Dove-1, N. Flicker-1, Pilated WP-1, E. Phoebe-2, Blue Jay-2, Amer Crow-4, Fish Crow-1, Comm Raven-2, T. Titmouse-1, Tree Swallow-2, WB Nuthatch-1, E. Starling-25, E. Bluebird-2, Amer Robin-2, House Sparr-, Amer Goldfinch-1, Field Sparr-1, Song Sparr-4, E. Towhee-1, RW Blackbird-1, N. Cardinal-1
Predictions: Temps in the high 40's to almost 60 F with moderate humidity, partly cloudy, with WNW winds at 5 mph early in the day and increasing to 10-15 mph in the afternoon. Should be just fine for the migrating birds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by ERIC MUELLER (<ericmueller1912...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Birding the South Shore's various birding areas was for most of the participants virgin territory as they normally stick to the North Shore. First stop was the Cumberland Fields where there was much action right off - Red-bellied Woodpecker by the cars, Wild Turkeys, several Ravens flying about, many Swamp Sparrows calling and the highlight was a Wht-cr Sparrow in the path. Besides these species, several N Harriers & some Red-tailed Hawks plus 1 Sharp-shinned Hawk & Red-shouldered Hawk were working the field - many Goldfinches & Song Sparrows were active. Another treat there was several Wilson's Snipe plus Killdeer in the flooded section of the fields.Burrage Pond was next with many Tree Swallows plus Rough-winged and Barn Swallows mixed inplus Bluebirds. As we approached the pond, there was an arial fight between an Osprey and a Bald Eagle [one of 3 immature eagles seen], plus Ring-necked Ducks, Green-w Teal, Gt Egret and Gt-blue Herons - the big miss was notspotting the Sandhill Cranes this time.Onward to Danial Webster WS were weenjoyed 12 Glossy Ibis suddenly dropped into the field for excellent looks, 1 Purple Martin but the wind & weather conditions kept the desired passerines out of sight - like always, Cowbirds, grackles, Red-wings and a Wild Turkey feasted at the feeders,After lunch, we traveled directly to the Manomet Banding facility to show them this important research property as well as scanning from the cliffs. From the cliffs, we had a Red-throated Loon below us, several breeding plumage Horned Grebes, Long-tailed Ducks, Surf & Wht-winged Scoters, Bufflehead, many Red-breasted Mergansers, C Eider, C Loons and wonderful side by side comparisons between Great & D-c Cormorants.Last stop was Manomet Point where you get a wonderful vista of the sea below -before the rain hit us, we enjoyed several N Gannets, a male Harlequin Duck, all 3 scoter species, many C Eiders, Red-thr & Common Loons, more breeding plumage Horned Grebes, Gt Cormorants, C Goldeneye - then the rained swept in quickly ending our day.In the end on this windy day with some showers, we found 78 species, had many special experiences as we explored several excellent birding locations.Always thanks to Dan Fournier, Leslie Bostrom and Lindsay Neubeck for all their field expertise and working so closely with the participants to make the day rewarding.
Observation start time: 06:30:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Jeff Johnstone, Joanne Hart
Visitors: Jeremy Makosiey
Weather: Todayâs weather was overcast skies with west winds 8-20 mph with gusts to 29.Temps were between 47-51âF with intermittent squalls of drizzle/graupel. Visibility was fair with some haze and low clouds.
Raptor Observations: Osprey ruled again this morning as we added 8 more. Broad wings were more represented as the leading wave is here.
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: Pine Warbler-3, Pine Siskin-5, Red Crossbill-2, E.Phoebe-2, E.Bluebird-2, R.B.Woodpecker-1, B.Jay-8, A.Robin-12, E.Tohwee-2, D.Woodpecker-1, Song Sparrow-8, W.T.Sparrow-2, Raven-4, C.Flicker-2, C.Grackle-14, M.Dove-4, T.Swallow-3, Black Duck-7, D.C.Cormorant-5, C.Goose-2, Fish Crow-1, Cedar Waxwings-12, C.Loon-1, A.Crow-6, G.B.Heron-2
======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore
Observers: Brian Rusnica, Harry Wales, Herrrick Wales, John Cannizzo, Kathryn Chihowski, Mark Schoene, Mark Schoene , Mark Timmerman, Paul Roberts, Peter Duffy, Susan Moses
Visitors: Julie Roberts, Andrea Cannizzo, Tom Graham, Leslie Kramer, Diane Amirault.
Weather: Initial south wind swung into the SE (onshore breeze) for a short period before a more favorable west wind of moderate velocity took over for the remainder of the watch. Variable cloud cover all day with variable temps as a consequence.
Raptor Observations: This was our best migrant tally so far this season with 76 birds being counted. Raptors that failed to migrate: 3 BE (one Adult), 6 TVs, 1 Red-tailed Hawk, several OS (including some local nesters) and several NH.
Non-raptor Observations: Other birds: 3 Raven, 1 Field Sparrow, a flock of 23 Glossy Ibis, 3 Yellowlegs, Flickers, Grackles, Mockingbirds, 1 R-b Merganser a Surf Scoter.
Predictions: Favorable W and WSW winds of moderate velocity with temps in the high 40s to low 50s. Rain showers possible around 3:00 pm EDT. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Captured on camera for the first time ever, hundreds of six-month-old emperor penguin chicks were filmed taking a leap of faith off of a 50-foot cliff in Antarctica. Whit Johnson shares the rare moment, which was filmed by a National Geographic team.
Date: 4/11/24 8:15 am From: AJ Pellegrini-Toole <aptoole...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Thick-billed Murre Quissett Harbor Woods Hole
The murre that was reported on ebird yesterday is still present. It was
on the W/NW side of the harbor, away from the dock, near a moored
sailboat. Aside from a cormorant, it's the only bird in the water. Easy
parking at the moment. It was actively diving while I was there.
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 11:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Ernie Leblanc, Jeff Johnstone, Scott Wiinikka, Ted Purcell
Weather: The weather today was comfortable as temps were between 49-62âF with increasing clouds; darker to the west. Calm winds to start increasing to 9 from the south. Visibility was OK but with moderate haze.
Raptor Observations: Consistent early morning movement this week from Osprey. Little bit of everything today as we continue to get a mixed bag recently. Ernie, Jeff, and I had a cool moment welcoming our first Broad wing of the spring migration!
Local Raptors: TV-67, CH-4, ML-1, AK-1, RT-4, SS-1, BV-2
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: Pine Warbler-1, Palm Warbler-2, B.Jay-6, A.Robin-8, C.Grackle-24, Song Sparrow-10, W.T.Sparrow-2, M.Dove-2, E.Phoebe-1, House Finch-2, R.B.Woodpecker-1, N.Flicker-2, E.Bluebird-1, B.H.Cowbird-3, G.B.Heron-1,Tree Swallow-1, R.W.Swallow-2, Raven-2, D.C.Cormorant-2, E.Towee-1, R.W.BB-2,.Starling-100+/- House Sparrow-30+/- ======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 4/10/24 7:45 am From: Ian Nisbet <icnisbet...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Eurasian Green-winged Teal again
The male Eurasian Green-winged Teal returned this morning to the same pond in the salt marsh where I saw it on January 27. This time, it was accompanying a male American Green-winged Teal and two females. It was paired to one of the females and spent most of its time either displaying to her or driving off the other male. The two pairs flew off separately. I tried to compare the two females and could not see any differences.
I have only seen teal here a few times since January. They were usually in small groups of up to 5: there are usually more here in the first half of April. They rarely stay for more than half an hour, but I have checked them several times and did not see the Eurasian male again until today.
Date: 4/9/24 7:11 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 4/8 Osprey In Weston Etc.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Tue, 9 Apr 2024 23:48:00 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 4/8 Osprey In Weston Etc..
I birded in the town of Weston from 11:00-7:15.
cormorant sp. 2 Great Blue Heron 6 Wood Duck 2 American Black Duck 4 Mallard Duck 6 Ring-necked Duck 6 Bufflehead 3 Osprey 1 flyover at Sears Conservation Land accipiter sp. 1 Cooper's Hawk 1 Red-shouldered Hawk 2 Red-tailed Hawk 4 Wild Turkey 1 Killdeer 1 Great Horned Owl 1 on nest Belted Kingfisher 2 Pileated Woodpecker 2 Hairy Woodpecker 5 Eastern Phoebe 7 Fish Crow 5 flyover in forest Common Raven 2 one on nest Brown Creeper 7 Red-breasted Nuthatch 2 Pine Warbler 5 Fox Sparrow 1 singing sweet song dense thickets north of College Pond; (same bird I had?? mistook in a previous post for a Purple Finch based on song) Swamp Sparrow 1 Rusty Blackbird 40 Jericho Forest singing in pine trees; up trail opposite Gun Club Lane small parking area Pine Siskin 20 a flock of ten flyby
MAMMALIA:
Eastern Cottontail 1 Red Squirrel 12 area north of College Pond has many Gray Squirrel 7 "Black" Squirrel 1 my fourth one this year! (one Brookline, one Cambridge, one I forget; one Weston) Eastern Chipmunk 4
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Dave Brown, Eric Mueller, Ernie Leblanc, Jeff Johnstone, Joanne Hart, Ted Purcell
Weather: A beautiful early spring day at Adams Farm with clear skies and temps warming from 47-69???F.Light and variable winds with very good visibility.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 4/9/24 6:43 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Meadowlark Squantum Point Park
Thanks to Correne George for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
From: correne george <correnegeorge...> Date: Tue, 9 Apr 2024 15:58:21 -0400 Subject: Meadowlark Squantum Point Park
Hi all, There was an Eastern Meadowlark at SPP in Quincy this afternoon. It gave some great views in flight and also landing on the fields. Only the second one I've ever seen there, also in April. Hopefully it'll stick around for a few days! Correne George Milton, MA <correnegeorge...>
Observation start time: 06:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore, Ted Mara
Observers: John Cannizzo, Kathryn Chihowski, Mark Schoene , Paul Roberts, Peter Duffy, Ted Mara
Visitors: Julie Roberts, Andrea Cannizzo, Marge Watson and Stephen Hobson.
Weather: Clear skies (i.e., 0% CC) all day with weak winds out of NW for first few hours but, after warm temps got warmer, winds changed to ESE, SSE ands finally directly out of the south at watch period's end. This brought migration to a definite halt. Parking lot nearly filled with revelers enjoying the nearly total solar eclipse as temps plummeted when sunlight diminished. Raptor Observations: Thirteen (13) migrant raptors counted today.
Raptors that failed to migrate: 1 AK, several OS (including 3 or 4 local nesters), several NH.
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds: House Finch pair, 3 Turkeys, 3 Great Egrets, 6 Tree Swallows, 6 Great Blue Herons, 1 Common Merganser.
Predictions: Not a very favorable migration prospect with weak to moderate N, NNE and ENE winds all day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Dave Small, Eric Mueller, Ernie Leblanc, Joanne Hart, Steve Farrell
Visitors: Shelly Small
Weather: The weather today was a welcome experience with clear skies and temps ranging from 38-64âF.Mostly calm to variable winds with excellent visibility.
Raptor Observations: Raptors felt the morning sun and the migrants moved mostly single file north. Accipiters and Osprey controlled the flight, but a good variety as well. I witnessed in my scope the mating of a pair of Black Vultures. The male was easy to see with his wings extended to reveal the white in the primaries.
Local Raptors:TV-66, BV-2, BE-4, RT-5, CH-3, SS-2
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: P.Wdpcker-1, Song Sparrow-10, A.Robin-24, B.Jay-5, M.Dove-2, R.Crossbill-2, E.Phoebe-1, W.T.Sparrow-6, E.Bluebird-2, R.W.Blackbird-2, D.E.Junco-7, A.Crow-8, Fish Crow-1, Raven-2, House Sparrow-20+/-, E.Starling-200+/-, C.Grackle-5, D.C.Cormorant-2, Black Duck-38, Mallard-4, C.Merganser-5, G.H.Heron-8, B.Kingfisher-1, R.B.Wdpcker-1, W.B.Nut.-1, Rough Winged Swallow-1, E.Towhee-1 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 4/8/24 3:38 pm From: John Liller <john.liller...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Bald Eagle over Worcester Academy
An adult Bald Eagle flew over Worcester Academy at 3:30 this afternoon, heading towards Lake Quinsig, right during the maximum moments of the eclipse.
------------------ 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.
Date: 4/8/24 8:21 am From: Andrew Prazar <andrew.prazar...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Louisiana Waterthrush - Bald Hill Conservation Area
Hello all,
Around 10:30am this morning, Morgan Davidson, Mary Ellen Kelly, and I saw and heard a Louisiana Waterthrush at Bald Hill Conservation Area in Boxford. The bird was seen on the "detour" route about 50 yards in from the main fire road.
I contacted the Southwick Zoo and got a prompt reply from Betsey Brewer, who is the executive director of EARTH Ltd there. She said that the Trumpeter Swan reintroduction program was originally in Iowa and has since been established in Oregon. The Southwick Zoo has been sending their young swans there. When asked about escapes, she said that two or three years ago, two young birds flew off before they could be relocated. She said that they had not been banded. I hope that clears up some questions.
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Jeff Johnstone, Joanne Hart, Steve Farrell
Weather: The weather today started and remained overcast and cold with temps between 39-48???F. Remnants of a large low pressure system still throwing North winds our way 10-13 mph with excellent visibility throughout.
Raptor Observations: This was a much better morning as TV???s and others were on the move early. I got excellent looks at a female Merlin and a gray ghost late. Hoping for more of the same tomorrow.
Local Raptors: TV-9, BE-2, Rt-4, CH-2
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: N. Cardinal-2, Song Sparrow-6, W.T.Sparrow-2, H. Sparrow-25 +/-, E.Starling-250+/-, B. Jay-9, D.E. Junco-3, A.Robin-13, R.Crossbill-3, W.B.Nut.-2, H.Woodpecker-1, D. Woodpecker-1, C. Flicker-1, Pileated Woodpecker-1(calling), M.Dove-2, E.Towhee-1, A.Goldfinch-12, P.Siskin-3, E.Bluebird-1, C.Goose-5, C.Merganser-1, A.Crow-10, Fish Crow-1, Raven-2, Tree Sparrow-1
Predictions: Should be interesting with the weather prediction for tomorrow and the eclipse! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Predictions: Rather weak WNW and W winds and sunny with temperatures 40 to 60 deg Fahrenheit. With such feeble winds and warm, sunny conditions, chances are good that an onshore (easterly) breeze might develop in mid morning or early afternoon. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 08:30:00 Total observation time: 1 hours
Official Counter: Mark Schoene
Observers: Visitors: None
Weather: 7:30: 2.8 C, wind NNW at 10-14 mph, 100% cloud cover; visibility 16 K. 8:00: 3.9 C, wind NNW at 10-14 mph, 100% cloud cover, visibility 16 K. 8:30: 3.9 C, wind NNW at 12-15 mph, 90% cloud cover, visibility 13 K.
Raptor Observations: No migrant raptors were counted.
Raptors that failed to migrate: 4-7 Northern Harriers. 3-5 Turkey Vultures 1-Bald Eagle (imm.) 5-URs (across the marsh).
Non-raptor Observations: Other birds: The Usual Suspects
Predictions:
Weather Underground's forecast: moderate N winds until 11:00 am EDT (10:00 am EST) and turning to NNE thereafter. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Massbirders,
At Mt. Auburn Cemetery late this afternoon (6ish), Finn Kurylowicz and I ran into at least 18 and maybe as many as 39 Bohemian Waxwings. One was in a flock of a handful of Cedars by Gerardia path, and the others were moving around in loose groups between lupine path (the Sphinx) and verbena path. The most we counted at once was 18 in a single flock on verbena and there were likely double that in the area, but they were pretty active and ping-ponged around a good bit. They stayed high in the trees. Sapsuckers and Tree Swallows were other fun highlights. Poor cell phone pictures are at www.ebird.org/checklist/S167454062 with videos coming.
My understanding is that "released" species are not "countable" until some number of years or generations have passed. 10 is a number I've heard but don't know if there is anything to it.
The Trumpeter Swans are a bit of an in between case. On the one hand, my guess is that the ones we are seeing in central MA originate from the Southwick Zoo pair, so how is this different from barnyard chickens breeding in the wilds of central Mass. On the other hand, Trumpeter Swan's original range apparently included Massachusetts, according to the Trumpeter Swan Society, so this isn't so much an introduction as a reintroduction.
Perhaps the birds will get established in the wild around here and in a few years there will be no question that we have our own native population.
Thank you for sharing. Very interesting. I however would not call them feral, we humans from Europe are more feral. Why not count the off spring they are countable in the reestablished range else where. Maybe they will repopulate Massachusetts too! Maybe replace mute swans? Here hoping. https://www.trumpeterswansociety.org/what-we-do/your-society-at-work/continent-wide.html . Suzanne Sullivan <swampy435...>
> Over the past 10 days there have been several reports of a pair of > Trumpeter Swans from a pond near the Southwick Zoo in Mendon. (This is not > to be confused with Southwick Pond, which is located elsewhere in Worcester > County.) > > This morning I went out to locate these birds, which I found on the pond > on Southwick Street just west of the zoo. I was shocked to see the birds > tending a fully formed nest and sitting on at least one egg. While I was > there a resident of the adjacent house came by. Her family owns the > Southwick Zoo, which was started by her grandfather. She explained that > these birds have been residents of the zoo for the past 10 years. They are > pinioned and live on the pond, which is fenced according to federal rules > to protect them and keep them from escaping into the wild. The pair has > bred there for years, producing 3 to 5 cygnets a year. In recent years > most of the cygnets have been relocated to Oklahoma to be integrated into a > wild population there. However, on some occasions young birds have taken > off for parts unknown before this could happen. > > Why the birding community has been mostly if not entirely unaware of this > I'm not sure, but I've never heard a whisper of this information until > today. > > So the situation is that these are zoo birds, not wild birds. While they > are impressive and beautiful they are somewhere between pets and feral. > Also, if I was a betting person I would put money down that every Trumpeter > Swan seen in southern Worcester County in the past 10 years, and there have > been several, likely originate from this pair. As I understand matters, > they would not be considered "countable" under ABA rules. I'll leave it to > the MARC to make a final determination here. Perhaps they have already > commented on this matter. > > Cliff Cook > Watertown
Date: 4/6/24 8:30 am From: Leslie Kramer <kramer.lf...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] BBC Crooked Pond Walk, Saturday 4.6.24
3 hardy birders waded through high water, birding this Essex County
hotspot. The beavers have constructed an even longer dam along the walking
trail, reducing the path, and raising the water level. Probably another
week till expected Louisiana Waterthrush and Blue-headed Vireo arrive.
Always worth visiting.
Bald Hill Conservation Area--Crooked Pond
Apr 6, 2024
7:06 AM
Traveling
1.74 miles
168 Minutes
All birds reported? Yes
Comments: Submitted from eBird for iOS, version 2.20.4 Build 2.20.28
16 Canada Goose
6 Wood Duck
8 Mallard
10 Ring-necked Duck
1 Mourning Dove
1 Great Blue Heron
2 Red-shouldered Hawk
3 Red-bellied Woodpecker
4 Downy Woodpecker
3 Pileated Woodpecker
2 Northern Flicker
2 Eastern Phoebe
6 Blue Jay
8 American Crow
7 Black-capped Chickadee
8 Tufted Titmouse
2 Tree Swallow
2 Golden-crowned Kinglet
5 White-breasted Nuthatch
3 Red-breasted Nuthatch
4 Brown Creeper
1 Carolina Wren
2 Eastern Bluebird
5 American Robin
5 American Goldfinch
1 Fox Sparrow
5 Dark-eyed Junco
2 Song Sparrow
9 Red-winged Blackbird
8 Common Grackle
4 Yellow-rumped Warbler
4 Northern Cardinal
Number of Taxa: 32
Mammals: Raccoon and White-tailed Deer foot prints
Flora highlights, thanks to the attendees collected knowledge: various
sedges, Round-lobed Hepatica,
Observation start time: 11:30:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore
Observers: John Cannizzo, Kathryn Chihowski, Peter Duffy
Visitors: Andrea Cannizzo, Jackie Hannigan, Paula Fee, Renee White and Brad Smith. Also, Raju Murthy whose adept handling of his camera proved helpful in IDing some flyers.
Weather: Moderate (11 to 12 mph) WNW and W winds with constant 100% cloud cover got a bit chilly by end of watch but kept intermittent flow of migrants going and helped in spotting them aloft. Very, very light occasional sprinkles of rain.
Raptor Observations: 23 migrants were counted--3 OS, 3 NH, 12 AK, 4 ML and 1 UF. The 3 OSs passed over the marsh to our west. All 12 AKs and 3 of the 4 MLs migrated north along the beach to our east. Three of the AKs were identified as males. One of the NH migrants was a beautiful adult male with an unusually pale head and neck. At one point, two adult CHs, one noticeably larger than the other, flew south just east of our platform. A few minutes later, one of them was observed returning north over the platform. This may be a nesting pair with their nest just north of the refuge in the private sector. Raptors that failed to migrate: several NHs including one 1-year-old male, several OSs including one laboring in flight carrying a very heavy fish and one adult BE.
Non-raptor Observations: Fairly heavy but intermittent flow of Grackles.
Predictions: Rain and snow showers beginning around 8:00 am EDT with moderate NNW winds turning to the north by noontime. So, not a very promising outlook. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Over the past 10 days there have been several reports of a pair of Trumpeter Swans from a pond near the Southwick Zoo in Mendon. (This is not to be confused with Southwick Pond, which is located elsewhere in Worcester County.)
This morning I went out to locate these birds, which I found on the pond on Southwick Street just west of the zoo. I was shocked to see the birds tending a fully formed nest and sitting on at least one egg. While I was there a resident of the adjacent house came by. Her family owns the Southwick Zoo, which was started by her grandfather. She explained that these birds have been residents of the zoo for the past 10 years. They are pinioned and live on the pond, which is fenced according to federal rules to protect them and keep them from escaping into the wild. The pair has bred there for years, producing 3 to 5 cygnets a year. In recent years most of the cygnets have been relocated to Oklahoma to be integrated into a wild population there. However, on some occasions young birds have taken off for parts unknown before this could happen.
Why the birding community has been mostly if not entirely unaware of this I'm not sure, but I've never heard a whisper of this information until today.
So the situation is that these are zoo birds, not wild birds. While they are impressive and beautiful they are somewhere between pets and feral. Also, if I was a betting person I would put money down that every Trumpeter Swan seen in southern Worcester County in the past 10 years, and there have been several, likely originate from this pair. As I understand matters, they would not be considered "countable" under ABA rules. I'll leave it to the MARC to make a final determination here. Perhaps they have already commented on this matter.
Date: 4/4/24 6:48 pm From: GLENN D'ENTREMONT <gdentremont1...> Subject: Re: [MASSBIRD] Small Packages: A Male Sharp-shinned Hawk
I became aware of how small Sharp-shinned males can be one early May at Wompatuck SP. I was walking north past Boundary Pond going past the trail which comes out to the road. I was conscience of a frantic calling catbird which was flying straight up the path toward me. In hot pursuit was the smallest raptor I can recall which turned out to be a Sharp-shinned. It effortlessly caught up to and captured the catbird about 10 feet from the road. It flew across the road in front of me. The Sharpie was not that much longer than the catbird. Sibley shows the catbird as 8.5 inches. The sharpie was no longer than 9.5 inches and could have been 9 inches. I suppose the catbird could have been longer than average.....
Glenn
Glenn d'Entremont: <gdentremont1...> Stoughton, MA
> On 04/04/2024 5:53 PM EDT PAUL ROBERTS <phawk254...> wrote: > > > Two days ago I was out birding at dawn. It was heavily overcast, so the light was terrible and I saw little. As I was walking to my car, I saw a relatively small bird in the top of a deciduous tree near my car. It piqued my curiosity because it looked a bit odd. Something about it reminded me of Merlin, but it was smaller than a Merlin. I at first thought it might be a Blue Jay, or even smaller than a jay. It had a small round head, somewhat like a Merlin, and when seen better was clearly not a jay. It was so dark that I used my megazoom camera at about 100x to get a better view, looking at it at 6400 ISO and opening the aperture a full two stops to get more light. > It was an accipiter. Large white blotches on its upper wings, and a moderately long (bot not very long), straight-edged tail, with no terminal white band. Clearly, it had to be a sharpie, but it had to be one of the smallest sharpies I've ever seen perched. I got poor views of the back of the bird in awful light before I gambled the bird wouldn't fly and walked around the tree to image the breast and belly (and actually got the face as well). Very finely streaked, more like a juvenile male Cooper's Hawk than a sharpie, but streaked on the breast and belly, much more like a sharpie than a Cooper's (some of which are streaked on the belly). I was amazed that I was able to get "decent" photos of the bird to document it. The photos were actually better than what I saw through my electronic view finder. > This bird was special. About 20 years ago while hawk watching at Lighthouse Point in New Haven, Connecticut, to look for more Cooper's Hawks, I saw many very small Sharp-shinned Hawks. More tiny sharp shins on a very windy day than I had ever seen in Massachusetts in an entire season hawk watching at Wachusett or Watatic, or Plum in spring. They were getting badly bounced around, so it was easy to pick them out from the female sharpies. They had to watch out because female Cooper's can literally eat male sharpies for lunch (hold the mayo). The male Sharp-shinned Hawk is our smallest diurnal raptor. (Male kestrels can be 8 inches long, with the smallest male sharpies coming in at 9 inches. Wingspan for male sharpshins and kestrels is 20-22 inches, with the differentiator being body mass. The smallest sharpshin reported at 3.0 ounces while the smallest male kestrel was 3.4 ounces.) > It dawned on me after a while that I was seeing so many diminutive males at Lighthouse not because male sharpies were reluctant to fly north of the Mass Pike but because they were reluctant to get blown about flying over the summit of Wachusett and to increase their vulnerability to larger female Cooper's and originally perhaps goshawks. Instead, like many kestrels, they fly around the shoulders of the mountain, just above the canopy, which gives them close cover from potential predators and a chance to catch themselves a meal while migrating. Often you will see a flock of migrating Blue Jays suddenly dive into the canopy because one thinks it has seen a hungry Cooper's coming in. Male sharpies often react similarly. > The spring sharpie flight at Plum is very uneven, but we've seen a few clear small males migrating north in good years. Again, I expect it's a reluctance to venture out to coastal land traps, especially in strong winds, where they might just as likely be a meal as find one. Hug the canopy a few miles inland. Play it safe, and maybe find a meal yourself instead of becoming someone else's meal. > I've seen photos of sharpies that are clear males near bird feeders but never near mine, which is patrolled by Cooper's Hawks. Sharpshins, especially males, are very shy hunters and do not like to be watched, including by humans. Male sharpshins are very aware of their vulnerability and therefore much more secretive. It seemed appropriate that I saw this one on a dark cloudy, morning when nothing much else was around. > > Best, > Paul > > Paul M. Roberts > Medford, MA > <phawk254...> >
Date: 4/4/24 5:20 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] 4/4 Neponset River Rservation in Dorchester
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Thu, 4 Apr 2024 23:59:58 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: 4/4 Neponset River Rservation in Dorchester
On this rainy day, I decided to go birding without binoculars along the Neponset River marshland, gorge, and wooded drumlin:
Double-crested Cormorant 30 Black-crowned Night-Heron 5 F.O.Y. Great Egret 3 Peregrine Falcon 1 Wilson's Snipe 1 flushed out on marsh road to the river Eastern Phoebe 1
Date: 4/4/24 8:42 am From: Nancy Phinney <zpak...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Re: MBC/BBC trip tomorrow to Horn pond postponed a week
Jenn, FYI Thanks, Nancy
On Thu, Apr 4, 2024 at 10:21 AM, Diana F. <[<diana.fru...>](mailto:On Thu, Apr 4, 2024 at 10:21 AM, Diana F. <<a href=)> wrote:
> Since i had planned to go up the mountain and the trails will not be safe by tomorrow, I am postponing my trip scheduled for tomorrow at Horn Pond to next Friday April 12th 8 am meeting at the Lake Ave parking lot. > > Thanks > Diana Fruguglietti
Date: 4/4/24 7:25 am From: Diana F. <diana.fru...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] MBC/BBC trip tomorrow to Horn pond postponed a week
Since i had planned to go up the mountain and the trails will not be safe by tomorrow, I am postponing my trip scheduled for tomorrow at Horn Pond to next Friday April 12th 8 am meeting at the Lake Ave parking lot.
Date: 4/4/24 6:11 am From: Lynette Leka <lynetteleka...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Black Vultures, Great Egrets
Yesterday there was a pair of Black Vultures flying circles around each other, over the hardware store parking lot in Newburyport.
Also, the group of three Great Egrets on the Newbury marsh that I posted yesterday, expanded to six birds.
------------------------------------ (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...>
Date: 4/3/24 8:53 am From: Marsha Salett <msalett...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Bird Observer's April 2024 issue now online
Massbirders -
Bird Observer announces that its April 2024 issue is now online at www.birdobserver.org <http://www.birdobserver.org/>.
Where to Go Birding highlights “Birding Boston’s Premier Spring Migrant Trap: McLaughlin Woods” by Justine B. Hanson.
Feature articles include “Less Mowing, More Buzzing: ‘Lazy Lawn Mowers’ Create a Buzz for Bee Conservation” by Susannah B. Lerman, “Thirteenth Report of the Maine Bird Records Committee” by Louis R. Bevier, Trevor B. Persons, and Kyle A. Lima, and “The Pine Warblers of Wellfleet Bay, Cape Cod, Massachusetts” by James Junda and Valerie Bourdeau, along with Wayne R. Petersen and John Kricher’s tribute to Ted Davis upon his retirement. The photo essay is birds of the thirteenth Maine Bird Records Committee’s report.
Field Notes describe “Prime Real Estate in the Marsh” by Bonnie Tate, “Late Nesting Chickadee” by Mary Keleher, and “Fishing and Bathing Behavior of a Lesser Black-backed Gull” by William E. Davis, Jr.
As usual, we include About Books by Mark Lynch, Bygone Birds by Robert H. Stymeist, Bird Sightings for November-December 2023 by Jason Forbes and Robert H. Stymeist, Hot Birds by Joshua Rose, and Wayne Petersen’s At a Glance.
The cover art features John Sill’s House Wren, courtesy of Mass Audubon’s Museum of American Bird Art. “About the Cover: House Wren” is written by Marsha C. Salett.
Bird Observer is a nonprofit, tax-exempt corporation under section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Marsha Salett (she/her)
Editor
Bird Observer
<msalett...>
Needham, MA
Date: 4/3/24 5:34 am From: Lynette Leka <lynetteleka...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Great Egrets / Newbury
three, out in the marsh this morning!
------------------------------------ (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...>
Date: 4/3/24 5:18 am From: Robert Mussey <mussey.robert...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] leucistic robin, Milton
For the second year in a row, we have a leucistic robin in Milton. It is striking and unmistakable, with liberal irregular white patches on its wings, body, and back. Yesterday, it came for a full 2 minutes to our birdbath, bathing and preening. I had thought last year that the leucism might affect its ability to thrive or to breed, but at least on the first count, I was wrong. It was not around at all this past winter, so it must have migrated somewhere south.
Raptors that failed to migrate: 4-8 local northern harriers 2 local osprey 8-10 local turkey vultures
Non-raptor Observations: Skies quiet, few birds flying. 2 Snowy Egrets
Predictions: Not looking good for the hawk migration this week. Rain, easterly winds, and snow forecast into Sunday. Wind may exceed 60 knots Wednesday evening and most of Thursday. The possibility of favorable conditions for a few hours on Friday is guarded. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Eric Mueller, Ernie Leblanc, Ted Purcell
Visitors: Jeff Johnstone; Sherry Johnstone
Weather: The weather today was overcast skies with a chilly NE breeze 0-10 mph. Temps ranged between 43-49âF and visibility was good with slight haze.
Raptor Observations: The Raptors once again hit the snooze button this morning. The locals finally showed themselves mid day. We were able to get 2 migrating Sharpies before we left.
Local Raptors: TV-37, BE-3, RT-5, CH-2, RS-1 (calling)
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: A.Robin-14, R.B.Woodpecker-1, Song Sparrow-6, B.Jay-6, W.T.Sparrow-1, N.Cardinal-2, C.Flicker-1, D.E.Junco-2, P.Siskin-6, R.Crossbill-4, C.Wren-1, Raven-2, A.Crow-6, F.Crow-2, C.Grackle-5, B.H.Cowbird-2, M.Dove-2, W.B.Nut.-1, E.Bluebird-1, E.Towhee-1, C.Merganser-2, C.Goose-2 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 4/2/24 6:37 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Birding for a Better World Workshop retreat at Rhinebeck
Thanks to Meghadeepa Maity for this post.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
From: Meghadeepa Maity <maity22m...> Date: Tue, 2 Apr 2024 00:02:34 -0400 Subject: Birding for a Better World Workshop retreat at Rhinebeck
Hello MassBird friends, I wanted to invite you to join me for a DREAM project I've been working on with my colleague Molly Adams -Birding for a Better World - retreat at the Omega Institute of Holistic Studies (Rhinebeck, NY), from June 9-14. I added the workshop description below, and you can also learn more at https://www.feministbirdclub.org/events/omega-birding.
Best, Meghadeepa Maity (they/them) Co-chair (Engagement), Feminist Bird Club
The Feminist Bird Club's 2023 book - Birding For A Better World: A Guide to Finding Joy and Community in Nature - reframes the simple act of enj= oying birds as not only a meaningful way to experience nature, but also one inseparable from social and environmental justice.
Join Feminist Bird Club founder Molly Adams (she/they) and co-chair Meghadeepa Maity (they/them) for a weeklong retreat in stunning Rhinebeck, NY as they approach the pursuit of bird-joy through the unique lenses of resistance, connection, liberation, reciprocity and healing. We'll explore the major themes in the book through a diversity of practices including mindful birding, community reflection and creative expression.
Reading the book is not a prerequisite for this workshop, but it may add depth to your experience. Prior birding knowledge is also not necessary, but participants should be prepared to sit with discomfort and grapple with the roles they occupy while recreating outdoors.
Feminist Bird Club aims to make birding and the outdoors safe, accessible, affirming and joyful to everyone especially for those who haven't historically had equitable access to the outdoors. Equally crucial is our mission to amplify grassroots solutions for sustainable change on a planet actively in the midst of reprehensible humanitarian crises and anthropogenic climate change.
Mixed flock of Cedar and Bohemian Waxwings on 11th street in Turners Falls. Nine Cedar and 6 Bohemian eating crabapples. Flew off into nearby maples. First reported earlier by Lynn
Mark Marroni
> On Apr 2, 2024, at 9:40 AM, Lynn Pelland <lpelland...> wrote:
>
>
> Good morning...
>
> Sorry for the very brief email yesterday. I was using my phone and was overjoyed with seeing them 2 houses from my home. These Bohemian Waxwings were still there as of 6:45am today. There is a berry tree in front of 16 11th St that they have been eating from. If you come and the berries are gone, I would suggest driving around the neighborhood because this was one of the trees planted by the town and there could be others. I didn't have a chance to look for any yesterday and I'm back at work today. There are also lots of crab apple trees along the main roads in Turners Falls.
>
> Thank you,
> Lynn
>
>> On Mon, Apr 1, 2024 at 3:09 PM Lynn Pelland <lpelland...> wrote:
>> Maybe 10 Bohemians in with Cedars in a tree next to the small storage unit on the corner of H St and 11th St
>>
>> Thanks
>> Lynn
>>
>>
>> --
>> Lynn Pelland
>> Facilities Services Assistant
>> Facilities Management
>> Smith College
>> 126 West St
>> Northampton, MA 01063
>> p 413.585.2391
>> f 413.585.2398
>>
>> <lpelland...>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
> --
> Lynn Pelland
> Facilities Services Assistant
> Facilities Management
> Smith College
> 126 West St
> Northampton, MA 01063
> p 413.585.2391
> f 413.585.2398
>
> <lpelland...>
>
>
Date: 4/2/24 7:43 am From: Leslie Kramer <kramer.lf...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Brookline Bird Club Annual Hybrid Meeting, 4/19/2024
All Are Welcome!
Join us for our HYBRID ANNUAL MEETING With author and researcher Deborah
Cramer: Exciting Connections between the Lives of Migrating Shorebirds,
Horseshoe Crabs, and Us
Friday, April 19, 2024, 7–9 PM, 6:30 Social Hour
Harvard University Geologic Hall, 24 Oxford Street, Cambridge, with FREE
PARKING at the 52 Oxford Street Parking Garage.
See www.brooklinebirdclub.org for the zoom registration.
We will be presenting, for Members voting, the slate of BBC Officers and
Directors, additional business items, and club updates.
Listen, as author and observer Deborah Cramer traveled from the tip of
South America up into the Arctic, accompanying a shorebird – the Red Knot –
along one of earth’s longest avian migrations. Along the way, she witnessed
the birds’ extraordinary relationship with the horseshoe crab, an ancient
animal that comes ashore once a year to lay its eggs in the sand.
Join Deborah to explore how our health and the health of shorebirds and
horseshoe crabs are intertwined, and the increasing importance of
Massachusetts in this story.
Deborah is the author of *T**he Narrow Edge: A Tiny Bird, An Ancient Crab,
and An Epic Journey*, which received the Best Book Award from the U.S.
Sorry for the very brief email yesterday. I was using my phone and was
overjoyed with seeing them 2 houses from my home. These Bohemian Waxwings
were still there as of 6:45am today. There is a berry tree in front of 16
11th St that they have been eating from. If you come and the berries are
gone, I would suggest driving around the neighborhood because this was one
of the trees planted by the town and there could be others. I didn't have
a chance to look for any yesterday and I'm back at work today. There are
also lots of crab apple trees along the main roads in Turners Falls.
Thank you,
Lynn
On Mon, Apr 1, 2024 at 3:09 PM Lynn Pelland <lpelland...> wrote:
> Maybe 10 Bohemians in with Cedars in a tree next to the small storage unit
> on the corner of H St and 11th St
>
> Thanks
> Lynn
>
>
> --
> Lynn Pelland
> Facilities Services Assistant
> Facilities Management
> Smith College
> 126 West St
> Northampton, MA 01063
> p 413.585.2391
> f 413.585.2398
>
> <lpelland...>
>
>
>
>
--
Lynn Pelland
Facilities Services Assistant
Facilities Management
Smith College
126 West St
Northampton, MA 01063
p 413.585.2391
f 413.585.2398
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 2.75 hours
Official Counter: Ted Mara
Observers: Mark Schoene
Visitors: 12 birders visited.
Weather: Weather dark and dreary. Mild to moderate ESE winds. Temps 4 to 11 degrees C. Heavy cloud cover with visibility at 15 kilometers.
Raptor Observations: Three (3) migrants, all Northern Harriers, passed through today. Raptors not migrating: OS - 2, NH - 6
Non-raptor Observations: One (1) Great Egret.
Predictions: Tomorrow: Cold and cloudy with moderate NNE, NE and ENE winds make for a not very favorable outlook for the hawk watch. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Weather: The weather today was overcast skies with temps between 37-51???F. Calm winds generally with decent visibility with a light haze.
Raptor Observations: With the calm winds and little thermals, the raptors were sluggish to take flight until mid day. 2 Merlin powered thru. We recognized a familiar Turkey Vulture from last year with pure white primaries in it???s right wing.
Local Raptors: TV-30, RT-4, BE-2, CH-2
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: E.Bluebird-4, A.Robin-43, Song Sparrow-6, B.Jay-8, M.Dove-4, R.B.Woodpecker-1, House Sparrow-13, A.Crow-12, Raven-2, F.Crow-2, N.Cardinal-4, Pine Siskin-4, C.Waxwing-16, W.B.Nut.-1, W.T.Sparrow-2, Starling-275+/-, G.B.Heron-1, C.Flicker-1, Tree Swallow-1, Gull species-1, Duck Species-1 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 4/1/24 1:51 pm From: Barbara Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Merlin at Boston Common 12:45 p.m.
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this report.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...>
*
Date: Mon, 1 Apr 2024 17:45:40 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: Merlin at Boston Common 12:45 p.m.
There is a Merlin as of 12:45 on the roof of #48 Beacon St., diagonally opposite the large Pilgrims Monument. This bird chose the tallest part of the tallest building to survey its surroundings. Not a surprise, but the Merlin itself most certainly was! This is near where Spruce St. begins.
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 9.5 hours
Official Counter: Maryellen Stone
Observers: Amy Maurer, Bob Stone, Christopher Godfrey, Harry Wales, Herrrick Wales, Janet Kovner, John Cannizzo, Judd Nathan, Kathryn Chihowski, Mark Schoene, Nancy Givens, Peter Duffy, Steve Babbitt, Tom Graham
Weather: Weather and general observations: The day started with complete cloud cover, a chilly wind and a few snow???akes. By 1 pm the weather was up to a comfortable 50 degrees with light winds and mostly sunny with just enough clouds to act as markers for locating birds. Many regular observers stopped by as well as many visitors to the refuge who asked what we were counting. The nice weather, the holiday, and the impending beach closure brought out lots of people.
Raptor Observations: Raptor observations: Northern Harriers continued to try the patience of watchers ???ying past the watch deck and returning again. Two grey ghosts were counted, (one immature) in the migrating bird count. Another grey ghost was seen but could not con???rm migration. All Northern Harriers counted as migrating were clearly headed north. We had several adult Bald Eagles in the air today, possibly up to four individuals, however only two could be con???rmed as migrants. One non-migrant, an adult ???ew directly across the platform from the dunes to the marsh giving us great views. There was one group of seven Turkey Vultures traveling together over the marsh followed by a second group of three together. At least two Ospreys were seen, both very high, only one was con???rmed as migrating.
Non-raptor Observations: Non-raptor migrations- Large numbers of Red-winged Blackbirds, Common Grackles and American Gold???nches were observed. In one group of twenty blackbirds Tom Graham pointed out that half of them were Rusty Blackbirds. Tom Wetmore and Harry Wales both called out a very high Belted King???sher coming from the south out of the dunes. The bird ???ew directly over the watch deck heading north. A possible Ruby-throated Hummingbird was also seen.
Predictions: Forecast: The forecast for Monday calls for Southeast winds, not optimal for this site, but the weather is forecast to deteriorate Tuesday through most of Friday. It???s possible that birds might be on the move ahead of the next storm coming in Tuesday through Friday. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore, Herrick Wales, Ted Mara
Observers: Amy Maurer, Andy Sanford, Harris Stein, Harry Wales, Herrrick Wales, John Cannizzo, Judd Nathan, Kathryn Chihowski, Paul Roberts, Peter Duffy, Susan Moses
Visitors: Julie Roberts, Andrea Cannizzo, Mr. Faulconer.
This was the annual refuge clean-up day so there were many visitors on hand.
Weather: Winds NW to WNW 10 to 20 mph.. Temps 39 to 53 degrees Fahrenheit. Cloud cover pretty much non-existent for the entire watch period. Visibility around 20 kilometers. Air pressure 30.2.
Raptor Observations: 21 migrants were were counted today: 6 NH (2 females), 1 CH, 2 BE, 7 AK (4 males and 1 female), 1 PG and 4 ML (1 male). Raptors that failed to migrate: Many Harriers were hunting over dunes but failed to migrate. Others included OS 1, BE 1, PG 1.
Non-raptor Observations: 1 Raven, 1 Flicker, 12 Crows, 5 Goldfinches, many blackbirds. Also Long-tailed Ducks and Black Scoters off the beach.
Predictions: NW and WNW winds and warmer temps in mid 40s to mid 50s. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
What time was your sighting? My friend had three cranes in a pasture at her farm in Shelburne 8-8:30 AM this morning. I wonder if it’s the same ones?
Thank you,
Lindsay Clemens 01545
> On Mar 31, 2024, at 4:39 PM, Mark Fairbrother <bogelfin...> wrote: > > > This morning there were 3 Sandhill Cranes at the Pilgrim airport fields in Hatfield, way back near the forest, where a tom turkey walked by them, one of the few birds who could challenge the cranes in a size contest. > A couple hours later at least two of them had moved near to the road, where they were giving a couple people a great photo op. > At Great Swamp there were 5 Common Snipe, an Osprey and two Great Blue Heron, but not many ducks. > > Mark Fairbrother > Montague, MA 01351
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 12:30:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Dave Brown, Eric Mueller, Greg Watkevich, Jean Hampel, Jeff Johnstone
Visitors: Mike Gebow; Kate Watkewicz
Weather: The weather was a noticeable improvement with calm winds increasing to 12 west and temps between 38-52???F.Overcast sky to start shifting to mostly cloudy but bright. Visibility was very good with slight haze to the west.
Raptor Observations: We had a pulse of migrants around 11:00 EDT including our first Osprey! Red Tails were back to normal patrolling their hunting grounds. May have added another local BE.
Local Raptors:TV-33, BE-2, RT-6, CH-2
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: D.E.Junco-30+/-, N.Cardinal-4, Song Sparrow-6, W.T. Sparrow -4, H. Sparrow-16+/-, M.Dove-4, R.B.Woodpecker-1, A.Robin-31, B.Jay-8, Raven-4, A.Crow-11, F.Crow-1, E.Starling-175+/-, B.H.Cowbird-6, G.B. Heron-2, Hairy Woodpecker-1, D.Woodpecker-1,E.Bluebird-1, C.Goose-40, Red Crossbill-3, W.B.Nuthatch-1,E.Towhee
Predictions: The weather looks OK the next 2 days. Looking ahead, all eyes are on the looming Nor???easter mid week. It looks like a long duration storm that will likely shut down the watch for a few days. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 3/31/24 4:52 pm From: Denise Cabral <goshawk3...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Raptors, western MA, 6:30 to 7:00 PM
Driving on rte 291 in Springfield, MA, one adult Bald Eagle over the highway. Rte 20 x rte 32, Palmer, MA 8-10 Turkey Vultures Rte 20 x rte 19, downtown Brimfield, MA two Black Vultures over Hitchcock Academy! Denise CabralBrimfield
This morning there were 3 Sandhill Cranes at the Pilgrim airport fields in Hatfield, way back near the forest, where a tom turkey walked by them, one of the few birds who could challenge the cranes in a size contest. A couple hours later at least two of them had moved near to the road, where they were giving a couple people a great photo op. At Great Swamp there were 5 Common Snipe, an Osprey and two Great Blue Heron, but not many ducks.
Date: 3/31/24 7:49 am From: John Nelson <jnelson...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Re: Shorebird Conservation Panel at Association of Mass Bird Clubs
My apologies. The date of the shorebird panel is April 18, but that is a
Thursday, not a Wednesday,
John Nelson
Gloucester
On Sat, Mar 30, 2024 at 10:53 AM John Nelson <jnelson...> wrote:
> Birders,
>
> The Association of Mass Bird Clubs, which includes 24 bird clubs from
> across the state, was started in 2016 and meets twice a year via Zoom. Our
> next meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 18. Our meetings
> generally focus on Association business, but this meeting will feature an
> excellent panel discussing shorebird conservation. The panel will include
> state ornithologist Drew Vitz, Wayne Petersen and John Herbert from Mass
> Audubon, and Lisa Schibley from Manomet. In general, all individual members
> of member clubs are welcome to attend and participate in meetings, but in
> this case I am extending an invitation to any birders who might want
> to join what is sure to be a thought-provoking conversation. Birders need
> to mobilize and work together for bird conservation.
>
> For the Zoom link and any questions, you can contact John Nelson at
> <jnelson...>
>
> John Nelson
> AMBC Facilitator
>
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Arnie Bergeron, Bob Michaud, Eric Mueller, Jeff Johnstone, Richard Spedding
Visitors: Arnie Bergeron; Claire Barnes
Weather: The weather today was much of the same with cool NW winds 13-23 mph with gusts to 32. Some puffy clouds to start, then clearing with very good visibility. Temps ranged from 39-47???F.
Raptor Observations: Continued good observations of our local Bald Eagles as we have at least 1 Juv., 3 Imm., and a few adults. Migrants were few again today as the crew remains vigilant. Consecutive mornings with a Merlin.
Local Raptors: TV-4, BE-5, RT-3, CH-2
Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: B.Jay-5, Song Sparrow-6, D.E.Junco, W.T.Sparrow-1, Fox Sparrow-1, H.Sparrow-6, E.Starling-150+/-, M.Dove-2,A.Crow-8, Raven-4, E.Phoebe-1
Predictions: The forecast for tomorrow looks decent with some clouds and decreasing wind. Monday there is a chance of a shower, but with wind out of the south.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 3/30/24 7:57 am From: John Nelson <jnelson...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Shorebird Conservation Panel at Association of Mass Bird Clubs
Birders,
The Association of Mass Bird Clubs, which includes 24 bird clubs from across the state, was started in 2016 and meets twice a year via Zoom. Our next meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 18. Our meetings generally focus on Association business, but this meeting will feature an excellent panel discussing shorebird conservation. The panel will include state ornithologist Drew Vitz, Wayne Petersen and John Herbert from Mass Audubon, and Lisa Schibley from Manomet. In general, all individual members of member clubs are welcome to attend and participate in meetings, but in this case I am extending an invitation to any birders who might want to join what is sure to be a thought-provoking conversation. Birders need to mobilize and work together for bird conservation.
For the Zoom link and any questions, you can contact John Nelson at <jnelson...>
Observation start time: 12:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 2.5 hours
Official Counter: Bob Secatore
Observers: Visitors: Margo Goetschkes and Steve Grinley. Richard Faulconer and wife from Ipswich were on their way down island to try out their new bins.
Weather: Slight drizzle at start of watch vanished after the first half hour or so. Wind out of the NW throughout the watch period, starting at 7 mph but gaining strength to 23 mph by the end of the watch. Temperatures: 41 deg F at start and rising to 48 deg F at close. Cloud cover decreased as watch progressed from 100% at start when clearing began as a thin sliver of open sky in the west (100% cc) to 70% as western sky opened to 70% cloud cover at end of watch. the rise in temperature was not enough to compensate for the chilling effect of the rather fierce winds at close of watch.
Raptor Observations: One (1) imm NH migrant passed on the west side a half hour into watch.
It was another frustrating day with at least 7 or 8 Harriers hunting in the dunes just south of the platform but unwilling to continue migration north after moving a short distance past the refuge's north boundary before turning back to continue hunting in the dunes. During the entire watch period, an exceptionally high tide had the salt marsh completely flooded which probably explains why there were no Harriers observed hunting over the marsh (other than the thin strip alongside the road) at any time during the watch. Since Harriers are reluctant to migrate further along the east (beach) side of the island once they reach the residential development beyond the north border there, having a flooded marsh on the west flank today left them no habitat in which to hunt north of the refuge which probably explains why they stubbornly insisted on remaining in the dunes. Other raptors that also refused to migrate: one Osprey and one Bald Eagle. Shortly after the watch started, a dark morph Rough-leg flew south directly over the platform approximately 200 overhead. No Turkey Vultures were seen today. Non-raptor Observations: Very few Black Ducks and Canada Geese were on the marsh today. A modest, intermittent flow of Grackles moved through all day. One Red-breasted Merganser. One Song Sparrow.
Predictions: Sunny with temps 36 to 51 degrees Fahrenheit. Winds WNW all day and 18 to 20 mph velocity. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Greg McGuane, Joanne Hart, Ted Purcell
Visitors: Arnie Bergeron
Weather: The weather was cold and breezy with NW winds 7-15 mph. Overcast sky was tough to eventually break into filtered sun. Visibility was good with slight haze.
Raptor Observations: BEâs were around early and often. Started to see a little push of migrants mid day. Cooperâs Hawks were displaying a very Nighthawk-`like flight and would rise vertically, then drop straight down. Non-raptor Observations: Other Birds Observed: Song Sparrow-8, W.T.Sparrow-1, N.Cardinal-1, M.Dove-4, E.Towhee-1, Red Crossbill-2, B.Jay-6, House Sparrow-10, R.B.Woodpecker-1, B.H.Cowbird-2, R.W.Blackbird-5, A.Robin-12, C.Crow-6, Fish Crow-2, Raven-2, Mallard-2, C.Goose-8, G.B.Heron-1 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
Date: 3/29/24 10:08 am From: Barbara M Volkle <barb620...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] Wilson's Snipe + Pied-billed Grebe at high school wetland + Brook
Farm Reservation
Thanks to Paul Peterson for this post.
Barbara Volkle Northborough, MA <barb620...> *
Date: Fri, 29 Mar 2024 00:26:57 +0000 (UTC) From: Paul Peterson <petersonpaul63...> Subject: Wilson's Snipe + Pied-billed Grebe at high school wetland + Brook Farm Reservation
Yesterday evening, I had barely walked onto the long driveway which leads from V.F.W. Parkway to the former school when I decided to peer into the marsh with my binoculars. Immediately, I had five Wilson's Snipe feeding in the mud close to the driveway. As this was a year bird, I was happy. As I was focused on that one spot, another year bird appeared in my view-Pied-billed Grebe!
Virginia Rail 1 calling American Woodcock 5 displaying Great Horned Owl 1 calling Fox Sparrow 2 calling at dusk in dense tangles Swamp Sparrow 3 calling from swamp White-tailed Deer 1
Raptor Observations: Migrants: One migrating Northern Harrier at 9:45 hawk time. Saw this bird leave the island.
Raptors that failed to migrate: 6 to 12 Northern Harriers in and around the marsh during the entire hawk watch. Sex and age data not identifiable.. One adult bald eagle.
Non-raptor Observations: Other birds: Very quiet, usual suspects, killdeer, song sparrows, tree sparrows, goldeneye, mockingbird, common crow, etc.
Predictions: Very high probability of rain throughout the entire daylight hours. Wind direction variable NNW, N, NW, NNE.... In short, any significant movement on the island would be highly unlikely. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Secatore (<rs8843829...>) Plum Island MA information may be found at: http://www.massbird.org/emhw
Date: 3/28/24 5:44 am From: CRAIG GIBSON <cbgibson...> Subject: [MASSBIRD] WGBH Story on Crow Roost!
Greetings all,
For those with an interest, WGBH has just published a terrific TV, radio and print story on the Winter Crow Roost in Lawrence, MA.
Following a live ZOOM interview with David Sibley, the reporter, Craig LeMoult, was alerted to a question and answer exchange about the winter roost and was eager to learn more. He made multiple visits to Lawrence and we invited him to learn more about a fascinating research project sponsored by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).
The USACE funded a project using advanced 3D imaging technology to track the flight movements of crows and potentially prevent bird strikes on aircraft. Dale Fried, CEO of 3DEO, leads the research. Using Geiger-mode LIDAR, the team monitors the crows' movements, providing valuable data for a range of potential military applications.
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Mark Morris
Observers: Jeff Johnstone, Joanne Hart
Weather: The weather was cold and raw with temps between 33-41???F with overcast skies. Winds out of the NE 9-12 mph with gusts to 17. Visibility slightly hampered by haze and low clouds. Spot sprinkle.
Raptor Observations: Both the migrating and local raptors were sluggish to take flight. Joanne and I were able to salvage the day with a AK and CH migrating mid-morning. Not a lot of local TV???s roaming our area today.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Mark Morris (<MDMRemodeling...>) Adams Farm - Athol MA information may be found at: https://massbird.org/emhw/
