Returning back to the freezing north, the ducks on Leverett Pond began to build up, and the dogs outnumbered the birds at Millennium Park, with the special sparrows long-gone.
Sunday 29th, Millennium Park, MA, USA
Monday 30th, Leverett Pond, MA, USA
Tuesday 31 December 2013
Saturday 30 November 2013
November 2013
At the start of the month I saw a large flock of grackles getting ready for migration at Riverway as I walked past.
Saturday 2nd, Riverway, Boston, MA, USA
Mid-month I braved the numerous unleashed dogs at Millennium Park for a couple of nice sparrows: Clay-Colored Sparrow and a life-tick FOX SPARROW also notable Hairy Woodpecker and Eastern Bluebirds.
Sunday 17th, Millennium Park, MA, USA
At the end of the month a Thanksgiving trip to Florida provided ample birds as usual. A visit to Siesta Key, for the amazing beach and Snowy Plover at the north end. A drive along Myakka Road to the State Park's north entrance provided a moment of good luck because as I watched Palm Warblers and Sandhill Cranes in someone's large front garden, a CRESTED CARACARA flew over; a very distinctive bird, life-tick and the highlight of the week/month!
Monday 25th, Myakka Road, FL, USA
Myakka SP itself was also awesome, especially the non-bird alligators, my first. I also saw my first CASPIAN TERN, LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS and BLACK-NECKED STILTS.
Monday 25th, Myakka River SP, FL, USA
Although I didn't see the scrub-jays at Shamrock Park, on the way back at Bowdoin Road I did see BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING DUCK, a life-tick.
Wednesday 27th, Bowdoin Road Pond, FL, USA
Saturday 2nd, Riverway, Boston, MA, USA
Mid-month I braved the numerous unleashed dogs at Millennium Park for a couple of nice sparrows: Clay-Colored Sparrow and a life-tick FOX SPARROW also notable Hairy Woodpecker and Eastern Bluebirds.
Sunday 17th, Millennium Park, MA, USA
At the end of the month a Thanksgiving trip to Florida provided ample birds as usual. A visit to Siesta Key, for the amazing beach and Snowy Plover at the north end. A drive along Myakka Road to the State Park's north entrance provided a moment of good luck because as I watched Palm Warblers and Sandhill Cranes in someone's large front garden, a CRESTED CARACARA flew over; a very distinctive bird, life-tick and the highlight of the week/month!
Monday 25th, Myakka Road, FL, USA
Myakka SP itself was also awesome, especially the non-bird alligators, my first. I also saw my first CASPIAN TERN, LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS and BLACK-NECKED STILTS.
Monday 25th, Myakka River SP, FL, USA
Although I didn't see the scrub-jays at Shamrock Park, on the way back at Bowdoin Road I did see BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING DUCK, a life-tick.
Wednesday 27th, Bowdoin Road Pond, FL, USA
Wednesday 30 October 2013
October 2013
Only one outing this month, a Leverett Pond patch visit, which turned up a couple of warblers: N. Parula and Blackpoll Warbler.
Also two patch-ticks: Cooper's Hawk, apparently hunting chipmunks, and Brown Creeper, creeping up and down tree trunks.
Saturday 5th, Leverett Pond, MA, USA
Also two patch-ticks: Cooper's Hawk, apparently hunting chipmunks, and Brown Creeper, creeping up and down tree trunks.
Saturday 5th, Leverett Pond, MA, USA
Monday 30 September 2013
September 2013
Birds seen this month included a few yellowlegs and plovers during a family outing to Hingham whilst having dinner in a car-park.
Sunday 1st, Hingham Bathing Beach, MA, USA.
And a Peregrine near Copley on my way from work.
Thursday 12th, Copley, Boston, MA, USA.
A mid-month Olmsted Park patch visit turned up a female BLUE-WINGED TEAL, first on Leverett then on Willow Pond, a life-tick.
Sunday 15th, Leverett Pond, Boston, MA, USA.
Sunday 1st, Hingham Bathing Beach, MA, USA.
And a Peregrine near Copley on my way from work.
Thursday 12th, Copley, Boston, MA, USA.
A mid-month Olmsted Park patch visit turned up a female BLUE-WINGED TEAL, first on Leverett then on Willow Pond, a life-tick.
Sunday 15th, Leverett Pond, Boston, MA, USA.
Tuesday 27 August 2013
Gooseberry Neck, Bristol, US-MA, 25-Aug-2013
11:53 AM - 2:00 PM
Protocol: Traveling
1.5 mile(s)
Comments: Outing to a familiar migration hotspot on a lovely day.
Weather: bright, hot & sunny.
21 species
Common Eider X
Double-crested Cormorant X
Osprey X
Protocol: Traveling
1.5 mile(s)
Comments: Outing to a familiar migration hotspot on a lovely day.
Weather: bright, hot & sunny.
21 species
Common Eider X
Double-crested Cormorant X
Osprey X
Grey Plover 2 on nearby rocks off south-east tip; primary projection not beyond tail, pale top of head, noticeable bill.
Spotted Sandpiper 1 foraging on rock close to south-east shore. Easily identifiable shape and bobbing behaviour.
Whimbrel 4 flew in low, directly towards and over me as I stood on the southern tip! The settled on the nearby beach and started to forage, keeping a eye loosely on me.
Sanderling 50 along the shore, flying to avoid people, and then roosting at the end of the island as I sat about 40 yards away having my lunch. I was able to move off without disturbing them.
Semipalmated Sandpiper 5 + foraging at various points along the shore, or on rocks in the water.
Spotted Sandpiper 1 foraging on rock close to south-east shore. Easily identifiable shape and bobbing behaviour.
Whimbrel 4 flew in low, directly towards and over me as I stood on the southern tip! The settled on the nearby beach and started to forage, keeping a eye loosely on me.
Sanderling 50 along the shore, flying to avoid people, and then roosting at the end of the island as I sat about 40 yards away having my lunch. I was able to move off without disturbing them.
Semipalmated Sandpiper 5 + foraging at various points along the shore, or on rocks in the water.
Laughing Gull X
Ring-billed Gull X
Herring Gull X
Great Black-backed Gull X
Least Tern 3 between rocks to the east and south of the mainland. They and other terns initially moved between the near eastern rocks and the further away southern rocks, before mainly settling on the farther rocks.
Black Tern 3 on southern rocks; small, darker body including tail, but not possible to pick out too many more details because I only had my binoculars.
Common Tern 1
Forster's Tern 1 flew out to the southern rocks, distinctive face mask just about visible.
Ring-billed Gull X
Herring Gull X
Great Black-backed Gull X
Least Tern 3 between rocks to the east and south of the mainland. They and other terns initially moved between the near eastern rocks and the further away southern rocks, before mainly settling on the farther rocks.
Black Tern 3 on southern rocks; small, darker body including tail, but not possible to pick out too many more details because I only had my binoculars.
Common Tern 1
Forster's Tern 1 flew out to the southern rocks, distinctive face mask just about visible.
Mourning Dove 2 near the tower.
Tree Swallow 100 + flying throughout and many perching on reeds.
Barn Swallow 1 or 2 among the tree swallows.
Grey Catbird X
Song Sparrow 1
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S15095339
Tree Swallow 100 + flying throughout and many perching on reeds.
Barn Swallow 1 or 2 among the tree swallows.
Grey Catbird X
Song Sparrow 1
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S15095339
Sunday 28 July 2013
Olmsted Park--Ward's Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 27-Jul-2013
2:57 PM - 3:35 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Last part of patch visit, including a nice sit by the pond in the sunshine. I was also able to walk on the new boardwalk.
2 species
Great Black-backed Gull 1 over to Jamaica Pond.
Grey Catbird 1
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S15087833
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Last part of patch visit, including a nice sit by the pond in the sunshine. I was also able to walk on the new boardwalk.
2 species
Great Black-backed Gull 1 over to Jamaica Pond.
Grey Catbird 1
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S15087833
Olmsted Park--Leverett Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 27-Jul-2013
2:06 PM - 2:33 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Summer patch visit.
Weather: hot and sunny.
8 species
American Black Duck X
Mallard X
Double-crested Cormorant X
Blue Jay X
American Robin X
European Starling 1
Song Sparrow 1 heard.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S15087764
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Summer patch visit.
Weather: hot and sunny.
8 species
American Black Duck X
Mallard X
Double-crested Cormorant X
Blue Jay X
American Robin X
European Starling 1
Song Sparrow 1 heard.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S15087764
Olmsted Park--Willow Pond and Meadow, Suffolk, MA, USA, 27-Jul-2013
2:34 PM - 2:56 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Second part of patch visit.
And 1536-1546 on the way back.
10 species
Mallard 5 including 3 juveniles.
Downy Woodpecker X
Tufted Titmouse X
American Robin X
Grey Catbird 1
Cedar Waxwing 1
Red-winged Blackbird 2 males.
Common Grackle 6
American Goldfinch 2 males, seen separately.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S15087816
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Second part of patch visit.
And 1536-1546 on the way back.
10 species
Mallard 5 including 3 juveniles.
Downy Woodpecker X
Tufted Titmouse X
American Robin X
Grey Catbird 1
Cedar Waxwing 1
Red-winged Blackbird 2 males.
Common Grackle 6
American Goldfinch 2 males, seen separately.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S15087816
Sunday 14 July 2013
Parker River NWR--North Pool Overlook, Essex, MA, USA, 13-Jul-2013
7:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Protocol: Stationary
Comments: Final stop on the day-trip. A dusky look over the pond.
Weather: sunny, warm, dusk.
13 species
Mallard X
Wild Turkey X - including an adult and two chicks that crossed the road just before we pulled off into the overlook parking area.
Snowy Egret X
Semipalmated Plover 1
Least Sandpiper X
Willow Flycatcher 1 chasing other birds off low to the south of the parking area.
Eastern Kingbird X
Tree Swallow X
Barn Swallow 1 flew in from the direction of the barn to the north, and out over the field next to the pond.
European Starling X
Song Sparrow X
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14695645
Protocol: Stationary
Comments: Final stop on the day-trip. A dusky look over the pond.
Weather: sunny, warm, dusk.
13 species
Mallard X
Wild Turkey X - including an adult and two chicks that crossed the road just before we pulled off into the overlook parking area.
Snowy Egret X
Semipalmated Plover 1
Least Sandpiper X
Willow Flycatcher 1 chasing other birds off low to the south of the parking area.
Eastern Kingbird X
Tree Swallow X
Barn Swallow 1 flew in from the direction of the barn to the north, and out over the field next to the pond.
European Starling X
Song Sparrow X
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14695645
Sandy Point Carpark and Beach, Essex, MA, USA, 13-Jul-2013
6:00 PM
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: After reaching the end of the road on the island we took a brief walk out from the carpark to the beach, & back again.
Weather: bright, sunny, cooling breeze.
11 species
Osprey 2 over the sea.
Ring-billed Gull X
Herring Gull X
Great Black-backed Gull X
Least Tern X
Tree Swallow X
Grey Catbird X
Cedar Waxwing 1 alighted in the small trees around the carpark.
Common Yellowthroat 1 male, briefly showed at the top of a tall shrub as I sat in the car. Striking bandit's mask stood out in the sunlight.
American Redstart 2 total; the first was a female on the ground in the carpark at the front of our car. An unusual please to see one, on the ground, but great to get such a close look! The second I saw when I took a brief walk up a small path just off the carpark.
Yellow Warbler X - a few adults in low shrubs around the area with vociferous young in tow.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14695616
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: After reaching the end of the road on the island we took a brief walk out from the carpark to the beach, & back again.
Weather: bright, sunny, cooling breeze.
11 species
Osprey 2 over the sea.
Ring-billed Gull X
Herring Gull X
Great Black-backed Gull X
Least Tern X
Tree Swallow X
Grey Catbird X
Cedar Waxwing 1 alighted in the small trees around the carpark.
Common Yellowthroat 1 male, briefly showed at the top of a tall shrub as I sat in the car. Striking bandit's mask stood out in the sunlight.
American Redstart 2 total; the first was a female on the ground in the carpark at the front of our car. An unusual please to see one, on the ground, but great to get such a close look! The second I saw when I took a brief walk up a small path just off the carpark.
Yellow Warbler X - a few adults in low shrubs around the area with vociferous young in tow.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14695616
Parker River NWR--Salt Pans, Essex, MA, USA, 13-Jul-2013
4:00 PM - 4:15 PM
Protocol: Stationary
Comments: Family roadtrip to a place I have been reading about for ages. We drove the length of the island & back again, hardly venturing out due to the swarms of biting green-headed flies. On the way back dusk has set so mosquitoes cam out instead, but a wonderful place nonetheless & I hope to return many times as there were lots of birds.
Weather: bright, sunny & very hot.
12 species
Snowy Egret 1
Willet 1
Lesser Yellowlegs 1
Least Sandpiper X
Least Tern X
Eastern Kingbird X
Tree Swallow 2
Grey Catbird X
European Starling X
Song Sparrow X
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14695560
Protocol: Stationary
Comments: Family roadtrip to a place I have been reading about for ages. We drove the length of the island & back again, hardly venturing out due to the swarms of biting green-headed flies. On the way back dusk has set so mosquitoes cam out instead, but a wonderful place nonetheless & I hope to return many times as there were lots of birds.
Weather: bright, sunny & very hot.
12 species
Snowy Egret 1
Willet 1
Lesser Yellowlegs 1
Least Sandpiper X
Least Tern X
Eastern Kingbird X
Tree Swallow 2
Grey Catbird X
European Starling X
Song Sparrow X
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14695560
Plum Island--North End, Essex, MA, USA, 13-Jul-2013
3:50 PM
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: With Kim. Weather: bright, warm some clouds.
3 species
Purple Martin X - at lighthouse gourds. An easy life-tick.
Northern Cardinal 1
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14634999
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: With Kim. Weather: bright, warm some clouds.
3 species
Purple Martin X - at lighthouse gourds. An easy life-tick.
Northern Cardinal 1
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14634999
Sunday 30 June 2013
Olmsted Park--Willow Pond and Meadow, Suffolk, MA, USA, 29-Jun-2013
6:55 PM - 7:16 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Second part of a small patch visit. Even more mozzies at this part of the park so I quickly walked through, but on the way back I had a nice surprise.
6 species
Mallard 5 including 4 chicks.
Black-crowned Night-Heron 1 adult. As I walked back towards to Leverett Pond a man was crouched taking photos of what I assumed was the reflection in one of the pools. As I got closer I saw he was actually photographing this heron which was close to the path. It soon flew off as it saw me, but after briefly updating the finder as to what it was, I walked round the other side of the pond where I watched it from near the road. Resplendent in breeding plumage it was motionless for a long while but when a mallard family bustled through it flew off to Leverett Pond where I did not see it again when I walked back that way. Site-tick.
American Robin X
Song Sparrow 1 heard singing in the meadow.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14564122
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Second part of a small patch visit. Even more mozzies at this part of the park so I quickly walked through, but on the way back I had a nice surprise.
6 species
Mallard 5 including 4 chicks.
Black-crowned Night-Heron 1 adult. As I walked back towards to Leverett Pond a man was crouched taking photos of what I assumed was the reflection in one of the pools. As I got closer I saw he was actually photographing this heron which was close to the path. It soon flew off as it saw me, but after briefly updating the finder as to what it was, I walked round the other side of the pond where I watched it from near the road. Resplendent in breeding plumage it was motionless for a long while but when a mallard family bustled through it flew off to Leverett Pond where I did not see it again when I walked back that way. Site-tick.
American Robin X
Song Sparrow 1 heard singing in the meadow.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14564122
Olmsted Park--Leverett Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 29-Jun-2013
6:25 PM - 6:55 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Another later patch visit - plenty of mosquitoes about so I couldn't linger unfortunately.
7:16pm to 7:30pm on the way back.
Weather: bright & sunny, breeze (N).
15 species
Canada Goose X
American Black Duck X
Mallard X
Double-crested Cormorant X
Mourning Dove X
Chimney Swift X
Eastern Kingbird 1
Warbling Vireo 1
American Robin X
Grey Catbird 1 heard.
European Starling X
Cedar Waxwing 1 , a site-tick.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14564075
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Another later patch visit - plenty of mosquitoes about so I couldn't linger unfortunately.
7:16pm to 7:30pm on the way back.
Weather: bright & sunny, breeze (N).
15 species
Canada Goose X
American Black Duck X
Mallard X
Double-crested Cormorant X
Mourning Dove X
Chimney Swift X
Eastern Kingbird 1
Warbling Vireo 1
American Robin X
Grey Catbird 1 heard.
European Starling X
Cedar Waxwing 1 , a site-tick.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14564075
Monday 24 June 2013
Olmsted Park--Leverett Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 23-Jun-2013
7:55 PM - 8:27 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: An evening patch visit with mum.
Weather: hot & sticky; dusk.
11 species
Canada Goose X
Double-crested Cormorant X
Great Blue Heron X
Northern Flicker 1 dusting itself in the dust of the batting zone on the software pitch.
Eastern Kingbird 2
Warbling Vireo X
Northern Rough-winged Swallow 2 including one juvenile. Flying over the water calling as they frequently exchanged food. Both were brown therefore not tree swallow.
American Robin X
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14564059
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: An evening patch visit with mum.
Weather: hot & sticky; dusk.
11 species
Canada Goose X
Double-crested Cormorant X
Great Blue Heron X
Northern Flicker 1 dusting itself in the dust of the batting zone on the software pitch.
Eastern Kingbird 2
Warbling Vireo X
Northern Rough-winged Swallow 2 including one juvenile. Flying over the water calling as they frequently exchanged food. Both were brown therefore not tree swallow.
American Robin X
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14564059
Sunday 19 May 2013
Olmsted Park--Leverett Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 18-May-2013
7:27 PM - 7:42 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: On the way back from my extended walk to Jamaica Pond.
3 species
Spotted Sandpiper 1 with the solitary sandpiper.
Solitary Sandpiper 1 on mud bank just off small island at north-west point of pond. At first I thought it was a lesser yellowlegs but the legs were not that yellow & it was smaller overall. Verifying from photos and videos on the internet. Life-tick.
Eastern Kingbird 1
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14165144
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: On the way back from my extended walk to Jamaica Pond.
3 species
Spotted Sandpiper 1 with the solitary sandpiper.
Solitary Sandpiper 1 on mud bank just off small island at north-west point of pond. At first I thought it was a lesser yellowlegs but the legs were not that yellow & it was smaller overall. Verifying from photos and videos on the internet. Life-tick.
Eastern Kingbird 1
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14165144
Jamaica Pond--Pinebank Promontory, Suffolk, MA, USA, 18-May-2013
6:00 PM - 6:47 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Fourth part of patch walk, I included an extension to Jamaica Pond and found a nice little part of wood and open meadow.
13 species
Canada Goose X
Mallard X
Mourning Dove 1 heard.
Eastern Kingbird 2 total; first one high in a pine tree, later joined by another which it either flirted or fought with.
Warbling Vireo X
Tree Swallow 1
American Robin X
European Starling X
Chipping Sparrow 1 on the grass in the meadow area, up and down in a nearby tree.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
Baltimore Oriole 1 immature bird in low shrubs by the path as I was leaving; flew about & squawked, maybe trying to find a roost?
American Goldfinch X - a few over as I sat on a bench, later I saw one or two in the trees.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14176437
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Fourth part of patch walk, I included an extension to Jamaica Pond and found a nice little part of wood and open meadow.
13 species
Canada Goose X
Mallard X
Mourning Dove 1 heard.
Eastern Kingbird 2 total; first one high in a pine tree, later joined by another which it either flirted or fought with.
Warbling Vireo X
Tree Swallow 1
American Robin X
European Starling X
Chipping Sparrow 1 on the grass in the meadow area, up and down in a nearby tree.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
Baltimore Oriole 1 immature bird in low shrubs by the path as I was leaving; flew about & squawked, maybe trying to find a roost?
American Goldfinch X - a few over as I sat on a bench, later I saw one or two in the trees.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14176437
Olmsted Park--Ward's Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 18-May-2013
5:33 PM - 6:00 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Third part of the patch walk.
6 species
Chimney Swift X
Tree Swallow 2 around the nest box.
Veery 1 along the path on the west-side of the pond. Brown-buff colour, light spots and angular features. Site-tick.
American Robin X
Grey Catbird 1 singing.
Common Grackle 2
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14176353
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Third part of the patch walk.
6 species
Chimney Swift X
Tree Swallow 2 around the nest box.
Veery 1 along the path on the west-side of the pond. Brown-buff colour, light spots and angular features. Site-tick.
American Robin X
Grey Catbird 1 singing.
Common Grackle 2
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14176353
Olmsted Park--Willow Pond and Meadow, Suffolk, MA, USA, 18-May-2013
5:14 PM - 5:33 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Second part of patch walk.
6:59pm on the way back.
14 species
Mallard 2 , a pair.
Chimney Swift X
Downy Woodpecker 1
Blue Jay X
Black-capped Chickadee X
Swainson's Thrush 1 just off the path on the way back.
American Robin X
Grey Catbird 1 heard.
European Starling X
Yellow-rumped Warbler 1 or 2 with chickadees on the way back.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
Baltimore Oriole X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14176258
Olmsted Park--Leverett Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 18-May-2013
4:35 PM - 5:13 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: First part of another patch visit.
Weather: bright, cloudy, warm.
21 species
Canada Goose X
Double-crested Cormorant 1
Great Blue Heron 1
Spotted Sandpiper 1 on small island at north-end of pond.
Mourning Dove 2
Downy Woodpecker X
Northern Flicker 1
Eastern Kingbird 1
Warbling Vireo X
Blue Jay X
Tufted Titmouse X
Hermit Thrush 1 heard singing from east-side woods - clear single starting note followed by musical warbles.
American Robin X
Grey Catbird X - heard.
European Starling X
Northern Waterthrush 1 at 7:15pm on the way back, creeping along a dried out channel between the pond's side & an island. It scolded me before quickly walking away into the undergrowth.
Yellow-rumped Warbler X
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
Baltimore Oriole 1
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14563973
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: First part of another patch visit.
Weather: bright, cloudy, warm.
21 species
Canada Goose X
Double-crested Cormorant 1
Great Blue Heron 1
Spotted Sandpiper 1 on small island at north-end of pond.
Mourning Dove 2
Downy Woodpecker X
Northern Flicker 1
Eastern Kingbird 1
Warbling Vireo X
Blue Jay X
Tufted Titmouse X
Hermit Thrush 1 heard singing from east-side woods - clear single starting note followed by musical warbles.
American Robin X
Grey Catbird X - heard.
European Starling X
Northern Waterthrush 1 at 7:15pm on the way back, creeping along a dried out channel between the pond's side & an island. It scolded me before quickly walking away into the undergrowth.
Yellow-rumped Warbler X
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
Baltimore Oriole 1
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14563973
Saturday 18 May 2013
Boston Public Garden, Suffolk, MA, USA, 17-May-2013
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Visit before work. Mostly the warblers I was looking for were in a few trees near the south-west entrance, next to the water. The trees around the maintenance hut were quiet.
Weather: Bright and sunny, cool with a breeze.
14 species
Mallard X
American Robin X
European Starling X
American Redstart 1 female singing.
Magnolia Warbler 1
Yellow Warbler 1
Chestnut-sided Warbler 1
Yellow-rumped Warbler 2
Black-throated Green Warbler 1 heard.
Song Sparrow 1
White-throated Sparrow 2
Common Grackle X
Baltimore Oriole 2
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14151886
Friday 17 May 2013
Boston Public Garden, Suffolk, MA, USA, 16-May-2013
5:35 PM
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: Quick visit after work.
8 species
Mallard X
Chimney Swift X
Warbling Vireo X - heard.
American Robin X
European Starling X
Common Yellowthroat 1 male near south-west entrance.
Baltimore Oriole 1 on west side of water.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14140677
Monday 13 May 2013
Olmsted Park--Ward's Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 12-May-2013
5:28 PM - 5:50 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Continuing on from Willow Pond. The boardwalk was still closed off, so I did the west-side of the pond then headed back.
10 species
Mallard X
Great Blue Heron 1 flew over.
Warbling Vireo X
Blue Jay X
American Robin X
European Starling X
Yellow-rumped Warbler X
Red-winged Blackbird X
Baltimore Oriole X - including good views next to the path.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14091998
Olmsted Park--Willow Pond and Meadow, Suffolk, MA, USA, 12-May-2013
2:33 PM - 3:28 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Continuing on from Leverett Pond. One the way back I lingered in the area again between 1528 and 1550.
21 species
Rock Dove X - over.
Warbling Vireo X - heard.
Blue Jay X
Tufted Titmouse 2 both apparently wet after a wash!
Swainson's Thrush 2 in bushes next to the pond as I waited for the waterthrush to reappear. One appeared at first then another. They were furtive but then briefly fought each other and flew out of view.
American Robin X
Grey Catbird X
European Starling X
Northern Waterthrush 1 on the bank of Willow Pond. It caught my eye as I approached the rocks next to the path as it flitted up then down onto the mud. I quickly got my binoculars on it to reveal a prominent eye stripe, streaked chest, brown tones and bobbing tail. It was smaller than I expected but a straightforward id to make for a life-tick. It walked off round the pond & out of sight unfortunately.
Black-and-white Warbler X - several in the area.
American Redstart 1 male, high up in one of the tall trees just before the hill - a nice spot.
Northern Parula X
Chestnut-sided Warbler 1 male, on the way back, briefly sang and I was able to somehow get my binoculars right on it as it paused. Beautiful looking bird, unfortunately it didn't linger, and even though I thought I had a good handle on where it went to, it didn't reappear.
Black-throated Blue Warbler 1 heard.
Yellow-rumped Warbler X
Black-throated Green Warbler 1 male, heard then seen high in a tree at the top of the hill.
Song Sparrow 1 heard.
White-throated Sparrow 2 along the path at the bottom of the hill.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Baltimore Oriole X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14091910
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Continuing on from Leverett Pond. One the way back I lingered in the area again between 1528 and 1550.
21 species
Rock Dove X - over.
Warbling Vireo X - heard.
Blue Jay X
Tufted Titmouse 2 both apparently wet after a wash!
Swainson's Thrush 2 in bushes next to the pond as I waited for the waterthrush to reappear. One appeared at first then another. They were furtive but then briefly fought each other and flew out of view.
American Robin X
Grey Catbird X
European Starling X
Northern Waterthrush 1 on the bank of Willow Pond. It caught my eye as I approached the rocks next to the path as it flitted up then down onto the mud. I quickly got my binoculars on it to reveal a prominent eye stripe, streaked chest, brown tones and bobbing tail. It was smaller than I expected but a straightforward id to make for a life-tick. It walked off round the pond & out of sight unfortunately.
Black-and-white Warbler X - several in the area.
American Redstart 1 male, high up in one of the tall trees just before the hill - a nice spot.
Northern Parula X
Chestnut-sided Warbler 1 male, on the way back, briefly sang and I was able to somehow get my binoculars right on it as it paused. Beautiful looking bird, unfortunately it didn't linger, and even though I thought I had a good handle on where it went to, it didn't reappear.
Black-throated Blue Warbler 1 heard.
Yellow-rumped Warbler X
Black-throated Green Warbler 1 male, heard then seen high in a tree at the top of the hill.
Song Sparrow 1 heard.
White-throated Sparrow 2 along the path at the bottom of the hill.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Baltimore Oriole X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14091910
Olmsted Park--Leverett Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 12-May-2013
12:50 PM - 2:33 PM
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Comments: Patch visit hoping to see more spring migrants after reports from other areas of the city that there had been some arrivals.
Weather: bright & sunny, warm; after morning rain.
23 species
Canada Goose X - including chicks.
Mallard X
Double-crested Cormorant X
Mourning Dove X
Chimney Swift X
Downy Woodpecker 2 heard then seen on the east-side.
Warbling Vireo X - several singing and I saw one collecting nesting material.
White-breasted Nuthatch X
Swainson's Thrush 1 seen in the small glade adjacent to the softball pitch as I lingered looking for warblers. It flew up and perched at eye-level allowing some photos to be taken. I assumed at the time it was hermit, but at home looking at the pictures it had a less dumpy shape, with breast spots that appeared different and it had a distinct eye-ring and buff around the bill, which all pointed to Swainson's. Life-tick.
American Robin X
Grey Catbird X - one or two heard singing initially, a few seen later on. FOY.
European Starling X
Black-and-white Warbler X - heard singing at first on the east-side, then one or two picked up. After that a few more seen further towards the south of the pond.
Common Yellowthroat 1 male singing from low brush; impressively yellow with a black bandit mask. Site-tick.
American Redstart 1 male, up in the canopy of the oak trees in the small glade adjacent to the softball pitch. This was a good spot to be, with lots of yellow-rumps, a yellowthroat, black-throated blue and Swainson's thrush all in the same area!
Northern Parula 6 minimum, several singing through-out area.
Black-throated Blue Warbler 1 male, heard then seen near the eastern bridge, flitting about in the large oaks trees. Gave several good views. Site-tick.
Yellow-rumped Warbler 20 minimum, throughout the area.
Northern Cardinal X - heard.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
Baltimore Oriole X - heard singing a few times as I walked around, including from across the pond on the west-side, then I saw one or two flying around or perching feeding in the foliage.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14091633
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Comments: Patch visit hoping to see more spring migrants after reports from other areas of the city that there had been some arrivals.
Weather: bright & sunny, warm; after morning rain.
23 species
Canada Goose X - including chicks.
Mallard X
Double-crested Cormorant X
Mourning Dove X
Chimney Swift X
Downy Woodpecker 2 heard then seen on the east-side.
Warbling Vireo X - several singing and I saw one collecting nesting material.
White-breasted Nuthatch X
Swainson's Thrush 1 seen in the small glade adjacent to the softball pitch as I lingered looking for warblers. It flew up and perched at eye-level allowing some photos to be taken. I assumed at the time it was hermit, but at home looking at the pictures it had a less dumpy shape, with breast spots that appeared different and it had a distinct eye-ring and buff around the bill, which all pointed to Swainson's. Life-tick.
American Robin X
Grey Catbird X - one or two heard singing initially, a few seen later on. FOY.
European Starling X
Black-and-white Warbler X - heard singing at first on the east-side, then one or two picked up. After that a few more seen further towards the south of the pond.
Common Yellowthroat 1 male singing from low brush; impressively yellow with a black bandit mask. Site-tick.
American Redstart 1 male, up in the canopy of the oak trees in the small glade adjacent to the softball pitch. This was a good spot to be, with lots of yellow-rumps, a yellowthroat, black-throated blue and Swainson's thrush all in the same area!
Northern Parula 6 minimum, several singing through-out area.
Black-throated Blue Warbler 1 male, heard then seen near the eastern bridge, flitting about in the large oaks trees. Gave several good views. Site-tick.
Yellow-rumped Warbler 20 minimum, throughout the area.
Northern Cardinal X - heard.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
Baltimore Oriole X - heard singing a few times as I walked around, including from across the pond on the west-side, then I saw one or two flying around or perching feeding in the foliage.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14091633
Saturday 11 May 2013
Boston Public Garden, Suffolk, MA, USA, 10-May-2013
2:20 PM - 3:10 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Quick lunch-time visit for any migrants.
Weather: bright and sunny; warm.
14 species
Mute Swan 2 , a pair on a nest, popular with visitors and their cameras.
Mallard X
Herring Gull X
Rock Dove X
Chimney Swift X
Eastern Kingbird 1 perched high on tree at the north-side of the park. It flew off further north out of the park.
Warbling Vireo X
European Starling X
Black-and-white Warbler X - several, male and female.
Northern Parula X
Yellow Warbler 1 high in a willow tree near the maintenance shed.
Yellow-rumped Warbler X
Common Grackle X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14064157
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Quick lunch-time visit for any migrants.
Weather: bright and sunny; warm.
14 species
Mute Swan 2 , a pair on a nest, popular with visitors and their cameras.
Mallard X
Herring Gull X
Rock Dove X
Chimney Swift X
Eastern Kingbird 1 perched high on tree at the north-side of the park. It flew off further north out of the park.
Warbling Vireo X
European Starling X
Black-and-white Warbler X - several, male and female.
Northern Parula X
Yellow Warbler 1 high in a willow tree near the maintenance shed.
Yellow-rumped Warbler X
Common Grackle X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14064157
Monday 6 May 2013
Olmsted Park--Ward's Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 5-May-2013
11:13 AM - 11:23 AM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Continuing on from Willow Pond, however the dilapidated boardwalk at the south of pond was under construction so I could not complete my usual lap.
5 species
Mourning Dove 1
Chimney Swift 3
Song Sparrow X
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14092854
Olmsted Park--Willow Pond and Meadow, Suffolk, MA, USA, 5-May-2013
10:46 AM - 11:13 AM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Continuing on from Leverett Pond.
11 species
Mallard 4 total - 2 males together then a pair.
Blue-headed Vireo 1 slowly singing in one of the high trees at the hill. I got a better look than the week before, and clearly saw its white spectacles.
Blue Jay X
Black-capped Chickadee X
Tufted Titmouse X
White-breasted Nuthatch 1 at the hill.
American Robin X
Northern Parula 1 also at the hill, just after the blue-headed vireo.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14092826
Olmsted Park--Leverett Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 5-May-2013
9:53 AM - 10:46 AM
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Comments: Another patch visit, with high hopes of more warblers.
Weather: bright, sunny, warm.
22 species
Canada Goose X - including a pair with 4 chicks.
Double-crested Cormorant 2
Great Blue Heron 1
Red-tailed Hawk 1 over water to the west.
Mourning Dove 2
Downy Woodpecker 2 together on the east-side.
Warbling Vireo X
Northern Rough-winged Swallow 1 at the northern tip of the pond. It flew off as I approached the wall but flew around before settling on a branch overhanging the water. Warm brown back head and chest, fusing to white. It twittered for a bit then flew off again, just as I got my camera out, & unfortunately did not return, nor did I see it on my way back about an hour later. Site-tick.
Tree Swallow 4 flying over the water during my whole walk. At one point one perched on a tree at the water's edge close to where I was standing.
Black-capped Chickadee X - heard.
Tufted Titmouse X
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
American Robin X
European Starling X
Yellow Warbler 1 singing in the small trees at the east stone bridge.
Palm Warbler 2
Yellow-rumped Warbler X
Song Sparrow 2 in japanese knotweed clumps near east stone bridge.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
Baltimore Oriole 2 chasing each other as they swiftly flew along the water on the east-side of the pond. One perched atop a tree allowing identification - FOY.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14092767
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Comments: Another patch visit, with high hopes of more warblers.
Weather: bright, sunny, warm.
22 species
Canada Goose X - including a pair with 4 chicks.
Double-crested Cormorant 2
Great Blue Heron 1
Red-tailed Hawk 1 over water to the west.
Mourning Dove 2
Downy Woodpecker 2 together on the east-side.
Warbling Vireo X
Northern Rough-winged Swallow 1 at the northern tip of the pond. It flew off as I approached the wall but flew around before settling on a branch overhanging the water. Warm brown back head and chest, fusing to white. It twittered for a bit then flew off again, just as I got my camera out, & unfortunately did not return, nor did I see it on my way back about an hour later. Site-tick.
Tree Swallow 4 flying over the water during my whole walk. At one point one perched on a tree at the water's edge close to where I was standing.
Black-capped Chickadee X - heard.
Tufted Titmouse X
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
American Robin X
European Starling X
Yellow Warbler 1 singing in the small trees at the east stone bridge.
Palm Warbler 2
Yellow-rumped Warbler X
Song Sparrow 2 in japanese knotweed clumps near east stone bridge.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
Baltimore Oriole 2 chasing each other as they swiftly flew along the water on the east-side of the pond. One perched atop a tree allowing identification - FOY.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14092767
Monday 29 April 2013
Olmsted Park--Ward's Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 28-Apr-2013
2:15 PM - 2:40 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Third part of my Olmsted Park patch visit.
9 species
Mallard 1 male.
Double-crested Cormorant 1 over.
Eastern Phoebe 1 singing from the trees by the east side of the pond.
Blue Jay 1
Blue-grey Gnatcatcher 1 singing noisily on the west-side of the pond. There may have been two near to each other but I only saw one.
Yellow Warbler 1 seen after checking all the yellow-rumped on the south-side of the pond. It was foraging among the branches in the sunlight, minding its own business. FOY & site-tick.
Yellow-rumped Warbler 6 approx. in the trees on the east and south-side of the pond, some singing.
Song Sparrow 1 singing on the south-side.
Northern Cardinal 1 over water.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13921144
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Third part of my Olmsted Park patch visit.
9 species
Mallard 1 male.
Double-crested Cormorant 1 over.
Eastern Phoebe 1 singing from the trees by the east side of the pond.
Blue Jay 1
Blue-grey Gnatcatcher 1 singing noisily on the west-side of the pond. There may have been two near to each other but I only saw one.
Yellow Warbler 1 seen after checking all the yellow-rumped on the south-side of the pond. It was foraging among the branches in the sunlight, minding its own business. FOY & site-tick.
Yellow-rumped Warbler 6 approx. in the trees on the east and south-side of the pond, some singing.
Song Sparrow 1 singing on the south-side.
Northern Cardinal 1 over water.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13921144
Olmsted Park--Willow Pond and Meadow, Suffolk, MA, USA, 28-Apr-2013
2:02 PM - 2:15 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Second part of my Olmsted Park patch.
9 species
Blue Jay 3
Black-capped Chickadee X
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
American Robin X
Yellow-rumped Warbler 1
Northern Cardinal 1 over, chipping.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13921108
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Second part of my Olmsted Park patch.
9 species
Blue Jay 3
Black-capped Chickadee X
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
American Robin X
Yellow-rumped Warbler 1
Northern Cardinal 1 over, chipping.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13921108
Olmsted Park--Leverett Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 28-Apr-2013
1:22 PM - 2:02 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Another spring walk around the patch for arriving migrants.
Weather: bright, sunny, warm.
19 species
Canada Goose X
Mallard 2 , a pair.
Double-crested Cormorant 2
Mourning Dove 1 near softball pitches.
Red-bellied Woodpecker 1 seen flying onto trunk of large tree in area to the east of the pond, before the small bridge.
Blue-headed Vireo 1 seen high in one of the tall trees on the pond's east-side and small footbridge area. At first I heard a vireo call, thinking it was red-eyed I waited to see it in the un-leafed out tree, but soon realised the song was too languid and less repetitious than than the red-eyed, so I looked more keenly. Soon I saw the bird flitting about among the high branches & was able to identify from dark head, prominent eye ring, yellow wash on underwing area & wingbars. It moved about & eventually I lost sight of it. Life-tick.
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Another spring walk around the patch for arriving migrants.
Weather: bright, sunny, warm.
19 species
Canada Goose X
Mallard 2 , a pair.
Double-crested Cormorant 2
Mourning Dove 1 near softball pitches.
Red-bellied Woodpecker 1 seen flying onto trunk of large tree in area to the east of the pond, before the small bridge.
Blue-headed Vireo 1 seen high in one of the tall trees on the pond's east-side and small footbridge area. At first I heard a vireo call, thinking it was red-eyed I waited to see it in the un-leafed out tree, but soon realised the song was too languid and less repetitious than than the red-eyed, so I looked more keenly. Soon I saw the bird flitting about among the high branches & was able to identify from dark head, prominent eye ring, yellow wash on underwing area & wingbars. It moved about & eventually I lost sight of it. Life-tick.
Warbling Vireo 2 just after the blue-headed. They were singing aggressively from pond-side trees, at each other and soon chased themselves away, one flying over the pond. Took me a few seconds to become reacquainted with the song, but their unremarkable appearance helped jolt my memory. FOY.
Tree Swallow 1
Black-capped Chickadee X
Blue-grey Gnatcatcher 1 singing from trees in the productive east-side area. A strange squawking song, I was able to get nice views as it busied itself calling out and foraging. Site-tick.
American Robin X
European Starling X
Palm Warbler 3 all in the area at the east side of the pond and the small footbridge, a productive area; all were foraging busily.
Yellow-rumped Warbler 2 individuals, one singing softly.
Song Sparrow 1 on the way back.
Red-winged Blackbird X - in song.
Common Grackle X
American Goldfinch 1 singing on a tree next to the pond in the productive east-side area.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13987460
Black-capped Chickadee X
Blue-grey Gnatcatcher 1 singing from trees in the productive east-side area. A strange squawking song, I was able to get nice views as it busied itself calling out and foraging. Site-tick.
American Robin X
European Starling X
Palm Warbler 3 all in the area at the east side of the pond and the small footbridge, a productive area; all were foraging busily.
Yellow-rumped Warbler 2 individuals, one singing softly.
Song Sparrow 1 on the way back.
Red-winged Blackbird X - in song.
Common Grackle X
American Goldfinch 1 singing on a tree next to the pond in the productive east-side area.
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13987460
Tuesday 23 April 2013
Olmsted Park--Ward's Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 21-Apr-2013
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Tufted Titmouse X
Ruby-crowned Kinglet 2 males fighting and displaying at each along the path. Initially buzzy blur when they stopped on shrubs right next to the path I got a good look before they quickly flew off again. I followed and saw both displaying at each other with their ruby crowns, like a couple of angry punk-rockers. They went for each other again & disappeared into the undergrowth. Site-tick.
American Robin X
Song Sparrow 2 singing at each other across the southern end of the pond.
Northern Cardinal 1 male singing above the path on the west side of the pond.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13847954
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Third part of Olmstead Park walk around Wards Pond.
10 species
Herring Gull 2 over the pond, one adult one immature.
Downy Woodpecker 1 descending call heard just after the hairy from the opposite direction.
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: Third part of Olmstead Park walk around Wards Pond.
10 species
Herring Gull 2 over the pond, one adult one immature.
Downy Woodpecker 1 descending call heard just after the hairy from the opposite direction.
Hairy Woodpecker 1 female at the base of the small hill before the pond. I spotted it from the path next to the pond as it flew up to a trunk where it stayed low down before flying off back towards Willow pond way. Obvious difference in size to downy with prominent bill, as it flew off it also gave a strong 'pik pik pik' call; a species I had been hoping to see more of. Site-tick.
Tufted Titmouse X
Ruby-crowned Kinglet 2 males fighting and displaying at each along the path. Initially buzzy blur when they stopped on shrubs right next to the path I got a good look before they quickly flew off again. I followed and saw both displaying at each other with their ruby crowns, like a couple of angry punk-rockers. They went for each other again & disappeared into the undergrowth. Site-tick.
American Robin X
Song Sparrow 2 singing at each other across the southern end of the pond.
Northern Cardinal 1 male singing above the path on the west side of the pond.
Red-winged Blackbird X
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13847954
Olmstead Park--Willow Pond and Meadow, Suffolk, MA, USA, 21-Apr 21-2013
2:20 PM - 2:30 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Second part of Olmstead Park walk in the pretty productive area between the small Willow Pond and the small hill before Wards Pond.
8 species
Canada Goose X
Mallard 1 male.
Blue Jay 1
Tufted Titmouse X
American Robin X
Northern Cardinal 1 heard.
Red-winged Blackbird 1 male, vocal, on the boom that stretches across the pond. Emitting a high-pitched persistent 'zeeep' call.
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13847805
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Comments: Second part of Olmstead Park walk in the pretty productive area between the small Willow Pond and the small hill before Wards Pond.
8 species
Canada Goose X
Mallard 1 male.
Blue Jay 1
Tufted Titmouse X
American Robin X
Northern Cardinal 1 heard.
Red-winged Blackbird 1 male, vocal, on the boom that stretches across the pond. Emitting a high-pitched persistent 'zeeep' call.
Common Grackle X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13847805
Olmsted Park--Leverett Pond, Suffolk, MA, USA, 21-Apr-2013
1:45 PM - 2:20 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: First part of a spring Olmstead Park walk, looking for early migrants.
Weather: bright & sunny, cool.
21 species
Canada Goose X
American Black Duck 1
Mallard 2 a pair on the west side of the pond on the way back.
Double-crested Cormorant 2
Red-tailed Hawk 1 over.
Mourning Dove X
Downy Woodpecker 1 heard.
Northern Flicker 1 flew east over Jamaicaway.
Blue Jay 1
Tree Swallow 1 over the water of the pond. FOY.
Black-capped Chickadee X
Tufted Titmouse 2 including one carrying nesting material.
Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1 singing on a small island on the west side of the pond. I heard it first then picked it out, as I headed back home and after seeing two males fighting at Wards Pond.
American Robin X
European Starling 3 over.
Palm Warbler 1 just behind the yellow-rumped, on the ground amongst the knotweed. Pumping its tail with a brown crest.
Yellow-rumped Warbler 1 at the south-eastern end of the pond in the area of knotweed, it moved among the branches of a small tree. Close views of bright spring plumage: yellow flanks, rump & small yellow head streak. FOY.
Song Sparrow 1 singing near the warblers.
Red-winged Blackbird 1 male, very vocal at the water's edge.
Common Grackle X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13847728
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Comments: First part of a spring Olmstead Park walk, looking for early migrants.
Weather: bright & sunny, cool.
21 species
Canada Goose X
American Black Duck 1
Mallard 2 a pair on the west side of the pond on the way back.
Double-crested Cormorant 2
Red-tailed Hawk 1 over.
Mourning Dove X
Downy Woodpecker 1 heard.
Northern Flicker 1 flew east over Jamaicaway.
Blue Jay 1
Tree Swallow 1 over the water of the pond. FOY.
Black-capped Chickadee X
Tufted Titmouse 2 including one carrying nesting material.
Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1 singing on a small island on the west side of the pond. I heard it first then picked it out, as I headed back home and after seeing two males fighting at Wards Pond.
American Robin X
European Starling 3 over.
Palm Warbler 1 just behind the yellow-rumped, on the ground amongst the knotweed. Pumping its tail with a brown crest.
Yellow-rumped Warbler 1 at the south-eastern end of the pond in the area of knotweed, it moved among the branches of a small tree. Close views of bright spring plumage: yellow flanks, rump & small yellow head streak. FOY.
Song Sparrow 1 singing near the warblers.
Red-winged Blackbird 1 male, very vocal at the water's edge.
Common Grackle X
House Sparrow X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13847728
Monday 1 April 2013
Apponagansett Beach & Bay inc. Knowles Beach & Marsh, Bristol, MA, USA, 31-Mar-2013
12:00 PM - 1:45 PM
Protocol: Traveling
1.5 mile(s)
Comments: Easter visit to the in-laws & the usual walk with Kim & father-in-law.
Weather: bright & sunny, cool.
13 species
Bufflehead 3 distant from Apponagansett on the water.
Great Northern Diver 1 flew in to the water as we sat at Apponagansett.
Turkey Vulture 1 at Apponogansett.
Osprey 1 on nest platform in creek, seen from a road off W Smith Neck Rd.
Ring-billed Gull X
Herring Gull X
Blue Jay X
Black-capped Chickadee X
European Starling X
Savannah Sparrow 6 approx. foraging over the short grass in the carpark at Apponagansett, occasionally perching on fences & picnic tables. Hint of yellow lores and lightly streaked underparts without conspicuous chest dot of song sparrow.
Dark-eyed Junco X
Northern Cardinal X
American Goldfinch 1 sticking close to feeders in one of the gardens on Smith Neck Road. It moved between a tree next to the feeders & the feeders.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13634074
1.5 mile(s)
Comments: Easter visit to the in-laws & the usual walk with Kim & father-in-law.
Weather: bright & sunny, cool.
13 species
Bufflehead 3 distant from Apponagansett on the water.
Great Northern Diver 1 flew in to the water as we sat at Apponagansett.
Turkey Vulture 1 at Apponogansett.
Osprey 1 on nest platform in creek, seen from a road off W Smith Neck Rd.
Ring-billed Gull X
Herring Gull X
Blue Jay X
Black-capped Chickadee X
European Starling X
Savannah Sparrow 6 approx. foraging over the short grass in the carpark at Apponagansett, occasionally perching on fences & picnic tables. Hint of yellow lores and lightly streaked underparts without conspicuous chest dot of song sparrow.
Dark-eyed Junco X
Northern Cardinal X
American Goldfinch 1 sticking close to feeders in one of the gardens on Smith Neck Road. It moved between a tree next to the feeders & the feeders.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13634074
Sunday 24 March 2013
John Ringling Blvd. Bridge, Sarasota, FL, USA, 23-Mar-2013
9:30 PM
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: As Kim & I drove home from dinner in St. Armand's.
1 species
Black-crowned Night-Heron 6 all perched on pillars alongside the road bridge, facing out to the water; size, colour & head streamers distinctive even at 40mph in the dark.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13539232
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: As Kim & I drove home from dinner in St. Armand's.
1 species
Black-crowned Night-Heron 6 all perched on pillars alongside the road bridge, facing out to the water; size, colour & head streamers distinctive even at 40mph in the dark.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13539232
Saturday 23 March 2013
Stump Pass Beach SP, Charlotte, FL, USA, 22-Mar-2013
2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Protocol: Stationary
Comments: Another trip to the beach with Kim; most of the time spent sitting around but we did go for a walk to the point.
Weather: bright, sunny, warm; mixed clouds.
11 species
Brown Pelican X
Turkey Vulture X
Osprey X - at least one pair nesting in the area.
Willet X
Ruddy Turnstone X
Sanderling X
Laughing Gull X
Ring-billed Gull X
Forster's Tern X
Royal Tern X
Black Skimmer X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13633985
Comments: Another trip to the beach with Kim; most of the time spent sitting around but we did go for a walk to the point.
Weather: bright, sunny, warm; mixed clouds.
11 species
Brown Pelican X
Turkey Vulture X
Osprey X - at least one pair nesting in the area.
Willet X
Ruddy Turnstone X
Sanderling X
Laughing Gull X
Ring-billed Gull X
Forster's Tern X
Royal Tern X
Black Skimmer X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13633985
W Perry Lane--N Indiana Ave Intersection, Sarasota, FL, USA, 22-Mar-2013
1:45 PM
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: Kim & I on our way to Stump Pass beach on 776, I spotted some raptors soaring west off the road. Weather: cloudy, warm.
2 species
Black Vulture 2
Swallow-tailed Kite 1 soaring alongside black vultures back towards Englewood. From the road it initially looked almost like a gull, but I spotted its fork tail & knew immediately what it was. We pulled over at the intersection & I looked through binoculars to see the tail & pale undersides contrasting with grey forward underparts: unmistakable. It sailed off east into the distance. Life-tick.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13480475
Comments: Kim & I on our way to Stump Pass beach on 776, I spotted some raptors soaring west off the road. Weather: cloudy, warm.
2 species
Black Vulture 2
Swallow-tailed Kite 1 soaring alongside black vultures back towards Englewood. From the road it initially looked almost like a gull, but I spotted its fork tail & knew immediately what it was. We pulled over at the intersection & I looked through binoculars to see the tail & pale undersides contrasting with grey forward underparts: unmistakable. It sailed off east into the distance. Life-tick.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13480475
Friday 22 March 2013
Siesta Key, Sarasota, FL, USA, 21-Mar-2013
11:30 AM
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: Day out on the beach with Kim.
Weather: bright & sunny; windy (NE).
10 species
Double-crested Cormorant 2 out to sea.
Brown Pelican X
Osprey 1 over sea.
Laughing Gull X
Ring-billed Gull X
Royal Tern X
Eurasian Collared-Dove 3 on overhead power lines in the carpark, cooing away.
Fish Crow X
Common Grackle X - carpark.
Boat-tailed Grackle X - carpark.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13471818
Comments: Day out on the beach with Kim.
Weather: bright & sunny; windy (NE).
10 species
Double-crested Cormorant 2 out to sea.
Brown Pelican X
Osprey 1 over sea.
Laughing Gull X
Ring-billed Gull X
Royal Tern X
Eurasian Collared-Dove 3 on overhead power lines in the carpark, cooing away.
Fish Crow X
Common Grackle X - carpark.
Boat-tailed Grackle X - carpark.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13471818
Thursday 21 March 2013
Shamrock Park, Sarasota, FL, USA, 20-Mar-2013
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Florida Scrub-Jay 2 total; first one on the way back up the firebreak path. It was calling from a low shrub which it continued to do for a few minutes, it then flew directly towards where we were standing on the path observing it, coming closer & closer until it alighted on my head for a couple of seconds! It then flew back to another nearby shrub where it continued to call, moving slightly away from the path as we left it. The second was atop a small tree on the way to the visitors' centre. It called for 10 minutes or so before a gust of wind caused it to take wing.
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Comments: A late small walk with Kim in average weather which caused the beach to be cancelled. Weather: blustery, spots of rain, mild.
14 species
Double-crested Cormorant 1 along intercoastal.
Brown Pelican 1 towards the sea.
Great Blue Heron 2
Snowy Egret 1 along intercoastal.
Laughing Gull X
Royal Tern X - a group of about a dozen flew over the carpark towards the intercoastal as we left.
Mourning Dove X
Red-bellied Woodpecker 2 total; one on dead tree at end of firebreak path, another about halfway back up the path, repeatedly coming in to a patch on the ground before flying back to a thick tree branch.
Downy Woodpecker 1 heard then seen.
1.0 mile(s)
Comments: A late small walk with Kim in average weather which caused the beach to be cancelled. Weather: blustery, spots of rain, mild.
14 species
Double-crested Cormorant 1 along intercoastal.
Brown Pelican 1 towards the sea.
Great Blue Heron 2
Snowy Egret 1 along intercoastal.
Laughing Gull X
Royal Tern X - a group of about a dozen flew over the carpark towards the intercoastal as we left.
Mourning Dove X
Red-bellied Woodpecker 2 total; one on dead tree at end of firebreak path, another about halfway back up the path, repeatedly coming in to a patch on the ground before flying back to a thick tree branch.
Downy Woodpecker 1 heard then seen.
Florida Scrub-Jay 2 total; first one on the way back up the firebreak path. It was calling from a low shrub which it continued to do for a few minutes, it then flew directly towards where we were standing on the path observing it, coming closer & closer until it alighted on my head for a couple of seconds! It then flew back to another nearby shrub where it continued to call, moving slightly away from the path as we left it. The second was atop a small tree on the way to the visitors' centre. It called for 10 minutes or so before a gust of wind caused it to take wing.
Carolina Wren 1 heard singing & briefly glimpsed as it flitted down into undergrowth.
Northern Mockingbird X - several around apparently staking out territories?
Palm Warbler 3 individuals flitting low down at intervals along the path, with chestnut heads.
Pine Warbler X - several in the trees throughout.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13472067
Northern Mockingbird X - several around apparently staking out territories?
Palm Warbler 3 individuals flitting low down at intervals along the path, with chestnut heads.
Pine Warbler X - several in the trees throughout.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13472067
Saturday 16 March 2013
Brookline Village T Station, Norfolk, MA, USA, 15-Mar-2013
8:15 AM
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: Waiting for the train to work.
2 species
European Starling X
Common Grackle 3 FOY singing from nearby trees then flew off towards the village.
Comments: Waiting for the train to work.
2 species
European Starling X
Common Grackle 3 FOY singing from nearby trees then flew off towards the village.
Friday 15 March 2013
Highlands Ranch to Denver Airport, Arapahoe, CO, USA, 14-Mar-2013
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Protocol: Traveling
40.0 mile(s)
Comments: In a taxi from my hotel to the airport.
Weather: bright, sunny, cool.
7 species
Canada Goose X
Red-tailed Hawk X - a few seen along the way including one western dark-morph on a fencepost off the highway.
Ring-billed Gull X
Northern Flicker 1 on a lamppost in the carpark of the cinema next door to the hotel, drumming & calling.
Black-billed Magpie 6 in a small tree on a rough patch of unspoiled land seen from the highway.
American Robin X
Red-winged Blackbird 2 in the same patch of land as the magpies.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13634157
40.0 mile(s)
Comments: In a taxi from my hotel to the airport.
Weather: bright, sunny, cool.
7 species
Canada Goose X
Red-tailed Hawk X - a few seen along the way including one western dark-morph on a fencepost off the highway.
Ring-billed Gull X
Northern Flicker 1 on a lamppost in the carpark of the cinema next door to the hotel, drumming & calling.
Black-billed Magpie 6 in a small tree on a rough patch of unspoiled land seen from the highway.
American Robin X
Red-winged Blackbird 2 in the same patch of land as the magpies.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13634157
Tuesday 12 March 2013
Interstate 470--Intersection 177, Douglas, CO, USA, 11-Mar-2013
5:30 PM
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: Heading to hotel on business trip with work colleagues, seen from the car.
Weather: cold and grey but with some blue.
2 species
Black-billed Magpie 1 flew up on to a bush next to the road. Life-tick.
American Crow X - also seen at various points along the road to the hotel.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13371782
Protocol: Incidental
Comments: Heading to hotel on business trip with work colleagues, seen from the car.
Weather: cold and grey but with some blue.
2 species
Black-billed Magpie 1 flew up on to a bush next to the road. Life-tick.
American Crow X - also seen at various points along the road to the hotel.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13371782
Monday 11 March 2013
Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, Norfolk, MA, USA, 10-Mar-2013
10:45 AM - 12:30 PM
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Comments: With Kim, Christina & Brian for Maple Sugaring event along with several other people in the 2 foot deep snow. The sanctuary put on a nice event & I was even able to see a few species as we wandered the trails although the woods were very quiet, the best activity was on the centre's feeders.
Weather: cloudy then out bright; cold; 2 feet of snow on the ground.
10 species
Downy Woodpecker 1 on the feeders, viewed from the canteen as we ate pancakes with maple syrup.
Blue Jay X - heard.
Common Raven 2 flew over individually as I put my snow boots on in the carpark. Wonderful unmistakable call & large size.
Black-capped Chickadee X - mainly on the feeders but also heard in the woods.
Tufted Titmouse X - feeders.
Red-breasted Nuthatch X - several on the feeders; easy to identify with red breast & black head stripes. Along with the chickadees it was the most numerous bird on the feeders. Life-tick.
White-breasted Nuthatch 1 on a tree in the carpark next to our car.
Dark-eyed Junco X - a few flitting around, mainly under the feeders or within nearby bushes.
Northern Cardinal 2
Pine Siskin X - a few, or maybe even just one, coming in & out to the sunflower seeds. I only saw one at a time so it may have been just one, or a few taking turns.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13380682
1.0 mile(s)
Comments: With Kim, Christina & Brian for Maple Sugaring event along with several other people in the 2 foot deep snow. The sanctuary put on a nice event & I was even able to see a few species as we wandered the trails although the woods were very quiet, the best activity was on the centre's feeders.
Weather: cloudy then out bright; cold; 2 feet of snow on the ground.
10 species
Downy Woodpecker 1 on the feeders, viewed from the canteen as we ate pancakes with maple syrup.
Blue Jay X - heard.
Common Raven 2 flew over individually as I put my snow boots on in the carpark. Wonderful unmistakable call & large size.
Black-capped Chickadee X - mainly on the feeders but also heard in the woods.
Tufted Titmouse X - feeders.
Red-breasted Nuthatch X - several on the feeders; easy to identify with red breast & black head stripes. Along with the chickadees it was the most numerous bird on the feeders. Life-tick.
White-breasted Nuthatch 1 on a tree in the carpark next to our car.
Dark-eyed Junco X - a few flitting around, mainly under the feeders or within nearby bushes.
Northern Cardinal 2
Pine Siskin X - a few, or maybe even just one, coming in & out to the sunflower seeds. I only saw one at a time so it may have been just one, or a few taking turns.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13380682
Sunday 3 March 2013
Apponagansett Beach & Bay inc. Knowles Beach & Marsh, Bristol, MA, USA, 2-Mar-2013
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Protocol: Traveling
1.5 mile(s)
Comments: Usual walk with Kim when visiting the in-laws.
Weather: bright, cool, breezy.
13 species
Bufflehead X
Red-breasted Merganser X
Great Northern Diver X
Ring-billed Gull X
Herring Gull X
Downy Woodpecker 1 on a garden feeder right next to the road.
American Crow X
Black-capped Chickadee X
Tufted Titmouse X
European Starling X - with the blackbirds & grackle.
Dark-eyed Junco X - several flying low in the same garden as the woodpecker.
Red-winged Blackbird 2 singing from high trees off the road on the way back. It took me a while to remember the song as winter has felt so long! They were with a grackle & a starling; first of year.
Common Grackle 1 with the blackbirds; first of year.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13632370
1.5 mile(s)
Comments: Usual walk with Kim when visiting the in-laws.
Weather: bright, cool, breezy.
13 species
Bufflehead X
Red-breasted Merganser X
Great Northern Diver X
Ring-billed Gull X
Herring Gull X
Downy Woodpecker 1 on a garden feeder right next to the road.
American Crow X
Black-capped Chickadee X
Tufted Titmouse X
European Starling X - with the blackbirds & grackle.
Dark-eyed Junco X - several flying low in the same garden as the woodpecker.
Red-winged Blackbird 2 singing from high trees off the road on the way back. It took me a while to remember the song as winter has felt so long! They were with a grackle & a starling; first of year.
Common Grackle 1 with the blackbirds; first of year.
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13632370
Saturday 19 January 2013
Boston Nature Center Wildlife Sanctuary, Suffolk, MA, USA, 19-Jan-2013
13:50 - 15:00
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Comments: With Kim for a Sunday walk around the centre, using our new Audubon membership. A lot of activity was around the feeders but there were some good-sized flocks at a couple of spots in the sanctuary.
Weather: partially cloudy, blustery, cold.
17 species
Mallard X
Wild Turkey 25 approx. walked across the path in front of us, mostly unhurried & unconcerned!
Red-tailed Hawk 1
Mourning Dove X
Downy Woodpecker 1
Northern Flicker 3 not all seen together, but at various places as we walked.
American Crow X
Black-capped Chickadee X
Tufted Titmouse X
White-breasted Nuthatch X
Carolina Wren X
American Robin X
Northern Mockingbird 1
White-throated Sparrow X
Dark-eyed Junco 20 + all around the sanctuary.
Northern Cardinal X
American Goldfinch X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13032223
This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Comments: With Kim for a Sunday walk around the centre, using our new Audubon membership. A lot of activity was around the feeders but there were some good-sized flocks at a couple of spots in the sanctuary.
Weather: partially cloudy, blustery, cold.
17 species
Mallard X
Wild Turkey 25 approx. walked across the path in front of us, mostly unhurried & unconcerned!
Red-tailed Hawk 1
Mourning Dove X
Downy Woodpecker 1
Northern Flicker 3 not all seen together, but at various places as we walked.
American Crow X
Black-capped Chickadee X
Tufted Titmouse X
White-breasted Nuthatch X
Carolina Wren X
American Robin X
Northern Mockingbird 1
White-throated Sparrow X
Dark-eyed Junco 20 + all around the sanctuary.
Northern Cardinal X
American Goldfinch X
View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S13032223
This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)
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