Winter returned after a brief break for today’s walk around West Rutland Marsh with a chilly temperature and light wind. Twelve observers tallied 19 species. The walk was held in conjunction with this weekend's Great Backyard Bird Count which runs through Monday.
Red-winged Blackbirds returned to Vermont this week. Two were at the feeding station by the boardwalk on Marble Street. We also heard them singing ‘klonkaree.’ Northern Cardinals and Tufted Titmice were also singing.
The only raptor of the day was a Red-tailed Hawk soaring above the marsh and up toward the ridgeline.
Eastern Bluebirds were seen feeding on sumac. Only two American Tree Sparrows were observed and one Dark-eyed Junco.
Seven Downy Woodpeckers were seen and one Pileated Woodpecker was heard.
A complete list of today’s species can be found here.
Our next marsh walk is scheduled for Thursday, March 16, at 8 a.m.