Even when the birding is slow, there is always something to look at while at the marsh such as this highbush cranbury, future food for winter birds, and a newly downed tree courtesy of a beaver.Nine birders headed into a bitter north wind for today’s West Rutland Marsh monitoring walk, our 136th consecutive trip around the marsh.
As expected the total number of species is reaching its yearly low with 19 species observed. Still this is one more than our November average of 18. It is, however, well below last year’s unusual high of 27.
A Ruffed Grouse startled the group as it burst out of the woods and flew across the road. A Red-tailed Hawk soared above the marsh. A lone robin’s tut tut was heard. As expected, the most activity was at feeders along Whipple Hollow Road.
American Black Duck 3
Mallard 12
Ruffed Grouse 1
Red-tailed Hawk 1
Rock Pigeon 11
Mourning Dove 4
Downy Woodpecker 2
Blue Jay 10
American Crow 7
Black-capped Chickadee 20
Tufted Titmouse 1
White-breasted Nuthatch 2
American Robin 1
European Starling 1
American Tree Sparrow 3
Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 6
House Finch 1
American Goldfinch 7
House Sparrow 2