Eleven participants tallied 19 species during the Rutland County Audubon monitoring walk around West Rutland Marsh on December 13, our 137th consecutive walk. This is one more than our December average, but below last year's count of 22.
The species seen were the expected ones with the highlight being a flock of 27 Wild Turkeys feeding in a cornfield. High numbers of Black-capped Chickadees and Mourning Doves were observed.
Also, two participants witnessed an American Black Duck dabbling and coming up with a frog, which it promptly swallowed!
Also, of note we have surpassed the 1600 mark for the number of participants in the monthly walk (albeit with several repeat participants).
Our next West Rutland Marsh monitoring walk is scheduled for Saturday, January 19, 8 a.m.
American Black Duck 1
Mallard 19
Wild Turkey 27
Mourning Dove 43
Downy Woodpecker 3
Hairy Woodpecker 2
Blue Jay 25
American Crow 9
Common Raven 2
Black-capped Chickadee 51
Tufted Titmouse 2
White-breasted Nuthatch 3
European Starling 15
American Tree Sparrow 4
Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 1
Northern Cardinal 2
House Finch 11
American Goldfinch 8
House Sparrow 1