Eastern BluebirdNot much could be done to improve today’s trip around West Rutland Marsh, our 147th consecutive monthly monitoring walk. Cool morning temperatures rose to 70 degrees and the sky was cloudless. Thirteen participants tallied 34 species, matching last year’s total and two above our 13-year average.
Ruby-crowned Kinglets were in much evidence, a couple of them even singing. Two Golden-crowned Kinglets were also spotted. Swamp Sparrows and Song Sparrows were also singing. At one point a Marsh Wren, a Carolina Wren and House Wren were battling for best vocalist.
A soaring Red-tailed Hawk looked much like the front cover of the Sibley Field guide. Three Northern Harriers were observed including one high up near the mountain ridge.
The always popular Eastern Bluebirds were present giving everyone a good look and looking spectacular against the blue sky.
A single Hermit Thrush was seen, but no Gray Catbird or Common Yellowthroat. Dark-eyed Juncos and White-throated Sparrows were in much evidence as with the rest of the state this week. A single Savannah Sparrow was noted.
Several Red-winged Blackbirds were seen, but Common Grackles were present in large numbers including a flock of 300 or so on Pleasant Street.
Our next marsh walk is scheduled for Thursday, November 14, 8 AM.
Today's list:
Canada Goose 300
American Black Duck 1
Mallard 17
Great Blue Heron 1
Northern Harrier 3
Red-tailed Hawk 2
Mourning Dove 2
Belted Kingfisher 2
Downy Woodpecker 3
Pileated Woodpecker 1
Eastern Phoebe 1
Blue Jay 7
American Crow 3
Common Raven 8
Black-capped Chickadee 19
Tufted Titmouse 2
Marsh Wren 1
Carolina Wren 1
Golden-crowned Kinglet 2
Ruby-crowned Kinglet 9
Eastern Bluebird 3
Hermit Thrush 1
American Robin 22
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle) 4
Savannah Sparrow 1
Song Sparrow 9
Swamp Sparrow 8
White-throated Sparrow 26
Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 21
Northern Cardinal 1
Red-winged Blackbird 22
Common Grackle 339
American Goldfinch 10