a Black-capped Chickadee clings to phragmitesWith a brisk breeze blowing in our faces (seemingly from whichever direction we faced) and a chilly temperature, we had our first taste of winter birding this morning at West Rutland Marsh.
Eighteen species were tallied, one less than last year this time, but equaling our November 13-year average. Our highest November count has been 26 and as low as 11.
Most of the action was found at the feeders at some of the residences that circle the marsh. However, a Belted Kingfisher was observed flying over the marsh and the ‘kyeer’ of an unseen Northern Flicker was heard coming from the trees along Marble Street.
A Cooper’s Hawk circled overhead and was the only raptor for the day.
As expected American Tree Sparrows have arrived although not in great numbers. The only other sparrow species was Dark-eyed Junco.
The next marsh walk is scheduled for December 12 at 8 AM.
Today's list:
Mallard 8
Cooper's Hawk 1
Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon) 3
Mourning Dove 7
Belted Kingfisher 1
Downy Woodpecker 1
Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted) 1
Blue Jay 9
American Crow 1
Black-capped Chickadee 23
Red-breasted Nuthatch 1
White-breasted Nuthatch 2
Golden-crowned Kinglet 2
American Robin 3
American Tree Sparrow 3
Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 5
House Finch 3
American Goldfinch 18