The scattered snow showers predicted for today turned out to be one continual flurry during this morning’s West Rutland Marsh monitoring walk. Nevertheless, the moderate temperature and no wind made it a pleasant morning for the six participating birders.
The usual suspects were present – chickadees, goldfinches, American Tree Sparrows among others. Near the green house (formerly known as the yellow house), four male Red-winged Blackbirds were hanging out in a tree, no doubt taking advantage of the feeders.
The loud cawing of crows attracted our attention. As we turned the corner from Marble Street and walked down Pleasant Street a Cooper’s Hawk flew up from the side of the road. Further investigation lead us to the remains of what looked to be a Ruffed Grouse with only the feet, a wing, bones and the gizzard left. The only other raptors of the day were two Red-tailed Hawks, at one point sitting together in a tree.
A flock of 17 Brown-headed Cowbirds, both male and female, was unusual for January.
The tally was 19 species, three less than last year at this time, but one above our 13-year January average. Another notable number is that this was marsh walk No. 150.
Today's list:
Cooper's Hawk 1
Red-tailed Hawk 2
Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon) 5
Mourning Dove 36
Downy Woodpecker 3
Hairy Woodpecker 1
Pileated Woodpecker 1
Blue Jay 20
American Crow 7
Black-capped Chickadee 31
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
American Robin 1
European Starling 14
American Tree Sparrow 9
Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 8
Red-winged Blackbird 4
Brown-headed Cowbird 17 i
American Goldfinch 28
House Sparrow 1