Temperatures under 20 degrees and impending snow reminded the seven participants at today’s West Rutland Marsh walk that winter is looming. Despite the cold we tallied 22 species, one less than a year ago, and three more than our average for November.
Two common redpolls were spotted near the boardwalk by one early birder. This is a species expected to be seen in the northeast this year.
Further down Marble Street one sharp-eared birder picked up the sound of Bohemian waxwings, another winter irruptive reported this past week throughout the state. We then found 12 of them on top of a tree. If you are interested in what else might be seen this winter, click here for the annual finch forecast (which includes other species).
Also, along Marble Street, we alarmed a great blue heron lurking in the reeds and watched it as it circled a field and took off.
Two winter wrens were heard along Whipple Hollow Road, each in different locations.
Several American robins were recorded as well as a lone red-winged blackbird.
No pine grosbeaks or pine siskins were seen, but maybe we will see them on next month’s walk scheduled for Saturday, December 15, at 8 a.m. We all love our furry friends, but in order to lessen disturbance to our feathered friends, please leave pets at home.