It was a spectacular day at West Rutland Marsh with bright sunshine, warm temperatures and foliage turning on the hillsides. Fourteen observers turned out for the walk. Forty-one species were tallied, quite a bit more than last year’s 28 and our average of 36 for the month of September.
Waterfowl species included Canada goose, mallard and wood duck.
A few raptor species were seen with the highlight being an immature bald eagle soaring over the ridge accompanied by turkey vultures. An American kestrel and a broad-winged hawk were also observed.
exploring the new trailNine northern flickers were seen with several on the road on Marble Street. Other woodpecker species included hairy and downy and one yellow-bellied sapsucker.
Gray catbirds were numerous and two brown thrashers were a treat along Marble Street.
Warblers were scattered here and there and included common yellowthroat, magnolia chestnut-sided, palm, yellow-rumped, and black-throated green warblers.
A Lincoln's sparrow was seen as well as several swamp sparrows and four song sparrows. A lone purple finch was singing atop a tree on Pleasant Street.
Another highlight was the opportunity to explore Phase I of the new trail off of Whipple Hollow Road.
The next walk is scheduled for Saturday, October 19, at 8 a.m.
The list: