Once again, the weather was summer-like for the walk around West Rutland Marsh. Rather than crisp fall weather, there was high humidity and a wind that grew steadily stronger as the morning went on. Eight participants tallied 30 species, two fewer than our October average. Last year’s species count was 34.
The number of marsh ‘regulars’ is dwindling for the year. One swamp sparrow (the call notes of two others were heard elsewhere on the way) sang near the boardwalk as did a marsh wren that sang its rattling song several times. The only waterfowl seen was one Canada goose that came in for a landing. A gray catbird was also near the boardwalk on Marble Street.
Raptors for the day included on accipiter species and one red-tailed hawk.
Canada GeeseOne ruby-crowned kinglet and four yellow-rumped warblers, two species being reported around the state right now, were seen.
Both black-capped chickadees and American robins were seen in good numbers. Blue jays and American crows were also in good numbers, but only one common raven was heard.
A ruffed grouse was on the boardwalk at the new Whipple Hollow Trail.
Seventy-two red-winged blackbirds and a dozen common grackles were observed.
Our next marsh walk is scheduled for Thursday, November 4, at 8 a.m.
The list: