Five birders ventured out for RCAS’s monthly walk around West Rutland Marsh on December 11. Although the predicted wind never materialized, the trip was punctuated by heavy downpours. Fortunately, the temperature didn’t drop below 40.
Twelve species were tallied, a low number compared to last year’s 19 species and our December average of 19.
Black-capped chickadees provided the highest numbers count. American tree sparrows, along with the chickadees have found the newly-filled feeders at the boardwalk on Marble Street.
Although not terribly birdy, veering off onto our new Whipple Hollow Trail gave us a little shelter from the rain under the trees.
The walk was not without a couple highlights however. A pair of hooded mergansers flew up from the unfrozen water on Marble Street and our return to the boardwalk was celebrated with a male northern harrier flying low across the marsh.
Our next walk is scheduled for Thursday, January 27, 8 a.m.
The list: