golden-winged warbler survey

Golden-winged Warbler/photo by Mark LaBarrThe Golden-winged Warbler has been in the bird news a lot lately, but mostly for the wrong reason. Its numbers are declining at an alarming rate. Suitable habitat is getting harder for it to find. Also, it is being out-competed by its cousin, the Blue-winged Warbler, with which it hybridizes.

Golden-winged Warblers are pretty fussy about their habitat and for that reason occur only in certain areas of Vermont. A quick look at eBird data for the past ten years shows them on the western side of the state, primarily in the Champlain Valley and down into Rutland County. Click here to see a map. Only a scattering of reports show them in the southeastern portion of the state. Some of the best habitat for Golden-winged Warbler as well as Blue-winged Warbler, Eastern Towhee, Brown Thrasher, Prairie Warbler, Field Sparrow and American Woodcock occur along power lines. The early successional shrubbery interspersed with open areas is exactly what these species need for successful nesting.

Good citizen scientists always love a project! For the past three years Audubon Vermont has partnered with VELCO (the Vermont Electric Power Company) to determine the population and location of Golden-winged Warblers and the other above named species along VELCO’s power lines in the Champlain Valley. Rutland County Audubon members and other volunteers from Otter Creek Audubon and Green Mountain Audubon took to the power lines enthusiastically (what true birder can resist birding with a purpose?).

The work was not without its challenges – ticks, hot weather, cold weather, steep hills, thorns, barbed wire, cows, and, on one occasion, yaks. Sites from West Rutland north to Williston were surveyed. The other above-named species were counted as well along with Brown-headed Cowbirds.

Some good news has come out of the project. Forty locations were surveyed and 60 Golden-winged Warblers were located, a higher number than expected. Seventy-three Blue-winged Warblers were tallied. Observations of these two species were confirmed by sight as the songs and calls produced by hybrids can sound like Golden-winged, Blue-winged or a combination of the two. Fifty-three hybrids were also counted (check your field guide to see just how confusing this can be!) along with 38 ‘winged’ warblers that were heard only.

Hopefully the power line surveys will continue in 2015. If you are interested in participating, contact us at birding@rutlandcountyaudubon.org. And if you are out birding and see any of these species this spring, please submit your sightings to eBird.

Thanks to Margaret Fowle of Audubon Vermont for much of the above information.

rcas's 41st christmas bird count

Red-tailed Hawks were well-represented during the CBCTraditionally the Rutland County Annual Christmas Bird Count takes place on the last weekend of December or the first weekend of January depending as to when Christmas day lands. Saturday, December 27 was the designated day for this year’s count, count number 41 for Rutland County and count number 115 for National Audubon since the first bird count was inaugurated by Frank Chapman as an alternative to the “side hunt," a Christmas tradition of shooting birds.

The 15-mile diameter count circle, once delineated, remains the same from year to year. Participation and effort seem to follow an even pattern so “weather” is left as the great arbiter. If one had misplaced the calendar, field observers this year may well have imagined that they were out during the first week in April. Meadows appeared lush and free of snow, streams were flowing strongly and ponds were mostly free of ice. Temperatures were in the 32° to 43° F. range. Some roads and fields were flooded adding to some interruption in coverage.

A reasonable assumption would be that under such weather conditions birds both waterfowl and song would disperse more widely as compared to an immediate frozen and snow covered habitat. And so it was to be. Individual bird numbers came in at 5,705 as compared to a running ten-year average of 8,638. That is almost a 34% decrease! The species count was not so depressed with 50 species tallied just one less than the running ten-year average of 51.1 species.

CBC field formTwo previous species records were equaled, namely the sighting of two Peregrine Falcons and the sighting of three Great Blue Herons.  A new record of 10 individuals was set for Red-bellied Woodpecker. Looking back over the past 40 years of Rutland’s Christmas Bird count records, a single Red-bellied Woodpecker was first observed in 1990, then two in 2003, four in 2004, five in 2010, six in 2011 and finally 10 in 2014. Quite a progression and a nice illustration as to why the collection of all this data is so important!

Thanks is due to the 21 field observers who drove 333.7 miles and walked 20.15 miles, spending a total of 65 party-hours on the beat. Thanks is also due to the seven feeder watchers who spent 37.5 hours at home tallying the birds at their feeders.

At the conclusion of the day, 25 weary but content participants enjoyed a great spread at the traditional pot luck supper and count-down at the Proctor Free Library.

Next year’s Christmas Bird count is set for Saturday, January 2, 2016. 

two Barred Owls were observed on the countThe numbers:  Great Blue Heron [3], Canada Goose [140], Wood Duck [1], American Black Duck [21], Mallard [133], Common Goldeneye [1], Common Merganser [6], Sharp-shinned Hawk [1], Cooper’s Hawk [2], Red-tailed Hawk [32], Peregrine Falcon [1], Merlin [1], Wild Turkey [84], Wilson’s Snipe [1], Rock Pigeon [305], Mourning Dove [417], Barred Owl [2], Belted Kingfisher [2], Red-bellied Woodpecker [10], Downy Woodpecker [67], Hairy Woodpecker [47], Northern Flicker [2], Pileated Woodpecker [13], Blue Jay [366], American Crow [1063], Common Raven [21], Black-capped Chickadee [697], Tufted Titmouse [69], Red-breasted Nuthatch [17], White-breasted Nuthatch [123], Brown Creeper [9], Carolina Wren [12], Golden-crowned kinglet [1], Eastern Bluebird [35], Hermit Thrush [1], American Robin [4], Northern Shrike [1], European Starling [1027], Common Yellowthroat [1], Northern Cardinal [102], American Tree Sparrow [97], Song Sparrow [6], White-throated Sparrow [2], Dark-eyed Junco [141], Red-winged Blackbird [16], Brown-headed Cowbird [2], House Finch [105], Pine Siskin [29], American Goldfinch [158], House Sparrow [308].

Roy Pilcher begins the countdown

 Thana McGary and Lana and Fred Bates help with cleanupLarry Booker tallies the numbers

keeping feeders clean

Downy WoodpeckerMost of use have been feeding the birds for the past month or so and the the onset of cold weather, they're probably pretty busy. Now is a good time to clean our feeders and resolve to do so on a regular basis. The following information is from the National Wildlife Health Center. 

Salmonellosis, trichonmoniasis, avian pox, aspergillosis, and conjunctivitis are diseases that commonly affect birds that visit backyard bird feeders. Sick birds are less alert and less active. They feed less and often cower on a feeder, reluctant to fly. Their feathers look ill-kept. Sick birds are more vulnerable to starvation, predation, dehydration, and severe weather. Eventually, these diseases are fatal.

Disease is one of the many natural processes affecting wild species. You can minimize the risks and spread of avian diseases at your bird feeers by taking the following precautions:

Tufted TitmouseGIVE THEM SPACE. Avoid crowding by providing ample feeder space. Lots of birds using a single feeder looks wonderful, but crowding is a key factor in spreading disease. Crowding also creates stress that may make birds more vulnerable to disease. Several feeders at wide intervals help disperse the visitors.

CLEAN UP WASTES. Keep the feeder area clean of waste food and droppings. A broom and shovel can accomplish a lot of good, but a shop vacuum such as you might use in your garage or workshop will help even more.

MAKE FEEDERS SAFE. Provide safe feeders without sharp points or edges. Even small scratches and cuts will allow bacteria and viruses to enter otherwise healthy birds.

KEEP FEEDERS CLEAN. Use feeders that are made of a material that can be sterilized (e.g. polycarbonate). Clean and disinfect feeders by fully immersing them in a 10% bleach solution (one part household bleach: 9 parts water) for 2 to 3 minutes. Allow to air dry. Once or twice a month should do.

IF YOU SEE A SICK BIRD. Take down your feeders immediately and clean them. Leave the feeders down for a few weeks.

USE GOOD FOOD. Discard any food that smells musty, is wet, looks moldy or has fungus growing on it. Disinfect any storage container that holds spoiled food and the scoop used to fill feeders from it.

PREVENT CONTAMINATION. Keep rodents out of stored food. Mice can carry and spread some bird diseases without being affected themselves.

ACT EARLY. Dont' wait to act until you see sick or dead birds. With good prevention you'll seldom find sick or dead birds at your feeders.

SPREAD THE WORD. Encourage your neighbors who feed birds to follow the same precautions. Birds normally move among feeders and can spread diseases as they go. The safest birdfeeders will be those in communities where neighbors cooperate with equal concern for the birds.

book review: a natural history of tinmouth

In 1964, George T. LeBoutillier retired and, with his wife, went to live in Tinmouth. In A Natural History of Tinmouth, Vermont, he reflects upon his encounters with nature, both on his own property and over the wider Tinmouth region.

a Tinmouth farmHe lays the groundwork with a bit of history. Tinmouth was founded in 1761 as a center of the iron smelting industry. Residual slag pits can still be seen near Tinmouth Channel. Farming, of course, was always present, but he remarks that even at that time, in the 1960s, it was clearly evident that many farms had vanished.

A few pages of orientation elucidate the geography and geology. His hand-drawn map indicates the relationship of Tinmouth and Clark mountains, Tinmouth Pond and Channel, and The Purchase. The soil is generally neutral to alkaline as compared to the more acidic Green Mountains to the east. But the author points out that there are local variations based on the contribution of underlying rock (granite, limestone, or calcium).

This is followed by chapters on the flora, arthropods (including insects), reptiles and amphibians, mammals and birds. The book is not a field guide. Rather it is a compendium of LeBoutillier’s encounters with wildflowers, animals and birds as he actually experienced them. He does comment upon a few defining features, but prefers to draw the reader in with unique specimens he has comes across and unusual incidents likely to have been missed by those less attuned to their surroundings.

His overall philosophy on classification is exemplified by his declaring that, as an amateur, regarding spiders, he is content to get identification down to family or order; to go further would require catching, killing and dissection. Seeing a spider on the windowsill, he writes that “from its small size and the way it held its legs out at hits sides like a crab, I made a reasonable guess that it belongs to the group known as crab spiders….and decided to look no further as there are 200 species found in North American.” But his enlightenment was “Having found one yesterday, today I noticed four more.” Even more exciting was discovering an enormous wolf spider with 20-30 spiderlings on her back.

Viewing nature from ‘aloft’ so to speak, rather than down below, differentiating tiny details, he appreciates many generalities which are often overlooked in guidebooks, but would be useful to the novice. For example, he uses his own contour drawings to highlight distinctive anatomical features in swallowtail vs. skipper butterflies and also notes that fritillaries are distinguishable by their hairy forelegs (a point not sufficiently emphasized in the field guides I checked on).

Sedge Sprite, Nehalennia irene, at Tinmouth Channel WMAInsects are often dismissed by us as repellent irritants, but LeBoutillier begs a closer look. He corrects a common misunderstanding by stating that “Only a few insects are ‘bugs’ and they belong to the order Heteroptera,” and he goes on to “useful, if not wholly accurate generalities: Beetles have a line straight down their backs. Bugs have a triangle on their backs. Flies have only one pair of wings. Bees and wasps have two pairs of wings, and the connection between their thorax and abdomen is a thick tubular membrane. Resting, moths either spread their wings vertically or move them up and down. Dragonflies rest with wings horizontal; damselflies rest with wings vertical.”

For those venturing out in spring hoping to see more than their own arms swatting at “no-see-ums” he offers the general rule, that at least 50 degrees F is necessary for insect activity. Apparently ticks were a moot point “if ticks are present here, we have not yet encountered any.”

Things “stirred-up” while mowing: various butterflies, bees, grasshoppers, leafhoppers, “a green larva that lands on my knee from somewhere,” flies beetles, chickadees, swallows, etc., are worth two pages of commentary. Akin to current concerns, already in 1983 he noted decreased bobolinks and eastern meadowlarks secondary to early mowing.

LeBoutillier also makes a point of watching, sitting still and observing. He spent time scrutinizing red-tailed bumblebees approach and depart a ground nest hole, as they maneuvered beneath an arched leaf entranceway. He spends hours watching wood frogs skittering on the surface of a long (was it combat or coupling?) diving or cackling. Frog croaks are not summarily dismissed, rather “the green frog fails hopelessly to achieve the sonority of the bull frog’s bass viol, but only the twang of a loose banjo string.” Of the gray tree frog: “a short trilling call…when two or three call antiphonally, in slightly different pitches, it is pleasant sound indeed.”

White-tailed Deer, Odocoileus virginianusGray foxes, rabbits, mink, weasels, river otters, coyotes, bobcats and deer all traverse his property, and of these he makes keen observations and cogent conclusions. Mink sauntering by, even when searching for prey, have a more docile demeanor than the ferocious visage of the caged mink he has seen. The dexterity of apple-picking raccoons amazes him.

Since winter-watching of animals is aided by one’s ability to decipher tracks, he offers a few tips to explain print patters: Raccoons and bears are plantigrade, walking on the sole of their foot with the heel touching the ground, whereas cats, dogs and deer are digitigrade, walking only on their toes, and thus are faster and more graceful. Walking birds, like crows, decisively put one foot ahead of the other, thus their prints are in a straight line, whereas birds that hop from place to place have footprints in pairs.

Birds are the last major chapter. Watching his feeders over time, he concludes that chickadees have an established hierarchy and behavioral etiquette. He “records” sparrow songs by depicting them as notes on a musical staff on paper. Using this he was able to trace individual sparrows who returned from year to year. He noticed that rough grouse would ascend off their nest with very turbulent strong wing beats which stirred up a flurry of dried leaves, to fall back and conceal the eggs.

The last thirty pages are selected journal entries.

I was struck by the author’s wealth of perceptions and impressions of his environment. LeBoutillier had his eyes wide open. But he wasn’t just passively watching it scroll past before him. He also went out with questions, and looking for answers leads him to see more incisively.

Without his expressly saying so, I think his ultimate message, is first to strive to be well-acquainted with your surroundings. Knowing at least the basics of geology and geography will help you understand and appreciate the inhabitants of your environment. Being familiar with the fundamentals, you will be receptive to variations, and that will enhance your knowledge and understanding. Be “mindful” of the world around you. Lastly adopt a “look it up now” resolution. An ongoing journal would be exemplary, but it is helpful to just jot down what you saw, where, time of day, description or even crude drawings. Having something documented serves as a quick reference to jog your memory. You will be motivated to resolve questions by looking something up. And with your notes, future sightings will be more reliably compared to the past.

This book is no longer in publication. I checked with “The Bookmobile” in downtown Rutland and they said they could probably locate used copies. A Natural History of Tinmouth, Vermont is also available at the Rutland Free Library.

vce julie nicholson citizen science award

The following articled is reprinted from the Vermont Center for Ecostudies Field Notes, written by Susan Hindinger:

This year VCE honors Marv and Sue Elliott with the Julie Nicholson Citizen Science Award. This brings the award full circle, as Marv and Sue credit its namesake for their introduction to citizen science and its first recipient, Roy Pilcher, for inspiring their interest in birding.

Marv and Sue grew up in New York, Marv on a Hudson valley dairy farm where he enjoyed hunting and fishing. Sue’s suburban childhood was spent playing outside with the neighborhood kids, chasing the ice cream truck, and generally staying out of her mother’s hair until dinnertime.

Marv studied Agricultural Economics at Cornell, which led to a job as a bank’s farm representative and a career in commercial lending and branch banking. Sue studied English Literature at Susquehanna University and made her career in banking as well. Banking brought them to Vermont in the 1990s when Marv came to work for Marble Bank in Rutland. Not long after arriving, they attended a Rutland County Audubon bird walk led by Roy Pilcher and were instantly hooked. After skipping a second walk due to bad weather, they found out the group went anyway and saw great things (lesson learned)!

Friendships developed as they shared observations and outings with others in the birding community. “We always joke that the only people we know in Vermont are birders,” Sue remarks, “but the people we’ve met here, the variety of things we’ve seen, and the laughs and knowledge we’ve shared with others are a huge part of our lives.”

Marv and Sue name Roy as their “greatest birding and citizen science inspiration.” Sue recalls a windy, cold, and rainy May day at Kent Pond in Killington when she and Marv spotted a Pacific Loon. “I called Roy to tell him but was so excited I had to put Marv on the phone to describe the bird. Twenty minutes later, Roy came racing up in a cloud of dust, followed immediately by Sue Wetmore whom we had also called.”

As they became involved in the birding community, Sue’s postings on the VTBird listserv caught Julie Nicholson’s eye. Julie invited Sue to submit her sightings quarterly to the Record of Vermont Birds, and this became a springboard to Sue’s participation in Vermont eBird, iNaturalist, eButterfly, the Breeding Bird Survey, and a host of other citizen science projects. “Vermont is the perfect place for citizen science projects, with its small size and environmental ethic,” says Sue, “and with so many birders and naturalists all over the state, there are endless opportunities for learning new things.”

As Marv’s passion for birds developed, so did his commitment to preserving their habitat. His efforts with Rutland County Audubon have included working to preserve 55 acres at West Rutland Marsh. “The [citizen science] projects undertaken by VCE are important because the more information we acquire, the better we can be at conservation,” he observes.

Whether participating in the Christmas Bird Count, Project FeederWatch, the Breeding Bird Atlas, eBird, LoonWatch, or even as Plant Conservation Volunteers for the New England Wildflower Society, Marv and Sue enrich and enliven the citizen science community in Vermont with their tireless efforts on behalf of wildlife conservation.

west rutland marsh - december monitoring report

The last monitoring walk of 2014 proved to be very enjoyable for five participants. After the unprecedented storm that kept many Vermonters indoors (some in the cold and dark) for several days, the snowy landscape, fresh air and hint of sunshine were very welcome.

Today’s outing, our 161^st consecutive monthly walk, tallied the highest number recorded for this month of the year. Last year’s December walk came in at 19 which is also the December monthly average.

The feeders at the boardwalk were very active. Species there included American Tree Sparrow, House Finch and one male Purple Finch. Six Red-winged Blackbirds were in the nearby trees. Last winter a small flock of blackbirds spent the winter along Marble Street. Perhaps today's will do the same.

Wild TurkeysWoodpeckers were represented in good numbers and included a Red-bellied Woodpecker. Although this species has been seen at the marsh before, this is the first time it has been recorded on the monitoring walk. A Pileated Woodpecker was also observed.

A flock of Wild Turkeys was in its usual spot in the cornfield at the corner of Pleasant Street and Whipple Hollow Road.

A tight flock of Pine Siskins flew over Whipple Hollow Road. Two Red-tailed Hawks were seen and later presumably one of the two was interacting in the sky with a Common Raven.

Our next marsh walk is scheduled for Thursday, January 22, at 8 a.m.

Today’s list:

Mallard  2
Wild Turkey  27
Red-tailed Hawk  2
Mourning Dove  25
Red-bellied Woodpecker  1
Downy Woodpecker  9
Hairy Woodpecker  4
Pileated Woodpecker  1
Blue Jay  19
American Crow  5
Common Raven  2
Black-capped Chickadee  38
Tufted Titmouse  2
White-breasted Nuthatch  6
American Robin  1
European Starling  17
American Tree Sparrow  10
Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored)  3
Northern Cardinal  6
Red-winged Blackbird  6
House Finch  5
Purple Finch  1
Pine Siskin  16
American Goldfinch  6
House Sparrow  10

christmas bird count: dec 27

Ruffed GrouseRutland County’s annual Christmas Bird Count is set for Saturday, December 27. It will mark the 115th National Audubon count and the 41st Rutland County Audubon count.

Last year 22 Field Observers and eight feeder watchers tallied 8,760 individual birds spanning 51 species. These numbers were well within the ten-year running averages of 8,840 individual birds and 51.2 species.

Even with forty years of data collection, new records seem to fall with each successive count. Last year was no exception. With the observation of two Hermit Thrushes, species #101 was added to the count total. Furthermore, with the sighting of 42 Red-tailed Hawks, three Rough-legged Hawks, two Peregrine Falcons and 18 Carolina Wrens, individual species records were either equaled or exceeded.

The count area is represented by a circle 15 miles in diameter centered where Route 4 West crosses the Otter Creek.  The count area remains constant from year to year although the number of observers and weather conditions change.

As tradition dictates, a potluck supper and count down at the conclusion of the day will follow at the Proctor Free Library beginning at 6 o’clock. Beverages and flatware will be provided and participants along with family and friends are invited to bring a hot dish, salad or dessert.

For those wishing to participate, mark your calendar and reserve Saturday, December 27, for this year’s count. Field team leaders can always use new participants while feeder watchers in the count area are more than welcome. Give Roy Pilcher a call at 775-3461 or email birding@rutlandcountyaudubon.org if you would like to participate one way or another. Join the fun and contribute to the longest running citizen science field study ever undertaken, an uninterrupted one hundred and fourteen years!

west rutland marsh - november monitoring report

American Tree SparrowA stiff wind greeted three hardy participants in the monitoring walk at West Rutland Marsh, making the seasonable temperature feel frigid. Despite the weather the count was a respectable 19 species. The average for November is 18 (the high was 27 in 2001). This was our 160^th consecutive monthly walk.

Appropriate to the season, 26 Wild Turkeys were spotted. The day’s lone raptor was a Red-tailed Hawk. American Tree Sparrows have returned to the feeders near the boardwalk. (A Fox Sparrow spotted the prior day was a no-show).

Two Red-breasted Nuthatches, not always reliable at the marsh, were seen along Whipple Hollow Road.

Good humor is always a part of our walks - a distant gray blob, hoped to be a northern hawk owl, turned out to be a paper wasp nest! One can always hope.

The next marsh walk is scheduled for Saturday, December 20, at 8 a.m.

List:

Wild Turkey  26
Red-tailed Hawk  1
Mourning Dove  2
Downy Woodpecker  2
Hairy Woodpecker  2
Pileated Woodpecker  1
Blue Jay  13
American Crow  7
Common Raven  2
Black-capped Chickadee  30
Red-breasted Nuthatch  2
White-breasted Nuthatch  2
American Robin  1
American Tree Sparrow  5
Northern Cardinal  1
Red-winged Blackbird  14
House Finch  1
American Goldfinch  7
House Sparrow  4

seed sale and membership drive: thank you!

Thank you to all for making our annual seed sale and membership drive a success! Birds will be flocking to feeders around the county because of the hard work of our sponsors, Blue Seal Feeds in Brandon and Garland’s in Rutland, and all the volunteers who donated their Saturday morning to fill orders and lug bags of seed.

And welcome new members! If you haven’t already done so, take a look around our website to see what we do. We hope to see you at an event soon! You can also find us on Flickr and Facebook by typing in Rutland County Audubon.

A special thank you to board member Renee Warren for promoting Audubon and bringing in eight new members. 

RCAS annual seed sale and membership drive - November 1

You've probably noticed a change in the cast of characters in your yard and at your feeders. White-throated Red-bellied WoodpeckerSparrows and Juncos (aka snowbirds) are around again and the number of chickadees, titmice and nuthatches have increased after the nesting season.

That means it's time again to stock up on seed! Support RCAS by buying seed at one of two locations on Saturday, November 1. We'll be at Blue Seal Feeds on Route 7 just south of Brandon and Garland's Agway on Park Street in Rutland. The sale at each location runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Once again seed prices are good and there is no sales tax if you purchase from us on that date. Cash or check only please.

Dark-eyed JuncoThe seed sale is open to all - members and non-members alike. If you aren't a member, we'd love to have you join us and, if you sign up at the seed sale, you'll receive a free birdhouse.

Please stop by and see us! We'd love to talk about birds with you!

Reminder: If you live in an area where bears have been spotted, delay feeding until December 1.

RCAS on Flickr

Prairie WarblerLooking at bird photos can be as enjoyable as looking at the birds themselves (well, almost). Did you know RCAS maintains a Flickr page where you can view pictures of the many species that can be found in Rutland County and elsewhere in the state? Butterflies too! Click here to get the overview.

We would love to see some of your photos! If you're willing to share a picture of a bird or butterfly from Rutland County or elsewhere in Vermont, contact us at birding@rutlandcountyaudubon.org. Of course we'll give you credit.

For those of you are are new to Flickr, our photos are organized into albums. By clicking on the individual photos in each album you can find out when and where they were taken and maybe an interesting tidbit about that species. Our albums include the following:

Rutland County Birding Hotspots:

Aitken State Forest

Bomoseen State Park

Cadwell Loop/Pittsford

CCC Road/Shrewsbury

Diamond Run Mall Nature Trail

Kent Pond

Lefferts Pond

Pleasant St power line

Pomainville Wildlife Management Area

Rutland Community Garden

Tinmouth Channel Wildlife Management Area

West Rutland Marsh

Other albums:

Birds Around Rutland County

Birds Elsewhere in Vermont

Rutland County Rarities

Vermont Rarities

Year of the Snowy Owl

RCAS Annual Program

And we also have a place to share photos of those other beautiful flying objects:

Butterflies of Rutland County

Be sure to check often for new photos! You can access it directly from www.flickr.com and typing Rutland County Audubon into the search box or you can access the pictures directly from our website here. Hope to see some of your photos here soon!

west rutland marsh - october monitoring report

A day for ducks and birders! Rain, heavy at times, did not deter seven participants in the 159^th monitoring walk around West Rutland Marsh. Fortunately it was warm and not windy. Nevertheless umbrellas and hoods made it difficult to hear and so, no doubt, some birds were missed.

The total for the day was 23 species, significantly less than our October average of 31 and our high of 39 in October of 2007.

Appropriately, Mallards were seen, 14 in all. Two Great Blue Heron and one Belted Kingfisher were observed flying over the marsh.

Hermit Thrushes, American Robins and Cedar Waxwings were taking advantage of the abundant fruit. Four Yellow-rumped Warblers and two Ruby-crowned Kinglets were moving quickly through the trees despite the heavy rain.

A large flock of approximately 750 Red-winged Blackbirds were alternating between a corn field and the tree tops.

The next walk is scheduled for Thursday, November 20, at 8 a.m.

Today’s list:

Mallard  14
Great Blue Heron  2
Mourning Dove  1
Belted Kingfisher  1
Downy Woodpecker  1
Blue Jay  6
American Crow  9
Black-capped Chickadee  10
Tufted Titmouse  1
White-breasted Nuthatch  1
Ruby-crowned Kinglet  2
Hermit Thrush  3
American Robin  17
Cedar Waxwing  2
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle)  4
Song Sparrow  8
White-throated Sparrow  16
Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored)  8
Northern Cardinal  2
Red-winged Blackbird  750
Common Grackle  3
American Goldfinch  2
House Sparrow  2

west rutland marsh - september monitoring walk

A cool and cloudy morning at West Rutland Marsh yielded 37 species this morning. The walk, our 158^th, attracted eight participants. The results are three less than last October and two less than our average for the month.

Two Virginia Rails were vocalizing near the boardwalk. Several Swamp Sparrows were calling or singing.

As expected there were large numbers of Red-winged Blackbirds. Fortunately they took off from their roosting spots in the reeds and phragmites in a fairly orderly manner so we could get an accurate count. Only one grackle was heard, but it is likely there were more.

Woodpeckers were also well-represented with only sapsuckers missing from the list. Gray Catbirds were also abundant with 15 seen and/or heard.

Black-throated Green WarblerWe caught a fleeting look at a single Ruby-crowned Kinglet and two Golden-crowned Kinglets.

Warbler numbers were low and no mixed migratory flocks were found, but four Black-throated Green Warblers near the intersection of Water Street and Whipple Hollow Road were a nice treat.

The next marsh walk is scheduled for Thursday, October 16, at 8 a.m.

Today's list:

Canada Goose  2
Wood Duck  1
Mallard  6
Ruffed Grouse  1
Great Blue Heron  2
Turkey Vulture  1
Osprey  1
Virginia Rail  2
Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon)  4
Mourning Dove  4
Belted Kingfisher  3
Downy Woodpecker  5
Hairy Woodpecker  4
Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted)  5
Pileated Woodpecker  2
Blue Jay  16
American Crow  4
Common Raven  1
Black-capped Chickadee  14
White-breasted Nuthatch  4
Carolina Wren  1
Golden-crowned Kinglet  2
Ruby-crowned Kinglet  1
American Robin  2
Gray Catbird  15    
European Starling  7
Cedar Waxwing  11
Common Yellowthroat  2
Black-throated Green Warbler  4
Chipping Sparrow  3
Song Sparrow  4
Swamp Sparrow  11
Northern Cardinal  3
Red-winged Blackbird  520    
Common Grackle  1
American Goldfinch  8
House Sparrow  3

day trip: the pember museum in granville, ny

A different experience awaits you at the Pember Museum in Granville, New York, about 10 miles from Poultney. Whereas the Birds of Vermont Museum in Huntington has the appearance of “just another barn” you could easily drive by, the Pember Library and Museum stand out as an eminent edifice on Main Street. Etched glass panels over the front door beckon you into the first floor library with its elegant fireplace of marbleized slate. Spiral-turned banisters course up the staircase to the second floor museum room, with its dark woodwork and vitrine cases displaying the large natural history collection made by Frank T. Pember over a 50-year period.

Pember was born in South Granville in 1841 and grew up on a prosperous family farm. After attending a nearby one-room schoolhouse, he enrolled in the science program at a college prep school in Fort Edward, New York. His professors channeled his natural science interest, and by age 21, he was already a hunter, trader and taxidermist.

Pember was also an astute businessman. He began with a plant nursery while maintaining a profitable farming and cheese making business at his Granville home. He later added a fur trade business with offices on Broadway in New York City. Success came quickly as he bought furs from all over the U.S. and Canada and exported them to Europe. He also traded birds’ eggs and in 1883 published a catalog offering 400 kinds of eggs.

He also bought acreage in Riverside, California where he planted thriving cirtus groves, and he invested in oil-rich land near Findlay, Ohio.

In 1902, he built the Pember Opera House, and at age 66, he offered to build a museum and library in Granville.

Pember collected in the Granville, Hebron, Pawlet and Wells area and wherever his business ventures carried him. Out of 75 North American bird families, Pember’s collection holds representatives of all but five. Many specimens are in male and female pairs. In contrast to the Birds of Vermont Museum’s discrete cases for each species, the Pember’s birds are aligned along glass shelves. Still the specimens are well organized by family. Although you’re not seeing the live bird, the museum experience is very beneficial. You are viewing the bird up close with enough time, without the bird flitting around and away, to carefully study the color and feather variations, and anatomy, and compare them to similar species, on a nearby shelf, with which they may be easily confused in the field. Certainly guidebooks are useful for this, but 3-D specimens are more realistic.

There are also birds from other continents, since Pember requested specimens from other collectors. He did much of his own taxidermy and was a noted ornithologist of his time. In the 2^nd volume of the Birds of New York, published by the New York State Museum in 1914, Pember is cited as a reference form knowing the breeding sites of a Golden Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Pigeon Hawk and Yellow-bellied Flycatcher.

He was also a member of the American Fern Society and collected and mounted hundreds of specimens of flowering plants, ferns and sea weeds. However, few of these are on display due to potential damage from light exposure.

The visitor might first look over the peripheral tall cases containing all the birds and many mammals. Centrally, there are standing horizontal cases with birds’ nests and eggs, butterflies, dragonflies, beetles, seashells, and minerals. Beneath, on the floor, are laid out huge skins of polar and grizzly bears and various African ‘cats.” Frankly, I have to admit, I found the exotic birds and animals the most fascinating. Confronting the life-size “next to real” thing is astounding, better than a flashy photo in National Geographic.

Admission is free. Hours: 1-5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday; 10-3 p.m. Saturday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. This would be a nice rainy day or cold season activity. But then again, although a sizeable collection, it’s not the Field Museum, and could provide a nice few hours at any time of the year.

day trip: the birds of vermont museum & green mountain audubon center

This summer, the Birds of Vermont Museum in Huntington, has a special exhibit commemorating 100 years since the death of the last passenger pigeon, Martha, at a Cincinnati zoo. In the 1800s billions of passenger pigeons, flying in huge, tight-knit flocks, darkened the skies. The resulting massive excrement entirely wiped out many farmers’ crops and decimated total woodlots. The birds reached such numbers despite the female laying only one egg at each nesting. The telegraph and the railroad caused the passenger pigeon’s decline and extinction. With the advent of the telegraph, flock sightings and roosting areas could be quickly transmitted, and, via railroad, sportsman hunters rapidly congregated at those sites.

The exhibit includes many fascinating details about the biology of the bird. It is accompanied by photographs and contemporary art interpretations of the meaning of extinction. This special show is on display until the end of October.

The Birds of Vermont Museum was established in 1986 to preserve and exhibit the bird carvings of Robert N. Spear, Jr. Bob Spear has carved 488 birds over 35 years. His quest began in the 1930s when he challenged himself to carve a parakeet that had flown into the woodshed of his family’s farm in Colchester. A career as a technical specialist with General Electric supplied his livelihood, but he carved on his lunch break and when he was off work. In an introductory eight-minute video, Mr. Spear demonstrates the intricate carving and painting methods he has devised to create a lifelike appearance of the birds, yet ensure depiction of precise field marks. The background herbaceous vegetation has also been designed and constructed by him. It begins with sheets of tin. His carving studio, adjacent to the museum, is open to visitors.

The museum’s main large second floor room showcases Vermont birds. Each species, male and female is exhibited within its natural habitat. Look closely and amidst the abundant flora you will find the nest with eggs. Not only are the birds accurate in detail, and beautiful in color, but they are artfully poised in their characteristic stance and activities. The species are organized by family and genus (for example, all warblers are along one aisle) so the viewer has the opportunity to compare and contrast fine differentiating features.

Be sure to ask at the main desk for the little gizmo that lets you hear the bird calls. Each display has a bar code label above the species name. Just press the button on the gizmo, do a nice even sweep across the bar code, and you will hear the clear distinctive song of the species.

The second floor has a separate composite exhibit of owls, and, on the balcony, (and suspended from the ceiling), of raptors.

The first floor has a diorama of wetland birds and a separate room with a selection of tropical birds. Around the corner is a huge picture window facing an open yard with several birdfeeders. Comfortable chairs are nearby and numerous binoculars for your use sit on the window sill. Indigo buntings were the prize sighting when I was there in May. A small gift shop is well-stocked with nature books for children and adults. There are many interesting titles which go far beyond basic field guides.

The museum is open daily May 1 through October 31, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and $3 for kids. It is located on Sherman Hollow Road in Huntington. It is indicated in the Vermont Atlas & Gazetteer or go to their website, www.birdsofvermont.org, for directions. The phone number is 802-437-2167.

Back down Sherman Hollow Road is the Green Mountain Audubon Center, consisting of two barn-size buildings. Trail maps are available at the kiosk. I had just enough time to do the Hires Trail following my visit to the Birds of Vermont Museum. It was easy, generally well-marked and otherwise clearly evident with a densely-packed bed (and few rocks or roots). I didn’t even notice that it gently ascended to Lookout Rock which afforded a nice vista of Mt. Mansfield and Camel’s Hump. Spring Beauties were blooming at the side of the trail during my visit. The entire trail system is five miles. Other trail headings suggest different environments – beaver ponds, hemlock swamp, white pine, sugar bush and sensory trails. It is open to the public at no charge, daily from dawn to dusk. Their website is www.vtaudubon.org and the phone is 802-434-3068.

west rutland marsh - july monitoring walk

Canada Lilies grace the marshYou couldn’t ask for a better day to complete 13 years of monthly monitoring at West Rutland Marsh. Fourteen observers brought the number of people who have participated over the years to 1,811. The species total for the years stands at 146 (Least Sandpiper was our newest addition in May).

Great weather and the results of the nesting season brought the number of individual birds up with 56 species observed. This is six above our average for July and four more than what was seen or heard one year ago.

One of the highlights of summer time birding at West Rutland Marsh is seeing a Least Bittern. One was observed from the boardwalk to the north. Not to be outdone, five American Bitterns, four Green Herons and three Great Blue Herons were seen flying over the marsh.

On Marble Street, where the power line crosses, there were oohs and aahs over three young Virginia Rails, still black puffs of feathers. No adult was seen, but no doubt one was nearby (another rail was heard from the boardwalk).

A Wilson’s Snipe was seen in flight. Although we know they are present at the marsh, we don't see them often.

Alder and Willow flycatchers have become quiet with only one and two heard, respectively. The Eastern Kingbirds, however, are still quite vocal.

Many birds were carrying food for young or feeding young, including a Veery, a species that has been well-represented at the marsh this year. Wood Thrush and Hermit Thrush were also heard.

The raptor count was low today with one Northern Harrier.

The next marsh walk is scheduled for Thursday, August 21, at 7 a.m.

Today’s list:

Mallard  1
American Bittern  5
Least Bittern  1
Great Blue Heron  3
Green Heron  4
Turkey Vulture  2
Northern Harrier  1
Virginia Rail  4
Wilson's Snipe  1
Mourning Dove  14
Ruby-throated Hummingbird  1
Belted Kingfisher  3
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker  8
Downy Woodpecker  1
Hairy Woodpecker  1
Pileated Woodpecker  1
Alder Flycatcher  1
Willow Flycatcher  2
Eastern Phoebe  2
Eastern Kingbird  12    
Yellow-throated Vireo  1
Warbling Vireo  6
Red-eyed Vireo  10
Blue Jay  3
American Crow  4
Common Raven  4
Tree Swallow  28
Barn Swallow  7
Black-capped Chickadee  20
White-breasted Nuthatch  3
House Wren  2
Marsh Wren  14
Eastern Bluebird  2
Veery  14    
Hermit Thrush  1
Wood Thrush  1
American Robin  6
Gray Catbird  13    
Brown Thrasher  1
European Starling  1
Cedar Waxwing  24
Ovenbird  4
Common Yellowthroat  22   
American Redstart  5
Yellow Warbler  3
Chestnut-sided Warbler  1
Song Sparrow  20
Swamp Sparrow  16
Scarlet Tanager  1
Northern Cardinal  3
Indigo Bunting  1
Red-winged Blackbird  17
Common Grackle  5
Purple Finch  1
American Goldfinch  10
House Sparrow  1

2014 rcas annual meeting

On June 25, RCAS members gathered for our annual meeting and election of officers. Co-presidents Roy Pilcher and Marv Elliott thanked board members and volunteers for all that has been accomplished during the past year.

Marv added that with more volunteers we can improve what we do, lighten the load for everyone, and look to expand our mission: To foster an enjoyment of birds and the preservation of their habitat.

A delicious potluck supper was served before the official meeting began. After the annual report was given, there was a presentation of member photos, which was a huge success. If you missed the meeting, or would like to see the wonderful pictures again, click here for the RCAS Flickr page. 

If you want to join Rutland County Audubon or are interested in volunteering, please email us at birding@rutlandcountyaudubon.org.

This year’s annual report:

2013-14 Rutland County Audubon Annual Report

CONSERVATION/ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION

Participated in the annual Vermont Green-Up Day at West Rutland Marsh on 05/03/2014 for the twenty-second consecutive year.

As of today’s annual meeting, RCAS has undertaken 155 consecutive months of bird monitoring of the West Rutland Marsh, a Vermont Important Bird Area and Rutland County Audubon designated Birding Hotspot. One hundred forty-six bird species have been tallied by 1,797 participants. All data is recorded on eBird. 

Birding Hot Spot monitoring continued at Aitken State Forest, Bomoseen State Park, Pomainville WMA, Cadwell Loop of the Pittsford Trails, Diamond Run Nature Trails, Lefferts Pond, Kent Pond, Northwood Park, Pleasant Street Power Line and Tinmouth Chanel. All data is recorded on eBird.

Mountain Top Farm bird monitoring in Chittenden continued under the spring/summer/fall protocol initiated on 06/14/2012 under the direction of Steve Hagenbuch, Audubon Vermont’s Forest Bird Initiative biologist.

Secretary Kathleen Guinness records the minutesParticipated for a third year in a monitoring program along the VELCO power line right of way for seven brush/grassland bird species in particular the Golden-winged Warbler.

Currently undertaking a bird survey of the Blueberry Hill Wildlife Management Area, consisting of four parcels, on behalf of Vermont Forests and Parks.

Financially supported the Four Winds program at Neshobe Elementary School, the Vermont Bobolink Project, the Salamander Crossing Project and the Vermont Center for Ecostudies and their sponsorship of the VT eBird portal.

EDUCATION AND OUTREACH

Participated in the Green Mountain College Orientation Day in August. 

Maintained the kiosk and immediate area at the entrance of the West Rutland Marsh. Signage is renewed and marsh-related information posted. Minor repair work was undertaken on the boardwalk                                

Updated bird lists for the West Rutland Marsh, Pomainville WMA and the Rutland Community Garden information kiosks. A link to the RCAS birding hotspot is on the Pittsford Trails webpage.

Sponsored Joan Hoffmann, artist, jointly with the Chaffee Arts Center for a program on 01/28/2014.

Sponsored a program by Sara Zahendra from the Vermont Center for Ecostudies on “Bumblebees” at the Rutland Free Library on 02/26/2014.

Sponsored Marv Elliott, RCAS co-president’s “Texas Birding” presentation at the Brandon Library on 04/08/2014 and at the Rutland Public Library on 05/05/2014.

Created a display for the Vermont State Fair’s Forestry Pavilion in Rutland. This year a raffle was included for a 50-lb. bag of bird seed.  Thanks to Kathleen Guinness and Marsha Booker for their leadership.

Continued with the Audubon Adventures program. Currently in use in 7 classrooms and two after-school programs, thanks to coordinator Marsha Booker.

Submitted the West Rutland Marsh annual report to the Town of West Rutland to be incorporated into their annual Town Report.

ADVOCACY   

RCAS continues to support the work of the local based USDA/NRCS office in the expansion of the Wetland Reserve Program particularly along the Otter Creek and most recently involving a newly acquired 1,300-acre spread in Brandon.

Participated in several hearings on a Solar Power Project proposed for Rutland Town.

It is noted that the proposed siting wind turbine project along the Taconic Mountain Range in Rutland County has been withdrawn. RCAS was opposed to the project because of its potential negative impact on raptor migrations along the siting ridge.

ORGANIZATION

Monthly board meetings, scheduled for the third Thursday of each month, were held throughout the year except December, (Christmas Bird Count), and June, (Annual Meeting) and one “snow day”.

A first and potentially annual pot-luck “Member Appreciation” gathering was held on 03/08/2014 in recognition of Roy’s contributions to Rutland County Audubon over the past 40 years!

A full delegation of RCAS members attended the Fall Vermont Chapter Assembly on 11/16/2013 at the Green Mountain Audubon Center in Huntington and the Spring Assembly at the Birds of Vermont Museum in Huntington on 04/16/2013 hosted by Green Mountain Audubon.

Current RCAS membership stands at ~310 National Members. 

The continuously developing website averages in excess of 2,000 viewers per month of which more than 600 are unique viewers. Thanks to Webmaster David Jenne and Sue Elliott. Email alerts for new website articles and upcoming events are sent regularly by Tim Abraham.

The RCAS Flickr page for photos of the birds of Rutland County and Audubon is updated regularly.

The RCAS Facebook page currently has 107 ‘likes.’

RCAS accounts for 2012-2013 were reviewed and found in order by George Wetmore.

RCAS now has its own personalized cap designed by Ralph Nimtz and proudly worn by many members!

ACTIVITIES                                                                                                                   

Sponsored the 20th “Annual West Rutland Butterfly Count” on 07/06/2013.  Eight participants tallied 21 species and 112 individual butterflies. The numbers reflect one of the lowest counts over the years. Data all entered on the North America Butterfly Association website.

The annual “Mount Philo Broad-winged Hawk Migration Watch” field trip took place on 09/14/2013. An extension to Addison County provided views of Golden Plover, Pectoral Sandpiper and Baird’s Sandpiper.

RCAS undertook Bird Seed Sales and Membership Recruitment drives at Garland’s Agway in Rutland on 11/02/2013 and at Brandon’s new Blue Seal facility on 01/18/2014.   

The 40th “Annual Christmas Bird Count and Pot Luck Supper” was held on 12/28/2013.  Thirty participants tallied 51 species representing 8,760 individual birds. Numbers were well within the ten-year running averages. All Christmas Bird Count data is entered on eBird.

Champlain Valley birding field trip, “Winter Regulars and Rarities” was held 01/11/2014, Sue Wetmore leader.

RCAS participated in the Great Backyard Bird Count, 02/14/2014-02/17/2014.

Century County Count XIX attracted 12 participants who recorded 90 species during 13 hours of birding on Saturday, 05/31/2014. Twenty-five checklists were submitted to eBird. Donations amounting to $75 were directed to Audubon Vermont toward their bird monitoring projects.

The Annual Meeting and Social was held at the Proctor Free Library on Wednesday, 06/25/2014.  “The program was a “Show and Tell” of members' favorite wildlife images.

west rutland marsh - june monitoring walk

a Red-tailed Hawk soars over the marshIt’s hard to beat West Rutland Marsh in June. (Did we say that about May?) Twenty birders gathered to tally 58 species on our 155th marsh monitoring walk. This is a bit below last year’s June walk total of 66 species, but only two below our average of 60 for this month of the year. 

As always there were many highlights as this season produces a lot of bird song and activity. With the nesting season in full swing, several species were seen with mouths full of food intended for young. Of great interest was a pair of Northern Harriers seen circling against the mountain. As they descended, we could see there was food in the talons of the female, who eventually dropped down and out of our sight.

The group had good looks at an American Bittern and a Green Heron as they flew a long distance across the marsh. Two Virginia Rails were heard, one along the boardwalk and the other along Water Street. Marsh Wrens and Swamp Sparrows seemed to be singing everywhere.

It took a bit of effort, but we finally spied two Killdeer in the plowed field on Pleasant Street after hearing one fly over.

Veerys were singing their ethereal song in several places along the route while a Wood Thrush was singing in the woods across from the boardwalk.

Warblers today included Ovenbird, Northern Waterthrush (being heard regularly along Whipple Hollow Road), Black-and-white Warbler (several), American Redstart, and Chestnut-sided Warbler. Common Yellowthroats and Yellow Warblers were, of course, numerous.

Four-spotted Skimmer - not a bird!Next month’s walk, which will complete 13 years of consecutive monthly monitoring, is scheduled for Saturday, July 12 at 7 a.m.

Today’s list:

Wood Duck  1
Mallard  9
American Bittern  1
Great Blue Heron  1
Green Heron  1
Turkey Vulture  5
Northern Harrier  2
Red-tailed Hawk  2
Virginia Rail  2
Killdeer  2
Mourning Dove  8
Ruby-throated Hummingbird  1
Downy Woodpecker  4
Hairy Woodpecker  1
Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted)  3
Pileated Woodpecker  1
Eastern Wood-Pewee  1
Alder Flycatcher  2
Willow Flycatcher  3
Least Flycatcher  3
Eastern Phoebe  4
Eastern Kingbird  6
Warbling Vireo  4
Red-eyed Vireo  8
Blue Jay  4
American Crow  12
Common Raven  3
Northern Rough-winged Swallow  1
Tree Swallow  5
Barn Swallow  6
Black-capped Chickadee  6
Tufted Titmouse  1
House Wren  2
Marsh Wren  7
Veery  6
Wood Thrush  1
American Robin  6
Gray Catbird  6
European Starling  1
Cedar Waxwing  13
Ovenbird  4
Northern Waterthrush  1
Black-and-white Warbler  5
Common Yellowthroat  10
American Redstart  2
Yellow Warbler  10
Chestnut-sided Warbler  3
Chipping Sparrow  2
Song Sparrow  9
Swamp Sparrow  11
Northern Cardinal  3
Rose-breasted Grosbeak  2
Red-winged Blackbird  15
Common Grackle  9
Baltimore Oriole  3
American Goldfinch  14
House Sparrow  8

century count XIX

RCAS was a decade short of a century on May 31. Our 19^th annual attempt to tally 100 species in Rutland County missed what seemed to be very obvious species. However, what we lacked in quantity was more than compensated by some unusual species as well as the opportunity to view some of Vermont’s beautiful scenery on our tour around the county.

After a couple quick stops, the real birding began along the Pleasant Street power line in West Rutland. As the early morning mist lifted over West Rutland Marsh below, the Prairie Warblers, Eastern Towhees and Field Sparrows were tuning up. Among the growing bird song we heard ‘bee buzz’ and knew one of the winged warblers was about, probably a Blue-winged Warbler. Following the new guidelines for reporting the winged warblers, we tracked them down (two males) and found they were indeed Blue-winged Warblers with all the appropriate field marks.

Sharp ears picked up a Brown Thrasher on the power line. A Nashville Warbler was also spotted and a Red-breasted Nuthatch was heard in the conifers along the edge. Oddly, we saw no White-breasted Nuthatch during the count.

Alder FlycatcherA good deal of time was spent at West Rutland Marsh where most of the expected species were seen or heard. This included five Virginia Rails heard along the boardwalk, Water Street and Pleasant Street and two American Bitterns flying over the marsh. A Marsh Wren was making a racket near the boardwalk so no doubt there is a nest nearby.

The next stop was the Route 4 rest area, which is probably ‘tick central’ for Vermont (please see our previous article for important information on ticks). American Redstarts are abundant in this area as are Scarlet Tanagers and Indigo Buntings. The highlight here and the highlight for the day was a Cerulean Warbler in the same area where it was seen in 2010 and 2011. It was in full song and, after much searching, we were able to glimpse enough of the bird to be confident of the identification.

After a break for cookies, we headed to the Lake Bomoseen area, where the north end (the Lake Bomoseen/Hubbardton Marshes IBA) is a good prospect for ducks. There we were surprised to find four male Ring-necked Ducks. We also saw our first Killdeer for the day (that and a Wilson’s Snipe at Lake Hortonia were our only shorebirds of the day).

As we headed down Black Pond/Moscow Road toward our lunch stop at Bomoseen State Park, we picked up Wood Duck, a Double-crested Cormorant on Breese Pond, a Black-billed Cuckoo and a Northern Waterthrush. A Ruby-throated Hummingbird was perched on a dead snag where we find him every year. Our only White-throated Sparrow of the day was found along this road.

A second Black-billed Cuckoo was at Bomoseen State Park where we also heard a Yellow-throated Vireo and saw an active Baltimore Oriole nest.

From the upper lot of the Kehoe Fishing Access along Lake Bomoseen we found the expected Blue-gray Gnatcatcher and Black-and-white Warbler. A Red-bellied Woodpecker was heard here and a Common Loon in basic plumage was seen out on the lake.

KilldeerAt the Fair Haven Municipal Airport we found four fuzzy Killdeer chicks with their parents fussing nearby. A second pair of Killdeer was guarding a nest with four eggs.

Our travels toward and through Benson yielded the expected Bobolinks and a Savannah Sparrow. Along Pleasant Valley Road in Benson we were happy to hear a Northern Mockingbird and an Eastern Meadowlark as well as more Bobolinks.

At the fishing access on Lake Hortonia the aforementioned Wilson’s Snipe were calling incessantly and a female Wood Duck was being trailed by eight young. Two female Hooded Mergansers were on Burr Pond in Sudbury.

Our final stop along Route 73, at a property recently restored under the Wetland Reserve Program on the Sudbury/Brandon line, we were treated to Common Gallinule, Pied-billed Grebe, American Bittern and Virginia Rail.

Thanks to all the sharp-eyed, sharp-eared participants and to Roy Pilcher for planning the trip.

The full list:  

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Common Loon

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

American Bittern

Great Blue Heron

Turkey Vulture

Red-tailed Hawk

Virginia Rail

Common Gallinule

Killdeer

Wilson's Snipe

Rock Pigeon

Mourning Dove

Black-billed Cuckoo

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

Yellow-throated Vireo

Warbling Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Common Raven

Tree Swallow

Barn Swallow

Black-capped Chickadee

Red-breasted Nuthatch

House Wren

Marsh Wren

Eastern Bluebird

Veery

Hermit Thrush

Wood Thrush

American Robin

Gray Catbird

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

European Starling

Cedar Waxwing

Ovenbird

Northern Waterthrush

Blue-winged Warbler

Black-and-white Warbler

Nashville Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart

Cerulean Warbler

Magnolia Warbler

Blackburnian Warbler

Yellow Warbler

Chestnut-sided Warbler

Prairie Warbler

Canada Warbler

Eastern Towhee

Chipping Sparrow

Field Sparrow

Savannah Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Scarlet Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

Bobolink

Red-winged Blackbird

Eastern Meadowlark

Common Grackle

Brown-headed Cowbird

Baltimore Oriole

House Finch

American Goldfinch

House Sparrow

lyme disease: what is it and how to prevent it

Lyme disease has been increasing in Vermont. In 2012, the Vermont Department of Health received over 500 case reports. Everyone, who spends time outdoors, in their yard or further afield, needs to be informed about the basics of the disease because it can have serious health consequences. However, it is preventable using precautionary measures.

Lyme disease is caused by a spirochete (bacteria with a spiral shape) called Borrelia burgdorferi, which is carried and transmitted by black-legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis), also known as deer ticks. After hatching from its egg in early spring, the tick matures through three life cycle states – larva, nymph and adult. The larvae can be as small as .5mm., but are not capable of transmitting Lyme disease. The nymphs, which are about 1.5 mm., appear in spring when the temperature exceeds 40 degrees F. Nymphs molt into adults (as small as 2.5 mm. – the side of a sesame seed). Ultimately, a male and female adult mate and reproduce, and the female lays her eggs on the ground.

The tick requires blood from a host in order to live. Many hosts can serve as a source: mice, chipmunks, deer, birds, dogs, humans and others. White-footed Mice are the most abundant host. They are carriers, but don’t become sick. Birds can eliminate a portion of their ticks with preening. There are some reports that deer, although hosts, appear to clear the organism with an efficient immune system.

Once a tick ingests a blood meal from its host, it drops off into the underbrush and simply waits until it can attach to the next victim/host passing by. Deciduous woods with leaf litter and an understory are prime tick territory, but grasslands are also rich tick habitat.

Once a tick bites a human, it remains attached for several days as it feeds and obtains a blood meal. A tick must bite and stay attached for 24-36 hours before it can transmit Lyme disease. The ingested blood signals the spirochete, residing in the tick gut, to undergo changes that allow it to move into the circulation and eventually into the tick’s saliva. It is the saliva that transmits the organism to you.

If you find a tick on your skin, remove it, because prompt removal can prevent Lyme disease. Use a fine tipped tweezers and grasp the tick close to your skin; with a steady motion, pull straight upward. After removal of the tick, wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based tissue wipe you have brought with you.

If the tick is attached to you for less than 36 hours, your chance of getting Lyme disease is small. Nonetheless, it is wise to be on the alert for symptoms (see below) of Lyme disease. Symptoms can begin three days after a tick bite, or as late as 30 days, but usually appear within one to two weeks. If you develop symptoms, contact your doctor. Opinions vary as to the urgency of initiating oral antibiotics. Some advocate contacting your doctor as soon as possible after tick removal, since doxycycline, given within 72 hours of a tick bite, is often effective in preventing Lyme disease. Others say you should be okay if you get the tick off early: just watch for symptoms and then contact your health care provider.

Symptoms occur 3 to30 days after an infected tick bite. A characteristic erythema migrans (EM) skin rash appears in up to 80% : an expanding reddish rash arises at the bite site. The center may clear as it spreads (bull’s eye). It may be warm, but is usually not painful or itchy.

An EM rash must be distinguished from a rash caused by an allergic reaction to a tick or other insect bite. A skin rash due to an allergic reaction usually occurs within a day after the bite, does not grow in size, and disappears within a day or two.

Other early symptoms include: fatigue, chills, fever, muscle and joint pain, headache and swollen lymph nodes. Late symptoms, indicative of disseminated disease, include: numbness and pain in arms or legs, paralysis of facial muscles (usually on one side of the face, i.e. Bell’s palsy), fever, stiff neck and headaches (possible meningitis), abnormal heartbeat, joint pain and swelling and chronic nervous system problems. While early treatment is best, most people diagnosed later in the course of illness can also be successfully treated.

To prevent Lyme disease, avoid walking through high grass and brushy areas. Stick to the middle of the trail. Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts to minimize skin exposure. Tuck your pants into your socks to keep ticks out. Wear light colored clothing so you can see the ticks on your cloths. After being outdoors, check your skin thoroughly, searching for what may look like nothing more than a freckle or speck of dirt. Remove any tick promptly. Shower within a few hours of returning home to wash off unattached ticks that you may have missed. Throw your clothes in the dryer on high heat for one hour (heat kills ticks). Permethrin (available at sporting goods stores), is an insecticide and repellant that can be sprayed on your clothing, shoes and gear, but not on your skin.

For more information, contact the Vermont Department of Health at 800-640-4374 or 802-863-7240 or click here to visit their website. Click here to order the booklet pictured here from the Vermont Department of Health.