Spring started Sunday and winter returned Thursday. Some of us woke to a bit of snow on the ground and a biting breeze. Despite this RCAS tallied 31 species on its 176th walk around West Rutland Marsh. This beats last year’s 21 and the average monthly total for March of 23.
Red-winged Blackbirds are staking out their territories as are the Common Grackles. Mallards (and one Wood Duck) were seen flying over the cattails. A Belted Kingfisher was also spotted.
American Tree Sparrows are still hanging around the feeders at the boardwalk. Song Sparrows have returned in good numbers with 14 spotted (and many heard singing).
Two Carolina Wrens were heard. Bird song everywhere is ramping up despite the cool temperatures.
One highlight of the walk was a Northern Shrike perched high on a tree. It has been spotted on and off (mostly off!) at this location during this past winter.
Another highlight of the day was a male Northern Bluebird.
A Northern Flicker was heard across from the boardwalk and two Turkey Vultures were feasting on something along Marble Street on our return.
Our next marsh walk is scheduled for Saturday, April 23, for (please note!) 7 a.m.
Today's list:
Canada Goose 111
Wood Duck 1
Mallard 14
Wild Turkey 36
Turkey Vulture 2
Red-tailed Hawk 1
Mourning Dove 17
Belted Kingfisher 1
Downy Woodpecker 4
Northern Flicker 1
Pileated Woodpecker 1
Northern Shrike 1
Blue Jay 5
American Crow 7
Common Raven 1
Black-capped Chickadee 19
Tufted Titmouse 2
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
Carolina Wren 2
Eastern Bluebird 1
American Robin 14
European Starling 7
American Tree Sparrow 7
Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 22
Song Sparrow 14
Northern Cardinal 7
Red-winged Blackbird 23
Common Grackle 11
House Finch 3
American Goldfinch 38
House Sparrow 3