Dereks Birding: Local Patches. When Im not guiding in June, I am usually strolling my local patches in the early morning to walk Sasha. For example, on Monday, I conducted the second round of my informal breeding bird survey at Hedgehog Mountain Park, which yielded a dozen species of warblers (led by 16 Ovenbirds and 13 Black-throated Green Warblers, but also including 1 Prairie Warbler and the first Magnolia Warbler in several years here). Red-eyed Vireos (16) were the other most common species, but some species - like Eastern Wood-Pewee (4) and Scarlet Tanager (0) were decidedly low. By doing a semi-standardized survey (time, route, date) each year, I can quantify what is around each year and perhaps detect some trends. If nothing else, I can add some semblance of data to my perception of a current year (i.e. what seems to be missing). It also helps me to find target birds on tours, as I did with clients at Florida Lake, followed by the Hog, on Tuesday (see previous post, below). Intimate knowledge of ones own patch(es) can go a long way in understanding the ebbs and flows of birdlife in our respective areas and the subtle micro-habitats that many of these species prefer. Another favorite breeding season patch for me is the powerline cut that crosses Elmwood Road in Pownal. With the construction of the widened corridor and new lines now complete, vegetation is recovering, but there are still many, many fewer birds than before this boondoggle began. Nonetheless, I tallied 11 Prairie Warblers, 8 Alder Flycatchers, 6 Eastern Towhees, and countless Common Yellowthroats and Song Sparrows. Among other species, there was a family group of Common Ravens, a calling Black-billed Cuckoo, and a PINE SISKIN - surprisingly, my first of the entire year!
Posted on: Wed, 18 Jun 2014 19:42:28 +0000
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