Warmish (30s (F)), calm, and mostly clear as dog and I headed up to the wooded trailhead. Although I typically try not to, this morning I had expectations. Expectations because of the calmness, the clearness, the warmish temperatures. I figured we’d see bluebirds, at least.

And I did see bluebirds—later in our hike‚—but not before I saw the most noteworthy species: a lone Hermit Thrush as we were returning up the manicured main trail. Thought it was a sparrow at first so was rather surprised and thrilled to see it. Watched as it left the trail briefly to grab (and swallow) a good-sized caterpillar. Took a few photos before slowly beginning to walk again. Of course it would fly away.

Another nice surprise was a Pileated Woodpecker I happened to spy taking off as we descended back toward the truck. Never got a look at it again.

Supposed to rain overnight. We shall see what Monday morning brings.

Beech Hill List
Beginning at 7:41 a.m., I hiked all trails.

1. Black-capped Chickadee
2. Tufted Titmouse (v)
3. Hairy Woodpecker
4. American Crow* (v)
5. American Robin
6. American Goldfinch (v)
7. Brown Creeper (v)
8. Purple Finch (v)
9. Northern Flicker
10. Yellow-rumped Warbler
11. Red-breasted Nuthatch
12. Pine Siskin (v)
13. Eastern Bluebird
14. Hermit Thrush
15. Pileated Woodpecker
16. White-breasted Nuthatch**

Mammals

American Red Squirrel (v)

(v) Voice only
*Also elsewhere
**Voice only elsewhere
†First-of-year