Eastern bluebird.

Note: In the wee hours, before I hit the sack last night, I heard the voices of Canada geese coming from somewhere. In flight? At Clam Cove? I tend to think they were flying. Anyway, I note this in case you’re wondering about the species appearance on today’s list.

Beech Nut.

This one was a nice one. A blue-sky day, mild temperatures, crows flapping around, gulls soaring, pigeons flying above the town. I spotted the pigeons while doing errands with Jack in mid-afternoon, just before our trip to Beech Hill, where the snow on the trail had gone slushy. Met a few groups of fellow hikers and one familiar dog. Also met a fresh snowman up at Beech Nut. And, just below the summit, three bluebirds.

The bluebirds were a surprise. Seems kind of late for them still to be moving through. I didn’t get a great look, but there were at least one male and one female—possible another male. They perched on the bare tips of low bushes, occasionally dipping down to the ground for some kind of grub. When they finally flew, calling softly, they flew in a southerly direction.

Otherwise, I heard crows and chickadees up there. That’s all.

Tonight we’ve got a sky as clear as crystal. The off-season constellations are high. And the dark solstice is just four weeks away.

Birch.

Beech Hill List
Beginning at 2:30 p.m., I hiked the open trail.

1. American crow (voice)
2. Eastern bluebird
3. Black-capped chickadee (voice)

Elsewhere

4. Canada goose
5. House sparrow
6. Herring gull
7. Rock pigeon