Surf Scoter (first winter male).

Some rain early, so dog and I waited until it’d passed to do our daily hike. Windy, but temps up in the 40s. The birds on the hill were shy, however, and since I had my designs on a photo, we took a second hike out to the end of the Rockland Breakwater—where it seems a bunch of other folks had the same idea.

Low tide this time, with a brisk wind and plenty of waves. Was hoping for Purple Sandpipers, saw none, and settled for a few diving ducks—including a good-looking young Surf Scoter.

Supposed to get a lot colder now.

Beech Hill List
Beginning at 9:30 a.m., I hiked the open trail.

1. Herring Gull*
2. Downy Woodpecker (v)
3. Black-capped Chickadee** (v)

Elsewhere

4. American Crow
5. Rock Pigeon
6. Mallard
7. Common Eider
8. Black Guillemot
9. Surf Scoter
10. House Sparrow

v = Voice only
*Also elsewhere
**Voice only elsewhere