An earlier hike this morning. Temps in the low 60s (F) to start, and a little breeze down in the woodlands. Birds were a little quiet, what with all their secret young ’uns. Took the lower trail and followed a Veery for a hundred yards or more. Finally emerged into the edge realm, and then the open barrens, where my count more than doubles.
Notable was a bird I didn’t list at the time but discovered when viewing photos tonight: a Blue-headed Vireo in a spruce in the grove at the summit. Perhaps more notable was a Cedar Waxwing posing regally atop a dead snag. And on our return, a singing Rose-breasted Grosbeak.
I wonder what tomorrow will bring.
Beech Hill List Beginning at 7:17 a.m., I hiked most trails.
Another fine day of hiking in mild weather through the woodlands to the summit of a scenic coastal hill with early-ripening lowbush blueberries. Things began slow—cool, breezy, rather dry—but picked up as dog and I got near the summit. Not as many species as yesterday, but plenty of action.
Notable were all the juvies around—both new begging fledglings and older youngsters (teenagers, let’s say) flitting silently around on their own for the first time. Among the latter were a pair of Hermit Thrushes, one of them seeming curious about Jack and me. Several others I only became aware of on account of their thin, subtle begging voices in the thick greenery. The likes of Chestnut-sided Warblers, I bet, and Common Yellowthroats.
Again on the open trail, we encountered a Savannah Sparrow, who perched on a trailside birch and chipped loudly to warn the youngsters.
I’d take several days like this one.
Beech Hill List Beginning at 7:42 a.m., I hiked most trails.
I have a favorite sparrow. It’s the Savannah Sparrow. Ever since I first heard its high-pitched, insect-like trill with a little hiccup at the end, I kind of fell for the bird. Also, I got to recognizing its chip note. And its tendency to perch atop a low trailside bush to warn its fledglings that humans were about. I have bunches of photos of the species. Even a few videos.
This lovely cool, birdy morning, I encountered a couple of Savannah’s—including one perched on a low trailside bush, warning the young ’uns to keep quiet for a bit before enjoying a little morsel for brunch.
Thirty-seven species this morning. Fun hike with dog.
Beech Hill List Beginning at 7:36 a.m., I hiked most trails.
