Eastern Phoebe.

Thanks to a more or less steady rain, Jack and I didn’t hit the hill until late in the day—for the first time in weeks. Glad we did, too, because the late-afternoon sky was interesting and complex and limned and amazing.

Interesting clouds.

Birds were scarce, and it was too chilly (and/or not sunny enough) for butterflies. Or dragonflies. Or a run-of-the-mill September fly hatch. Oddly, though, two species were well represented: Eastern Phoebes and Northern Flickers. Saw or heard a few of each throughout our hike.

Also saw a fluttering kestrel, which was sweet. And—I can hardly believe this—the first time ever I made out Heron Neck Light way out on Vinalhaven. Chilly enough to wear a sweatshirt for the first time since spring.

But that sky.

Heron Neck Light.

Beech Hill List
Beginning at 4:15 p.m., I hiked the open trail.

1. Eastern Phoebe
2. Northern Flicker
3. American Kestrel
4. Herring Gull*
5. Song Sparrow (v)
6. Gray Catbird (v)
7. Blue Jay**
8. Black-capped Chickadee (v)

Elsewhere

9. Northern Cardinal (v)
10. Downy Woodpecker (v)
11. Turkey Vulture

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

Late-afternoon trail.