A warm, humid morning, this one. Dog and I headed up the trail at the usual time, unsure (at least I was) of what birds we’d encounter under such suddenly interesting conditions.
Quite a few, turns out—including a couple of surprises.
E.g., an Eastern Kingbird showed up out of nowhere and commenced to chasing other birds around. Another example: I happened to spy a juvie Brown-headed Cowbird. Possibly (judging by the nearness of a pair of them) raised by Yellow Warblers.
But this morning’s most photogenic bird? A Chestnut-sided Warbler.
Beech Hill List Starting at 6:32 a.m. EST (7:32 DST), I hiked all trails.
Third straight amazing skies in a row this morning with Captain Jack. Less sun, more shadow—rain in the offing—which might have to do with lighter bird numbers. But two new firsts-of-years showed up on the hill: a pair of Chimney Swifts and a pair of Barn Swallows. Also heard a cuckoo, which was fun.
Plus, I had chats with several fellow hikers—including a few out-of-staters, as the season has arrived.
We got a little wet on our return hike, but it was a light rain, which just added to the fun.
Beech Hill List Beginning at 7:55 a.m. sun time (8:55 DST), I hiked all trails.
Cool early as dog and I hit the shady trailhead, but warm in a hurry as the sun rose on a humid day. Birds still flitting about, readying for their inevitable travels. Nice selection of species.
Notable: Chimney Swifts, and a Least Flycatcher enjoying the summit fly hatch (along with waxwings). A random Wood Thrush down in the woodlands. Distant gulls. A random Cooper’s Hawk (I believe the first I’ve seen since our return to Maine).
Especially happy to have had a Savannah Sparrow—my favorite sparrow, as certainly I’ve mentioned before—perch and pose for me.
Beech Hill List Beginning at 7:33 a.m., I hiked most trails.
