The landscape was iced over this morning when dog and I headed up for a daily Beech Hill hike. But the winds were much calmer than yesterday, and the temperature was mild (for winter), and the sun began to peek through the clouds. I had hope such conditions would lure a few birds out.

And it happened. Eight species showed up during our time on the hill, and a nuthatch even posed for photos.

But temperatures for the next couple days will exceed freezing, and that’ll be followed up by snow (so they say), so there’s no telling what’ll appear these next few crazy days.

Whatever it is, we’ll be ready for it.

Beech Hill List
Beginning at 8:34 a.m., I hiked all trails.

1. American Crow*
2. American Goldfinch (v)
3. Black-capped Chickadee**
4. Canada Goose (v)
5. Downy Woodpecker (v)
6. Red-breasted Nuthatch
7. Common Raven
8. American Robin* (v)

Elsewhere

9. Northern Cardinal (v)
10. Mallard
11. Herring Gull

(v) Voice only
*Also elsewhere
**Voice only elsewhere
†First-of-year