October 24 Half Day Pelagic from Gloucester
Leaders: Steve Mirick, Max Chalfin-Jacobs
BBC trip organizers: John Edmondson, Cliff Cook, Marilyn Tillinghast, Naeem Yusuff, Sebastian Jones
eBird lists and trip report by M. Chalfin-Jacobs
https://ebird.org/tripreport/425873
On a brisk but sunny October 24th morning, the Privateer IV left the 7 Seas Whale Watch dock within the calm Gloucester Harbor. With guidance from Captain Jay, the decision was made to head south for Stellwagen Bank rather than north, in hopes of encountering larger congregations of seabirds after reported scarcity on Jeffrey’s Ledge. This turned out to be an excellent decision, as birders on board were treated to exceptional looks at exciting feeding flocks containing 100s of gannets and dolphins, dozens of shearwaters, interrupted only by a few daring Pomarine Jaegers.
On the return trip to Gloucester we encountered a lone Northern Fulmar, a species we were worried would be challenging further South, and definitely a highlight of the trip. There was also the occasional buzz when a migrating passerine would zip past the boat, including a Dark-eyed Junco that followed us for 30 minutes, and a brief appearance from a Yellow-rumped Warbler. Other marine wildlife included 100+ Atlantic White-sided Dolphin, 10 Common Dolphin, and 30 Harbor Porpoise.
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News Categories
Upcoming Field Trips
Field Trips / Events
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CANCELED Midweek Hunt for Alcids and Seabirds CANCELED
Canceling due to the difficulties presented by the snow everywhere.
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The Quiet Beauty of birding – Winthrop Shore Reservation
Offered by DCR. Come join us for an up-close look at sea ducks and gulls in action! Observe, share your insights, ask questions, and connect with fellow bird enthusiasts. For adults & children 8+. Children must be with an adult. ADA/Reasonable Accommodation 617-645-0358 | Moneesha.dasgupta2@mass.gov
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The Quiet Beauty of birding – Lynn Shore & Nahant Beach Reservation
Offered by DCR. Come join us for an up-close look at sea ducks and gulls in action! Observe, share your insights, ask questions, and connect with fellow bird enthusiasts. For adults & children 8+. Children must be with an adult. ADA/Reasonable Accommodation 617-645-0358 | Moneesha.dasgupta2@mass.gov
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Belle Isle Marsh and Vicinity
Led by DCR staff. We will search on foot up to one mile, on flat, easy terrain for snowy owls and other raptors, native sparrows, finches, waterfowl, and other birds. This is a traveling program by car or bike. Prepare for ticks. Ages: Adults and kids 8 years+ with adult chaperone. Binoculars recommended. ADA/Reasonable Accommodations
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Deer Island & Boston Harbor, Winthrop
Winthrop - Deer Island Parking Lot 180 Tafts Ave., Winthrop, MA, United StatesWe will search for wintering seabirds, alcids, and Iceland Gulls. Be prepared for cold and wind and dress very warmly. Depending on conditions, we will walk up to 2.6 miles on paved paths. Port-a-potties available midway. Beginners welcome and encouraged. Bad weather or poor walking conditions may cancel - email trip leaders if you are