October Big Day Report

Here’s where we went birding on October 11th:

2025 October Big Day trip locations

39 Birders sent in 98 checklists for Massachusetts (and a few more from NH and Maine). We recorded 145 species, and a Budgerigar.

Highlights included: Sora at Great Meadows, Concord; Marbled Godwit at Joppa Park, Newburyport; a flock of 26 Red Knots at Plymouth Beach; American Golden-Plovers at both Joppa Park and Plymouth; American Bittern at Hellcat, Plum Island; Yellow-crowned Night-Heron at Perkins Park, Newburyport; Philadelphia Vireo at Plum Island; Pine Siskin in Marlborough; Grasshopper Sparrow in Hatfield; Clay-colored Sparrow at Arlington Reservoir; Dickcissel at Ricci Field, Lincoln. We recorded 17 species of warblers on the day, compared with 20 on our Big Day in May. 13 species of sparrow in October, compared with 10 in May.

Most species were recorded in Essex County (115), followed by Middlesex (100), Suffolk (63) and Bristol (57). The most frequently recorded species were Blue Jay (74 checklists), Song Sparrow (64), White-throated Sparrow (54), American Robin and Black-capped Chickadee (52), Yellow-rumped Warbler (48), Northern Cardinal and Red-bellied Woodpecker (47).

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Upcoming Field Trips

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • Deer Island & Boston Harbor, Winthrop

    We 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

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