Minuteman NHP – Vernal Pool Trail, Middlesex, Massachusetts, US
Jun 1, 2017 5:45 PM – 8:15 PM
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Comments:     BBC- Minuteman NHP- Leader: Kathy Dia- We started out at the Hartwell Tavern lot and walked via the Vernal pool Tr. back to the Brooks Village lot. Sunny with a few clouds until dusk; mild 60’s to 50’s F. Observers: Lynette, Bev, Juana Ham, Bob, Gail, Stan, Bill Lee, Kathy Dia
40 species (+2 other taxa)

Canada Goose  2
Wild Turkey  2
Double-crested Cormorant  2     Fly over
Great Blue Heron  2
Mourning Dove  5
Common Nighthawk  6     Feeding high over the boardwalk with swifts and swallows. Tough to count as they kept coming from different directions, but I think this is reasonable. I wonder whether they are nesting nearby. A pair has also been seen regularly at Great Meadows- Concord since mid-May.
Chimney Swift  6
Downy Woodpecker (Eastern)  3
Eastern Wood-Pewee  2
Alder Flycatcher  1
Eastern Phoebe  2
Great Crested Flycatcher  2
Eastern Kingbird  2
Warbling Vireo (Eastern)  1
Red-eyed Vireo  1
Blue Jay  4
American Crow  1
Tree Swallow  15
Barn Swallow  1
Black-capped Chickadee  2
Tufted Titmouse  5
White-breasted Nuthatch (Eastern)  2
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher  1
Veery  1
Wood Thrush  4
American Robin  8
Northern Mockingbird  1
Cedar Waxwing  8
Ovenbird  2
American Redstart  1
Pine Warbler  2
warbler sp. (Parulidae sp.)  1     A “see-saw” heard once; likely Black-and-white or redstart.
Chipping Sparrow  5
Song Sparrow  3
Scarlet Tanager  1
Northern Cardinal  2
Rose-breasted Grosbeak  3
Indigo Bunting  0     This was an unfortunate surprise. Each June since 2012 the Buntings have nested in the brushy edges of the spot called the “Bloody Angle” . Each evening like clockwork  the males would perch on the trees in the open area and sing. This year no buntings although I have heard one or two elsewhere in the park.
Red-winged Blackbird (Red-winged)  13
Common Grackle  6
Baltimore Oriole  4
blackbird sp.  8
House Sparrow  3

View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S37389023

A Look Back to 1918

The date of July 17, 1918 was marked in the calendar of Bostonians as the fifth anniversary of the Brookline Bird Club. There was a birthday party at “Lake Walden” to celebrate the event,

A Look Back to 1918

The date of July 17, 1918 was marked in the calendar of Bostonians as the fifth anniversary of the Brookline Bird Club. There was a birthday party at “Lake Walden” to celebrate the event,

A Look Back to 1918

The date of July 17, 1918 was marked in the calendar of Bostonians as the fifth anniversary of the Brookline Bird Club. There was a birthday party at “Lake Walden” to celebrate the event,

News Categories

Upcoming Field Trips

  • Halibut Point State Park, Rockport

    Rockport - Halibut Point State Park Halibut Point State Park, Rockport, MA, United States

    A two-hour walk, about 1.5 miles, over easy to moderate gravel roads and trails in search of seasonal specialties. Boots advisable. Restrooms are available. In case of inclement weather check with the leader night before trip.

  • Castle Island & Pleasure Bay

    South Boston - Castle Island Parking Lot, 2080 Day Blvd. 2080 Day Blvd., Boston, MA, United States

    Join us to observe resident birds and winter migrants in a unique urban habitat that is a favorite for many bird species, including uncommon and rare birds. Dress warmly and be prepared for snow/ice, cold, and wind. Expect to walk approximately 2 miles on paved/level paths. Boots & Yak Traks or similar antiskid footwear recommended

  • Deer Island & Boston Harbor, Winthrop

    Winthrop - Deer Island Parking Lot 180 Tafts Ave., Winthrop, MA, United States

    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 leader if you are

  • Cape Ann

    Gloucester - Fisherman's Monument Gloucester Fisherman's Memorial, 60 Western Ave, Gloucester, MA, United States

    We will search for alcids and other wintering seabirds. Be prepared for cold and windy weather. If inclement weather is predicted, contact the leader by 6:00 pm the previous evening.

  • The Quiet Beauty of birding – Winthrop Shore Reservation

    Winthrop - DCR Winthrop Beach Reservation - Sturgis St 59 Winthrop Shore Drive, Winthrop, MA, United States

    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

Go to Top