A brilliant spring sky illuminated the still deep snow as members of the
Athol Bird and Nature Club embarked on a recent trip in search of signs of
spring. Club president Dave Small met the group at the Millers River Environmental Center in
Athol where Common Grackle, Red-winged Blackbird, Mourning Dove, Rock Dove, Tufted
Titmouse, House Sparrow, and European Starling were noted as the trip began.
In Millers Falls the group added Canada Goose, Mallard, Hooded Merganser,
Goldfinch and Black-capped Chickadee. The Turners Falls Rod and Gun Club
was teaming with birds as hundreds of Black and Mallard Ducks were joined by
Canada Geese, Mute Swans, Ring-necked Duck, Northern Pintail, Common
Merganser, Herring, Ring-billed and Great Black-backed Gulls, and
Red-tailed Hawks. The real show commenced as an immature Bald Eagle, found perched on an exposed stump
in the Connecticut River, took flight causing hundreds of waterfowl to jump into the air. The eagle was joined by another immature
eagle. We watched as both birds cruised back and forth across the river giving us
excellent views. A third eagle, this one a glorious adult, was observed sailing up the river.
The top of an eagle's white head could be seen above the nest at Barton's
Cove. The guy cables supporting the dead pine tree the eagles had chosen
for their nest were easily visible across the ice. Many gulls and ducks dotted
the open water of the river. Mockingbird, Song Sparrow, Turkey Vulture, Downy and Red-bellied Woodpecker, American Robin, were
added to the growing day list.
The Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory and Gardens in South Deerfield was our next
stop. The parking lot of this facility, which opened in the fall of 2000, was
overflowing. The bustling crowd didn't detract from the experience of entering the large greenhouse where we were hit by 80-degree humid air
and hundreds of flying butterflies. The butterflies were actively flying,
feeding, mating and basking in the strong sunshine. After several minutes
the fog cleared from our cameras and close-focusing binoculars allowing great looks at these winged jewels. The group identified twenty-three
species of butterfly most of which were of tropical origin including Owl
Butterflies, Queen, Southern White, Giant Swallowtails, and Heliconia. Many
were excited to observe several familiar garden species such as Monarch,
American Lady, Black Swallowtail, and Common Buckeye amid the blooming plants.
Enjoying the warm afternoon sun the group stopped at a local chocolate factory, and
then continued birding along the canals in Turners Falls with a final look at Barton's Cove. Several real harbingers of spring including a
Tree Swallow, Red-shouldered Hawk, and Killdeer rewarded the group. A great
ending to a fun spring adventure.
We are looking for more people to host fundraising Butterfly and
Birding Buffets. Large or small, breakfast, lunch or supper; even a
picnic at one of your favorite spots. Sign up now!
We are also hoping to have more fundraising garden tours. If anyone is willing to share their yard with the public, let us
know.
Call or write
Dave Small at 978-249-2094 or
e-mail Dave
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