This morning, 18 participants joined in a bird walk organized by the Thetford Conservation Commission on the Taylor Floodplain Preserve and the Crossroad Farm in the Post Mills section of Thetford.  At the start, the temperatures was near the freezing point after an overnight light frost but warmed up nicely as cloud cover increased  with only a very light breeze.. 

Fortyfour bird species were identified and included seven species of warblers. Among the latter, Chestnut-sided  Warblers, Ovenbirds, and Common Yellowthroats were especially conspicuous by their songs.  Particularly notable was the occurrence of both American Kestrel and Merlin, with a possibility that both these uncommon species of similar-sized falcons might nest in relatively close proximity in this neighborhood.  Another group of related species likely to be nesting, within the Crossroad Farm, were the Tree, Barn, and the less common Cliff Swallows. Among the numerous species sporting bright spring plumages,  a male Rose-breasted Grosbeak and a male Baltimore Oriole provided great views for the group.  A full list of the birds and other details can be found at https://ebird.org/vt/view/checklist/S45593762

Special thanks go to Coleader Kathy Thompson, our walk guide Tim Taylor, and to Connie Snyder and other members of the Thetford Conservation Commission for their help in enabling a most enjoyable morning afield. 

George Clark
Norwich, VT


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