Under relatively cool, calm, conditions and overcast skies with a low  cloud cover, but no precipitation, 20 participants enjoyed this morning's bird walk in Windsor, VT,  in the vicinity of the state correctional facility { "Windsor prison farm"). Bird  vocalizations seemed often subdued, but nevertheless a total of 43 species were found. Presumably most or all of these species nest in that vicinity,  A complete list, compiled by Jeff Yegian. can be seen at  http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S37643007

A few highlights can be mentioned here. Two Wilson's Snipe were calling and flying about. Repeated calling by both Alder and  Willow Flycatchers provided a fine opportunity to compare the vocalizations of the two species which are so similar in appearance as to be ordinarily  indistinguishable except by sounds or nests.  House Wrens were nesting in an exceptional location, a space partially concealed  between pieces of a standard-appearing, roadside, metal guard rail. Eight warbler species were detected, including one repeatedly singing a proper "Blue-winged Warbler song".  Despite our efforts to see that winged warbler, the bird remained out of sight  so we don't know whether the singer was actually a Blue-winged Warbler or perhaps a hybrid or, much less likely, a rare Golden-winged Warbler.  Among other prominent singers in the area were Eastern Towhee and Indigo Bunting, augmenting a background chorus provided by Red-eyed Vireos and Ovenbirds.

After coverage on the prison farm, ten participants went on to look for birds in and around wetlands near the junction of Marton and Hunt Roads, also in the town of Windsor. Eighteen species were found, including two additional snipe, the only hummingbird of the morning, both Least and Willow Flycatchers. a Warbling Vireo, numerous Bobolinks singing and flying about, and repeated song of Savannah Sparrow. A full list, compiled by Jeff Yegian, can be seen at   http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist/S37643106

Thanks to all who participated and helped in this morning'a walk, arranged by the Mascoma Chapter of New Hampshire Audubon.  Special acknowledgments go to coleaders Susan Tiholiz and Jeff Yegian. Jeff kept the records in the field and submitted the eBird reports from this morning.

George Clark
Norwich, VT


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