The Green Mountain Audubon Society resumed a full slate of birding excursions this spring. Numbers of participants have been intentionally limited to ensure an enjoyable experience for all and most outings have been fully subscribed. A genuine effort has been made to accommodate all levels of birders through which we all share and improve birding skills.
GMAS Lakewatch
In March, participants in the Lakewatch were able to observe numerous species of waterfowl and other birds at spots along the shores of Lake Champlain, starting at Shelburne Bay and eventually down to Converse Bay.
The view of the Green Mountains from behind the Shelburne Farms “Farm Barn”.
Birding at Shelburne Farms
During a gorgeous April morning, approximately twenty-five birders traversed the beautiful grounds of Shelburne Farms, observing over forty species, including a rare-to-Vermont, Glossy Ibis. The Green Mountain Audubon Society is most grateful to the folks at Shelburne Farms and hope to return to this extraordinary venue again in the fall.
A sunny morning exploring the secluded spring trails of Little River State Park.
Little River Spring Birding Excursion
High lake water levels resulted in the cancellation of our scheduled trip to Alburgh Dunes, but a week later twenty-five birders were treated to a fabulous morning of birding at Little River State Park. Groups headed out at 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30 AM amidst clouds of insects followed by hungry birds. Numerous species of warblers in striking breeding plumage were seen and heard, heralding the true return of spring.
Warbler Ramble at Colchester Pond
Scheduled for an early Friday morning to avoid the crowds, a full contingent of birders joined GMAS members at eBird Hotspot Colchester Pond. Another beautiful day did not disappoint with sightings of brilliant Golden-winged warblers and their hybrids along with a diversity of avian species. The amazing Jacob Crawford guided one group to seeing or hearing over sixty species!
Birders scanning Colchester Pond and neighboring trees and fields for birds, which were quite abundant and diverse on this early morning outing!
Other birding outings led by the GMAS this spring included Rock River Birding by Kayak, Suburban Birding at South Burlington’s Farrell Park, and Birding at Missisquoi NWR’s Stephen Young Marsh on June 11th. Check out the GMAS Events web page for details on past and upcoming events.
~ Patrick Phillips, GMAS Board