February 2011 Central Mass Bird Sightings

Sightings are listed in reverse chronological order. The email address of birders submitting reports, as well as other Central Massachusetts birding info can be found via the Central Mass Bird Update homepage.

Bird News:

ONGOING -- Asian Longhorned Beetle Information
2/19/11 -- Winter Mass Audubon Programs
2/17/11 -- Emily Dickinson on birds: on WICN

Bird Sightings:

2/28/11 -- Marlborough: I had a large flock of Robins on my Crabapple Trees today, stripping the frozen fruit. Mixed in with the Robins were a couple of Waxwings, one of which was a Bohemian! Unfortunately, the Bohemian didn't hang around very long. (report from Laura Lane).
2/27/11 -- Paxton: This Turkey Vulture was caught with wings fully spread, not far from Moore State Park. (report and photo from Michael Voorhis).
2/27/11 -- Quabbin Park: The snow ended in Worcester about 10AM, and at that time we headed out to do some birding in the Brookfields (Quabog IBA) and then over to QUABBIN PARK/SOUTH QUABBIN. Passerines at Quabbin were scarce, and most of the Quabbin is still frozen, but there were also some nice birds. Complete list follows.
Turkey Vulture (4: small kettle, being relentlessly harassed by a raven); Canada Goose (1:single bird heading south); Hooded Merganser (6); Bald Eagle (pair of ad: we watched the pair again at the nest, easily seen from the Administration Building in a large pine on the shore to the right. One bird was perched above the other, which was in the nest, fiddling around with sticks. You still cannot be sure they will eventually lay eggs here, but it looks interesting. LATER this pair flew down to the carcass. A carcass can be easily seen close to the shore on the right, to the right of the eagle's nest. It has been here since THURSDAY (2/24) and people have reported eagles, ravens and coyotes on it. We watched crows, ravens and eagles on it, but it looks like not much is left. ); Ring-billed Gull (2); Mourning Dove (2); Hairy Woodpecker (2); Pileated Woodpecker (1 flew low over our heads, calling, while we were scoping from in front of Administration Building); Black-capped Chickadee (10); Tufted Titmouse (1); Red-breasted Nuthatch (2); Blue Jay (5); American Crow (16); Common Raven (3: 2 at carcass: see above); Eastern Bluebird (8); American Robin (38); Northern Shrike (1ad); Song Sparrow (1); Common Grackle (7); House Finch (12: just south of Rt.9); Pine Siskin (4);
On the way home there were 2 more Turkey Vultures in Hardwick and an adult BALD EAGLE perched atop a dead tree in the marsh at Winnemusset Meadows WMA in New Braintree.
(report from Mark Lynch/Sheila Carroll).

2/27/11 -- Village of Manchaug, Sutton
Along with all the regulars at the feeders this morning I had around 20 Common Redpolls. (report and photo from Michael Joubert).

2/26/11 -- Sudbury River, Framingham
Bald Eagle this afternoon on Sudbury River in Framingham. Swooping down landing in tall pines off Central and Water streets. (report from Susan Sanderson).

2/26/11 -- Sutton
This morning at my feeders I had 5 Common Redpolls mixed in with thelarge flock of Pine Siskins and GoldFinches. Around 3.30 heading North on 146 by the John Deere dealers in Millbury there was an adult Bald Eagle perched in a tree near the cemetery by the river. (report from Michael Joubert).

2/26/11 -- Seekonk River, RI
We counted waterbirds along several areas of the Blackstone National Corridor today.
Some of the best variety and highest numbers was along the SEEKONK RIVER running south from Pawtucket to Bold Point, between Providence and East Providence: Mute Swan (66); Canada Goose (776); Mallard (220); A Black Duck (91); American Wigeon (8); Gadwall (16); N Pintail (1); Ring-necked Duck (8); Greater Scaup (1400+: huge flock just south of Bold Point but well north of Watchemoket Cove); Bufflehead (125); Common Goldeneye (57); Hooded Merganser (36); Common Merganser (46); Red-breasted Merganser (59); Bald Eagle (1 imm: soared all along the Seekonk); Red-tailed Hawk (6); E Screech Owl (1); Among a good-sized flock of Ring-billed Gulls: Black-headed Gull (1);
At WATCHEMOKET COVER: Black-headed Gull (2); Glaucous Gull (1 imm ph);
(report from Mark Lynch/Sheila Carroll).

2/26/11 -- Central Cemetery, Millbury
Mallard (238); A Black Duck (4); Common Merganser (5); Turkey Vulture (3); Red-tailed Hawk (2); Red-bellied Woodpecker (1) (report from Mark Lynch/Sheila Carroll).

2/26/11 -- West Millbury
There was a Barred Owl sitting in a Maple Tree at the edge of my yard at noon today. The flock of Common Redpolls has grown to 40+. (report from Alan Marble)

2/23/11 -- Northboro
Today while snowshoeing around my property in Northboro, and viewing the usual 18 suspects, I was treated to 8 male and 3 female bluebirds. They were in the process of forming a flock and there may well have been more than the 11 I saw. Against the bright white of the snow the males were spectacular. The Cowbirds are now a daily sighting. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).

2/23/11 -- Shrewsbury
Driving down Route 20 at 4:45 PM, near the Edgemere Drive-in, I saw a bald eagle flying north, following the Lake Quinsigamond shore line. (report from Joe Giumentaro).

2/23/11 -- Upton
This morning we had a flock of at least 2 doz Common Redpolls visit our finch and regular feeder in Upton MA. I have not seen them in many years. (report from Patricia Meisner).

2/22/11 -- Institute Park, Worcester
Birds in the late afternoon included 1 GB Heron, 2 Mute Swan, 1 Hooded Merganser, 12 Common Merganser, 1 Belted Kingfisher, and 2 Am Robins. (report from Rick Quimby).

2/22/11 -- Round Meadow Pond, Westminster
A first year type Glaucous Gull was present on Round Meadow Pond in Westminster early this afternoon. It was "loafing" with Herring (~125) and Great Black-backed Gulls (~25) on the ice. After I viewed it for a few minutes, it took flight and headed toward the Westminster Landfill/Sawmill Pond Area. (report from Tom Pirro).

2/22/11 -- Gardner
Est. between 40 and 50 Redpolls at our feeders in Gardner yesterday and again this AM. Also 6 Pine siskins, 2 House finches, 1 MODO, 8 Starlings, 1 robin, 2 titmice, 1 Downy Woodpecker,2 WB nuthatches, 3 tree sparrows, a pair of cardinals, several juncos and too many Goldfinches to count. Adult Bald eagle flying over route 202 right on the state line between Winchendon and Rindge,NH. (report from Dick Knowlton).

2/22/11 -- Paxton
At the feeder our redpoll population exploded from the 20-30 here since the first of the year to over 100 for the last three days. Oddly, the only Siskins here were 2 on the 12th. One female bird has the features of being a Hoary but taking a photo has been fruitless because they are buzzing about like honey bees. Also have had 3 male red-winged blackbirds since the 19th. (report from Rodney Jenkins)

2/22/11 -- West Millbury
The number of Common Redpolls in my yard has grown from 2 yesterday morning (2/21) to 20+ yesterday afternoon, and they continue this morning. (report from Alan Marble).

2/21/11 -- West Millbury
Except for the fresh air and exercise, snowshoeing for birds locally today was a bust. I should have just stayed home and looked out the window. In addition to the more common feeder birds, I had a male and female Common Redpoll joining my large flock of American Goldfinches, a Carolina Wren, my over wintering Chipping Sparrow, 3 Red-winged Blackbirds, 2 Brown-headed Cowbirds. The highlight was an immature Red-tailed Hawk that killed a Gray Squirrel. After a few minutes, it flew off low into the woods with it and I can still see it enjoying his brunch. Yay!!! How do I get the word out to a Cooper's Hawk that there are 20+ Mourning Doves here every day? (report from Alan Marble).

2/20/11 -- Quabbin Reservoir/Brookfield
On the way home from viewing Bohemian waxwings in Windsor (Berkshires), we had an immature Bald eagle at the Quabbin. At the junction of Rt 9 and 67 in Brookfield there is open water on the south side of Rt 9. It was late (about 5:30 PM) so the light was fading, but there were many Mallards, American Black Ducks, Common and Hooded Mergansers, and a few Wood Ducks in the water. There is a picnic area/pull-off on the east side of the water (west side of Rt. 67) and one can easily view the ducks from fairly close range. There is much ice on the rest of the water so they won't be going too far away. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).

2/20/11 -- Quabbin/Worcester Airport

Today at SOUTH QUABBIN: Bald Eagle (pair at nest site seen from Administration Building looking along eastern shore in tall pine. The old nest is still there, but it is still too early to tell if they will nest here again)
Today at WORCESTER AIRPORT (Mulberry Street): Red-tailed Hawk (1); Northern Shrike (1ad working along northern edge by fence); American Crow (300+); NB: no sign of the Horned Larks and Snow Buntings on either end of the airport)
Yesterday (2/19) at SOUTH QUABBIN/QUABBIN PARK (off Rt. 9): Weather: very windy and cold. Almost all of Quabbin is ice covered. Mallard (1); Common Merganser (3 at fish hatchery); Bald Eagle (5: 2ad+2imm circling near the spillway; 1 ad at the state trout hatchery); Peregrine Falcon (1ad: flew across our field of view below eye level while we were at the Enfield Lookout); Killdeer (1 at the fish hatchery; workers there say it has been there since Thursday); Common Raven (pair);
(report from Mark Lynch/Sheila Carroll).

2/20/11 -- Institute Park, Worcester
There were 8 common Mergansers on the small amount of open water on Institute Pond today at 4pm. 2 Red-winged blackbirds, and Turkey Vultures were also seen from Institute park. [ed. note: I saw the mergansers also on Friday 2/18, but not the blackbirds or vultures]. (report from Alex Dunn).

2/19/11 -- Village of Manchaug, Sutton
This afternoon at 1.30 I had one female Redwing Blackbird at my feeders. (report from Michael Joubert).

2/19/11 -- Northboro
Today, Day 2 of GBBC at our place in Northboro, we had 21 species. We were only able to locate one of the red-winged Blackbirds from the flock we found yesterday. We also had 6 Brown-headed Cowbirds (4 males, 2 females) and 2 Common Redpolls. We also had another Turkey Vulture. We spent an hour in the cold wind searching for more Redpolls, but to no avail. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).

2/18/11 -- Leesville Pond/All Faiths Cemetery, Worcester
This afternoon, I saw 8 hooded mergansers and two mute swans. The cemetery workers saw a bald eagle on the ice 4 days ago. (report from Joan Crowell).

2/18/11 -- Northboro
Today, while scouting our property for the GBBC [ed: Backyard bird count], we discovered 6 Red-winged Blackbirds. The group included 2 females which leads us to suspect that they may have wintered over. Many of them did it last year, but this was a tough winter to choose to stay. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).

2/18/11 -- Village of Manchaug, Sutton
Around 6,25 this AM. I could hear a large murder of American Crows heading in my direction as they came closer I could see 25 + Crows mobbing something .As they came past I observed a rather unhappy Common Raven right below the mob. The location was at Atlas Box and Crating North bound side of 146 about 2 miles south of Tony's Pizza. (report from Michael Joubert).

2/18/11 -- Uxbridge
While driving over the narrow bridge over Rice City Pond in Uxbridge this morning, I saw a woman taking pictures. At first I thought she was taking pictures of the great black-backed gull, but then I realized that an adult bald eagle was sitting on a mound of snow in the water, near the bridge, eating something. It stayed there for awhile before flying away. (report from Mary Sughrue-Yacino).

2/17/11 -- Sutton
At 6.01 pm in a tree in my yard I had a Great-Horned Owl; it flew off as I got out of the car . (report from Michael Joubert).

2/17/11 -- Paxton/Princeton
From Mike Voorhis today, who lives in Paxton: "There are raven(s) in white pines southeast of my house right now, looking around. Local crows are not pleased." Also, just last week (Feb. 6) I saw and heard Ravens on the side of Mt. Wachusett (snowshoeing in MAS Wachusett Meadows). (report from Stan Selkow).

2/15/11 -- West Boylston
While walking in the neighborhood Sunday I spotted a Pileated Woodpecker, near the corner of Keyes and Hosmer St. It was hammering on a fallen tree. (report from Jean Holm).

2/15/11 -- Northboro
Today a lone Turkey vulture was seen moving north over Howard St. in Northboro. (report from Jim Hogan).

2/13/11 -- Marlborough
While driving across town today I spotted a lone Turkey Vulture over the Sudbury Reservoir. Also, today in my yard I had a mixed flock of about 30 Robins and 15 Cedar Waxwings. They were stripping the ornamental Crabapples from the trees in my yard. (report from Laura Lane).

2/12/11 -- Autumn Circle, Holden
I spotted this Bald Eagle in my backyard today. Pretty wild. (report from Steve Brodeur).

2/12/11 -- Chaffin pond, Holden
In the Gail drive area, from 6am.-11am, highlights were Red breasted nuthatch,Red bellied woodpecker, Flicker, Grackle, Mockingbird, Carolina wren, Fox sparrow, Song sparrow, White throated sparrow, House finch, Gold finch, Black ducks 3, Mallards 2, Red tailed hawks 3, and One coyote. (report from Scott and Rubina Corazzini).

2/10/11 -- Northbridge
This afternoon around 4.20 at Plummers landing Northbridge I had a Greatblue Heron perched in a tree over looking the river. At 4.30 flying over Little Meadow Pond Northbridge there was a lone Turkey Vulture. (report from Michael Joubert).

2/9/11 -- Popple Camp Road (Rt. 101), Petersham
This morning as I was looking for some good Winter birds in Petersham., I came across 17 BOHEMIAN WAXWINGS feeding on berries. The bush was across the street from #195. (report from Peter Morlock).

2/8/11 -- West Millbury
This afternoon at my feeders on Elmwood St, I had a common Redpoll. Also there was a Pileated Woodpecker on a Tupelo tree at the edge of the yard. (report from Alan Marble).

2/6/11 -- Sutton
Around 3,00 on Putnam Hill Road Sutton, in the open field about a half mile past Blackstone Golf course, I had a Common Raven surounded by a dozen or more American Crows. They were in the trees in the middle of the field . (report from Michael Joubert).

2/5/11 -- S. Quinsigamond Ave, Shrewsbury
I just moved into a house on S Quinsig from the Charlottesville area of VA. I was shoveling the snow off our garage at noon today. At 12:25 PM I was taking a break and looked up at the sky. I was startled to see a huge adult bald eagle flying over my head parallel to S. Quinsig. It was at an altitude of only about 200 feet. It circled once over the houses to the south of me as he/she headed south. (report from Matt Kessler).

2/1/11 -- Holden
A friend (non-birder) in the Shrewsbury St area of Holden sent us a picture of a bird at their feeder which they couldn't ID. It's a good picture and unmistakeably a male White-winged crossbill. They have been seeing it regularly since Sunday (1/31). (report from Dick Knowlton).

For previous sightings, see January 2011 Archives or Archive Index
2/27/11 -- Village of Manchaug, Sutton: Along with all the regulars at the feeders this morning I had around 20 Common Redpolls. (report and photo from Michael Joubert).
2/26/11 -- Sudbury River, Framingham: Bald Eagle this afternoon on Sudbury River in Framingham. Swooping down landing in tall pines off Central and Water streets. (report from Susan Sanderson).
2/26/11 -- Sutton: This morning at my feeders I had 5 Common Redpolls mixed in with thelarge flock of Pine Siskins and GoldFinches. Around 3.30 heading North on 146 by the John Deere dealers in Millbury there was an adult Bald Eagle perched in a tree near the cemetery by the river. (report from Michael Joubert).
2/26/11 -- Seekonk River, RI: We counted waterbirds along several areas of the Blackstone National Corridor today.
Some of the best variety and highest numbers was along the SEEKONK RIVER running south from Pawtucket to Bold Point, between Providence and East Providence: Mute Swan (66); Canada Goose (776); Mallard (220); A Black Duck (91); American Wigeon (8); Gadwall (16); N Pintail (1); Ring-necked Duck (8); Greater Scaup (1400+: huge flock just south of Bold Point but well north of Watchemoket Cove); Bufflehead (125); Common Goldeneye (57); Hooded Merganser (36); Common Merganser (46); Red-breasted Merganser (59); Bald Eagle (1 imm: soared all along the Seekonk); Red-tailed Hawk (6); E Screech Owl (1); Among a good-sized flock of Ring-billed Gulls: Black-headed Gull (1);
At WATCHEMOKET COVER: Black-headed Gull (2); Glaucous Gull (1 imm ph);
(report from Mark Lynch/Sheila Carroll).

2/26/11 -- Central Cemetery, Millbury
Mallard (238); A Black Duck (4); Common Merganser (5); Turkey Vulture (3); Red-tailed Hawk (2); Red-bellied Woodpecker (1) (report from Mark Lynch/Sheila Carroll).

2/26/11 -- West Millbury
There was a Barred Owl sitting in a Maple Tree at the edge of my yard at noon today. The flock of Common Redpolls has grown to 40+. (report from Alan Marble)

2/23/11 -- Northboro
Today while snowshoeing around my property in Northboro, and viewing the usual 18 suspects, I was treated to 8 male and 3 female bluebirds. They were in the process of forming a flock and there may well have been more than the 11 I saw. Against the bright white of the snow the males were spectacular. The Cowbirds are now a daily sighting. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).

2/23/11 -- Shrewsbury
Driving down Route 20 at 4:45 PM, near the Edgemere Drive-in, I saw a bald eagle flying north, following the Lake Quinsigamond shore line. (report from Joe Giumentaro).

2/23/11 -- Upton
This morning we had a flock of at least 2 doz Common Redpolls visit our finch and regular feeder in Upton MA. I have not seen them in many years. (report from Patricia Meisner).

2/22/11 -- Institute Park, Worcester
Birds in the late afternoon included 1 GB Heron, 2 Mute Swan, 1 Hooded Merganser, 12 Common Merganser, 1 Belted Kingfisher, and 2 Am Robins. (report from Rick Quimby).

2/22/11 -- Round Meadow Pond, Westminster
A first year type Glaucous Gull was present on Round Meadow Pond in Westminster early this afternoon. It was "loafing" with Herring (~125) and Great Black-backed Gulls (~25) on the ice. After I viewed it for a few minutes, it took flight and headed toward the Westminster Landfill/Sawmill Pond Area. (report from Tom Pirro).

2/22/11 -- Gardner
Est. between 40 and 50 Redpolls at our feeders in Gardner yesterday and again this AM. Also 6 Pine siskins, 2 House finches, 1 MODO, 8 Starlings, 1 robin, 2 titmice, 1 Downy Woodpecker,2 WB nuthatches, 3 tree sparrows, a pair of cardinals, several juncos and too many Goldfinches to count. Adult Bald eagle flying over route 202 right on the state line between Winchendon and Rindge,NH. (report from Dick Knowlton).

2/22/11 -- Paxton
At the feeder our redpoll population exploded from the 20-30 here since the first of the year to over 100 for the last three days. Oddly, the only Siskins here were 2 on the 12th. One female bird has the features of being a Hoary but taking a photo has been fruitless because they are buzzing about like honey bees. Also have had 3 male red-winged blackbirds since the 19th. (report from Rodney Jenkins)

2/22/11 -- West Millbury
The number of Common Redpolls in my yard has grown from 2 yesterday morning (2/21) to 20+ yesterday afternoon, and they continue this morning. (report from Alan Marble).

2/21/11 -- West Millbury
Except for the fresh air and exercise, snowshoeing for birds locally today was a bust. I should have just stayed home and looked out the window. In addition to the more common feeder birds, I had a male and female Common Redpoll joining my large flock of American Goldfinches, a Carolina Wren, my over wintering Chipping Sparrow, 3 Red-winged Blackbirds, 2 Brown-headed Cowbirds. The highlight was an immature Red-tailed Hawk that killed a Gray Squirrel. After a few minutes, it flew off low into the woods with it and I can still see it enjoying his brunch. Yay!!! How do I get the word out to a Cooper's Hawk that there are 20+ Mourning Doves here every day? (report from Alan Marble).

2/20/11 -- Quabbin Reservoir/Brookfield
On the way home from viewing Bohemian waxwings in Windsor (Berkshires), we had an immature Bald eagle at the Quabbin. At the junction of Rt 9 and 67 in Brookfield there is open water on the south side of Rt 9. It was late (about 5:30 PM) so the light was fading, but there were many Mallards, American Black Ducks, Common and Hooded Mergansers, and a few Wood Ducks in the water. There is a picnic area/pull-off on the east side of the water (west side of Rt. 67) and one can easily view the ducks from fairly close range. There is much ice on the rest of the water so they won't be going too far away. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).

2/20/11 -- Quabbin/Worcester Airport

Today at SOUTH QUABBIN: Bald Eagle (pair at nest site seen from Administration Building looking along eastern shore in tall pine. The old nest is still there, but it is still too early to tell if they will nest here again)
Today at WORCESTER AIRPORT (Mulberry Street): Red-tailed Hawk (1); Northern Shrike (1ad working along northern edge by fence); American Crow (300+); NB: no sign of the Horned Larks and Snow Buntings on either end of the airport)
Yesterday (2/19) at SOUTH QUABBIN/QUABBIN PARK (off Rt. 9): Weather: very windy and cold. Almost all of Quabbin is ice covered. Mallard (1); Common Merganser (3 at fish hatchery); Bald Eagle (5: 2ad+2imm circling near the spillway; 1 ad at the state trout hatchery); Peregrine Falcon (1ad: flew across our field of view below eye level while we were at the Enfield Lookout); Killdeer (1 at the fish hatchery; workers there say it has been there since Thursday); Common Raven (pair);
(report from Mark Lynch/Sheila Carroll).

2/20/11 -- Institute Park, Worcester
There were 8 common Mergansers on the small amount of open water on Institute Pond today at 4pm. 2 Red-winged blackbirds, and Turkey Vultures were also seen from Institute park. [ed. note: I saw the mergansers also on Friday 2/18, but not the blackbirds or vultures]. (report from Alex Dunn).

2/19/11 -- Village of Manchaug, Sutton
This afternoon at 1.30 I had one female Redwing Blackbird at my feeders. (report from Michael Joubert).

2/19/11 -- Northboro
Today, Day 2 of GBBC at our place in Northboro, we had 21 species. We were only able to locate one of the red-winged Blackbirds from the flock we found yesterday. We also had 6 Brown-headed Cowbirds (4 males, 2 females) and 2 Common Redpolls. We also had another Turkey Vulture. We spent an hour in the cold wind searching for more Redpolls, but to no avail. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).

2/18/11 -- Leesville Pond/All Faiths Cemetery, Worcester
This afternoon, I saw 8 hooded mergansers and two mute swans. The cemetery workers saw a bald eagle on the ice 4 days ago. (report from Joan Crowell).

2/18/11 -- Northboro
Today, while scouting our property for the GBBC [ed: Backyard bird count], we discovered 6 Red-winged Blackbirds. The group included 2 females which leads us to suspect that they may have wintered over. Many of them did it last year, but this was a tough winter to choose to stay. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).

2/18/11 -- Village of Manchaug, Sutton
Around 6,25 this AM. I could hear a large murder of American Crows heading in my direction as they came closer I could see 25 + Crows mobbing something .As they came past I observed a rather unhappy Common Raven right below the mob. The location was at Atlas Box and Crating North bound side of 146 about 2 miles south of Tony's Pizza. (report from Michael Joubert).

2/18/11 -- Uxbridge
While driving over the narrow bridge over Rice City Pond in Uxbridge this morning, I saw a woman taking pictures. At first I thought she was taking pictures of the great black-backed gull, but then I realized that an adult bald eagle was sitting on a mound of snow in the water, near the bridge, eating something. It stayed there for awhile before flying away. (report from Mary Sughrue-Yacino).

2/17/11 -- Sutton
At 6.01 pm in a tree in my yard I had a Great-Horned Owl; it flew off as I got out of the car . (report from Michael Joubert).

2/17/11 -- Paxton/Princeton
From Mike Voorhis today, who lives in Paxton: "There are raven(s) in white pines southeast of my house right now, looking around. Local crows are not pleased." Also, just last week (Feb. 6) I saw and heard Ravens on the side of Mt. Wachusett (snowshoeing in MAS Wachusett Meadows). (report from Stan Selkow).

2/15/11 -- West Boylston
While walking in the neighborhood Sunday I spotted a Pileated Woodpecker, near the corner of Keyes and Hosmer St. It was hammering on a fallen tree. (report from Jean Holm).

2/15/11 -- Northboro
Today a lone Turkey vulture was seen moving north over Howard St. in Northboro. (report from Jim Hogan).

2/13/11 -- Marlborough
While driving across town today I spotted a lone Turkey Vulture over the Sudbury Reservoir. Also, today in my yard I had a mixed flock of about 30 Robins and 15 Cedar Waxwings. They were stripping the ornamental Crabapples from the trees in my yard. (report from Laura Lane).

2/12/11 -- Autumn Circle, Holden
I spotted this Bald Eagle in my backyard today. Pretty wild. (report from Steve Brodeur).

2/12/11 -- Chaffin pond, Holden
In the Gail drive area, from 6am.-11am, highlights were Red breasted nuthatch,Red bellied woodpecker, Flicker, Grackle, Mockingbird, Carolina wren, Fox sparrow, Song sparrow, White throated sparrow, House finch, Gold finch, Black ducks 3, Mallards 2, Red tailed hawks 3, and One coyote. (report from Scott and Rubina Corazzini).

2/10/11 -- Northbridge
This afternoon around 4.20 at Plummers landing Northbridge I had a Greatblue Heron perched in a tree over looking the river. At 4.30 flying over Little Meadow Pond Northbridge there was a lone Turkey Vulture. (report from Michael Joubert).

2/9/11 -- Popple Camp Road (Rt. 101), Petersham
This morning as I was looking for some good Winter birds in Petersham., I came across 17 BOHEMIAN WAXWINGS feeding on berries. The bush was across the street from #195. (report from Peter Morlock).

2/8/11 -- West Millbury
This afternoon at my feeders on Elmwood St, I had a common Redpoll. Also there was a Pileated Woodpecker on a Tupelo tree at the edge of the yard. (report from Alan Marble).

2/6/11 -- Sutton
Around 3,00 on Putnam Hill Road Sutton, in the open field about a half mile past Blackstone Golf course, I had a Common Raven surounded by a dozen or more American Crows. They were in the trees in the middle of the field . (report from Michael Joubert).

2/5/11 -- S. Quinsigamond Ave, Shrewsbury
I just moved into a house on S Quinsig from the Charlottesville area of VA. I was shoveling the snow off our garage at noon today. At 12:25 PM I was taking a break and looked up at the sky. I was startled to see a huge adult bald eagle flying over my head parallel to S. Quinsig. It was at an altitude of only about 200 feet. It circled once over the houses to the south of me as he/she headed south. (report from Matt Kessler).

2/1/11 -- Holden
A friend (non-birder) in the Shrewsbury St area of Holden sent us a picture of a bird at their feeder which they couldn't ID. It's a good picture and unmistakeably a male White-winged crossbill. They have been seeing it regularly since Sunday (1/31). (report from Dick Knowlton).

For previous sightings, see January 2011 Archives or Archive Index
2/26/11 -- Central Cemetery, Millbury: Mallard (238); A Black Duck (4); Common Merganser (5); Turkey Vulture (3); Red-tailed Hawk (2); Red-bellied Woodpecker (1) (report from Mark Lynch/Sheila Carroll).
2/26/11 -- West Millbury: There was a Barred Owl sitting in a Maple Tree at the edge of my yard at noon today. The flock of Common Redpolls has grown to 40+. (report from Alan Marble)
2/23/11 -- Northboro: Today while snowshoeing around my property in Northboro, and viewing the usual 18 suspects, I was treated to 8 male and 3 female bluebirds. They were in the process of forming a flock and there may well have been more than the 11 I saw. Against the bright white of the snow the males were spectacular. The Cowbirds are now a daily sighting. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).
2/23/11 -- Shrewsbury: Driving down Route 20 at 4:45 PM, near the Edgemere Drive-in, I saw a bald eagle flying north, following the Lake Quinsigamond shore line. (report from Joe Giumentaro).
2/23/11 -- Upton: This morning we had a flock of at least 2 doz Common Redpolls visit our finch and regular feeder in Upton MA. I have not seen them in many years. (report from Patricia Meisner).
2/22/11 -- Institute Park, Worcester: Birds in the late afternoon included 1 GB Heron, 2 Mute Swan, 1 Hooded Merganser, 12 Common Merganser, 1 Belted Kingfisher, and 2 Am Robins. (report from Rick Quimby).
2/22/11 -- Round Meadow Pond, Westminster: A first year type Glaucous Gull was present on Round Meadow Pond in Westminster early this afternoon. It was "loafing" with Herring (~125) and Great Black-backed Gulls (~25) on the ice. After I viewed it for a few minutes, it took flight and headed toward the Westminster Landfill/Sawmill Pond Area. (report from Tom Pirro).
2/22/11 -- Gardner: Est. between 40 and 50 Redpolls at our feeders in Gardner yesterday and again this AM. Also 6 Pine siskins, 2 House finches, 1 MODO, 8 Starlings, 1 robin, 2 titmice, 1 Downy Woodpecker,2 WB nuthatches, 3 tree sparrows, a pair of cardinals, several juncos and too many Goldfinches to count. Adult Bald eagle flying over route 202 right on the state line between Winchendon and Rindge,NH. (report from Dick Knowlton).
2/22/11 -- Paxton: At the feeder our redpoll population exploded from the 20-30 here since the first of the year to over 100 for the last three days. Oddly, the only Siskins here were 2 on the 12th. One female bird has the features of being a Hoary but taking a photo has been fruitless because they are buzzing about like honey bees. Also have had 3 male red-winged blackbirds since the 19th. (report from Rodney Jenkins)
2/22/11 -- West Millbury: The number of Common Redpolls in my yard has grown from 2 yesterday morning (2/21) to 20+ yesterday afternoon, and they continue this morning. (report from Alan Marble).
2/21/11 -- West Millbury: Except for the fresh air and exercise, snowshoeing for birds locally today was a bust. I should have just stayed home and looked out the window. In addition to the more common feeder birds, I had a male and female Common Redpoll joining my large flock of American Goldfinches, a Carolina Wren, my over wintering Chipping Sparrow, 3 Red-winged Blackbirds, 2 Brown-headed Cowbirds. The highlight was an immature Red-tailed Hawk that killed a Gray Squirrel. After a few minutes, it flew off low into the woods with it and I can still see it enjoying his brunch. Yay!!! How do I get the word out to a Cooper's Hawk that there are 20+ Mourning Doves here every day? (report from Alan Marble).
2/20/11 -- Quabbin Reservoir/Brookfield: On the way home from viewing Bohemian waxwings in Windsor (Berkshires), we had an immature Bald eagle at the Quabbin. At the junction of Rt 9 and 67 in Brookfield there is open water on the south side of Rt 9. It was late (about 5:30 PM) so the light was fading, but there were many Mallards, American Black Ducks, Common and Hooded Mergansers, and a few Wood Ducks in the water. There is a picnic area/pull-off on the east side of the water (west side of Rt. 67) and one can easily view the ducks from fairly close range. There is much ice on the rest of the water so they won't be going too far away. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).
2/20/11 -- Quabbin/Worcester Airport: Today at SOUTH QUABBIN: Bald Eagle (pair at nest site seen from Administration Building looking along eastern shore in tall pine. The old nest is still there, but it is still too early to tell if they will nest here again)
Today at WORCESTER AIRPORT (Mulberry Street): Red-tailed Hawk (1); Northern Shrike (1ad working along northern edge by fence); American Crow (300+); NB: no sign of the Horned Larks and Snow Buntings on either end of the airport)
Yesterday (2/19) at SOUTH QUABBIN/QUABBIN PARK (off Rt. 9): Weather: very windy and cold. Almost all of Quabbin is ice covered. Mallard (1); Common Merganser (3 at fish hatchery); Bald Eagle (5: 2ad+2imm circling near the spillway; 1 ad at the state trout hatchery); Peregrine Falcon (1ad: flew across our field of view below eye level while we were at the Enfield Lookout); Killdeer (1 at the fish hatchery; workers there say it has been there since Thursday); Common Raven (pair);
(report from Mark Lynch/Sheila Carroll).

2/20/11 -- Institute Park, Worcester
There were 8 common Mergansers on the small amount of open water on Institute Pond today at 4pm. 2 Red-winged blackbirds, and Turkey Vultures were also seen from Institute park. [ed. note: I saw the mergansers also on Friday 2/18, but not the blackbirds or vultures]. (report from Alex Dunn).

2/19/11 -- Village of Manchaug, Sutton
This afternoon at 1.30 I had one female Redwing Blackbird at my feeders. (report from Michael Joubert).

2/19/11 -- Northboro
Today, Day 2 of GBBC at our place in Northboro, we had 21 species. We were only able to locate one of the red-winged Blackbirds from the flock we found yesterday. We also had 6 Brown-headed Cowbirds (4 males, 2 females) and 2 Common Redpolls. We also had another Turkey Vulture. We spent an hour in the cold wind searching for more Redpolls, but to no avail. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).

2/18/11 -- Leesville Pond/All Faiths Cemetery, Worcester
This afternoon, I saw 8 hooded mergansers and two mute swans. The cemetery workers saw a bald eagle on the ice 4 days ago. (report from Joan Crowell).

2/18/11 -- Northboro
Today, while scouting our property for the GBBC [ed: Backyard bird count], we discovered 6 Red-winged Blackbirds. The group included 2 females which leads us to suspect that they may have wintered over. Many of them did it last year, but this was a tough winter to choose to stay. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).

2/18/11 -- Village of Manchaug, Sutton
Around 6,25 this AM. I could hear a large murder of American Crows heading in my direction as they came closer I could see 25 + Crows mobbing something .As they came past I observed a rather unhappy Common Raven right below the mob. The location was at Atlas Box and Crating North bound side of 146 about 2 miles south of Tony's Pizza. (report from Michael Joubert).

2/18/11 -- Uxbridge
While driving over the narrow bridge over Rice City Pond in Uxbridge this morning, I saw a woman taking pictures. At first I thought she was taking pictures of the great black-backed gull, but then I realized that an adult bald eagle was sitting on a mound of snow in the water, near the bridge, eating something. It stayed there for awhile before flying away. (report from Mary Sughrue-Yacino).

2/17/11 -- Sutton
At 6.01 pm in a tree in my yard I had a Great-Horned Owl; it flew off as I got out of the car . (report from Michael Joubert).

2/17/11 -- Paxton/Princeton
From Mike Voorhis today, who lives in Paxton: "There are raven(s) in white pines southeast of my house right now, looking around. Local crows are not pleased." Also, just last week (Feb. 6) I saw and heard Ravens on the side of Mt. Wachusett (snowshoeing in MAS Wachusett Meadows). (report from Stan Selkow).

2/15/11 -- West Boylston
While walking in the neighborhood Sunday I spotted a Pileated Woodpecker, near the corner of Keyes and Hosmer St. It was hammering on a fallen tree. (report from Jean Holm).

2/15/11 -- Northboro
Today a lone Turkey vulture was seen moving north over Howard St. in Northboro. (report from Jim Hogan).

2/13/11 -- Marlborough
While driving across town today I spotted a lone Turkey Vulture over the Sudbury Reservoir. Also, today in my yard I had a mixed flock of about 30 Robins and 15 Cedar Waxwings. They were stripping the ornamental Crabapples from the trees in my yard. (report from Laura Lane).

2/12/11 -- Autumn Circle, Holden
I spotted this Bald Eagle in my backyard today. Pretty wild. (report from Steve Brodeur).

2/12/11 -- Chaffin pond, Holden
In the Gail drive area, from 6am.-11am, highlights were Red breasted nuthatch,Red bellied woodpecker, Flicker, Grackle, Mockingbird, Carolina wren, Fox sparrow, Song sparrow, White throated sparrow, House finch, Gold finch, Black ducks 3, Mallards 2, Red tailed hawks 3, and One coyote. (report from Scott and Rubina Corazzini).

2/10/11 -- Northbridge
This afternoon around 4.20 at Plummers landing Northbridge I had a Greatblue Heron perched in a tree over looking the river. At 4.30 flying over Little Meadow Pond Northbridge there was a lone Turkey Vulture. (report from Michael Joubert).

2/9/11 -- Popple Camp Road (Rt. 101), Petersham
This morning as I was looking for some good Winter birds in Petersham., I came across 17 BOHEMIAN WAXWINGS feeding on berries. The bush was across the street from #195. (report from Peter Morlock).

2/8/11 -- West Millbury
This afternoon at my feeders on Elmwood St, I had a common Redpoll. Also there was a Pileated Woodpecker on a Tupelo tree at the edge of the yard. (report from Alan Marble).

2/6/11 -- Sutton
Around 3,00 on Putnam Hill Road Sutton, in the open field about a half mile past Blackstone Golf course, I had a Common Raven surounded by a dozen or more American Crows. They were in the trees in the middle of the field . (report from Michael Joubert).

2/5/11 -- S. Quinsigamond Ave, Shrewsbury
I just moved into a house on S Quinsig from the Charlottesville area of VA. I was shoveling the snow off our garage at noon today. At 12:25 PM I was taking a break and looked up at the sky. I was startled to see a huge adult bald eagle flying over my head parallel to S. Quinsig. It was at an altitude of only about 200 feet. It circled once over the houses to the south of me as he/she headed south. (report from Matt Kessler).

2/1/11 -- Holden
A friend (non-birder) in the Shrewsbury St area of Holden sent us a picture of a bird at their feeder which they couldn't ID. It's a good picture and unmistakeably a male White-winged crossbill. They have been seeing it regularly since Sunday (1/31). (report from Dick Knowlton).

For previous sightings, see January 2011 Archives or Archive Index
2/20/11 -- Institute Park, Worcester: There were 8 common Mergansers on the small amount of open water on Institute Pond today at 4pm. 2 Red-winged blackbirds, and Turkey Vultures were also seen from Institute park. [ed. note: I saw the mergansers also on Friday 2/18, but not the blackbirds or vultures]. (report from Alex Dunn).
2/19/11 -- Village of Manchaug, Sutton: This afternoon at 1.30 I had one female Redwing Blackbird at my feeders. (report from Michael Joubert).
2/19/11 -- Northboro: Today, Day 2 of GBBC at our place in Northboro, we had 21 species. We were only able to locate one of the red-winged Blackbirds from the flock we found yesterday. We also had 6 Brown-headed Cowbirds (4 males, 2 females) and 2 Common Redpolls. We also had another Turkey Vulture. We spent an hour in the cold wind searching for more Redpolls, but to no avail. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).
2/18/11 -- Leesville Pond/All Faiths Cemetery, Worcester: This afternoon, I saw 8 hooded mergansers and two mute swans. The cemetery workers saw a bald eagle on the ice 4 days ago. (report from Joan Crowell).
2/18/11 -- Northboro: Today, while scouting our property for the GBBC [ed: Backyard bird count], we discovered 6 Red-winged Blackbirds. The group included 2 females which leads us to suspect that they may have wintered over. Many of them did it last year, but this was a tough winter to choose to stay. (report from Jim & Kathie Hogan).
2/18/11 -- Village of Manchaug, Sutton: Around 6,25 this AM. I could hear a large murder of American Crows heading in my direction as they came closer I could see 25 + Crows mobbing something .As they came past I observed a rather unhappy Common Raven right below the mob. The location was at Atlas Box and Crating North bound side of 146 about 2 miles south of Tony's Pizza. (report from Michael Joubert).
2/18/11 -- Uxbridge: While driving over the narrow bridge over Rice City Pond in Uxbridge this morning, I saw a woman taking pictures. At first I thought she was taking pictures of the great black-backed gull, but then I realized that an adult bald eagle was sitting on a mound of snow in the water, near the bridge, eating something. It stayed there for awhile before flying away. (report from Mary Sughrue-Yacino).
2/17/11 -- Sutton: At 6.01 pm in a tree in my yard I had a Great-Horned Owl; it flew off as I got out of the car . (report from Michael Joubert).
2/17/11 -- Paxton/Princeton: From Mike Voorhis today, who lives in Paxton: "There are raven(s) in white pines southeast of my house right now, looking around. Local crows are not pleased." Also, just last week (Feb. 6) I saw and heard Ravens on the side of Mt. Wachusett (snowshoeing in MAS Wachusett Meadows). (report from Stan Selkow).
2/15/11 -- West Boylston: While walking in the neighborhood Sunday I spotted a Pileated Woodpecker, near the corner of Keyes and Hosmer St. It was hammering on a fallen tree. (report from Jean Holm).
2/15/11 -- Northboro: Today a lone Turkey vulture was seen moving north over Howard St. in Northboro. (report from Jim Hogan).
2/13/11 -- Marlborough: While driving across town today I spotted a lone Turkey Vulture over the Sudbury Reservoir. Also, today in my yard I had a mixed flock of about 30 Robins and 15 Cedar Waxwings. They were stripping the ornamental Crabapples from the trees in my yard. (report from Laura Lane).
2/12/11 -- Autumn Circle, Holden: I spotted this Bald Eagle in my backyard today. Pretty wild. (report from Steve Brodeur).
2/12/11 -- Chaffin pond, Holden: In the Gail drive area, from 6am.-11am, highlights were Red breasted nuthatch,Red bellied woodpecker, Flicker, Grackle, Mockingbird, Carolina wren, Fox sparrow, Song sparrow, White throated sparrow, House finch, Gold finch, Black ducks 3, Mallards 2, Red tailed hawks 3, and One coyote. (report from Scott and Rubina Corazzini).
2/10/11 -- Northbridge: This afternoon around 4.20 at Plummers landing Northbridge I had a Greatblue Heron perched in a tree over looking the river. At 4.30 flying over Little Meadow Pond Northbridge there was a lone Turkey Vulture. (report from Michael Joubert).
2/9/11 -- Popple Camp Road (Rt. 101), Petersham: This morning as I was looking for some good Winter birds in Petersham., I came across 17 BOHEMIAN WAXWINGS feeding on berries. The bush was across the street from #195. (report from Peter Morlock).
2/8/11 -- West Millbury: This afternoon at my feeders on Elmwood St, I had a common Redpoll. Also there was a Pileated Woodpecker on a Tupelo tree at the edge of the yard. (report from Alan Marble).
2/6/11 -- Sutton: Around 3,00 on Putnam Hill Road Sutton, in the open field about a half mile past Blackstone Golf course, I had a Common Raven surounded by a dozen or more American Crows. They were in the trees in the middle of the field . (report from Michael Joubert).
2/5/11 -- S. Quinsigamond Ave, Shrewsbury: I just moved into a house on S Quinsig from the Charlottesville area of VA. I was shoveling the snow off our garage at noon today. At 12:25 PM I was taking a break and looked up at the sky. I was startled to see a huge adult bald eagle flying over my head parallel to S. Quinsig. It was at an altitude of only about 200 feet. It circled once over the houses to the south of me as he/she headed south. (report from Matt Kessler).
2/1/11 -- Holden: A friend (non-birder) in the Shrewsbury St area of Holden sent us a picture of a bird at their feeder which they couldn't ID. It's a good picture and unmistakeably a male White-winged crossbill. They have been seeing it regularly since Sunday (1/31). (report from Dick Knowlton).

For previous sightings, see January 2011 Archives or Archive Index