Newburyport Birders' February Update

Birders,

Winter birding is an exciting!  I hope to see you at one of these upcoming programs...

SEASONAL SIGHTINGS

Observe Cedar Waxwings who have silky-looking plumage. Both the male and female sport crests along with black masks. Their name comes from the red, waxy wing tips. They'll feed on fruit during the winter months.
Appreciate the Hermit Thrush with its rich brown upper body and smudged spots on its breast. The reddish tail sets it apart from similar species in its genus. 


Identify the black-and-white Common Goldeneye males.  The eyes will be bright yellow in adult drakes [males] and pale yellow to white in hens [females].  They're just arriving in our area and have an elaborate courtship which you can watch as winter settles in.  Here's a clip so you can recognize it when you see it:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Fwi9Di-RjU

NEWBURYPORT BIRDERS BIRDING PROGRAMS 



Learn to Love Bald Eagles

Date:  Sunday, February 14, 2016      
Time: 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Fee: $15.
Meeting Location: Cashman Park Boat Ramp at the end of Sally Snyder Way off Merrimac Street in Newburyport

In winter, Bald Eagles move south to the swift-moving Merrimack River which provides ideal, winter habitat for these majestic birds. We’ll search along the river’s edge and protected islands for our national symbol.  Some carpooling may be required.  Dress in layers and wear warm, waterproof boots.

Bald Eagles, Biscotti, & Hot Chocolate



Date: Sunday, February 21, 2016 
Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Fee: $15. 
Meeting Location: Cashman Park Boat Ramp at the end of Sally Snyder Way off Merrimac Street in Newburyport

Each winter, Bald Eagles from northern New England move south to the lower Merrimack River which provides perfect, winter habitat for these majestic birds. These spectacular birds soar high over the water and then stoop to secure prey with their sharp talons. Join Newburyport Birders for biscotti & hot chocolate as we discuss the Merrimack River's protected islands and the field marks of the Bald Eagle. We'll begin our search for our national symbol on foot; then we'll carpool to several sites along the river. Dress in layers and wear warm, waterproof boots. These programs have proven to be very popular.

Winter Birding Along the Seacoast



Date: Saturday, February 27, 2016 

Time:  1:30 pm to dusk 
Meeting Location: Boat Ramp Parking Lot at Salisbury Beach State Reservation [we'll carpool from there]
Fee: $15.  


Take some quiet time and join Sue for a birding program focused on the importance of the the seacoast during winter. Birding along the seacoast is great fun in winter.  We often find sea ducks, wintering loons, grebes and owls. 

Good birding,
Sue

(Photo credits in order of appearance: Nate Dubrow, Nate Dubrow, Jeremiah Trimble, Marj Watson, Phil Brown, Margo Goetschkes)