Newburyport Birders February 2017 Birding Programs

Birders,

I wish you and your families a joyous holiday season.

Here are the February 2017 birding programs. 

SEASONAL SIGHTINGS

Cedar Waxwing by Nate Dubrow

Observe Cedar Waxwings who have silky-looking plumage. Both the male and female sport crests along with black masks. Their name comes from the waxy wing tips. They feed on fruit during the winter months. 

Brown Creeper by Bob
Stymeist

Appreciate the Brown Creeper, a tiny woodland bird with an affinity for the big trees. Look for these little, long-tailed, brown and white, nuthatch-like birds. They poke and probe into crevices and loose bark with their down-curved, slender bill.

Common Goldeneye by Jeremiah Trimble

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 

Bald Eagles

Learn to Love Bald Eagles

Date:  Sunday, February 12, 2017       
Time: 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Fee: $15.
Meeting Location: Park & Ride on Storey Ave / Route 113 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.  Restrooms are available at the Park & Ride.

Bald Eagle by Phil Brown

Bald Eagles, Biscotti, & Hot Chocolate

Date: Sunday, February 19, 2017
Time: 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Fee: $15.
Meeting Location: Park & Ride on Storey Ave / Route 113 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. Eagles are spectacular to watch when they 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. Restrooms are available at the Park & Ride.

Winter Birding in Rowley

Date: Saturday, February 25, 2017
Time:  2:30 pm to dusk
Meeting Location: Junction of Stackyard & Patmos Roads in Rowley

Join Sue for a birding program in coastal oak woodlands, salt pannes, salt marshes and tidal creeks. Birding is great fun in winter when you wear warm layers and waterproof boots.  There are no facilities at this location. 

See you in the field!

Best wishes for 2017,
Sue