Birdwalk Highlights for 3/15: Winslow Park, Freeport.

Birdwalks are back in action and spring is upon us! After early morning fog burned off just as we arrived at the point, a gorgeous and birdy day was thoroughly enjoyed by all. It was too nice to be at Winslow!

Despite the spring-like conditions, we were pleased to find 3 BARROW'S GOLDENEYES still present (a pair plus an additional female). A pair of GREEN-WINGED TEAL were newly-arrived migrants.

For the most part, other waterbird numbers were down from our visit several weeks ago, as expected. Nonetheless, we had decent tallies that included: 170 AMERICAN BLACK DUCKS, 125 COMMON EIDERS, 80 BUFFLEHEADS, 62 CANADA GEESE, 40 LONG-TAILED DUCKS, 30 COMMON GOLDENEYES, 16 MALLARDS, 13 COMMON LOONS, and 4 SURF SCOTERS.

To and fro the water's edge, we heard a distant drumming PILEATED WOODPECKER and a singing CAROLINA WREN. Resident forest birds were often singing, and we took the time to enjoy at least two pairs of EASTERN BLUEBIRDS in the scope when the sun came out.

At least two HORNED LARKS flew over, unseen, and a single COMMON GRACKLE. At least 6 SONG SPARROWS likely included birds that moved in just last night. We also had a RED-TAILED HAWK flying across the river, and one immature BALD EAGLE - the pair was not visible on or near the nest this morning.

The birding was very good, but any day you're overdressed at Windsblow Park is a good day!