by Seth Davis
MYBC went out on an adventure at Ft. Foster in S. Maine on 11/16 and we were (as always) pleasantly surprised! The trip started off fantastic with an excellent view of a late Black-throated Green Warbler going through trees. This seasonal rarity was joined by numerous Blue Jays, Common Grackles, and a few Eastern Bluebirds during its show.
Despite the cold, we made our way down toward the oceanside and were greeted by some Surf Scoters, Common Eiders, and a very impressive adult Bald Eagle! In making our way up the trail a very interesting raptor flew over. Despite it being a very brief glimpse, there was enough time to recognize it was for sure smaller than a Red-tailed Hawk, and had conspicuous “crescents” at the edge of the wings. This meant one thing (considering most Broad-winged Hawks have migrated) this was a Red-shouldered Hawk!!! The first time MYBC has reported one!
Moving on, we picked up a few regulars like Song Sparrow, Black-capped Chickadee etc. However, as we made our way back to the cars, we were greeted by an excellent view of a Golden-crowned Kinglet, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and at least two Brown Creepers! They were certainly not shy about getting their photos taken!
All in all, it was an awesome trip, as Ft. Foster tends to be this time of year! We picked up some rarities, and in general had a great time! We hope you will join us for our upcoming December event, where the young birders will show their might by tackling our own Christmas Bird Count!
