2011-2012 Field Trips/Outdoor Events
More details, if required, and/or updates on these trips will be given at the indoor meetings and in the Club newsletter. You can check the Club's website too for trip information and watch for emails sent by the Club. Contact trip leaders directly if you have questions about any of their trips. Please also check the sources listed above for news about the possible last-minute addition of new field trips.
The New Haven Bird Club does not charge trip or leader fees for its outdoor programs, but participants are responsible for the cost of their food, transportation, and entrance fees (where charged), unless prior arrangements are made by the Club. Car-pooling is encouraged to avoid parking problems at some destinations and to promote conservation of our natural resources.
Cancellation Policy
Inclement weather or another emergency may cancel a field trip. Check the
sources listed above or contact the leader of the trip directly if you have
any questions about a possible cancellation.
COA Shorebird and Tern Workshop
Sunday, August 14, 2011, 7:30 am, Sandy Point, West Haven
COA field workshops focus on one or two groups of birds with the intent of helping birders improve their identification skills. The workshop will begin at Sandy Point and then move to Milford Point to coincide with high tide. Meet at the Sandy Point parking lot across from the former Captain's Galley Restaurant in West Haven. Wear footwear you won't mind getting wet. No pre-registration required. The workshop is free and open to the public. Check the COA website for details.
Jamaica Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Queens, NY
Saturday, August 20, 2011, 7:30 am
This birding hot spot is a great place to see a wide variety of shorebirds, herons, terns, and migrating passerines. It is a great place for uncommon shorebirds such as American Avocet, Marbled Godwit, and Buff-breasted, Stilt, and White-rumped Sandpiper. Meet at 7:30 am at the commuter lot in Orange at Rte. 34 and Greenway Road (at exits 57/58 of the Wilbur Cross Pkwy). We will carpool to the refuge, returning in the late afternoon. Bring lunch, water, and bug spray. Consider a cap and sunscreen, and wear shoes you won't mind getting muddy. Leader-Chris Loscalzo: 203.389.6508, closcalz@optonline.net
Daily Hawk Watch at Lighthouse Point Park
September 1 to November 30, 2011
Lighthouse Point Park on New Haven Harbor is one of the premier locations in southern New England for observing migrating raptors as well as a wide variety of songbirds. The watch starts daily at 7:00 am and continues as long as the hawks keep flying. Stop by anytime. Coordinator- Steve Mayo: 203.393.0694, smayo@sikorsky.com
First Wednesday Walk: Sandy Point, West Haven
Wednesday, September 7, 2011, 8 am
Join us as we look for shorebirds and terns at this excellent local birding spot. Black Skimmers, Roseate Terns, and a variety of shorebirds, including Golden Plover, are possible. Meet in the parking lot opposite the former Captain's Galley Restaurant on Beach St. Wear footwear that you won't mind getting wet-we may have to wade in shallow water. Leader-John Oshlick.
Contact person-Tina Green: 203.247.2660, tina@renaissancestudios.com
Lighthouse Point Bird Walk and Prep for Migration Festival
Saturday, September 17, 2011, 8:00 am
Ranger Dan Barvir and Arne Rosengren will lead the bird walk. Meet at the Hawk Watch parking lot at Lighthouse Point on New Haven Harbor. Then, beginning at 9:30 am, we will perform some light trail maintenance and cleanup. This is a great way both to enjoy looking at birds and help preserve their habitat. Leaders-Dan Barvir: 203 946-6086 and Arne Rosengren: 203 248-2903
Ninth Annual Migration Festival at Lighthouse Point Park
Sunday, September 25, 2011, 8:00 am to 3:00 pm
This festive event is sponsored by the New Haven Parks Dept., the New Haven Bird Club, and other fine organizations. In addition to hawk watching, there will be bird banding demonstrations, a live raptor show, bird walks, and other activities. Check the newspaper and Club newsletter for more details. Organizer-Ranger Dan Barvir: 203.946.6086. NHBC contact-Maria Stockmal: 203.488.3876, m.stockmal@snet.net
Family Bird Walk at Lighthouse Point Park, New Haven
Saturday, October 1, 2011, 9:00 am
This trip is oriented toward families that are interested in learning about birds. The focus will be on fall migrants, especially hawks. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them, appropriate clothing, and a little bit of curiosity about birds and the natural world. All ages are welcome. Meet at the hawk watch station in the park. Leader-Corrie Folsom-O'Keefe; 203.630.9640, jubilee832001@yahoo.com
Kellogg Environmental Center/Osbornedale State Park, Derby
Saturday, October 1, 2011, 8:00 am
Join past-President Maria Stockmal as she leads a walk at this fine local birding location. The environmental center and state park boast a variety of habitats, including open fields, woodlands, and ponds. We'll be looking for fall migrants, including warblers, vireos, flycatchers, and sparrows. Meet at the Kellogg parking lot: 500 Hawthorne Avenue, Derby. Leader-Maria Stockmal: 203.488.3876, m.stockmal@snet.net
First Wednesday Walk: Osbornedale State Park, Derby
Wednesday, October 5, 2011, 8:00 am
Join us as we visit this fine birding location. There is varied habitat including freshwater ponds, open fields, and woods. Rarities have been found here, most notably the Western Flycatcher, a first state record, a few years ago Meet at the Kellogg Environmental Center parking lot, 500 Hawthorne Ave., Derby. Leader-Bill Banks. Contact-Tina Green: 203.247.2660, tina@renaissancestudios.com
THE BIG SIT!®
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Established by NHBC, The Big Sit!® has become an international event, with birders participating on four continents. The object is to record as many species of birds as possible in a single day from one 17-foot diameter circle. The circles for the event are located strategically at a number of birding hotspots in the state. Join other birders in one of these circles or create one of your own! You don't have to be a hard-core birder to join in the fun. The event is now run by Bird Watcher's Digest. For details, go to the Bird Watcher's Digest website: <birdwatchersdigest.com> or
Contact-John Triana: 203.758.7203, jtriana1@sbcglobal.net
Hammonasset State Park, Madison
Saturday, October 15, 2011, 8:00 am
Visit one of Connecticut's best fall birding spots, where the abundance of some migrants and sightings of less common species can make for a truly memorable trip. The walking is easy, as it is on level ground. Meet at the park entrance (I-95, Exit 62).
Leader-Florence McBride: 203.288.6777, j.mcbride@yale.edu
Saturday, October 15, 2011, 8:00 am
Join us as we look for fall migrants in the historic and serene setting of Evergreen Cemetery. This is a trip co-sponsored by the NHBC, the New Haven Museum, and Evergreen Cemetery. We'll visit the gravesites of several important and interesting people from New Haven's past while seeking birds on their way south. This is a great trip for all as the walking is easy on flat ground. Meet at the parking lot outside the cemetery's office on Ella Grasso Blvd
Leader-John Triana: 203.758.7203, jtriana1@sbcglobal.net
NHBC 19th Annual Winter Feeder Survey
November 1, 2011 through March 31, 2012
This is a yearly census to help determine the number and frequency of birds visiting feeders in the Greater New Haven area. You are invited to observe and record the activity at your feeder at least once a week for the entire time period.
Contact-Peter Vitali: 203.288.0621,vitali_peter_e@sbcglobal.net
First Wednesday Walk: Silver Sands State Park, Milford
Wednesday, November 2, 2011, 8:00 am
Today we'll be looking for sea ducks and shorebirds, rare gulls, birds of prey, and uncommon sparrows. Meet at the main parking area at Silver Sands SP, the first large lot on the right. We may visit other Milford locations, such as Milford Point, Mondo Ponds, and Caswell Cove. Leader-Steven Spector. Contact-Tina Green: 203.247.2660, tina@renaissancestudios.com
Fargeorge Wildlife Preserve, Quinnipiac River, New Haven
Sunday, November 6, 2011, 8:00 am
Join our Club president for a walk at this New Haven Land Trust property along the Quinnipiac River. With its varied habitat, it is a good place to see raptors, shorebirds, and waterfowl. Sightings here have included Snow Goose, American Woodcock, and American Bald Eagle, and many wintering ducks. Directions: From Rte. 80, go south on Quinnipiac Ave. Turn right just past the R.R. overpass and go through the open gate onto the property.
Leader-Mike Horn: 203.288.1891, mfhorn@att.net
Bombay Hook NWR, Leipsic, Delaware
Eastern Neck Island NWR, Rock Hall, Maryland
Saturday, Nov. 12, 2011, 6:25 am SHARP
Birding and Photography-Snow Geese and Tundra Swans
The highlight of this trip will be on Saturday when we enter the main gate of Bombay Hook NWR. We will meet at the head- quarters building just past the main gate at 6:25 am SHARP and tour the many ponds, pools, and fields where we may see and photograph as many as 100,000 Snow Geese and many other fall migrants, from raptors to shorebirds. We will also visit other birding sites in the area, including Eastern Neck Island NWR, where we will find Tundra Swans. There are motels in Dover and B&Bs in the area. The leaders recommend the Best Western in Smyrna, DE @ 6 miles from Bombay Hook. For details, contact trip leaders-Mike & Pat Horn: 203.288.1891, mfhorn@att.net
Directions: To get to Bombay Hook NWR from Dover, go north on either US 13 or DE 1 to Rte. 42. Head east on Rte. 42 to Leipsic. From Leipsic go north on Rte. 9 to Whitehall Neck Rd. Go east down the road to the refuge entrance gate.
Family Bird Walk at Silver Sands State Park, Milford
Saturday, December 3, 2011, 9:00 am
This walk is oriented toward families that are interested in learning about birds. Beginners are welcome. The park is a great place to see waterfowl, shorebirds, and sparrows. Bring binocu- lars and a field guide if you have them, appropriates clothing, and a little bit of curiosity about birds and the natural world. Meet in the parking lot at the end of Silver Sands Pkwy. Leader-Corrie
Folsom-O'Keefe; 203.630.9640, jubilee832001@yahoo.com
First Wednesday Walk: Hammonasset State Park, Madison
Wednesday, December 7, 2011, 8:00 am
Join us as we explore this birding hotspot for fall migrants. The varied habitat attracts shorebirds, raptors, songbirds, and water- fowl. Meet at the park entrance. Leader-Jerry Connolly. Contact-Tina Green: 203.247.2660, tina@renaissancestudios.com
Ora Ave./ Proto Drive/Tweed-New Haven Airport, New Haven
Saturday, December 10, 2011, 8:00 am
Meet on Proto Drive near the landfill. This area on the east side of the airport has a great array of late fall migrants and some over-wintering species. Possibilities include Rough-legged Hawk, White-crowned Sparrow, Eastern Meadowlark, Marsh Wren, and even Great Horned Owl and American Bittern.
Directions: Take I-95, Exit 51 Frontage Road. Go 0.9 mi. Turn right onto Hemingway (Rte. 142). Go about one mile, turn right onto Proto Drive. Leader-Steve Broker: 203.272.5192
(cell: 203.747.6843), ls.broker@cox.net
112th Annual New Haven Christmas Bird Count
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Join other NHBC members in this fun event, steeped in tradition. Participate for a few hours or for the entire day. Results of the count are sent to the National Audubon Society and are included in an international census of early winter bird populations. The compilation dinner, held at the CT Agricultural Experiment Station, starts at 5:00 pm.
Compiler-Chris Loscalzo: 203.389.6508, closcalz@optonline.net
First Wednesday Walk: Sherwood Island State Park, Westport
Wednesday, January 4, 2012, 7:30 am
Enjoy a mid-week trip to this fine birding spot on Long Island Sound. We will check the Sound for loons, goldeneye, grebes, and other sea ducks. The park's fields are a good place to look for Horned Larks, Snow Buntings, and sparrows. Meet at the main parking lot in the park. Leader-Tina Green: 203.247.2660, tina@renaissancestudios.com
Stratford/Milford Birding Tour
Sunday, January 15, 2012, 7:30 am
Join us as we visit the marshes and beaches in Stratford and Milford. We'll be looking for sea ducks including scoters, scaup, loons and grebes, gulls, raptors, and shorebirds. Meet at the commuter lot on Schoolhouse Road in Milford just south of Exit 35 on I-95. Leader-Chris Loscalzo: 203.389.6508, closcalz@optonline.net
Barkhamsted Reservoir & Vicinity
(Hart To Hart: New Hartford To Hartland)
Saturday, January 28, 2012, 7:30 am
We travel north on Route 8 through the Naugatuck River Valley to Torrington and then take Route 202 to the first of our birding localities, New Hartford's Maple Hollow. We continue to Lake McDonough and Barkhamsted Reservoir, then make a series of stops along Routes 181 and 20 on the west side of the reservoir. As the wintry weather allows, we drive some roads in Peoples State Forest and Tunxis State Forest. When we reach the north end of Barkhamsted Reservoir, we are within shouting distance of the Massachusetts border. Our list of northern species will be a short one, but the scenery is great and the birding fun. Look forward to a hearty lunch of soup and sandwiches as we'll be dining at a warm New Hartford restaurant. Meet at Amity Shopping Center, Woodbridge off Route 63. Our caravan departs for Connecticut's rural northern heartland shortly thereafter. Leader-Steve Broker: 203-272-5192, (cell: 203-747-6843), ls.broker@cox.net
First Wednesday Walk: Hammonasset State Park, Madison
Wednesday, February 1, 2012, 8:00 am
Join us on this mid-week field trip to one of the area's best birding locations. We will look for sea ducks, grassland species, and rarities. Last year the first ever sighting of a Common Murre in CT occurred right around the time of this trip. Meet at the park entrance (I-95, Exit 62). Leader-Greg Hanisek. Contact-Tina Green: 203.247.2660, tina@renaissancestudios.com
Hammonasset State Park, Madison
Saturday, February 4, 2012, 8:00 am
Join us as we visit this premier CT birding location for a mid-winter excursion. We will be looking for sea ducks, shorebirds, grassland species, and winter finches. Notable sightings on last year's trip included Common Eider, Surf Scoter, Sanderling, Purple Sandpiper, Dunlin, Merlin, Snow Bunting, and Horned Lark. We'll check out the entire park, including the campgrounds area. Meet at the Nature Center parking lot at Meig's Point.
Leader-Chris Loscalzo: 203.389.6508, closcalz@optonline.net
Sachuest Point NWR and Rhode Island Coast
Saturday, February 25, 2012, 7:00 am
This all-day trip includes stops at Sachuest Point, Beavertail State Park, Moonstone Beach, and Trustum Pond, all outstanding Rhode Island birding locations. We should see grebes, loons, scoters, eiders, Purple Sandpipers, and lots of Harlequin Ducks. Highlights on last year's trip included Black Guillemot, Red-necked Grebe, and Eurasian Widgeon. Dress warmly-it's cold and windy on the coast. The hiking is a bit strenuous in places. Bring lunch and a spotting scope if you have one. Meet at the Branford commuter lot at Exit 55, I-95. We carpool from there.
Leader-Chris Loscalzo: 203.389.6508, closcalz@optonline.net
First Wednesday: Sikorsky Airport & Great Meadows, Stratford
Wednesday, March 7, 2012, 8:00 am
Join us as on a visit to this fine birding area. We will meet at the Long Beach parking lot and bird the marsh and beach and then visit Sikorsky Airport and Frash Pond. We'll look for sea birds such as Long-tailed Duck and scoters, as well as raptors and shorebirds. Directions: Follow signs to Sikorsky Airport from Exit 30 off I-95. Go past the airport entrance and follow the causeway to the end. Take the first right onto Oak Bluff Avenue and follow it to the Long Beach entrance. Leader-Charlie Barnard. Contact-Tina Green: 203.247.2660, tina@renaissancestudios.com
Family Bird Walk, Brooksvale Park, Hamden
Saturday, March 17, 2012, 9:00 am
This walk is oriented toward families interested in learning about birds and other wildlife. The park is home to a variety of local bird species and has varied habitat. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them, appropriate clothing, and a little bit of curiosity about birds and the natural world. All ages are welcome. Meet at the smaller parking lot next to the barn. Leader-Corrie Folsom-O'Keefe: 203-630-9640, jubilee832001@yahoo.com
Sunday, March 25, 2012, 8:00 am
We'll explore the various habitats of Stratford's shoreline in search of raptors, ducks, gulls, and early migrants. If time permits, we may also visit surrounding towns. We'll finish by noon or 1:00 pm. Carpooling is encouraged. Meet at Dunkin Donuts shopping center lot at the corner of Main St. and Access Road in Stratford.
Leader-Frank Mantlik: 203.984.9410, mantlik@sbcglobal.net
First Wednesday Walk: Cove Island Park, Stamford
Wednesday, April 4, 2012, 7:30 am
Join us at this fine birding location in southwestern CT as we look for early spring migrants and lingering winter residents. The park is an excellent place to see rare gulls, waterfowl, sparrows and other species. Leaders-Patrick Dugan and Mike Moccio.
Contact-Tina Green: 203.247.2660, tina@renaissancestudios.com
East Rock Birding and Trail Maintenance, New Haven
Saturday, April 14, 2012, 8:00 am
Meet at the Eli Whitney Museum parking lot for a bird walk from 8 to 9 am. Then join Ranger Dan and help with light trail mainten-ance along the river from 9 am to noon. Bring pruning shears and work gloves if you have them. Leader-Dan Barvir: 203.946.6086
Richard English Memorial Field Trip, Lighthouse Pt/ Killingworth
Saturday, April 14, 2012, 8:30 am
Meet in the Lighthouse Point Hawk Watch parking lot and bird the harbor for gulls, loons, ducks, and early returning shorebirds. We will then proceed to the Richard English Bird Sanctuary on Deer Lake in Killingworth and then finish our birding tour with a visit to Hammonasset State Park in Madison. This is an all-day trip so bring lunch and dress warmly.
Leader-Mike Horn: 203.288.1891, mfhorn@att.net
Ansonia Nature Center, Ansonia
Saturday, April 21, 2012, 8:00 am
Join our past-president as she leads a walk at this fine birding site. The nature center has a small pond, wetlands, thickets, grassy fields, and woods. The woods have had Northern Goshawks and Great Horned Owls nesting there and there are often other surprises. Meet at the nature center parking lot on Deerfield Lane (off Benz Road) in Ansonia.
Leader-Maria Stockmal: 203 488-3876, m.stockmal@snet.net
Bird Walk for Kids at East Rock Park, New Haven
Saturday, April 28, 2012, 9:00 am
On this walk by the park's Mill River, children, accompanied by adults, will search for warblers and other spring migrants. Other interested adults are also welcome to join the walk in this famous spring birding site. Meet at the Eli Whitney Museum parking lot. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them.
Leader-Florence McBride: 203 288-6777, j.mcbride@yale.edu
First Wednesday Walk: East Rock Park, New Haven
Wednesday, May 2, 2012, 8:00 am
Join us for a walk in one of the best places in the state to see warblers and other spring migrants. It is not unusual to see 15-20 species of warblers in this park on any given day in early May. Rarities such as Prothonotary, Kentucky, and Cape May Warbler are possible. Meet at the Eli Whitney Museum parking lot near the covered bridge. Leader-John Oshlick. Contact person-Tina Green: 203 247-2660, tina@renaissancestudios.com
East Rock Park with Ranger Dan, New Haven
Saturday, May 5, 2012, 8:00 am
Join Ranger Dan Barvir at this premier site for warblers and other spring migrants. We will meet at the Rice Field (baseball field) end of East Rock Park.
Leader-Ranger Dan Barvir: 203 946-6086.
Bent of the River Wildlife Sanctuary, Southbury
Sunday, May 6, 2012, 7:30 am
Explore a prime birding location along the Pomperaug River in Southbury where more than 100 species of birds have been observed in a single day. This beautiful and highly diverse, 650-acre habitat is owned and maintained by the National Audubon Society. Take Exit 14 off Rte.84. Go north on Rte. 172 , then turn left on East Flat Hill Road, at intersection with church. Continue to sanctuary entrance on left. The trip involves moderately strenuous hiking.
Leader-Roy Harvey: 203 888-5757, rmharvey@snet.net.
Chatfield Hollow/Cockaponsett State Forest, Killingworth
Sunday, May 6, 2012, 8:30 am
This 356-acre wooded stream valley is a popular stop throughout the year for birds and birders. At least 20 species of warblers have been recorded in the spring, along with a wide variety of other avian migrants and nesters. Easy walking. Depending on the group - and the birds - the trip may meander over to the adjacent Cockaponsett State Forest. Directions: The entrance to the park is on Rt. 80 in Killingworth, between the Rt. 79 and Rt. 81 traffic circles. Meet in the parking lot at the entrance. Leader-John Himmelman: 860:663-3225, jhimmel@comcast.net.
Saturday, May 12, 2012, 6:00 am
Join us for all or part of this event. We'll focus on New Haven area hotspots, seeking 100-130 species. We start at East Rock and search several other local migrant traps, as well as the coast from Lordship to Hammonasset. Meet at the Eli Whitney Museum parking lot at 6:00 or 7:30 am.
Leader-Randy Domina: 203-271-3123, rhexp@hotmail.com.
Nehantic State Forest and Hartman Park, Lyme
Sunday, May 13, 2012, 6:30 am
Join us as we explore two prime birding locations in Lyme. Nehantic State Forest is a 1,200-acre woodland, home to Hooded and Worm-eating Warblers and many other species. There are large ponds where you can find Wood Ducks, herons, flycatchers and other species. Nearby Hartman Park is known for its breeding population of Cerulean Warblers. Meet at the commuter lot at exit 55 off I-95 in Branford at 6:30 am or the Keeny Road entrance for Nehantic SF on Route 156 in Lyme at 7:00 am. Leader-Chris Loscalzo: 203 389-6508, closcalz@optonline.net.
Naugatuck State Forest, Naugatuck
Wednesday, May 16, 2012, 7:00 am
Enjoy a mid-week walk to a fine birding location at the height of spring migration. We'll hike the trails in search of migrants and residents. The mixed hardwoods forest is a good location for Hooded and Worm-eating Warblers, as well as many other species. Meet at the commuter parking lot at exit 25 off Route 8 in Naugatuck.
Leader-Bill Banks: 203 888-0189, semismart9@aol.com.
Barn Island Wildlife Management Area, Stonington
Saturday, May 19, 2012, 7:00 am
This will be our ninth annual trip to this excellent birding spot in Stonington, CT. We'll meet at the commuter lot at Exit 55 of I-95 and then carpool to the refuge. The management area consists of large expanses of salt marsh, tidal pools, wetlands, woodlands, and open fields. We should see wading birds, shorebirds, and area residents such as Saltmarsh Sparrow, Marsh Wren, White-eyed Vireo, Willow Flycatcher, American Redstart, Bobolink, and many other species.
Leader-Chris Loscalzo: 203 389-6508, closcalz@optonline.net.
Sunday, May 20, 2012, 7:00 am
We'll visit coastal refuge and town parks in search of migrant warblers, orioles, flycatchers, shorebirds, herons, etc. Meet at 7:15 am in lot for 600 Long Beach Blvd.
Leader-Frank Mantlik: 203-984-9410, mantlik@sbcglobal.net.
First Wednesday Walk: White Memorial Foundation, Litchfield
Wednesday, June 6, 2012, 8:00 am
White Memorial Foundation is a 4,000-acre nature preserve with extensive woodlands, conifer plantations, fields, thickets, and wetlands. The preserve is home to more than 115 breeding species and is visited by many migrant species. Notable breeding species include: Least Bittern, Virginia Rail, Northern Goshawk, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Brown Creeper, Winter Wren, and Blackburnian Warbler. Meet at the visitor center parking lot. Take Rte. 202, turn left on Bissell Road, and then an immediate right into White Memorial Leader-Greg Hanisek.
Contact-Tina Green: 203.247.2660, tina@renaissancestudios.com
Twentieth Annual Summer Bird Count
Saturday, June 9 and Sunday, June 10, 2012
This is a wonderful opportunity to work on your song identification skills and see what birds are nesting in your area. For the names of area captains and other information, call leader Steve Mayo: 203 393-0694, smayo@sikorsky.com.
Kellogg Environmental Center/Osbornedale State Park, Derby
Saturday, June 23, 2012, 9:00 am
This walk is oriented toward families interested in learning about birds and wildlife. The park has a variety of habitats, including woods, fields, thickets, and ponds. We'll be focusing on nesting species. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them, appropriate clothing, and a little bit of curiosity about birds and the natural world. All ages are welcome. Meet at the environmental center parking lot at 500 Hawthorne Avenue. Leader-Corrie Folsom-O'Keefe: 203-630-9640, jubilee832001@yahoo.com
Saturday, July 7, 2012, 7:00 am
Today we'll visit several excellent birding locations in the CT central valley. Our first stop will be the grasslands near Rentschler Field in East Hartford. We'll look for Upland Sandpiper, Eastern Meadowlark, Grasshopper Sparrow and other grassland species. Then, we'll go to Station 43, along the CT River in South Windsor. There, we'll look for Least Bittern, Green Heron, Wood Duck and other freshwater wetland species. After a picnic lunch under the largest tree in all of New England (the Pinchot Sycamore in Simsbury), we'll go to the Great Pond State Forest in that town. We'll look for the Mississippi Kites that have nested near there the past few years. Meet at the commuter lot at 7:00 am on Route 68 in Wallingford, west of I-91 at Exit 15 (at the east end of Barnes Road) or at the Cabela's parking lot in East Hartford (near the pond) at 7:30am.
Leader-Chris Loscalzo: 203 389-6508, closcalz@optonline.net.