The February bird walk at at Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve was led by by Jane Yocom and Mike Scott. The morning was cold, but there was no wind, which makes for good birding weather. A total of 33 species were observed during the walk, which is typical for this time of year. The group had notable waterfowl and woodpecker sightings. A total of 48 Canada Geese were recorded, along with several Mallards and American Black Ducks. Raptors included six Black Vultures, two Turkey Vultures and two Red-shouldered Hawks.

We didn’t see all of the possible woodpecker species, but we did find Pileated, Downy and Red-bellied Woodpeckers and a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. A Belted Kingfisher was first heard, then spotted flying upstream a few minutes later.

White-throated Sparrow.
Photo by Michael Sciortino

Songbirds were plentiful, including five Carolina Chickadees, two Tufted Titmice and eight Eastern Bluebirds. Sparrows were also abundant, with 24 White-throated Sparrows and four Song Sparrows. The group also heard an Eastern Towhee and Hermit Thrush while making their way through the preserve’s many ecosystems. Golden-crowned Kinglets weren’t shy during the walk, giving the group a few exciting and up-close encounters.

In addition to the bird sightings, a beaver was observed along Goose Creek, adding a nice wildlife moment to the walk. The group also discovered a new Bald Eagle’s nest, but unfortunately no Bald Eagles were present at the time.

Winter residents like the Dark-eyed Juncos and American Goldfinches  were spotted, and Yellow-rumped Warblers  added to the diversity of species encountered.  The complete list of species can be viewed on eBird at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S212500641.

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