Focus On Early Spring Migrants

The days around the spring equinox are an exciting time for birding in the Newburyport/Plum Island area. Many of the winter specialties (e.g., red-necked grebe, many species of waterfowl) are still present, while early spring migrants are moving back into the area. During our field trip, we will bird the salt marshes and maritime forests on the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and then head inland to Artichoke and Cherry Hill reservoirs. These lakes are a good place to see a number of diving ducks, including ring-necked and ruddy ducks, and the surrounding woodlands attract many species of songbirds. En route to the reservoirs, we will stop along Scotland Road to look for Wilson's snipe and puddle ducks.
Location: Newburyport and vicinity