February 17, 2009

A lone White-winged Crossbill spent the better part of the morning near a group of tall White Pine Trees next to the NBNC building today. It was foraging amongst the cones and various other debris recently exposed by melting snow, occasionally venturing into the trees to explore the few remaining cones which hung from the branches. A homeschool group, visiting to discuss winter birds as part of our Youth Birding Program, was privileged to extended views of the Crossbill, which approached us within 10 feet as it hopped about in the snow. At the same time, a Pileated Woodpecker (also seen yesterday) was working the trees across the street from the Nature Center.

February 12, 2009

Barred Owl was present today for several hours in downtown Montpelier. The owl was seen by many pedestrians passing by as it perched in a Cedar across the street from the post office, clenching an American Crow in its talons. The dark shape at the bottom of the frame is the crow.

February 5, 2009

A Pileated Woodpecker was seen this morning on Elm Street near the intersection of Winter St. and Elm St.

February 1, 2009

A Red Tailed Hawk was reported off North Street, above the pool/rec field today and two Common Mergansers on the Winnooski River just east of Montpelier. Also an unidentified raptor (possibly a Rough-legged Hawk or a Northern Harrier) was spotted by LePage Farm.