Ross's Goose-Barton's Cove

Clearly a rarity anywhere in New England...this Ross's Goose was found early this morning (12-20-14) at Barton's Cove in Turner's Falls. The Barton's Cove area remains of the best locations in the Valley to consistently produce uncommon and rare birds at anytime of the year.

Also just finished up (12-14-14)  a very successful Northampton C.B.C. (Area #8-Honey Pot Region) with James Smith and Brian Kane. We tallied 51 Species with the highlight being a Long-eared Owl that James picked out in the heavy tangles in the Honey Pot. Other highlights included a Peregrine Falcon, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Hermit Thrush, Northern Saw-whet Owl and a handful of Snow Buntings.

Next up the Quabbin Christmas Count......weather looks good so far!

Ross's Goose (left) along with Imm. Snow Goose. Barton's Cove, Gill, Mass side.

Ross's Goose- Barton's Cove

Ross's Goose

Snow Goose-Imm. Barton's Cove

Cooper's Hawk-Adult. Northampton CBC Area #8

Coyote-early morning in the Honey Pot

Hermit Thrush-Hadley. Northampton CBC

Northern Saw-whet Owl-one of two in the early morning hours of the Northampton CBC (Amherst)

Long-eared Owl- Honey Pot. Certainly the best bird of the day was spotted by James Smith as we were walking along the thickets in the Honey Pot.