MA - a few year firsts 04/05/13

As if to perfectly anticipate warmer temperatures and a forecasted spell of southern winds, Northern Flicker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker and Tree Swallow all appeared in or around our yard in Gill this morning. All were new for the year. Barton Cove still held some Ring-necked Ducks but much reduced in number, though the pair of American Wigeons was still present. The most significant change was in the swallow department, with 25-30 Tree Swallows hawking low over the water.

 

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker - Gill yard, Franklin Co., MA. April 5th, 2013.

 

Ring-billed Gull - first-cycle, Barton Cove, Turner's Falls, Franklin Co., MA. April 5th, 2013.