South Quabbin-Sat-May 9th 2009

We went birding at South Quabbin in Warre and Belchertown, MA today. Alan counted 50 species of birds including 12 warblers which isn't too bad considering it was dismal outside for May.

One thing is for certain and that is photographing birds has become SO MUCH more difficult. I am telling you I spend most of my time taking pictures of these small birds that are fluttering about and I really don't know what they are half the time unless they sit still for a few seconds so I can get a good look at them. They are so quick that I try and take a picture so I can review that vs the bird who is behaving like Kramer after consuming a pot of black coffee.

Anyhow, despite the obstacles S Quabbin was a lot of fun and rich with warblers including Ovenbirds, Redstarts and other hyper birds I couldn't get a decent photo of. The picture above is that of Prairie Warbler. Lifer!!! We spent 10 minutes or so trying to get these birds to sit still for one minute while I got a half decent photo. Dozens of people strolled by us with coolers in hand to picnic looking at us and wondering who the weirdos were taking pictures of picker bushes. HA!

A lousy shot of an absolutely gorgeous warbler called the Northern Parula. Such a striking bird with the blue on top. I am so used to the majority of the warblers I have seen thus far having primary yellow plumage so it was a real treat to see one with primary blue.

Another new warbler for me which is the Magnolia Warbler. LIFER!! Look at the streaking on its chest. It reminds me of a crayon mark. Such a stunning bird who spent a lot of time on the apple tree with dozens of other birds. I actually thought all of these birds were eating the flowers until my birding friend told me they were eating the bugs inside of the flower buds. HA! I am learning folks but it continues to be a struggle.

There is still evidence of nesting everywhere we go. Here are a pair of Tree Swallows who are beyond annoyed that we were near their nest box. I took a quick photo and we ventured elsewhere to not disturb them anymore.

Please cross your fingers for me for tomorrow. We are off to Mount Auburn in Cambridge, MA for warbler waves. I hope they are easier to see AND photograph than the ones I have seen the past week or so.

Peace and get out there and bird!