The Hermit Thrush Newsletter
We have had an active spring with eight planned outings, most of which were greeted with either rainfall or wet conditions. One of our favorites, the Warbler Walk at Little River State Park, had to be cancelled due to torrential rain conditions. In spite of the weather, many birders were able to join us as we observed the change in seasons and the return of many species from the south.
The Burlington Winter Bird Count did not disappoint in its 77th year. A record 75 birders fanned out across the count circle on December 18, 2024. In total, 81 species were observed. There were many highlights in 2024, and they all centered around the amazing volunteers who return every year to survey our winter birds.
Given reports about species declines, the loss of habitat, and environmental degradation, it can frequently be a challenge to feel optimistic about the future of the natural world. Despite individual efforts to reduce one’s carbon footprint, promote conservation initiatives, and support candidates taking positions to reverse these trends, it can seem as though we are vainly swimming against the tide.
Many of you recently collaborated with fellow birders in the annual Winter Bird Count which, for more than a century, has served as an important effort in ascertaining the current status of bird species. In addition to its primary purpose, the count has provided an opportunity to join together with a community of like-minded individuals sharing the love of our avian fauna. However, simply sharing this love of birds and broadening the support for their preservation is not enough.
Several years ago, the Green Mountain Audubon Society applied for and received a $1500 grant from National Audubon in support of equity, diversity, and inclusion. The grant was used to commission a series of drawings of five native trees, with signage in English and Abenaki, from Swanton-based Abenaki artist and art therapist Fellicia Cota. The artwork was made into weather-durable signs, which Green Mountain Audubon Center staff installed in November in the arboretum outside the main offices on the Huntington property.
GMAS is pleased to share that we have provided a $1500 grant to two educators at The Winooski Middle School to launch their first-ever Birding Club. Inspired by her experiences as part of Dr. Trish O'Kane's "Birding to Change the World" program, which pairs 4th and 5th-grade students with UVM undergraduate student mentors, Winooski student teacher June Laub hopes to bring elements of this model to the learning community at the Middle School.
