Birding on the Red Line
The Red Line may have been unprofitable, but the birds love this trail!
On June 13th, the Groton Conservation Trust sponsored a bird walk on the Red Line led by Mike Bryant, AKA Nature Man Mike. He counted 34 species observed, including an Osprey, Indigo Bunting, Green Herons, Baltimore Orioles, a Prairie Warbler and a Great-crested Flycatcher. Mike noted migration is over, so these birds are making Groton their home for the summer, which is great news for birders to see warblers like the Chestnut-sided Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Black and White Warbler.
Why is the Red Line so great for birding? Although less than a mile long, there is great bird habitat ranging from forest ecosystems to ponds and small, specialized wetlands that are essential for breeding, feeding, and sheltering birds. A bonus is the esker section of the trail that allows great viewing. One spot was especially rewarding. Looking up there was an Osprey in the nest with two chicks! Nearby was the mate eating a fish. Looking down from the esker onto the pond, two Green Herons were spotted.
Be sure to check out Groton Conservation Trust Events for your next adventures.
