The first ABNC sponsored field trip of the Covid-19 season happened Sunday August 30, 2020. Five members of the Athol Bird and Nature Club joined president Dave Small for an exploration of the Meadow behind the Alan E. Rich Environmental Park and the Millers River.
Practicing the club’s approved COVID-19 protocols the group parked at the Millers River Environmental Center and entered the meadow at the Watershed park entrance on Canal Street. Along the trail, Turkey Vultures were observed overhead and a Common Green Darner soared above the neck high patches of goldenrod. Eastern Tailed-Blue and Common Ringlet Butterflies were noted. Once at the river, a vocal Osprey circled above us.
With the dry summer the river level was quite low and the group entered the shallow water to explore for dragonflies along the banks. One of our sought after species was soon discovered The American Rubyspot. This colorful late season damselfly is often quite abundant along this stretch of the Millers from the confluence of the Tully River to Main Street bridge. Numbers were low but we all got great looks at both males and the less colorful but elegant females.
Species observed but not photographed included Powdered Dancer, Zebra Clubtail and Fawn Darner. A highlight of the day was the capture by Max McPhee of a Dragon Hunter. This dragonfly, the largest of the Clubtails, was observed in and released.
Field trips will continue through the fall with Friday Early birding walks with Jeff Johnstone. Per our Covid-19 protocols pre-registration is required by calling Jeff – 978-249-9052 and provide your contact info. limited to 8 people.
