Five Bridge Road/Grand Trunk Trail

A thick fog blanketed the marsh and adjacent woodlands as nine members of the Allen Bird Club began their quest for avian treasure.  Assembling at the appointed time, they casually observed local resident birds making themselves known by call.  Numerous Red-winged Blackbirds and Swamp Sparrows were in evidence from the first bridge over the marsh, as they would be throughout the walk.  The group was momentarily mystified by a low-pitched humming that seemed to emanate from under the bridge, and it was finally determined that a Rock Pigeon was creating the reverberating sound!  Only a few yards further down the road a Merlin was spotted close by atop a snag, and all had excellent looks at this dark falcon through a spotting scope.  It was to be a harbinger of a good raptor day.  

The fog eventually lifted, and we were actually able to see across the marsh.  Trekking down the trail we observed more species common to the habitat.  We then spotted an immature Bald Eagle alight in a tree across the marsh, and again scope views were enjoyed by all.  Turkey Vulture and Red-shouldered Hawk were added to our list as well.  At our turnaround point, on another bridge to the east, we were surprised to hear a Ring-necked Pheasant call from a nearby field, and a Red-tailed Hawk put in an appearance.  On the return trip we also observed an Osprey as it called overhead, and to top off the day a Broad-winged Hawk soared over us and vocalized as we made our way back to our cars.  Click below to view a list of identified species.