Recent outings to Allen’s Pond brought an exciting couple of days for me. Three new first sightings for me – a Killdeer, Saltmarsh Sharptailed Sparrow and a Brown Thrasher. I discovered the first two accidentally.

Tree Swallows were flying in the saltmarsh drainage ditches catching bugs. While sitting on a rock observing the Tree Swallows gliding over the marsh I spotted two Killdeers. The Killdeers did not allow me to get close. I tried but they gingerly walked away.

Then what I thought was a mole or field mouse that scooted by me was in fact a  Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrow.

These sparrows fly low to the ground and when they land, they do not hop like other sparrows but put their head down running along the ground darting in and out of the grass. Then it popped up it’s head, gradually making an appearance to figure me out. The curious nature of this bird makes this one of my favorite sparrows.

In the same area as the Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrows, a Yellow Warbler was chasing after flying bugs in the marsh much like the Tree Swallows. They too are proving a challenge to photograph as they seem to have branches, twigs and leaves obstructing views.

The entrance to the Quansett Trail a Savannah Sparrow was foraging in the field grass. At one point it had a mouthful of grubs in it’s bill and chirping. Looking for it’s young fledgling?

Also on the Quansett Trail, Willow Flycatchers, Robins, Yellow Warblers, small flock of Goldfinches flew about. I continued on the trail to Fresh Pond and back to Beach Loop. The beginning of Quansett Trail and Beach Loop bridge had the most bird activity. By this bridge looking toward the Pond is a nesting pair of Ospreys.

Then while trying to find a Common Yellowthroat I noticed a Brown Thrasher preening in the thick brushes. I couldn’t get a clean shot of either bird despite the fact they were both very close.

Notable Bird Sightings: Barn Swallow, Brown Thrasher, Cedar Waxwing, Common Tern, Common Yellowthroat, Great Egret, Killdeer,  Least Tern, Northern Mockingbird, Song Sparrow, Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Tree Swallow, Willet, Willow Flycatcher,Yellow Warbler.

Animal Sightings: Deer, Red Squirrel, Rabbit

One Response to “Allen’s Pond”

1. Dawn Fine says:

   Monday, June 8, 2009 at 6:30 pm

   Great shots! I hope you can give me a few pointers on Saturday!
   Amazing shot of the saltmarsh sharptaited!