May Migration Challenge - Day 9
May 9, 2025 | 6:21pm
Date: May 9, 2025
Location: Seabrook Town Forest
Start Time: 6:21pm
Duration: 50 min
Daily Highlights:
Total species observed: 20
Warbler species observed: 3
Notable species: Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Merlin’s Bird of the Day: Prairie Warbler
Goal Progress:
Seabrook Town Forest Life List: 138 / 140
Seabrook Town Forest Species Month Total: 87/87+
Warbler Species Total: 18/20
Single Checklist Record: 64/64+ (May 4th)
Vagrant Species Found?: No
Merlin Bird of the Day Streak: 0 (Longest Streak: 4)
Photo of the Day:
Daily Recap:
A cold and rainy day almost had me skipping the Town Forest altogether—but since I pass it on my way home from work, I couldn’t resist at least trying.
It was a very quiet outing, with only 20 species on the day. I don’t blame the birds for staying low and silent—38 degrees and rain isn’t exactly ideal for anyone.
Merlin’s Bird of the Day was Prairie Warbler—a bold choice given the gloomy weather. I only managed to get three warbler species: one female American Redstart, one Northern Parula, and three Common Yellowthroats.
Thankfully, I did have some nice sightings over the pond. A mixed group of Barn, Tree, and Northern Rough-winged Swallows were resting on the phragmites near the water’s edge. And best of all, I spotted three adult Canada Geese with eleven goslings—my first baby birds of the year! It was heartwarming to see them, and I imagine they’ll thrive on such a quiet, peaceful pond.
Tomorrow is Cornell Lab’s Global Big Day, where birders from around the world head out to celebrate birds, contribute to science, and record as many species as they can in a single day.
Unfortunately, rain is in the forecast all day here in New Hampshire, so it’s shaping up to be a tough one. Still, I’ll be out there, doing what I can to participate in such an important event—even if it means birding in the downpour.