This is a monthly 12-part series. Join Bill Randolph for a year-long exploration of the birding “hot spots” located along the Connecticut River shoreline and farmlands in Hadley and Northampton. Participate in one or all of the birding trips and witness how the ecology and bird community changes throughout the year. Fallow farm fields and floodplains attract winter migrants from the far north including buntings, sparrows and raptors. Bald eagles and peregrine falcons nest and feed along the shoreline while ducks occupy the river. We will take short walks and/or drives to nearby sites in search of the best birds. Dress appropriately with warm, sturdy boots; this location can be windy and very cold. Plan on a 1–2 mile trek on mostly level, uneven ground that may have mud, snow and/or ice – shoe spikes can come in handy. Meet at the Alexandra Dawson Conservation Area dirt parking lot (next to the Connecticut River dike on North Lane between West St. and 47 in Hadley). Please note there are no facilities or rest areas at this location. Questions? Email Bill at warandolph@comcast.net. Limited to 12 participants. (M) 

Field Trip designations:
(E) – Easy conditions, fairly accessible for most, usually flat terrain on improved trails or roads. 
(M) – Moderately difficult, more challenging trail conditions, short steep sections, longer hikes. 
(S) – Strenuous conditions, muddy or rocky trails, steep sections, difficult footing in part.