Join Bill Randolph on a search for early spring birds and waterfowl. We will maximize our time birding the wetland trails that meander along Wood Duck Pond, Silver Maple Swamp and Hulbert Pond including an optional climb up to the wildlife observatory in search of migrating waterfowl, cormorants, herons and kingfishers. Views from the oxbow and adjacent grasslands often include nesting pairs of bald eagles and kestrels. Plan on walking 1–2 miles on mostly level, uneven ground. Trail conditions constantly change; keep an eye on the weather. Sturdy warm boots are recommended – spikes for ice can come in handy. We'll meet in the Arcadia Nature Center parking lot at 127 Combs Road in Easthampton at 8:30 am. Restrooms are available in the Nature Center (opens at 9 am). There are a few benches along the trails near the nature center if rest stops are needed, but not in the meadows. 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.