This is a monthly 12-part series. Join Bill Randolph for a yearlong birding exploration in Arcadia’s 734 acre sanctuary consisting of extensive grasslands and agricultural fields, mixed conifer and deciduous forests, along with different wetlands including Connecticut River oxbow, a series of ponds, floodplain forest and the confluence of the Mill River. With January being the coldest and harshest month for birds, we will focus on the different bird survival strategies and adaptations used by resident and winter migratory visitors. We will start birding from the visitor center's shrub and mixed forest and along Hulbert’s Pond, and then drive ten minutes to Pynchon Meadows in search of raptors, buntings and longspurs. Plan on walking a total of 1–2 miles on a mix of up and down, uneven trails that can be slippery depending on recent weather. It’s always a good idea to have shoe spikes in case the trails are icy, and warm layers. We'll meet in the Arcadia Nature Center parking lot at 127 Combs Road in Easthampton. Restrooms are available in the Nature Center (opens at 9:00 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.