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. The vernal equinox marks a change in season and the bird migration has begun. We’ll enjoy close up views at the six bird feeders, listen for early breeding songs, then hike along the wetlands, ponds, rivers and oxbow for waterfowl, herons, kingfishers and breeding bald eagles. Plan on walking a total of 1–2 miles on a mix of up and down, uneven trails that can be very slippery depending on recent weather, including snow, ice or mud. Participants are urged to have shoe spikes for icy trails and warm, layered clothes. 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. Register online. (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.