Mark your calendars for this companion Field Trip program! Join Bill Randolph, Craig Allen, Harvey Allen, and Carol Fournier for an exploration of the fields at the Conte Refuge including an easy walk on the farm road looking for nesting Bobolinks, Eastern Meadowlarks and Savannah Sparrows. 

This portion involves approximately 2 miles on a mostly flat dirt/rocky road with some slight hills. Bring your own seating as there are no benches along the road. We will explore the grasslands with views of the Holyoke Range and three marshes for waterfowl and raptors. 

As there are several covered pavilion viewing areas near the parking lot, there is an opportunity for stationary participation as well. 

Meet at the parking lot at 69 Moody Bridge Road in Hadley—plenty of parking is available, plus a porta-potty. Questions? Email Bill at warandolph@comcast.net. (E, A)

If you’re able, prior to the field trip, consider viewing the on-line training Bobolinks, Meadowlarks, Savannah Sparrows and Grassland Birds: Identification, Spring Field Behavior and Conservation Issues with Grassland Bird Biologist Hyla Howe. You can view this video at Bobolinks, Savannah Sparrows and Meadow Larks with Hyla Howe.

These Hampshire Bird Club opportunities are offered in collaboration and support of the Audubon Bobolink Project Annual Survey (visit these links to learn more or volunteer: Bobolink Project | Mass Audubon and The Trustees of Reservations Grasslands Bird Monitor). For more information about the Hampshire Bird Club Grassland Birds initiatives contact Carol at cfournier@hampshirebirdclub.org. 

Field Trip designations:
(A) - Designed to be accessible to people with mobility limitations, disabilities, or access challenges.
(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.