Hampshire Bird Club upcoming events

Field Trip: Quabbin Reservoir (Sat, May 02, 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Join Craig Allen and Brian Zylich for an outing around the south end of the Quabbin Reservoir searching for spring migrants and waterfowl. We'll look and listen for birds on land and on the water. Meet at the Quabbin Visitor Center (100 Winsor Dam Rd. in Belchertown) at 7:00 am for a walk along the dam. We'll then carpool to various locations throughout Quabbin Park. Plan on walking 1-2 miles on primarily paved roads/sidewalks. Most sections of the road are relatively flat, but some may be steeper. We may also go for a short walk (up to 1 mile) on a relatively flat dirt/gravel trail. There are few benches, but there will be opportunities to rest in the car as we travel between locations. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, appropriate footwear, and outerwear. Note: there is usually a porta-potty at the parking lot, but this is not guaranteed. Questions? Contact brian.zylich@gmail.com. Limited to 10 participants. (E)

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.

Field Trip: Mitch’s Way (Sun, May 03, 2026)

Sun, 03 May 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Join Hobie Iselin on an early morning walk on the Mitch's Way trail parallel to the Connecticut River. This spring migration hot spot is a favorite of warblers, vireos, thrushes, orioles, and flycatchers. We expect to cover a little over a mile on the trail, which is dirt/grass and is relatively flat with uneven sections, and can be muddy. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear. Insect repellent is recommended. There are no facilities or rest areas.

Because parking at the trail is extremely limited, we will first meet at 7:00 AM on Old Mountain Road near the gate to Skinner State Park and carpool to Mitch's Way. Questions? Email Hobie at hiselin1952@gmail.com. Limited to 10 participants. (M)

Field Trip: Whip-poor-wills at Night (Thu, May 07, 2026)

Thu, 07 May 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Join Sam McGullam and Janice Jorgensen for a stationary evening outing in the Montague Plains, where we will listen for Eastern Whip-poor-wills singing in the fading light. Although seldom seen, these nocturnal nightjars are not shy about announcing themselves to all who will hear when they arrive on territory: “whip-poor-WILL, whip-poor-WILL!” We'll also keep our ears open for Eastern Towhees, Prairie Warblers, Field Sparrows, Brown Thrashers, and American Woodcocks, who we may see twittering above the pitch pines at dusk. This is a stationary event in a dirt parking lot, and we'll be staying near our cars for the duration. Feel free to bring a chair or stand, whichever is more comfortable. Participants are also welcome to listen from their vehicles with the windows down. The terrain is sandy and uneven with potential potholes, and it will be dark. There are no restroom facilities at this location. Bring headlamps, tick and insect protection, and something to sit upon. Meet in the dirt lot by the power lines on Plains Rd. in Montague, about 0.4 miles from the junction with Turners Falls Rd. Questions? Email Sam at sam.mcgullam@gmail.com. Limited to 10 participants. (E)

Reminder: If you register and are unable to attend, please cancel your registration as space is limited and most trips have a waiting list. Please visit the link in your confirmation email or contact fieldtrip@hampshirebirdclub.org.

Field Trip: Mineral Hills (Sat, May 09, 2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Join Betsy Higgins and Marcia Merithew in a trip around and in this old quarry site. Expected highlights include Prairie Warblers, Eastern Towhees, Ravens, Red-shouldered Hawks, as well as a variety of other warblers and vireos. There are two parking areas to access Mineral Hills – we will meet in the parking area at the end of Turkey Hill Road in Florence. We'll explore the bottom of the old quarry and then walk approximately 1/2 mile on the Quarry Loop trail, and then another 1/2 mile on the dirt road if time allows. We will be walking on uneven wooded paths with some inclines/declines. Please note there are no facilities or seating areas at this location. Sturdy footwear, plus sun and tick protection advised. Questions? Email Marcia at mmerithew@comcast.net. Limited to 10 participants. Register online. (M)

Field Trip: Spring Bird Walk at Fitzgerald Lake (Marian St. Entrance) (Sat, May 09, 2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 11:30:00 GMT

Join Lesley Farlow, Steve Winn, and Broad Brook Coalition as we look for breeding migrants and resident birds at Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area. As we pass through the different habitats, we may see or hear migrating warblers, Wood Thrushes, Red-eyed Vireos, Tree Swallows, Great Blue Herons, Belted Kingfishers, and more.

Meet at the Marian St. entrance to Fitzgerald Lake: from North King St., turn onto Coles Meadow Rd., then turn left onto Marion St. and follow it until you reach a small parking area. We will take the Marian St. Trail to the bird blind, then loop back along the Boggy Meadow and Pines Edge Trails, past the swamp, for a total of about 2 miles. The trail can be a bit rocky, with roots, piles of leaves, and some wet areas, so please wear sturdy shoes. There are no facilities or seating areas along this trail, and the bird blind is accessed via a short stairway. We will have a few extra pairs of binoculars, if needed. Questions? Email Lesley at lesleyfarlow115@gmail.com. This walk is co-sponsored with Broad Brook Coalition and is limited to 10 participants from HBC. (M)

Field Trip: Wildwood Cemetery (Sun, May 10, 2026)

Sun, 10 May 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Join avid bird watcher and wildlife biologist Dave King for a trip through the Wildwood Cemetery grounds. We will likely see a variety of migrant birds returning from their winter homes in Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. We expect to walk 1–2 miles on terrain that is a mix of dirt roads and woodland paths, including some gentle hills.

We'll meet at the cemetery business office in the brick Dickinson Farmhouse. Parking is available at the Farmhouse (cemetery business entrance is across from the Wildwood Elementary School) and the Main Entrance (top of Strong Street). Please do not park on the grass, and be respectful of the grounds and the people who come to mourn. It's a good idea to bring mosquito and tick protection. Please note the restroom facilities will NOT be open. Questions? Contact Rebecca Fricke, General Manager, at amherst.cemetery@verizon.net. Limited to 15 participants. (E)

Visit for directions: https://www.wildwood-cemetery.com/directions.html

Field Trip: Warbler Walk at Mutter’s Field Accessible Trail (Tue, May 12, 2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Spring in the Pioneer Valley brings the warbler migration! Join LC LeClair and Marcia Merithew to look for these colorful and boldly patterned songbirds in the trees and meadows of Easthampton. Some birds we hope to see are the Black-and-White Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, and American Redstart.

This event is for everyone; prior knowledge of birds is not required.

What to Expect
We’ll meet at 413 East St, Easthampton, MA 01027 at 10:00 am. This event is a low-key gathering where we can enjoy observing nature together. We will cap our group size at 12, plus two leaders. We will have brief introductions, and then take a quiet stroll together and see what birds may come along. This will be a leisurely walk on flat terrain, likely with plenty of sitting and standing. This trail is marked accessible and has been successfully used with walkers, rollators, crutches, and wheelchairs.

Mutter’s Field Trail is partly paved with asphalt and partly packed black crushed stone. It is approximately 0.35 miles long (1,800 ft). There are 6 benches along this trail, as well as a covered pavilion near some bluebird boxes. The trail passes by meadow, waterway, and woodland environments, and is generally a quiet, uncrowded place.

Parking
Parking is available in a paved lot at the trailhead. There are approximately 8 parking spots, including 1 van accessible space. There is also street parking just adjacent to the lot. Carpooling is encouraged!

What to Bring
- Wear clothing appropriate for the weather. Morning temps can still be in the 40s in May.
- A portable chair or mat to sit on.
- If you have binoculars, you are welcome to bring them. We will have binoculars/monoculars available to borrow if anyone would like to use them. We will also have bird ID guides to share.
- A water bottle/snack if you need it.

Bathrooms
There are no bathrooms on-site. The nearest restrooms (including accessible restrooms) are in the Eastworks and Keystone Buildings, a 5-minute drive away.

Weather
If it is raining very lightly, we will plan on wearing raincoats and will stick close to the covered pavilion. If the forecast is for rain beyond a drizzle, or if another significant weather event is predicted, this event will be postponed, and registered participants will be informed via email by 7:30 pm the evening before.

RAIN DATE: May 18, same time.

Questions? Please reach out to LC LeClair at lauracleclair@gmail.com with any questions or to share your access needs. Limited to 12 participants. (E, A)

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.

HBC's May Meeting, program TBA (Tue, May 12, 2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 23:15:00 GMT

Birding for Everyone: Warblers and the Importance of Focusing on One Bird at a Time (Thu, May 14, 2026)

Thu, 14 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Arguably the trickiest family of birds to identify, warblers, with their vibrant colors and frenetic habits, are also among the most rewarding to see. We we build on the skills discussed in April to get more in depth with tips to increase your warbler experiences. The presentation will be brief (30 minutes or less) and will allow for plenty of time for your questions on any birding related topic.

Zoom meeting link

Learn more about the Birding for Everyone program.

All Birding for Everyone events are free and open to the public.

Field Trip: Birding the Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary (Fri, May 15, 2026)

Fri, 15 May 2026 12:30:00 GMT

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 the spring migration at its peak, we will take several short walks throughout many distinct environments in order to maximize our chance of seeing as many different bird species as possible. This might include wood warblers, grassland sparrows, nesting swallows, and resident bald eagles. Plan on a few short hikes from the visitor center, then a short drive to the meadows along the oxbow.

Plan on walking a total of 1–2 miles on a mix of up and down, uneven trails that can be muddy depending on recent weather. Tick protection is advised. 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. (E/M)

Birding for Everyone: Quabbin Park, Goodnough Dike (Sat, May 16, 2026)

Sat, 16 May 2026 12:45:00 GMT

Goodnough Dike offers diverse habitats within a short walk and we'll explore the different birds we find in these different habitats along the way. Quabbin being what it is, there will likely be a number of warblers still in the area as well as birds that are uniquely abundant here: Bald Eagles and Common Loons come to mind. This walk is on paved roads with an incline depending on how far we get. Even if there are zero birds (which won't happen), Goodnough Dike is a truly beautiful location worth seeing.

Map link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8YRR5cevntug1iCh7

Questions? Email dallard@hampshirebirdclub.org.

Learn more about the Birding for Everyone program.

All Birding for Everyone events are free and open to the public.

Field Trip: Mitch’s Way (Sun, May 17, 2026)

Sun, 17 May 2026 10:30:00 GMT

Join Peggy MacLeod on an early morning walk on the Mitch's Way trail parallel to the Connecticut River. This location is a favorite of spring migrants such as warblers, vireos, thrushes, orioles, and flycatchers. We expect to cover a little over a mile on the trail, which is dirt/grass and is relatively flat with uneven sections, and can be muddy. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear. Insect repellent is recommended. There are no facilities or rest areas.

Because parking at the trail is extremely limited, we will first meet at 6:30 AM on Old Mountain Road near the gate to Skinner State Park and carpool to Mitch's Way. Questions? Contact Peggy at sunraven99@gmail.com. Limited to 10 participants. (M)

OPTIONAL: Some birders may want to extend their morning to look for Worm-eating and Cerulean warblers “across the street” at Skinner State Park. We will begin birding at either the summit parking lot and walk down the semi-steep paved road about half a mile, or park at the halfway parking lot and walk up the inclined road about ½ mile.

See HBC carpooling guidelines >

Field Trip: Bobolinks, Eastern Meadowlarks, Savannah Sparrows and Grassland Birds: Identification and Spring Behavior. Slow Trip and Birding in Place. (Fri, May 22, 2026)

Fri, 22 May 2026 12:30:00 GMT

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.

Field Trip: Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary (Sun, May 24, 2026)

Sun, 24 May 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Join Hobie Iselin exploring the rich habitats of Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, including mixed conifer and deciduous forests, wetlands, grasslands, floodplain forest, the confluence of the Mill River, and CT River oxbow. This location is a major stopping ground for spring migrants, including warblers, vireos, thrushes, orioles, and waterfowl. We will mainly bird the trails around the sanctuary and Hulbert Pond, with an optional climb up to the wildlife observatory. Views from the oxbow and adjacent grasslands often include nesting pairs of bald eagles and kestrels.

Plan on walking a total of 1–2 miles on a mix of uneven wooded trails which may be muddy in places. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear. Insect repellent is recommended. 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. Questions? Email Hobie at hiselin1952@gmail.com. Limited to 10 participants. (M)

Field Trip: Monhegan Island Overnight (Tue, May 26, 2026)

Tue, 26 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

For HBC members only. This year's Hampshire Bird Club trip to Monhegan Island starts the day after Memorial Day. We depart Port Clyde on the Monhegan Boat Line on Tuesday, May 26, and head to Monhegan Island for three full days of birding on this charming island, located ten miles off the coast of Maine. We return to Port Clyde on Friday, May 29.

Monhegan is an island with very few cars, so walking is the primary mode of transportation. Most of the terrain around the village area is quite easy. Trails into the interior or around the island can be a bit more challenging at times, but most birding will be around the village. Monhegan is roughly a mile and a half long and half a mile wide, but it has around seventeen miles of trails, some leading to one hundred and sixty-foot cliffs that offer stunning views. Despite the beautiful scenery, we’re there for the birds. You never know what might show up. We hope for around 100 species of birds during our visit. Last year's trip recorded 110 species, including Harlequin Ducks, Atlantic Puffin, Razorbill, Lark Sparrow, and 20 species of warblers.

The trip is limited to 12 observers. Final cost of trip and lodging is TBD; rough cost is estimated at $525 for double occupancy and $640 for a single. This includes 3 nights at the Trailing Yew, breakfast, Leader fees, and ferry transportation to and from the island. Additional costs include lunches, dinners and parking at Port Clyde, and a motel if you decide to go up the day before.

Participants must register online through the HBC website – you will be contacted with further details as the trip is finalized. Questions? Email Scott at ssurner@aol.com. More information upon request. (E/M)

Note: overnight trips are limited to current HBC members only.

Field Trip: Wetlands Birding at Station 43 (Sat, May 30, 2026)

Sat, 30 May 2026 10:30:00 GMT

Join Peggy MacLeod at one of the most productive inland birding sites in Connecticut and enjoy a search for nesting rails, herons, ducks, sora, and bitterns, as well as songbirds and flycatchers. Station 43 boasts 239 species and is comprised of a shallow pond, a flat trail with extensive marshland on both sides, and a platform overseeing the marsh. The site, bordered by both farmland and wooded areas, is managed by Hartford Audubon, which asks visitors not to use recording devices to call any birds that have chosen Station 43 for their nesting.

Important: The trail is usually muddy and can often have 6-10" of puddling. You MUST wear high, fully waterproof boots to bird at this location in spring. Walking slowly, we expect to cover about 3/4 of a mile to the platform and back. Bring binoculars, a scope if possible, insect repellent, water, and snacks.

We will meet at 6:30 am in Northampton to carpool from Sheldon Field at 26 Old Ferry Road. The trail head to Station 43 is located at 953 Main St., across from the intersection of Newberry Rd. and Main St, South Windsor, CT. We will park on the east side of Main Street to not block any driveways or mailboxes. We will walk west from the intersection on what starts as a rutted driveway on the right side of a private yard. Please note there are no restrooms at this location. Questions? Contact Peggy at sunraven99@gmail.com. Limited to 10 participants. Rain date is Sunday, May 31. (S)

See HBC guidelines on carpooling >

Field Trip: Bright Water Bog (Sat, June 06, 2026)

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Join Sam McGullam and Josh Rose as we explore Bright Water Bog in Shutesbury, MA. We'll follow a 1.5-mile loop trail through diverse habitat including meadow, mountain laurel thicket, forest, pond, and peat bog. Species of note may include Canada Warbler, Alder Flycatcher, Veery, and Black-throated Blue Warbler. We'll also be on the lookout for carnivorous plants, butterflies, dragonflies, and the sculptures and poetry that dot the trail. The trail is mostly level and includes extensive boardwalks, but there are short sections of steep grade. Trails are narrow in places, with exposed rocks, roots, and mud. There are benches at the beginning of the trail and at the halfway point. Bring water, snacks, sun protection, insect repellent, waterproof footwear with good tread, and weather-appropriate clothing. Tick protection is advised. Please note that there is limited cell phone reception at this location. We'll plan on meeting at 8 AM at the Leverett Village Co-op (180 Rattlesnake Gutter Rd, Leverett, MA) and carpooling to the trailhead, which is 8 minutes away. There are no facilities at the trailhead, but restrooms are available at the co-op. Questions? Contact Sam at sam.mcgullam@gmail.com. Limited to 10 participants. (E/M)

Field Trip: Overnight Trip to Cape May, NJ (Fri, October 09, 2026)

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

For HBC members only. The Hampshire Bird Club is pleased to announce a multi-day birding trip to Cape May, New Jersey from October 9–15, 2026. Cape May is widely recognized as one of the premier birding hot spots in North America, renowned for its spectacular fall migration. Some of the areas we’ll visit during our stay include Higbee Beach, Cape May State Park & Hawkwatch Platform, South Cape May Meadows, Avalon Sea Watch, Nummy Island, a trip to Delaware in search of the Brown-headed Nuthatch, and an afternoon Marsh Tour.

Most walking during the trip will be on generally level paths and roadways. Some hikes may take place on sandy beaches, and participants should expect to cover a mile or two each day on foot.

This trip is limited to 8 observers. The trip fee is $310.00 per person, which covers the leader's costs and the Marsh Tour. Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for their own motel accommodations, food, and travel expenses. Based on double occupancy, a rough estimate for the total trip cost—including the leader fee, motel, gas, tolls, food, and ferry to Delaware—is approximately $1,600.00 per participant.

Participants must register online through the HBC website. Once you register, trip leader Scott Surner will provide the name and contact information for the group’s motel so participants can make their reservations directly. Questions? Email Scott at ssurner@aol.com. More information upon request. (M)

Note: overnight trips are limited to current HBC members only.

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.