Luckily for the bird-watchers who flocked to the Blackstone Parks Conservancy’s second Winter Duck Walk on February 19th, the Seekonk River is Florida to many diving and dabbling ducks escaping the Canadian winter. The antics of the migratory birds delighted more than 70 participants on a sunny day in the high 50’s.
Lauren Parmalee, Senior Director of Education at Audubon Society of Rhode Island, led the walk. Her sharp eyes helped the group identify 17 different species (see list below). Earlier Lauren had sighted a rare visitor to New England, the Tufted Duck, as well as the rarely seen Barrow’s Goldeneye.
The group, ranging from veteran to first-time birdwatchers of all ages, shared bird books, stories, binoculars, and tips for how to spot faraway birds in the wide river. Hot chocolate and coloring books at the Narragansett Boat Club completed the outing.
Consider adding the BPC February 2018 Winter Bird Walk to the list of not-to-be-missed events for next year.
