But, what about winter? New England still boasts of four seasons.
Yes, I will admit the change of seasons is hard on me. The shorter days and colder weather definitely brings on the winter blues. However, I've learned that the days of birding don't have to stop because there continues to be lots to see.
Winter birding seems to kick off in a major way for me during the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count. This is an event I have participated in for a good many years with my local team in my home town. Working with several really good local birders, this event allowed me to get into some spots that were otherwise closed off and helped me expand my observations of winter ducks and gulls in particular. If you are unsure about how to begin your birding beyond your back yards, consider volunteering to help with these annual counts. I learned a great deal from seasoned birders - recognizing not only different species on sight but even by their calls.
Should you happen upon a banded bird in the United States, you can send the information in via www.reportband.gov or call 1-800-327-BAND. After about a week, I received a report via email informing me of where this bird was originally banded and by whom. The information also helps the scientists who are tracking where these birds go after being banded which assists in learning more about them.
So, how did you spend your New Year's Day?
Audubon Christmas Bird Counts
https://www.audubon.org/conservation/science/christmas-bird-count
Rhode Island information - check parks and beaches
http://www.riparks.com/index.html
Sachuest Point Wildlife Preserve
http://www.fws.gov/refuge/sachuest_point/