Field Journal 4

Today is March 27th, 2024 and I have just completed my field observation for journal 4 at the rock point trails just off the bike path. I returned to the same spot for my journals, but this time ventured off onto the side paths and trials next to the bike path. I began my observations at 2:37 p.m. and finished at 3:41 p.m. Today was cloudy, 48 degrees Fahrenheit, and there were northern 14 mph winds.

Some of the year-round residents I have continually observed include Black-capped Chickadee's, Blue Jay, Downy Woodpecker, and American Crow. These year-round residents have adapted to survive the harsh winters here in Burlington. A physiological trait that is key to surviving the winter is a thick plumage as well as increasing metabolic rate. Black-capped Chickadee's and Downy Woodpeckers have thick insulating feathers that help them to retain their body heat all year. Behavioral adaptations may include reducing activity levels, roosting in groups, or roosting in areas protected from harsh conditions. The only species I observed that migrates only sometimes or is considered a short migrant is the American Robin. Some individuals migrate south to find places with more abundant food sources while others don't. Some species that migrate completely south or to Central America or Mexico include Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, Yellow Warblers, and Red-winged Blackbirds. These birds migrate to reduce competion and find places with more abundant food sources and to escape the harsh winter conditions. Arriving in early April has its advantages and disadvantages. Advantages include being able to establish breeding territory, more available nesting sites, and longer daylight hours. Disadvantages include risk of cold weather, competition for resources, or limited food availability. I am hoping that soon I will see one of the species or another migrant on my next birding adventure.

Because every bird I observed is a year-round resident except for in the cases the American Robin, I used maps to determine their possible winter range. All About the Birds showed that they have been reported to migrate to central Mexico. Their wintering range could be anywhere from 0 - 2,131 miles. For my next observation I hope to observe different and less abundant species. The last 3 times, I have observed more or less the same species. This also could be because I am new to birding, but I'm hoping to see some migrants soon!

Publicerat 27 mars 2024 21.39 av