Emerald Necklace Bird Club FRIENDS OF JAMAICA POND
36 Perkins St., PO Box 300040, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130-0030
Gerry Wright, Founder and President
Telephone: 617-524-7070
Email: FrederickLawOlmsted@yahoo.com
TTY/MA RELAY 800-439-2370
www.FriendsOfJamaicaPond.org
A program of Community Service Care, Inc. a non-profit, tax exempt organization
Emerald Necklace Bird Club Sightings By Park List HERE
with links to individual park web sites
Individual Emerald Necklace Bird Proflies (Click on Photos)
Great Horned Owl, Great Blue Heron, Red Tailed Hawk, Cedar Waxwing, Indigo Bunting, Wood Duck Eastern Kingbird
The Emerald Necklace Bird Club was established in 2005 as a tribute to Christine Cooper and Charlie Hauck for their stewardship and work of 21 years for the Jamaica Pond Project. For over two decades the Friends of Jamaica Pond and Jamaica Pond Project have collaborated and partnered with the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, Boston Park Rangers and many private and public agencies.
The Emerald Necklace is the urban oasis for much of the natural world in Boston. Both migrating and long-term resident birds find the Emerald Necklace continuous open spaces, marshes and wooded areas a haven. Frequent visits will slowly reveal a landscape full of life and wonder from the soaring flight of a Red Tailed Hawk to the sensuous call of a White Throated Sparrow, and the statute-still Great Blue Heron to the busy Massachusetts state bird --the Black Capped Chickadee.
Join the Emerald Necklace Bird Club and explore this landscape and natural wonder each season -- spring, summer, fall and winter. Add bird sightings to both the Emerald Necklace Bird Club master list, specific park lists, along with your own yearly and life lists. Support the conservation of natural habitat and become a steward of the earth.
Members receive monthy email news letter and rarer bird sightings updates plus notices of bird walks and talks..
1. Rose Kennedy Greenway
2, Boston Common
3. Public Gardens
4. Esplanade
5. Commonwealth Avenue Mall
6. Back Bay Fens
7. Olmsted Park
8. Jamaica Pond
9. Olmsted National Historic Site
10. Arborway
11. Arnold Arboretum
12. Forest Hills Cemetery
13. Boston Nature Center
14 Franklin Park
15. Columbia Road
16. Neponset River Reservation
17 Dorchester Shores Reservation
18 Carson Beach
19. Castle Island
20. Boston Harbor Walk
21. Boston Harbor Islands
A. Charles River
B. Muddy River
C. Neponset River
Emerald Necklace Bird Club Bird List
Friends of Jamaica Pond, PO Box 300040, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130-0030
Telephone: 617-524-7070, Email FrederickLawOlmsted@yahoo.com
Gerry Wright, Founder and President
Photos by Stephen Baird click on images to see larger versions.
Emerald Necklace Bird Club Check List (PDF 675 kb) HERE
There are several on-line web sites that have extensive bird, insect, reptile and animal field guides with pictures, sound clips of songs and detailed range maps including:
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/
- University of Michigan Museum of Zoology Animal Diversity http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
- USGS Breeding Atlas and guides: Gough, G.A., Sauer, J.R., Iliff, M. Patuxent Bird Identification Infocenter. 1998. Version 97.1. Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, MD. http://www.mbr-pwrc.usgs.gov/id/framlst/infocenter.html
- National Wildlife Federation,11100 Wildlife Center Drive, Reston, VA 20190-5362 Web site: http://www.nwf.org Field Guides at http://www.enature.com
- Arthur Cleveland Bent Life Histories of North American Birds 1919-1968 http://birdsbybent.com/index.html
- John James Audubon Birds of America 1840 http://www.audubon.org/bird/BoA/BOA_index.html
- New England Wildlife Center, 500 Columbian Street, South Weymouth, MA 02190 Telephone 781-682-4878 Web site: http://www.newildlife.com Field Guides at http://www.nenature.com
Loons, Grebes, Cormorants
Codes:
Y=Whole Year
W=Winter
S=Summer
N=Nesting
M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations and Links
o Common Loon
W, M
Regular winter visitor. Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Neponset River, Charles River, Boston Harbor. Photo February 22, 2009 on Neponset River.
o Red-Throated Loon
W, M
Regular winter visitor. Seen at Charles River, Boston Harbor, Neponset River. Photo February 22, 2009 on Neponset River.
o Red-Necked Grebe
W, M
Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Neponset River, Charles River, Boston Harbor
o Horned Grebe
W, M
Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Neponset River, Charles River, Boston Harbor
o Pied-Billed Grebe
W, M
Regular winter visitor at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Neponset River, Charles River (Photo 9-19-07 at Jamaica Pond)
o Wilson Petrel
W
Boston Harbor Islands
o Gannet
W
Boston Harbor Islands
o Great Cormorant
O
Boston Harbor Islands
o Double-Crested Cormorant
Y, N
Common year round-- Seen at Franklin Park, Jamaica Pond, Forest Hills Cemetery, Neponset River, Castle Island, Boston Harbor Walk, Charles River, Boston Harbor Islands
Swans, Geese, Ducks
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter
S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Mute Swan
S, N
Not native. Boston Park Department has swans brought to Public Gardens and Jamaica Pond. Wild swan visits are common. Nest on Charles River in West Roxbury. Some winter in Boston Harbor
o Whisling Swan
O
o Canada Goose
Y, N
Found throught all parks
o Brant Goose
Y, N
Boston Harbor Walk Jan 2013 (3), Jan-March 2010 and 2011 (up to 44); 11/08-12/08 (6); Feb-March 2008, February 2007 Neponset River and Dorchester Shores Reservation at Carson Beach in May 2006
o Snow Goose
W, M
Franklin Park April 4, 2008
o Blue Morph Snow Goose
W, M Franklin Park Nov 1-15, 2008
o Greater White Fronted Goose
W, M
Franklin Park golf course area Nov-Dec 2017
o Mallard Duck
Y, N
Found throughout all parks
o Black Duck
Y, N
Found throughout all parks. Also hybrid with Mallards
o Pintail Duck
W, M
Seen at Jamaica Pond Nov-Dec 2007, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River, Neponset River.
o Gadwall Duck
W, M
Rarer winter visitor. Seen at Jamaica Pond and Leverett Pond (Photo Dec-Jan 2014-2015, 2017-2018), Olmsted Park, Charles River
o American Widgeon
W, M
October 30-November 2, 2008, October 2017 Franklin Park, Jan 24, 2007 Jamaica Pond; Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River
o European Widgeon
W, M
Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Charles River
o Northern Shoveler Duck
W, M
Jan 2013 Olmsated Park; December 2009, 2010 Jamaica Pond; October- November 2009 Scarboro Pond, Franklin Park; March, 2007, Jan 30, 2007 Franklin Park; Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River
o Blue-Winged Teal
W, M
Franklin Park April 2007; Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Charles River
o Green-Winged Teal
W, M
Pair stayed most of winter and spring at Willow Pond in Olmsted Park 2007 and 2008. Seen at Jamaica Pond Dec 07, Olmsted Park Dec 07-April 08, Back Bay Fens, Charles River, Neponset River
o Wood Duck
W, M
Common migrating visitor. Unusual large flocks over 50 of Wood Ducks in Emerald Necklace (Leverett Pond, Jamaica Pond, Scarboro Pond) during November and December 2008, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016; Jamaica Pond Dec 2007, Franklin Park August 2007 (Family of 5), Olmsted Park, Franklin Park and Forest Hills Cemetary April 2007, Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Franklin Park on Scarboro Pond (10/06-11/06), Back Bay Fens, Charles River, Neponset River, Forest Hills Cemetery. Used nesting box at Leverett Pond 2016-1017
Detailed web page on Wood Duck HEREo Redhead Duck
W, M
Seen at Jamaica Pond 12/07, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River
o Canvasback Duck
W, M
Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River, Neponset River
o Ring-Necked Duck
W, M
Common yearly winter visitor: Scarboro Pond Franklin Park Oct-Nov 2009; Jamaica Pond 2014, 2013, 12/08-1/09, 12/07, 1/24/07; Leverett Pond in Olmsted Park 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011. Seen most winters at Jamaica Pond, Leverett Pond in Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River
o Greater Scaup
W, M
Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park,, Charles River
o Lesser Scaup
W, M
Franklin Park and Jamaica Pond Janauary 2010 (Photo Female); Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River
o Common Goldeneye
W, M
Neponset River Jan-Feb 2013, 2009; Jamaica Pond 12/08; Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River, Neponset River
o Bufflehead
W, M
Common winter visitor -Neponset River, Boston Harbor, Jamaica Pond and Leverett Pond Dec 2010, Neponset River, Nov 2009; Neponset River February 2009 (33);,May 1, 2008; Leverett Pond Olmsted ParkJanuary 2008; 1/21/07 Muddy River; 1/24/07 Jamaica Pond; Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River, Boston Harbor Nov 2006. Photo: Neponset River Feb 2009
o Harlequin Duck
O
o Common Elder
Y, O
Boston Harbor Dec-Feb 2010. Jan 2008. Boston Harbor Islands August 2007, November 2006 (Photo - two immatures at Georges Island August 2007)
o King Elder
O
Boston Harbor Islands
o Long-Tailed Duck
W, M
Seen at Olmsted Park winter of 2005-2006
o Surf Scoter
O
Boston Harbor Islands
o Ruddy Duck
W, M
Common yearly winter visitor: - November-March open water till freeze - Jamaica Pond 2016-2006; 1/09, 11/08-12/08; 3/08, 11/07-12/07. 1/24/07 (220) Jamaica Pond (photo) ; Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Franklin Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River
o Common Merganser
W, M
Common yearly winter visitor: Olmsted Park 2015, Dec 2013-January 2014, Jamaica Pond winter 2014-2015, 2013-2014, 2012-2013, 2010-2011; 3/08 (16) Neponset River, 1/08 Charles River, Boston Harbor.
Jamaica Pond 12/08-1/09 (6); 1/24/07 (8)
Seen at most winters Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River, Neposnet River
o Red-Breasted Merganser
W, M
Common yearly winter visitor: Boston Harbor Dec-Feb 2009-2010; 2010-2011, 2013-2014; Neposet River Dec-Feb 2009-2015, 3/08, 12/25/08 (28) Boston Harbor 1/08 (30). Boston Harbor Walk Jan 2014, February 9, 2007 (18) Seen at most winters Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Charles River, Neponset River, Boston Harbor
o Hooded Merganser
W, M
Common yearly winter visitor:
Charles River, Back Bay Fens, Riverway, Olmsted Park, Jamaica Pond Nov 07-March 08; Franklin Park March and October 2007, 1/24/07 Jamaica Pond 12/08-1/09 (55), (7); 1/21/07 Muddy River Riverway (4); Seen at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens, Riverway, Charles River, Neponset River, Franklin Park
Vultures, Hawks, Eagles, Ospreys, Falcons
Codes:
Y=Whole Year
W=Winter
S=Summer
N=Nesting
M=Migration
O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Turkey Vulture
Y
Seen at many parks. Neponset River March 2008, Franklin Park April 2007-2014, Boston Nature Center May 2006
o Black Vulture
O
o Northern Goshawk
M
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Accipiter_gentilis.html
o Cooper's Hawk
M, S, N
April 2016 Frankin Park, January 2010 Jamaica Pond and Franklin Park area back yards; Boston Common and Public Gardens Jan-Feb 2009; Franklin Park Feb-May 2008, Neponset River March 2008, Forest Hills Cemetery March 2008, Riverway Dec 2007, Boston Nature Center May 2006
o Sharp-Shinned Hawk
M
Back Bay Fens 2014, Olmsted Park Nov 2006, Frnklin Park Sept. 2012
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Accipiter_striatus.html
o Northern Harrier (Marsh Hawk)
Y
Neponset River Nov-Jan 2014, Franklin Park April 2008; Boston Harbor Islands (Paddocks) August 2007
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Circus_cyaneus.html
o Rough-Legged Hawk
M
o Red-Tailed Hawk
Y, N
Very common hawk seen at all locations. Nests in Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery, Cedar Grove Cemetery, Olmsted Park, Arnold Arboretum, Granny Burial Ground in Downtown Boston Regular sightings on Boston Common.
DETAILED WEB PAGE with photos and legends HERE
o Red-Shouldered Hawk
M
Franklin Park May 2006
o Broad-Winged Hawk
M
Seen during migrations and some winters: Franklin Park May 2010, 2006; Rose Kennedy Greenway Dec 2013, Neponset River Fowl Meadow Dec 2014,
o Golden Eagle
O
o Bald Eagle
O
Seen most winters in December and January - Pair nesting at Milton landing area on Neponset River 2013-2018; Jamaica Pond Dec 26-30, 2014. Jan 26, 2013 adult; Jamaica Pond and Olmsted Park Dec 24, 2007, Jan 6, 2008 (immature); Jamaica Pond Nov 20, 2006 (immature) Jamaica Pond 2005 First Photo 12/24/07 by Robert Mayer http://www.arboretum.harvard.edu/visitors/bird_list.html. Second Photo 12/30/13 by Stephen Baird
o Osprey
M, N
Seen at all Boston rivers and ponds
Franklin Park May 2011
Jamaica Pond October 2010 (3) (Photo) 2000
Neponset River - Nesting at platform at Moswetuset Park in Quincy just off of Quincy Shore Drive and Squantum Streets. Two different pairs seen fishing in area plus immature chicks
o Peregrine Falcon
Y, N
Nests at Boston Custom House, Tobin Bridge, Christian Science Building, Longwood Medical area and Quincy Shipyard. Detailed web page HERE
o Merlin
M
February 2016 Franklin Park, Jan 26, 2014 Neponset River, January 9, 2010; Franklin Park Fall 2006; Olmsted Park Nov 2006; Riverway Dec 2006 (Male in Franklin Park 2006 and Female at Neponset River 2014 photos by Stephen Baird)
o American Kestrel
Y, N
Neponset River January 1, 2013 (Photos); Franklin Park February 2008, May 2006
Turkeys, Quails
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=OccassionalNotes and Locations
o Turkey
Y, N
Common in Boston Nature Center (Nests), Franklin Park (Nests), Riverway areas
Boston Nature Center May 2007-2016,
Franklin Park Seen year round 2016-2007 April 2010, May 2011, May 2012
Neponset River Dec 2012
o Ruffed Grouse
O
Boston Nature Center, Franklin Park
o Bobwhite
O
o Ring-Necked Pheasant
Y, N
Boston Nature Center, Neponset River March 2008, Franklin Park, Boston Harbor Islands (Paddock)
Egrets, Herons, Rails, Coots
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Great Egret
S
Common on ocean shore - Harbor walk, Charles River, Quincy Neponset River walk, Millenium Park; Neponset River Milton Landing-Granite Street (Bike Path) April 26, 2007. Seen occassionaly at Jamaica Pond and Muddy River.
o Snowy Egret
S
Neponset River Milton Landing-Granite Street (Bike Path) June 27, 2006; June 25, 2008 August 30, 2007 Boston Harbor Islands (Paddocks); Seen occassionaly at Scarboro Pond in Franklin Park
o Cattle Egret
O
o Great Blue Heron
Y
Common seen at most parks even in the winter - Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Franklin Park, Boston Nature Center, Forest Hills Cemetery, Arnold Arboretum, Back Bay Fens, Neponset River. Boston Harbor Islands (Paddocks), Nests at near by swamps, river flood plains including Millenium Park in West Roxbury by the High School.
Detailed web page HEREo Little Blue Heron
S
S
Common around ponds and water in the parks. Arnold Arboretum, Boston Harbor Islands June 2008; Back Bay Fens May 10, 2008; Franklin Park and Forest Hills July-August 2007; Back Bay Fens May 2006
o Black-Crowned Night Heron
Y, N
Back Bay Fens, Boston Harbor Islands June 2008, Franklin Park July 2007 (Family of 3) July 2012; Olmsted Park July 2007, Neponset River July 2007 Arnold Arboretum October 2006
o Yellow-Crowned Night Heron
O
o American Bittern
O
Seen at Franklin Park on Scarboro Pond
o Least Bittern
O
o Virginia Rail
M
Neponset River Fowl Meadow May 2015
o King Rail
M
o Common Gallinule
M
o American Coot
W, M
Common yearly winter resident Oct-March: September 29, 2012, Oct 2012, Oct 09 Jamaica Pond; Flock of 42 on Jamaica Pond 12/30/07; Jamaica Pond 11-07-12-07,1/24/07 and Olmsted Park 11-07-12/07; Jamaica Pond March 2006
Shore Birds
Codes: Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o American Oystercatcher
O
o Black-Bellied Plover
O
o Piping Plover
O
o Semipalmated Plover
M
o Killdeer
S, N
Common seen at many parks -- Franklin Park April-May 2009; Neponset River, Franklin Park March 2008; Boston Harbor Islands August 2007, Franklin Park May-April 2007, Boston Nature Center May 2007-2016, Nesting Boston Nature Center 2009-2016; Charles River by BU Bridge and Franklin Park May 2008-2014 at the Ranger Station Barn area
o Whimbrel
M
o Upland Plover
M
o Solitary Sandpiper
M
Seen at many parks with ponds and streams. Nov 2013; Willow Pond in Olmsted Park
o Spotted Sandpiper
M
Common seen at most parks with water -- Boston Harbor Islands June 2008, Franklin Park May and August 2007 August 2012, 2013, Olmsted Park May 2007, August 2012; 2013, Jamaica Pond May and August 2007, September 2006
o Greater Yellowlegs
M
o Lesser Yellowlegs
M
Neponset River November 2009; May 1, 2008; April 26, 2007
o Short-Billed Dowitcher
M
o Long-Billed Dowitcher
M
o Purple Sandpiper
M
o Pectoral Sandpiper
M
o Sanderling
M
o Least Sandpiper
M
o Semipalmated Sandpiper
M
o American Woodcock
M, N
Flight display April 2009 Franklin Park; April-July 2008 Franklin Park, Nesting site; Franklin Park, Scarboro Pond August-September 2007
o Common Snipe
M
Neponset River March 2008
Gulls, Terns, Alcids
Codes: Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Great Black-Backed Gull
Y, N
Common throughout all locations. Seen here on Castle Island with Crab dinner.
o Herring Gull
Y, N
Common throughout all locations
o Ring-Billed Gull
Y, N
Common throughout all locations
o Laughing Gull
O
o Bonaparte's Gull
O
o Artic Tern
O
o Common Tern
O
Boston Harbor Islands June 2008
o Caspian Tern
O
o Razorbill
O
o Common Puffin
O
Pigeons, Doves
Codes: Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Rock Dove
Y, N
Common throughout all locations
o Mourning Dove
Y, N
Common throughout all locations
Yellow Billed Cuckoo
M
Heard in Franklin Park June 2007, maybe nesting
Black Billed Cuckoo
M
Franklin Park May 30, 2014
Owls, Goatsuckers, Swifts
Codes: Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Eastern Screech Owl (Gray Morph)
Y, N
Coomon nests at Forest Hills Cemetery, Arnold Arboretum, Farnklin Park and back yards o Great Horned Owl
Y, N
Nested in Arnold Arboretum 2001, 2014, 2016; Nested in Forest Hills Cemetery 2006-2007, 2012-2016; Cedar Grave Cemetery, Nested in Franklin Park 2007-2009 and many other years. Resident male hit by car and died 12/26/09. Attempted nest 2012 in Franklin Park. One-eyed owl in seen summer and fall 2012-2015 that nested in Forest Hills Cemetery.
Detailed web page with photographs and legends HEREo Long-Eared Owl
W
o Short-Eared Owl
W
o Barn Owl
O
o Snowy Owl
W Regular winter visits to airport, rarer winter visits to parks. 2014 Winter Back Bay Fens (Feb), Neponset River (Jan), 2002 Franklin Park
o Barred Owl
M
Seen most winters - Nov-Dec 2013 Back Bay Fens, Oct 2012-Jan 2013 - Five were seen in various locations from the Public Garden to Arnold Arboretum and numerous back yards. Oct-Dec 2009, Boston Nature Center, Public Garden, Faneuil Hall, Boston Common, Back Bay Fens; April 6, 2008 Franklin Park; Dec 07-Jan 08 Arnold Arboretum
o Saw-Whet Owl
M
o Whip-Poor-Will
O
o Common Night Hawk
S, N
Common throughout all locations
o Chimney Swift
S, N Common throughout all locations just listen to the twitter and flocks at dusk sweeping the evening skies for insects
Arrive mid May; Most leave late August early September
Hummingbirds, Kingfishers, Woodpeckers
Codes: Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
M, S, N
Many sightings in 2013; Forest Hills Cemetery August 2010, Back Bay Fens May 10, 2008, Summer 2012, Franklin Park August 25, 2008 Nest reported in Back Bay Fens Gardens
o Belted Kingfisher
M, N
Migrant plus Often Found at Millenium Park and Charles river where it nests which will frequent area parks for feeding young in August. One stayed most of the summer at Forest Hills Cemetery in 2013; Jamaica Pond September 2010, August 2012-2013 with family; Olmsted Park October 2012, 2013; Dec 2008-Jan 2009; Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery April 2008, August 2012 with family; Back Bay Fens Franklin Park, October 2007. Seen winters 2014 and 2015 on Charles River and Neponset River
o Northern Yellow-Shafted Flicker
Y, N
Common. 2/4/07 Franklin Park. Nests in Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery, Jamaica Pond Park, Neponset River, Back Bay Fens and Olmsted Park
o Pilated Woodpecker
O
Rare visitor: Seen in Franklin Park spring 2009, 2011
o Red-Bellied Woodpecker
Y, N
Nests in Franklin Park, Arnold Arboretum, Allendatle Woods, Forest Hills Cemetery, and Olmsted Park
o Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker
M, W
Arnold Arboretum Dec-March 2010, Dec 2008; Franklin Park April 2010, April 11, 2008; September 25, 2007, October 2012, Rose Kennedy Greenway - Boston Harbor Walk October 2012
Image below shows immature with the typical series of holes seeking sap. (Click on to see larger version) Often returns to older holes looking for bugs attracted to seeping sap. See short video HERE
o Hairy Woodpecker
Y, N, M
Not as common as Downey. Larger with larger beak, louder chip song. Most often seen in Franklin Park where there are usually 1-2 nesting pairs.
Franklin Park 2015-2008; also seen at Boston Nature Center, Commonwealth Ave. Mall.
o Downey Woodpecker
Y, N
Nests in Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery, Olmsted Park. Seen in most parks including Boston Common, Public Gardens, back yards.
Black Backed Woodpecker
Rare
Accidental spending winter in conifers at Forest Hills Cemetery.
Kingbirds, Flycatchers
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Eastern Kingbird
S, N
Common - nests at most parks. Neponset River May 1, 2008; Forest Hills Cemetery May 2, 2008; Jamaica Pond 2006-2012, Franklin Park 2006-2012, Arnold Arboretum, Olmsted Park, Muddy River, Charles River, May-September 2012-2006 See detailed page with photos on this site HERE
- Cornell University All About Birds
- University of Michigan Animal Diversity
- National Audubon Society
- US Forest Service Bird Atlas
- Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter
- Arthur Cleveland Bent Life Histories of North American Birds 1968
- John James Audubon Birds of America 1840
o Great Crested Flycatcher
S, N
Nests in Franklin Park most years, Arnold Arboretum 2012. Migrate through other parks in May and September. Franklin Park: May-September 2015-2006
o Eastern Phoebe
S, N
Migrate through in March and October - Nest throughout parks, Forest Hills Cemetery 2010 Pair has nested in Ellicott Dale Arch 2008-2014
Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery October 2012; Franklin Park Arrived March 26, 2010; April - June 2008; April - August 2007, Jamaica Pond, Franklin Park, May 2006, June 2006, October 2006
o Yellow-Bellied Flycatcher
M
Franklin Park June 2, 2017
o Acadian Flycatcher
M
Franklin Park June 1, 2007
o Traill's Flycatcher
M
o Least Flycatcher
M
Franklin Park 2012-2017
o Eastern Wood Pewee
S, N
Nests in Franklin Park most years also in Charles River Reservation
o Willow Flycatcher
M
Larks, Swallows
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Horned Lark
M
o Barn Swallow
M, N
Arrived April 23, 2009 to Franklin park; Boston Harbor Islands June 2008, Neponset River May 1, 2008; Franklin Park April 27, 2008; Boston Harbor Islands August 2007; Franklin Park Scarboro Pond July-April 2007; Neponset River Milton Landing-Granite Street (Bike Path) June 27, 2006 and July 2007(Nesting)
o Tree Swallow
S, N
Common: Nests from Franklin Park to Back Bay Fens in tree holes and bird houses. Arrives early in the spring. Arrived April 6, 2014, Arrived April 19, 2010; Arrived April 9, 2009 - Boston Nature Center, Franklin Park; Arnold Arboretum, May 2, 2008; Franklin Park and Forest Hills April 11, 2008; Boston Nature Center nesting in birdbox May 2007; Franklin Park Scarboro Pond May-July 2007 (nesting in bird box at Zoo); Neponset River April 2007, Back Bay Fens, Forest Hills Cemetery May 2006
o Bank Swallow
S, N
Neponset o Rough-Winged Swallow
S, N
Jamaica Pond June-August 2007, Olmsted Park May 2007, Franklin Park Scarboro Pond April 2007; Back Bay Fens May 2006-2014
o Purple Martin
M
Jays, Crows, Blackbirds, Cowbirds, Starling
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Blue Jay
Y, N
Most parks
o Common Raven
Y, N
Most parks
o Common Crow
Y, N
Most parks: Crow - Franklin Park March 2007
o Fish Crow
O
Franklin Park April 2008; Neponset River March 2008
o Red-Winged Blackbird
Y, N
Most parks -- Franklin Park, Boston Nature Center, Jamaica Pond, Olmsted, Muddy River, Charles River, Neponset River. Some over winter in flocks. Males arrive and stake out territories late February early March.
o Tricolored Blackbird
O
o Rusty Blackbird
M
o Common Grackle
Y, N
Most parks
o Brown-Headed Cowbird
S, N
Most parks -- Boston Nature Center 2016, Forest Hills Cememtery April 2010; Back Bay Fens and Franklin Park April 2008
o European Starling
Y, N
Most parks
Chickadees, Titmice, Nuthatches, Creepers
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Black-Capped Chickadee
Y, N
Most parks and back yards year round. Photo below of nest in tree in Franklin Park
o Carolina Chickadee Rare Franklin Park April-June 2008 Recordings sent to experts for verification. Might hybrid with Black Capped (BCC) female. Not confirmed by experts, they confirmed song, but a few BCC mimic song. Without DNA sample experts can not confirm identification. It will remain on this list. It was isolated from BCC flock for three months suggesting it was not a BCC plus BCCs that mimic songs are rarer and usually do not maintain mimic song past a few weeks. Southern birds are moving further north each year. Expect more Carolina Chickadees in this area in the future. o Tufted Titmouse
Y, N
Most parks
o White-Breasted Nuthatch
Y, N
Most parks
o Red-Breasted Nuthatch
M
Franklin Park November-August 2012; Jamaica Pond October 2012; Forest Hills Cemetery Jan 2008
o Brown Creeper
M, W
Olmsted Park February 2009; Spent the winter of 2007, 2008, 2009 in Frankling Park Nov 07-March 08; Jamaica Pond, Franklin Park November 2006 and March 2007
Wrens, Mockingbirds
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o House Wren
S, N
Back Bay Fens May 2008; Franklin Park May 3, 2009, May 2007
Common summer resident. Nest in bird boxes at the Back Bay Victory Garden and on top of Peters Hill in Arnold Arboretum, plus many back yards.
o Carolina Wren
W, S, N
Common seen all year round -- Franklin Park, Arnold Arboretum, Forest Hills Cemetery February-May 2008; Franklin Park Feb-April 2007; June-August 2006
o Long-Billed Marsh Wren
S, N
o WinterWren
M
Franklin Park October 2010; April 2007 also Arnold Arboretum
o Northern Mockingbird
Y, N
Most parks year round and may back yeards. Below is image of male territorial display at a field in Franklin Park. Click to see larger version.
o Gray Catbird
S, N
Most parks arrived April 28, 2009, 2016; Leave late September
o Brown Thrasher
M, S, N
Franklin Park Arrived May 2, 2009; April 21, 2008; Arnold Arboretum May 2, 2008; May-June 2007 nesting in Wilderness area; Franklin Park June 2006, 2012 nesting by White Stadium
Thrushes, Bluebirds, Kinglets, Waxwings
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o American Robin
S, N, Y
Most parks. Large flocks often spend the entire winter if the snow fall is not deep.
o Wood Thrush
S, M, N
Nests in Franklin Park most years. Also nests in Arnold Arboretum (Bussey Brook area), Olmsted Park and Jamaica Pond (Parkman Memorial and Hellenic Hill) area
Franklin Park May 2006-2017; Jamaica Pond 2009, 2010, 2011; Forest Hills Cemetery, May 2006
o Hermit Thrush
M
Common migrant - A few will stay the winter with flocks of American Robins.
Rose Kennedy Greenway, Olmsted Park May 2012; Franklin Park 2016-2013; Oct 2012, Nov 2009; April-May 2009, November 2008; Neponset River, Franklin Park April 2007, Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery, May 2006
o Swainson's Thrush
M
Public Gardens March 2008; Olmsted Park May 2007
o Veery
M
Franklin Park May 2014-2017, May 9, 2008; May 2007
o Eastern Bluebird
S, N
Franklin Park April 2016, April and May, 2014; March 29, 2008; March April 2007; Nests in Arnold Arboretum with help from bird house program, Nested in Franklin Park 2010, Brook Farm 2012
o Golden-Crowned Kinglet
MW
Common migrant - Some spend an entire mild winter in mix groups with Black Capped Chickadees, White Breasted Nuthatch, Tufted Titmouse, Downey Woodpecker
Olmsted Park Feb 2009; Back Bay Fens May 2006; Franklin Park April 2014. March 2012, Ocotober 22, 2012; 11/08-12/08, April 2007, Dec 2006
o Ruby-Crowned Kinglet
M
Migrate through parks April- May; September -October.
Franklin Park April 2014, 2010; October, 2012; Arnold Arboretum, Neponset River Nov 2009; Franklin Park April-May 2009, Forest Hills Cemetery May 3, 2009; Olmsted Park and Jamaica Pond May 5, 2008; Franklin Park April 2008; Arnold Arboretum, Forest Hills Cemetary, Boston Nature Center, May 2007, Franklin Park April 2007, Back Bay Fens May 2006
o Blue Gray Gnatcatcher
M
Franklin Park September 2012, April 27-30, June 2008; April 2007 Boston Nature Center May 2007
o Cedar Waxwing
S, N
Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery, Olmsted Park, Jamaica Pond March-May 2008
Common in the parks. Usually large family groups April-September. Nest late feed flegdlings in August and September on the bounty of tree fruits and berries.
Franklin Park February, March-May 2007
Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery, May 2006
Rose Kennedy Greenway May 2012, Arnold Arboretum, September 2012
See detailed web page HERE
Vireos
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Blue Headed Vireo
M
Franklin Park May-April 2008, 2007, October 2012, Charles River Millenium Park Oct 2012
(arrived April 28, 2009)
o Yellow-Throated Vireo
M
Franklin Park September 26, 2007, May 2008, May 2014
o Red-Eyed Vireo
S, N
Nests in Franklin Park most years, Olmsted Park in 2012. Franklin Park 2007-2014; Charles River May 2007, Olmsted Park June 2012
o Warbling Vireo
S, N
Common: Nests summers at Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Boston Nature Center, Franklin Park, Muddy River, Back Bay Fens, April 28, 2009; May-June 2008, May-June 2007; Back Bay Fens, Forest Hills Cemetery, May 2006 (arrived April 28, 2008)
Warblers
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Black-and-White Warbler
M
Franklin Park, Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, Back Bay Fens May 2008; Franklin Park Sept 20-26, 2007, Jamaica Pond August 2007, Jamaica Pond, Franklin Park, Boston Nature Center, April-May 2007; May 2006
o Blackpoll Warbler
M
Regular Migration visitor May and September- October; Olmsted, Jamaica Pond, Franklin Park Sept-Oct 2010, May 2007-2015
o Connecticut Warbler
M
Fowl Meadow Neponset River September 2014; Boston Nature Center, September 2010
o Tennesse Warbler
M
Back Bay Fens May 2006, Fraklin Park May 2014, 2017
o Northern Parula Warbler
M
Common. Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery May 1-4, 2009; Back Bay Fens, Riverway, Olmsted Park, Jamaica Pond, Franklin Park May 2008; Forest Hills Cemetery May 2006, Franklin Park June 2006, May 2014; 2015
o Yellow Warbler
S, N
Common summer warbler. Nests in Back Bay Fens, Arnold Arboretum, Forest Hills Cemetery, Franklin Park, Olmsted Park plus other parks and riverways in Boston area. Franklin Park May 3, 2009; Olmsted Park May 10 -June 2008 nesting; Back Bay Fens May-June 2008 nesting; Franklin Park, Cedar Grove Cemetery-Neponset River, Arnold Arboretum, Forest Hills, Boston Nature Center May 2007
o Magnolia Warbler
M
Common Franklin Park May 2007-2015; Arnold Arboretum May 2014, Jamaica Pond May 2007
o Yellow-Rumped Warbler
M, S, W,
Common -- seen all year round, abundent in large migrating flocks April and October: Boston Harbor Walk February 2009; Arnold Arboretum, Boston Nature Center, Neponset, Forest Hills Cemetery, Franklin Park, Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park, April-May 2007; Large number in Franklin Park Ocotober 22, 2012; Franklin Park and Jamica Pond, May 2006, October 2006; Jamaica Pond Oct 20, 2012, Dec 31, 2006 (arrived April 20, 2008)
- University of Michigan Museum of Zoology Bio Kids
- Smithsonian and National Zoo Migratory Birds
- Cornell University All About Birds
- USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center
- John James Audubon Birds of America 1840
- The Auk Janauary 2004 :WINTERING YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLERS (DENDROICA CORONATA) TRACK MANIPULATED ABUNDANCE OF MYRICA CERIFERA FRUITS by Borgmann, Kathi L, Pearson, Scott F, Levey, Douglas J, Greenberg, Cathryn H
o Black-Throated Green
M
Jamaica Pond May 5, 2008; Franklin Park, May 2007; Franklin Park September 2012, Jamaica Pond, Forest Hills Cemetery, May 2006. Seen most years in numerous parks.
o Black-Throated Blue
M
Back Bay Fens May 2014; Neponset River Oct 30, 2008, Franklin Park May 2014; 2015; May 7-9, 2008; Franklin Park, Cedar Grove Cemetery, May 2007; May 21, 2006
o Blue Winged Warbler
M
Southern warbler now nesting in area. Pair in Neponset River Fowl Meadow, May 2015 Spotted in Franklin Park 2014, 2013
o Cape May Warbler
M Franklin Park May 6, 2008 o Cerulean Warbler
M
o Blackburnian Warbler
M
Franklin Park May 2014, May 4, 2009, May 11, 2007
o Cheastnut-Sided Warbler
M
Franklin Park May 19, 2014; May 2015; Arnold Arboretum May 2014, Bussey Brook Meadow May 2014, May 2008; Franklin Park and Cedar Grove Cemetery May 2007; Franklin Park and Forest Hills Cemetery May 2006, Franklin Park June 2006, May 2014
o Bay-Breasted Warbler
M
o Pine Warbler
M, N
Arrived in Arnold Arboretum, Franklin Park and Jamaica Pond April 5, 2010, April 9, 2009; April 27, 2014; Franklin Park April 11, 2008, Forest Hills Cemetery May-Sept 2007 Nesting in Franklin Park 2010, Arnold Arboretum 2013
o Palm Warbler
M
Common:
Arrived in Emerald Necklace April 5, 2010; April 9-15, 2009; April 5, 2014
Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery arrived April 11 2008
Boston Nature Center, Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetary, Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park April-May 2007
o PrairieWarbler
O
Franklin Park May 2009, 2010, 2011, 2014
o Ovenbird
M
See and hear most spring migrations in Emerald Necklace. Franklin Park May 2006-2015; Back Bay Fens May 10 , 2008; Forest Hills Cemetery, May 2006
o Northern Waterthrush
M
Common- Franklin Park May 4, 2009, May 5, 2014; Back Bay Fens May 10, 2008, 2014; Franklin Park May 2007; Boston Nature Center May 2007
o Louisiana Waterthrush
M Franklin Park May 2012, 2015, Olmsted Park April 30, 2009 o Common Yellowthroat
M, S, N
Rose Kennedy Greenway 2008-2013, Back Bay Fens, Riverway, Olmsted Park, May 10, 2008; Franklin Park May 2007, Neponset River July 2007.
Common migrating warbler seen in most parks May and September. Pair nested in Millenium Park 2012.
o Yellow-Breasted Chat
M
o Kentucky Warbler
M
o Nashville Warbler
M
Franklin Park May 10, 2007; Sept 26-27, 2007
o Mourning Warbler
M
o Hooded Warbler
M, N
Rare visitor
Franklin Park May 21-June 18, 2007 Nesting. One of the few confirmed nestings in Massachusetts. Female built nest and stayed. Male did not stay in area. A Brown Headed Cowbird was lurking in area during nest building. Nest failed and Hooded Warblers did not return the following year. Migrating male seen 2009, 2010 in Franklin Park.
Yellow Throated Warbler
M
Rare visitor
Seen in Forest Hills Cemetery and Franklin Parlk during annual bird walk in May 2011.
o Wilson's Warbler
M
Franklin Park May 2007, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2015; Forest Hills Cemetery 2010
o Canada Warbler
M
Franklin Park, May 2006, May 2007, Olmsted Park May 19, 2014
o American Redstart
M, N, S
Seen in May most parks; Back Bay fens May 10, 2008; Franklin Park October 2012, Olmsted Park September 2012, Jamaica Pond May 2007; Jamaica Pond and Forest Hills Cemetery May 2006. Pair spent summer in Franklin Park 2011. Others nest on Boston Harbor Islands.
Finches, Meadowlarks, Orioles, Tanagers, Grosbeaks, Buntings, Towhees
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o House Sparrow
Y, N
Most parks (Photo Olmsted Park bath and Public Gardens)
o Purple Finch
Y, N
o House Finch
Y, N
Most parks (Photo Neponset River)
o American Goldfinch
Y, N
Common: Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery Arnold Arboretum, Olmsted Park, Jamaica Pond, Back Bay Fens. Nest late and will be seen feeding young on seeds of late August and early September.
o Common Redpoll
W
Neponset River Jan 2013, Forest Hills Cemetery Jan 2008, Franklin Park 2000
o Pine Siskin
M
o Eastern Meadowlark
M
o Baltimore Oriole
S, N
Common most parks -- Jamaica Pond, Back Bay Fens, Olmsted Park, Franklin Park, Arnold Arboretum, Forest Hills Cemetery, Boston Common, May 2006 (See bottom of page for Mass. Audubon study on nesting sites) Arrive April 28, 2016 Franklin Park
o Orchard Oriole
S, N
Millennium Park 2014; Arnold Arboretum May 2, 2008 (nests); Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetary May 2007; Jamaica Pond, Back Bay Fens, Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery, May 2006; June 2006 Jamaica Pond (Nesting)
o Scarlet Tanager
M
Arnold Arboretum, Franklin Park May 2014; May-June 2008, May 2007, September 2012; Forest Hills Cemetary, May 2006
o Northern Cardinal
Y, N
Most parks and back yards
o Rose-Breasted Grosbeak
M
Common migrant. Seen in Emerald Necklace Parks most years. Franklin Park June 2017, May 1, 2009, May 5, 2014; Forest Hills Cemetery, Arnold Arboretum October 2008, Arnold Arboretum May 2, 2008; Franklin Park May 2007
o Evening Grosbeak
M
o Pine Grosbeak
M
o Indigo Bunting
S, M, N
Early arrival April 23, 2009 in Franklin Park; Arnold Arboretum July 2008, Franklin Park May 2008, May, 22, 2007-July 2007; May 21, 2006-July2006
Detailed web page HERE
o Snow Bunting
W, M
Neponset River February 20, 2014
o Eastern Towhee
M, N
Nested in Franklin Park 2017. Common Migrant spotted most years in Emerald Necklace Parks. Franklin Park October 22, 2012, April 26-28, 2008; April-May 2007; May 21, 2006, etc. Nests in Fowl Meadow, Blue Hills Reservation and Winchester Fells most years.
Sparrows
Codes:
Y=Whole Year W=Winter S=Summer N=Nesting M=Migration O=Occassional
Notes and Locations
o Savannah Sparrow
M
Franklin Park May-Oct 2006, 2012, Jamaica Pond, May 2006
o Grasshopper Sparrow
M
o Vesper Sparrow
M
o Dark-Eyed Junco
W, M
Common many parks -- Franklin Park, Forest Hills Cemetery, Jamaica Pond, January-April 2007; May 2006, October 2006
o American Tree Sparrow
M
Common Winter visitor: Millenium Park - Nov 2015, Jan 2014, Neponset River - Jan 2013, Nov 2009, February 2009, March 2008; Franklin Park - November 2006
o Chipping Sparrow
S, N
Franklin Park, Arnold Arboretum, Forest Hills Cemetery, Jamaica Pond, May 2006, October 2006, April 2007
o Field Sparrow
M
Jamaica Pond April 2007 Franklin Park 2016
o White-Throated Sparrow
W, M
Common Winter visitor and spring migrant; Franklin Park, Arnold Arboretum, Forest Hills Cemetery, Olmsted Park, Jamaica Pond, Nov-March 2008, February-May 2007, May 2006 and Nov 2006 Olmsted National Historic Site
o Fox Sparrow
W
Arnodl Arboretum Dec 2017, Jamaica Pond 2014, Back Bay Fens March 2008; Franklin Park March 2007, Back Bay Fens, Winter 2005-2006
o Swamp Sparrow
M
Back Bay Fens May 2013 Charles River Brook Farm; May 10, 2008; Olmsted Park May 5, 2008, Franklin Park May 2017, May 4, 2014
o Song Sparrow
Y, N
Common found in most parks. Franklin Park (Y, N), Forest Hills Cemetery, Olmsted Park, Jamaica Pond, Arnold Arboretum, May 2006-November 2006 Neponset River and Dorchester Shores Parks (Nesting)
o White Crowned Sparrow
O, M
Back Bay Fens May 2017, May 2014; Franklin Park May 2014; October 2012, 2008; Back Bay Fems May 10, 2008; Forest Hills Cemetary- May 2007, Harbor Walk October 2012
Friends of Jamaica Pond
36 Perkins St., PO Box 300040, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130-0030
Gerry Wright, Founder and President
Telephone: 617-524-7070
FrederickLawOlmsted@yahoo.com
www.FriendsOfJamaicaPond.org
A program of Community Service Care, Inc. a non-profit, tax exempt organization
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