Walks
On a Saturday morning in May at the Blake Town Forest in Gill
Most of our bird walks happen in the spring from late March through early June which includes the spring migration season. Nature walks and Programs can happen any time. Some walks are guided by experienced individuals. Other walks are self-guided.
Check this page frequently for any changes or cancellations, especially before heading out to a site.
If you're going out by yourself during the spring or fall migration seasons, check the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's BirdCast site for up to date forecasts of best days. Keep in mind the following:
In order to conserve energy in flight, many birds migrate at night when the atmosphere is more stable, free of thermals, and cooler. Also, at night there is less danger from predators (hawks especially don't see as well at night as in the daytime).
Some species use the stars to navigate, although light pollution from urban areas has made this more difficult or impossible.
Birds migrating at night rest during the day. Best viewing will be in the morning and at dusk.
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RECOMMENDED ANYTIME - Gunnery Sergeant Jeffrey S. Ames Accessible Nature Trail
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Spring 2025 Bird Walks
Check back for complete details, directions, and last minute changes.
Saturday, March 29, Waterfowl Prowl (also listed as a Program), Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center, 99 Millers Falls Road, Northfield, 9:00-Noon.
Directions and Other Details
Saturday, April 26, 9:00a.m. -12 – Eagle Reserve, 55 Winchendon Road, Royalston
Directions and Other Details
Every Wednesday, April 30 - June 4, Mill Brook, Northfield, MA, 8:00 a.m
Saturday, May 3, Former Prison Camp and Richards Reservoir, Warwick, MA, 8:30 a.m.
Saturday, May 10, Hinsdale Setbacks, Hinsdale, NH, 8:30 a.m.
Saturday, May 17, Blake Town Forest, Gill, MA, 8:30 a.m.
Saturday, May 24, Northfield Mountain Environmental Recreation Center, 9-11:00 a.m.
Saturday, May 31, Old Wendell Road, Northfield, 9-Noon to observe Bobolinks in a meadow near the Northfield-Erving town line and walk part of the New England National Scenic Trail. More on Bobolinks
Saturday, June 7, Paddling on Long Pond, Royalston, MA, 9:00 a.m. The Tully River/Long Pond area is rich in wildlife. Many wetland and bankside birds can be seen from your canoe or kayak. Plan on a full morning of easy paddling as we cruise the shoreline watching for birds, aquatic mammals and their evidence. Bring plenty of water and a snack. Life vests are required. Meeting time 9:00 a.m.
Saturday, June 14, to observe Swallows in local venue(s) TBD.
Directions and Other Details - TBD
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Click here to find out more about our usual venues and to review birding results of some past walks.
Download - a printable two page PDF copy of a local bird checklist provided by the Athol Bird and Nature Club.
The Merlin phone app from the Cornell Lab is highly recommended for identification of birds by sight and by song.
Click on the image below to download.
