Checklist S32325264

Observations

1. Mallard

   Number observed:  30

   Details

   approx.

2. Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon)

   Number observed:  6

   Exotic: Naturalized

3. American Herring Gull

   Number observed:  8

   Breeding & Behavior Code:

   F Flyover (Observed)

4. Red-tailed Hawk

   Number observed:  2

5. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

   Number observed:  1

   Details

   maybe 2; willow tree and over near the duck statue.

6. Downy Woodpecker

   Number observed:  1

7. Blue-headed Vireo

   Number observed:  1

   Details

   SW corner, first on a large oak tree then over to the American elm; good but brief views in the bright light; distinctive white spectacles, blue-gray head. Site-tick.
   
   EDIT - further details added after email exchange with regional reviewer: ...it was a little bit of a surprise...because it seemed quite late. I was lingering near the south-east entrance/exit, preparing my list to be submitted on my phone, when I heard some indeterminate chips/calls. I scanned several trees but didn't see anything, but suddenly got some movement on a large oak nearby. When I got my binoculars on it I saw a sparrow-sized bird, with bluish-gray head, distinct white spectacles, some yellow on the underparts, greyer upperparts. I immediately identified blue-headed vireo. It moved about in the thin canopy of the oak before hopping across to the American Elm next to it. It then foraged higher and eventually went out of sight. It was in bright light and was apparently not bothered by the busy nature of the gardens, which afforded me clear views.
   It's a species I saw plenty of this spring at Leverett Pond so it was an ID that felt easy to make. It was only when I entered it on my list that I saw eBird had it pegged as 'Rare'. Similar species, e.g., Bell's and Cassin's would be much rarer and would present different fieldmarks, overall color, and 'look and feel' to those I have seen often with blue-headed.

8. Blue Jay

   Number observed:  1

9. Black-capped Chickadee

   Number observed:  1

10. White-breasted Nuthatch

    Number observed:  1

11. European Starling

    Number observed:  12

    Exotic: Naturalized

12. Hermit Thrush

    Number observed:  1

    Details

    maybe 2; first on island, and another/same at the foot of the redwood tree.

    Media

13. American Robin

    Number observed:  30

    Details

    minimum, numerous.

14. House Sparrow

    Number observed:  8

    Exotic: Naturalized

15. Dark-eyed Junco

    Number observed:  1

16. White-throated Sparrow

    Number observed:  6

17. Swamp Sparrow

    Number observed:  1

    Details

    on island.

18. Northern Cardinal

    Number observed:  2