MYBC April COVID-19 Update

Hello Everyone,

We wanted to update everyone on our plans for MYBC during the COVID-19 pandemic. We will not have an April outing in accordance with Governor Mills’ “Stay-Safe-at-Home” order for Maine until April 30, 2020. We are monitoring the CDC guidelines will make a determination for May and update everyone via email/MYBC Facebook Page/Website

In the meantime, while you practice social distancing it is the perfect time to get to know the avian visitors in your backyard. As we creep closer to May and the peak of spring migration, we are already seeing activity in our very own backyards:

  • American Woodcocks have been arriving in Maine for a few weeks. Listen for them at dawn and dusk to catch their distinctive “peent” and sky dance.

  • Dark-eyed Juncos, who have been frequenting feeders all winter, are starting to get the spring-zoomies. You can watch them as they zoom across the yard chasing each other.

  • Hermit Thrushes have started to return to the Maine woods. Listen for their flute like morning and evening songs.

  • Lots of birds are tuning up for the dawn choruses of May. Can you identify who is singing in your backyard?

  • Do you keep a yard list? This is a perfect time to start!

The Cornell Lab released an article with some ways to appreciate birds during this time of social isolation. https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/how-to-make-these-next-few-weeks-a-little-easier-courtesy-of-birds/. They have also provided  list of past lectures about a variety of birding topics: https://academy.allaboutbirds.org/live-events/.

Now is a great time to learn more about how to participate in the Maine Bird Atlas. They have moved their Kickoff Event to a virtual meeting on April 25th.  They keep everyone updated through their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mainebirdatlas/. They also host a weekly bird challenge that is a great way to get involved.

We miss everyone and cannot wait to get back out with the group to bird soon. lease feel free to reach out digitally to share any cool sightings, stories or updates.

Stay safe, stay healthy and watch those birds!

Marion & Seth