ACES Morning Birding at Hallam Lake 06/03/2025

The cooler weather and low clouds with occasional sun today was excellent for birding. We had several stellar moments with some great birds at Hallam Lake, providing memorable learning experiences. An osprey flew directly over our group, carrying a large trout in its talons and landed in the prominent dead snag over the lake. We watched the fish flop as the osprey adjusted its grip, holding it with the talons of one foot. The feeding session was impressive, observed through the scope. We identified a large flycatcher as an olive-sided flycatcher based on its dark gray head and upperparts, narrow white belly, and the fluffs of white contour feathers that peek out behind its folded wings when all fluffed up. This was a rich learning experience! A MacGillivray’s warbler sat fairly still and allowed us to get two scopes on it for excellent viewing of this bird that is often hidden in foliage and difficult to see. It was very helpful to see the bird and watch/hear it sing at the same time for remembering its field marks and voice. We had the same opportunity with a fox sparrow, song sparrow, and a Lincoln’s sparrow – giving us a spontaneous sparrow study for great comparisons. Spotted sandpipers foraged along the lake shore, and a great blue heron flew in to its nest and regurgitated food for its four big nestlings. There was a lot of excitement in the heron nest, and we were able to watch it with the scopes. This was a particularly “birdy” morning at a great time of year when most migratory birds are back and higher elevation breeding birds are around before they move up to their nesting habitats. Join us tomorrow for birding at Ute Cemetery Open Space, in coordination with ACES and the City of Aspen Parks Department!