Morning Birding at Hallam Lake 1/11/22

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Tuesday, February 1, 2022, 8am-11am
Weather: Cloudy and cold
Location: Hallam Lake

While today’s species list is short, we had incredible views of birds, with highlights being Wilson’s Snipes at close range in excellent light and dippers foraging in quiet nooks of water channels. Snipes have been active in shallow water and mud shores where they occur as conditions change in the preserve around construction work to repair an earthen berm and improve habitat. Although this work is an unusual sight and activity in the preserve, it has been fascinating to see wildlife respond to the changing conditions. Like all other birds that use shallow water habitats, snipes are highly mobile and adaptable, ready to leave areas that become unsuitable and adept at finding new sites. These birds have shown their adaptability throughout the duration of this project, as well as in past years when beavers have altered water levels elsewhere in the preserve. Dippers, mallards, and a kingfisher were also active around project work and in other areas. Today’s mini lesson focused on two rare winter visitors to watch for: common redpoll (documented in the mid valley) and snow bunting (possible sighting in Carbondale). Join us for our next birding outing!

Species List: 

Mallard
Wilson’s Snipe
Belted Kingfisher
Black-billed Magpie
American Crow
Black-capped Chickadee
Mountain Chickadee
White-breasted Nuthatch
Pygmy Nuthatch
American Dipper

~ Rebecca Weiss, ACES Bird Guide

Photo of Wilson’s Snipe by Jeff Bryant.