The smallest woodpecker in Maine, the Downy Woodpecker is a common species that can be found around any deciduous woods. This species looks very similar to its large cousin, the Hairy Woodpecker, though the alliterative mnemonic that “downy is diminutive” may help you remember which is smaller. Downies are active around feeders throughout the winter, […]
Birds
Join us for Arizona birding in May
As I write this, it is a cold and dreary late February day . . . Our bird walk at Gilsland Farm this morning had only a dozen species (a few Gadwall were a nice surprise) . . . But looking at the calendar, it warmed my spirits to see that it’s only a couple […]
Backyard Bird of the Month for February: American Crow
One of the most ubiquitous birds around, the American Crow is a bird often seen from your yard but not often thought of as a “backyard bird” since they rarely come to feeders. Crows are very opportunistic, being both omnivores and scavengers, so they are just as likely to steal a big chunk of suet […]
Snowy Owls in Winter 2024/25
As we begin the new year, though it has felt like a pretty below-average year for snow accumulation so far here in southern Maine, it has turned out to be an above-average year for Snowies. Yes, Snowy Owls are coming south! This is always a fun and exciting time for birders and owl aficionados as […]
Want to Help Wildlife? There’s a Community Science Project for Everyone
Community Science is your chance to join friends, neighbors, students, and teachers in collecting valuable scientific data on wildlife in Maine. Your sightings will help us better understand, protect, and conserve Maine native wildlife and habitat. From projects led by Maine Audubon to others spearheaded by the state Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, there’s […]
State Sand Dune Restoration Fund Now Taking Applications!
Coastal sand dunes are one of the rarest habitats in Maine, making up just about 2% of the state’s coastline. Built over time by the actions of wind and waves, dunes and associated beaches and salt marshes provide invaluable ecosystem services and economic benefits. The importance of coastal dunes is increasing as climate change causes […]
One Bird’s Winter is Another Bird’s Summer
As the colder weather starts to roll in and snow begins to fly, it makes me envious of the warmer climates where many shorebirds are spending their winters. We all love to watch the Piping Plovers, Spotted Sandpipers, and Willets nest and raise their young over the summer, but have you ever wondered where they […]
Ask Maine Audubon: Christmas Bird Count helps identify trends in bird population
This winter marks the 125th anniversary of the Christmas Bird Count. We tend to get a range of questions each year, ranging from “What is it?” to “How can I take part?” to “Is it even necessary in the modern digital era with projects like Cornell’s eBird?” So this week I wanted to cover the […]
Backyard bird of the month for December: Northern Cardinal
The vibrant red plumage of Northern Cardinals is always a welcome sight on a cold day. Northern Cardinals molt their feathers once per year, usually in August or September, after nesting and before winter. To regrow their bright red feathers, they must eat fruits (and insects) high in carotenoids, pigments that give many plants and […]