Friends of the Mystic River Bird Outing February 4

A red-tail hawk soars above the Mystic Lakes. Photo by Linda Thompson.

The Friends of the Mystic River is presenting its annual “Wintering Birds on the Mystic” outing on Saturday, Feb. 4.

Hundreds of birds spend winter in the Mystic River watershed, as long as open water is available. Medford birding expert Paul Roberts will lead an excursion to popular bird locations along the Upper Mystic River and Mystic Lakes. Roberts teaches birding courses with special emphasis on hawks, shorebirds and waterfowl. He’ll be looking particularly for raptors such as a possible eagle or red-tailed hawk; waterfowl such as common and hooded mergansers; and much more.

The free outing, co-sponsored by the Menotomy Bird Club, will begin at 10 a.m. in front of the West Medford Congregational Church, 400 High Street, and will conclude at noon. There will be car-pooling and limited walking, but participants should dress appropriately for the weather. In very cold weather, this means in layers with hat or cap, gloves, and water-resistant boots with tread.

The event will take place in snow but will be canceled in case of rain or icy conditions. Bring binoculars and a birding field guide, if possible.

For more information, contact Roberts at 781-483-4263 or email phawk254@comcast.net or mystic02155@hotmail.com.

The Friends of the Mystic River is a Medford-based community organization focused on the enjoyment, protection and enhancement of the Mystic River in Medford. For more information visit www.fomr.org.

– Submitted by Ken Krause