Birding Hotspots in the US: Wenlock WMA

Wenlock Wildlife Management Area is located in northeast Vermont in the town of Ferdinand. Situated on the Nulhegan River, this WMA is known as a great spot for spring and winter birding. Indeed, Wenlock provides excellent opportunities for birding, particularly boreal species. Nesting and migrating waterfowl also find residence in the WMA. These birds can be seen in bog ponds, beaver ponds and on the Nulhegan River. Waterfowl species most commonly seen are Ring-necked, Black and Mallard Ducks, Hooded Mergansers and Canada Geese. Breeding bird species of particular importance are Spruce Grouse, Black-backed Woodpecker, Gray Jay and Cape May Warbler; all of which breed in only a few other Vermont localities.

Other notable species that may be seen in the WMA are Ruffed Grouse, Wood Duck, Boreal Chickadee, Rusty Blackbird, Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Swainson’s Thrush, Tennessee Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Lincoln’s Sparrow and White-winged Crossbill. Raptors that utilize the area include Goshawk, Northern Harrier, Sharp-shinned Hawk, and Barred and Great Horned Owls.

Other wildlife that can be seen include white-tailed deer, black bear, moose, snowshoe hare, fisher, coyote, beaver, mink, otter, muskrat, bobcat, and brook trout. It is advisable to watch out for and avoid moose. If birding in winter, wearing snowshoes is suggested.

For further information, contact the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife at (802) 751-0100

Posted by Dennis on 12/22 at 04:58 PM