Dunback Meadow, Lexington

Dunback's grassy meadows, marsh, and woods provide excellent habitat for many less common winter species. Possible species include Hermit Thrush, Golden-crowned and Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Purple Finch, Gray Catbird, Swamp Sparrow, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Barred Owl, and Winter Wren.

Cumberland Farms Fields River St. Entrance Halifax

Halifax - Cumberland Farms - River St 10 River St, Halifax, MA, United States

We will walk about 1.5 miles on gravel, possibly icy, paths in search of Rough-legged Hawk and Short-eared Owl as well as other winter residents including Eastern Meadowlarks! Arrive early and listen for owls.

Charles River, Watertown

Watertown Square - Greenway Entrance

An easy ~2-mile walk along the Charles River Greenway in Watertown, with a chance to see over-wintering waterfowl on the river as well as winter-time resident birds. We are likely to see Common and Hooded mergansers as well as Buffleheads- plus the usual local woodpeckers and other hardy species.

Belle Isle Marsh and Vicinity

East Boston - Belle Isle Parking Lot 1399 Bennington Street, Boston, MA, United States

Led by DCR staff. We will search on foot up to one mile, on flat, easy terrain for snowy owls and other raptors, native sparrows, finches, waterfowl, and other birds. This is a traveling program by car or bike. Prepare for ticks. Ages: Adults and kids 8 years+ with adult chaperone. Binoculars recommended. ADA/Reasonable Accommodations [...]

Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge

Mount Auburn Cemetery 536 Mt Auburn St, Cambridge, MA, United States

A peaceful winter walk in Mount Auburn is always a pleasure and you never know what you might see. Sapsuckers and Red-breasted Nuthatches are regulars.

Halibut Point State Park, Rockport

Rockport - Halibut Point State Park Halibut Point State Park, Rockport, MA, United States

A two-hour walk, about 1.5 miles, over easy to moderate gravel roads and trails in search of seasonal specialties. Boots advisable. Restrooms are available. In case of inclement weather check with leader night before trip.

Cape Ann

Gloucester - Fisherman's Monument Gloucester Fisherman's Memorial, 60 Western Ave, Gloucester, MA, United States

We will search for alcids and other wintering seabirds. Be prepared for cold and windy weather. If bad weather is predicted, contact the leader by 6:00 p.m. the previous evening.

Deer Island & Boston Harbor, Winthrop

Winthrop - Deer Island Parking Lot 180 Tafts Ave., Winthrop, MA, United States

We will search for wintering seabirds, alcids, and Iceland Gulls. Be prepared for cold and wind and dress very warmly. Depending on conditions, we will walk up to 2.6 miles on paved paths. Port-a-potties available midway. Beginners welcome and encouraged.

Belle Isle Marsh and Vicinity

East Boston - Belle Isle Parking Lot 1399 Bennington Street, Boston, MA, United States

Led by DCR staff. We will search on foot up to one mile, on flat, easy terrain for snowy owls and other raptors, native sparrows, finches, waterfowl, and other birds. This is a traveling program by car or bike. Prepare for ticks. Ages: Adults and kids 8 years+ with adult chaperone. Binoculars recommended. ADA/Reasonable Accommodations [...]

Birding Sketch crawl–Winter Series

Leader's Choice

Come and bird/sketch in locations around Essex County. All artistic levels welcome. Bring your own sketching materials and other creature comforts. Contact leader for details no later than 7 PM January 30.

BBC field trips are open to all participants. Unless otherwise stated, all trips are free to attend and do not need preregistration. You do not need to be a club member to attend, though we hope you will join. See the Field Trip FAQ for answers to general questions. Contact leaders for more details about specific trips.

We follow all policies of field trip location property owners and co-sponsoring organizations. These may include ongoing public health measures. Some participants may choose to wear a face mask for health purposes. We support their right to do so.

We hope to see you out birding soon!


field trip / event categories
Birding 101 | Birding Boston | Conservation Series | Family Friendly | Limited Mobility | Pelagic | Meeting