s Volume 18, Number 1- Winter 1989-1990 after a flurry of activity in late summer and early fall, settled in for the winter in good but not overwhelming numbers. Of the other finches, redpolls were present in good numbers in the Northeast Kingdom, while Pine Grosbeak, American Goldfinch and Evening Grosbeak were widespread but not especially plentiful. Red Crossbills and Purple Finches were simply scarce. All in all, it was a winter of remarkable extremes in the weather and remarkable finds by our birdwatchers. Nor should we overlook the accomplishments of the Christmas Bird Count. After all, notwithstanding the coldest December ever recorded, the total number of individuals tallied was a record 112,809. That says a lot about the fortitude - or is it stubbornness - of birds and birders alike. LOONS THROUGH HERONS. A Red-throated Loon at Ferrisburg was memorable as the first CBC record for this species since 1983 - and the first winter report of any kind since December 1985. The Common Loon, however, was anything but common. Just 3 CBC birds were tallied, the poorest showing since 1980, while only 3 other sightings were reported: a single bird at Charlotte on 1/23 (DLC) and 1/31 (ATA) and two individuals at Shelburne Beach on the very late date of 2/11 (WAH). The Pied-billed Grebe went unreported, not surprising in view of the extreme cold in December. Even the Horned Grebe was scarce during the early winter, as only 22 birds appeared on the CBC roster, a startling reversal from last year's 401. Later in the season, however, very good numbers were noted with 75 at Charlotte Beach on 1/27 (BLR) and 44 at Shelburne and Charlotte Beaches on 2/11 (WAH). Two Red-necked Grebes were about average, with a single at Shelburne Bay on 12/1 (TSA) and another single on the Ferrisburg CBC. Not at all expected was a Double-crested Cormorant, observed at Burlington on 12/3 (TGM) and again on 12/6 (DLC,TM). After three good years the Great Blue Heron was decidedly scarce with but PLEASE NOTE: This winter season report is being sent out of sequence. We expect to have the Autumn 1989 report to you in early 1991. GREEN-TAILED TOHHEE Vermont ecords VERMONT INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE SEASON 1989 - 90 WINTER 1 December - 28 February Frederick A. Pratt, Seasonal Editor The winter season of 1989-90 will not soon be forgotten. On the weather front, a December deep freeze of unprecedented proportions was followed by a January warm-up nearly as memorable. And for birdwatchers the season was also remarkable. Towhees dominated with two first-state records, but several incursive species as well as some of the raptors vied for the spotlight. With such goings-on, Vermont birders had little reason for complacency. December was an astonishing 15° colder than normal, shattering all previous records for the month. Thirty consecutive days had temperatures below the norm; twelve were icier than usual by 20° or'more. curiously, it was also a very sunny month. The only significant storm struck on the 16th, thereby confounding the hopes of Ferrisburg for another record-breaking Christmas Bird Count (hereafter CBC). still, the results from that circle, as well as the others, show what can be accomplished by hard work and good coverage. Individual contributors also did well, capitalizing on the -iu au a Ll.y mild January - and urged on, as always, by the 3sire to discover the unexpected. Certainly unexpected was the first state record of GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE *, discovered near Retreat Meadows during the Brattleboro CBC on 12/16. Whether the bird traveled east with the Rufous-sided (SPOTTED) Towhee* that wintered in Manchester Center is fanciful conjecture, but the coincidence of two western towhees is nonetheless stunning. Small wonder that a DICKCISSEL* was found at Bennington and a BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER* at Middlebury, each being just the second occurrence ever on a CBC. Many other sightings require special mention: an ad. THAYERS GULL* at Burlington, up to 1 Merlins and 2 or more Gyrfalcons, 2 Long-eared Owls photographed in Charlotte and no less than 5 Barrow's Goldeneye near Burlington and on the Connecticut River. Records are falling - and old assumptions with them. Worthy of note, too, were muLt Lpl e reports of Re d-r bellied Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker and Black- backed Woodpecker. The first continues to expand into northern New England; the last is a (northern) Vermont bird, but uncommon and elusive. As for the sapsucker, it is a species that on occasion winters in the north in small numbers; reports from Vermont' and other parts of New England indicate that this was such a winter. Rusty Blackbirds have similar proclivities - and were generously present on many New England CBC's as well as ours in Finally, we turn to erratic winter invaders. All our ground-feeding species of the open field were present in force, with Snow Buntings especially zzling. Bohemian Waxwings, too, put on a show, making '> three years in four they have swept through the area. As for the finches, all came but few conquered. The big winners were Pine Siskin, notably in February, and of course the House Finch - not a boreal visitor, to be sure, but clearly a conqueror. White-winged Crossbills, * Consideration by the Vermont Bird Records Committee Pending.
Transcript
sVolume 18, Number 1 - Winter 1989-1990
after a flurry of activity in late summer and earlyfall, settled in for the winter in good but notoverwhelming numbers. Of the other finches, redpollswere present in good numbers in the Northeast Kingdom,while Pine Grosbeak, American Goldfinch and EveningGrosbeak were widespread but not especially plentiful.Red Crossbills and Purple Finches were simply scarce.
All in all, it was a winter of remarkable extremesin the weather and remarkable finds by our birdwatchers.Nor should we overlook the accomplishments of theChristmas Bird Count. After all, notwithstanding thecoldest December ever recorded, the total number ofindividuals tallied was a record 112,809. That says alot about the fortitude - or is it stubbornness - ofbirds and birders alike.
LOONS THROUGH HERONS. A Red-throated Loon at Ferrisburgwas memorable as the first CBC record for this speciessince 1983 - and the first winter report of any kindsince December 1985. The Common Loon, however, wasanything but common. Just 3 CBC birds were tallied, thepoorest showing since 1980, while only 3 other sightingswere reported: a single bird at Charlotte on 1/23 (DLC)and 1/31 (ATA) and two individuals at Shelburne Beachon the very late date of 2/11 (WAH). The Pied-billedGrebe went unreported, not surprising in view of theextreme cold in December. Even the Horned Grebe wasscarce during the early winter, as only 22 birdsappeared on the CBC roster, a startling reversal fromlast year's 401. Later in the season, however, verygood numbers were noted with 75 at Charlotte Beach on1/27 (BLR) and 44 at Shelburne and Charlotte Beaches on2/11 (WAH). Two Red-necked Grebes were about average,with a single at Shelburne Bay on 12/1 (TSA) and anothersingle on the Ferrisburg CBC. Not at all expected wasa Double-crested Cormorant, observed at Burlington on12/3 (TGM) and again on 12/6 (DLC,TM). After three goodyears the Great Blue Heron was decidedly scarce with but
PLEASE NOTE: This winter season report is being sentout of sequence. We expect to have the Autumn 1989report to you in early 1991.
GREEN-TAILEDTOHHEE
VermontecordsVERMONT INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE
SEASON 1989 - 90WINTER1 December - 28 February
Frederick A. Pratt, Seasonal Editor
The winter season of 1989-90 will not soon beforgotten. On the weather front, a December deep freezeof unprecedented proportions was followed by a Januarywarm-up nearly as memorable. And for birdwatchers theseason was also remarkable. Towhees dominated with twofirst-state records, but several incursive species aswell as some of the raptors vied for the spotlight.With such goings-on, Vermont birders had little reasonfor complacency.
December was an astonishing 15° colder thannormal, shattering all previous records for the month.Thirty consecutive days had temperatures below the norm;twelve were icier than usual by 20° or'more. curiously,it was also a very sunny month. The only significantstorm struck on the 16th, thereby confounding the hopesof Ferrisburg for another record-breaking Christmas BirdCount (hereafter CBC). still, the results from thatcircle, as well as the others, show what can beaccomplished by hard work and good coverage. Individualcontributors also did well, capitalizing on the
-iu au a Ll.y mild January - and urged on, as always, by the3sire to discover the unexpected.
Certainly unexpected was the first state recordof GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE * , discovered near Retreat Meadowsduring the Brattleboro CBC on 12/16. Whether the birdtraveled east with the Rufous-sided (SPOTTED) Towhee*that wintered in Manchester Center is fancifulconjecture, but the coincidence of two western towheesis nonetheless stunning. Small wonder that aDICKCISSEL* was found at Bennington and a BLUE-GRAYGNATCATCHER* at Middlebury, each being just the secondoccurrence ever on a CBC.
Many other sightings require special mention: anad. THAYERS GULL* at Burlington, up to 1 Merlins and 2or more Gyrfalcons, 2 Long-eared Owls photographed inCharlotte and no less than 5 Barrow's Goldeneye nearBurlington and on the Connecticut River. Records arefalling - and old assumptions with them.
Worthy of note, too, were muLt Lpl e reports of Re d-rbellied Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker and Blackbacked Woodpecker. The first continues to expand intonorthern New England; the last is a (northern) Vermontbird, but uncommon and elusive. As for the sapsucker,it is a species that on occasion winters in the northin small numbers; reports from Vermont' and other partsof New England indicate that this was such a winter.Rusty Blackbirds have similar proclivities - and weregenerously present on many New England CBC's as well asours in Ver~bnt.
Finally, we turn to erratic winter invaders. Allour ground-feeding species of the open field werepresent in force, with Snow Buntings especially
zzling. Bohemian Waxwings, too, put on a show, making'> three years in four they have swept through the area.
As for the finches, all came but few conquered. The bigwinners were Pine Siskin, notably in February, and ofcourse the House Finch - not a boreal visitor, to besure, but clearly a conqueror. White-winged Crossbills,
* Consideration by the Vermont Bird Records CommitteePending.
a handful of December reports to supplement a lone countperiod bird on the Bennington CBC. Single great blueswere noted in Lincoln on 12/3 (JRA) , in Tinmouth on12/11 (PMB), in Manchester (BWP via NS), in Waterburyon 12/8-12/15 (DCa) and in Porset on 12/17 (EFG). Asixth bird was found dead near Dorset around Christmastime (via EFG).
WATERFOWL. A Mute Swan in the company of Canada Geesewas observed feeding - tipping up - in shallow water atthe mouth of Otter Creek, Ferrisburg on 1/31(CM). LateSnow Geese were present in surprisingly good numberswith 30 CBC birds reported from 4 circles. Additionalsightings included 2 juv. at Meach Cove on 1/1 (ATA) ,a single at Fort Cassin on 1/3 (JAP), 3 birds at GrossePoint, Ferrisburg, on 1/20 (WGE,NLM,DHC) and anothersingle in Panton on 1/28(DLC). Canada Geese perseveredin record CBC numbers with 4508 individuals, althoughFerrisburg couldn't quite match its 1987 record of 2806for a single circle. Although the Midwinter WaterfowlSurvey on 1/3 uncovered only 425 Canadas, individualobservers did considerably better: 600 at Shelburne Bayon 12/9 (TGM) , 1000 at Ferrisburg on 1/7 (BLR,PLC) and500 at Ferrisburg as late as 2/17 (WGE,NLM). A WoodPuck at Burlington was noteworthy as the season's onlyreport - but sufficient to keep intact a string of CBCappearances dating back to 1979. A Green-winged Tealon the Ferrisburg CBC was also a good find - but moresurprising were a pair found on a Porset mill pond on1/12 and 1/18-19(EFG). The only surprise about theAmerican Black Puck was its frequency, as 1461 CBC birdswere tallied (a new record). Late-winter reports werealso impressive, featuring 64 birds on the ConnecticutR. near Wells River on 1/18 (DHC), 100 at Blodgett'sBeach on 1/31 (ATA) and 140 at South Burlington, 150 atFerrisburg and 100 at other locations on 1/20(WGE,NLM,DHC). Not to be outdone, the Mallard turnedin a stunning CBC performance, headed up by 3044 birdsat Bennington. On 1/20 481 individuals were counted,including 417 at the Burlington waterfront(WGE,NLM,DHC). A record 12 Northern Pintail on theFerrisburg CBC were supplemented by several reports fromindividual observers. A lone hen was at Shelburne Bayon 12/8 (FAP), 2 were at Blodgett's on 1/31 (ATA), 4were at Blodgett's on 2/1 (WAM) and an astonishing 13were at Meach Cove on 2/5 (PHC). Canvasbacks, too,enjoyed a good winter with 18 CBC birds, courtesy ofFerrisburg and Burlington, and 25 counted on theMidwinter Waterfowl Survey. A raft of 75 was in MeachCove on 1/1 (ATA), while 60 were at Shelburne (samelocation?) on 1/28 (WAM). Fifty Ring-necked Ducks werepresent at Missisquoi NWR on 12/1 (JBG) but thereafternumbers dropped off in a hurry. In addition to 3 CBCbirds, a drake was on the Connecticut R. until at least1/27 (PHC,WGE,NLM) and 2 individuals were at theCharlotte Ferry on 2/19 (MBN,JAP). Greater Scaup,though missed entirely on the Midwinter Wildfowl Survey,turned in a surprisingly good performance nonetheless,with a near-record 190 recorded on the Burlington CBC.A raft of 175 was present in Shelburne as late as 1/28(WAM). Lesser Scaup were also well represented with 50at Missisquoi NWR on 12/1 and an average populationbefore freeze-up of 25 individuals (JBG). Additionally,2 Lessers were tallied on the Ferrisburg CBC. Oldsguawwere typidplly scarce with just three reports for theseason: 3 on the Ferrisburg CBC, a single at ShelburneBay on 12/4 (TGM) and a f. at the Burlington Coast Guardstation on 1/25 (PCR). The only Black Scoter of thewinter was a f. at Shelburne Bay on 12/1 (TSA), as allthe scoters proved elusive at best. A f. Surf Scoteron the Ferrisburg CBC was unique, while White-wingedScoters were noted but twice: 9 individuals on theFerrisburg CBC and a single bird at Charlotte on 1/23(PLC). Common Goldeneye were widespread and numerousthrough the CBC season, including a surprising 274 onthe Connecticut R. near Vernon. On 1/7 400 were at
-2- Charlotte (PLC,BLR), but thereafter numbers declined.The max. count for late winter was 75 at Meach Cove on2/5 (PHC). The numerous reports of Barrow's Goldeneyesuggest at least 5 individuals spent the winter: adrake at Vernon and 4 birds from the Burlingtonwaterfront to Shelburne Bay on 2/11 (WAM) , a report'which presumably encompasses earlier sightings a\Shelburne Bay, Shelburne Beach, Burlington andBlodgett's. Whatever the count, this species hasclearly become less scarce - or better observed - thanin previous years. The Bufflehead checked in with arepresentative performance as 46 CBC birds can attest.Late reports include 2 at Charlotte on 1/31 (SSW) andanother twosome at Burlington on 2/25 (WAM) .Overwintering Hooded Mergansers continue to attractattention, as a total of 21 were observed on theConnecticut R. between White River Junction and McIndoeFalls on 2/21 (PHC). Also overwintering was a drake onthe Otter Creek in Rutland (RWP). Common Merganserswere at near-record levels for CBC observers while otherreports were also impressive. Two thousand were atMills Point, Colchester, on 12/6 (MS) and 476 werecounted between Burlington and Ferrisburg on 1/20(WGE,NLM,PHC). Eight birds were noted on theOttauquechee R. on 2/11, difficult to overlook since 2females decided to doublecheck the observers' drivingspeed, conservatively estimated at 45 mph (WGE,NLM).Red-breasted Mergansers produced a record CBC total of33, as a surprising 24 birds were reported fromBennington. Other reports were limited to theBurlington waterfront with 2 spotted on 1/28 (BLR) anda single on 2/5 (DHC).
VULTURES, HAWKS AND FALCONS. A remarkably late TurkeyVulture was observed over Bellows Falls on 1/4 (HSP),the first January record for this species since 1982.Late-wint~r sightings were also noteworthy, as t~I'
individuals took advantage of strong southerly winds ~
post early arrival dates of 2/22 in Rutland (CJF) and2/23 in Brattleboro (WDN). Numbers of wintering BaldEagles continue to impress, as the January census cameup with 7 ad. and 2 imm., 3 at Vernon and 1 each atWestminster, Wilder, Charlotte, East Arlington, WestArlington and Readsboro (all via CCR). Additionalindividuals are a certainty, although an exact reckoningis impossible. Worthy of note, however, are 2 CBC birdsat Ferrisburg, 2 at Saxtons River, an ad. nearMontpelier on 12/29 (CLD), another ad. at McIndoe Falls(via CCR;ATA), yet another ad. at Benson on 2/19 (EE,LB)and an imm. at Castleton on 2/28 (MSL). NorthernHarriers produced a good but not unusual CBC showingwith one individual at Middlebury and 4 at Ferrisburg.Other reports included a single at Charlotte on 1/9(TGM) , an ad. m. at Addison on 1/7 (DLC,BLR) and an ad.m. along Slang Road in Panton on 2/17 (WGE,NLM). Thelast two reports may well have been for the sameoverwintering individual. Among the accipiters theSharp-shinned Hawk once again set the pace, as a record31 CBC birds were tallied with almost every circlecontributing. other reports were widespread andgenerally feeder-related, embellished oftentimes withthe details of the sudden demise of another jay,chickadee or Mourning Dove. The larger but in somerespects less fearsome Cooper's Hawk also enjoyed asuccessful winter: 14 CBC birds plus an equal numberof other sightings. Two individuals were observed inthe Wilder area on 2/21 (DHC) and another 2 were inWoodstock; 1 on 1/14 and 1 on 2/4 (CRP). The NorthernGoshawk presented a mixed picture, as the CBC rostrshowed only a lone individual at Saxtons River, al~rwith count period birds at Woodstock and Bennington.On the other hand, nearly a dozen other reports werereceived, including individuals noted on three occasionseach in Middlebury (JAP) and Sheffield (PFW,SAW). Onebird was observed in Hinesburg on 12/20 enjoying afestive dinner of Ruffed Grouse (PRW). Meanwhile, the
Red-tailed Hawk once again established a CBC record withan impressive 151 individuals tallied in 12 of 16circles. Later reports were numerous but scattered,with a max. count of 7 in the Dead Creek area on 2/8,,SSW). In like manner the Rough-legged Hawk was
lmerous during early winter, with a CBC total of 56,~he highest since 1983. Subsequent sightings weresubdued, however, with the best showing a total of just7 individuals in Addison and Bridport on 2/17 (WGE,NLM).The American Kestrel followed the same routine, postinga respectable CBC score of 17 but proving quite scarcethereafter. February reports were limited to 2overwintering birds between Middlebury and Bristol(JAP), plus sightings of single birds on 2/19 inShoreham (EE,LB) and Bridport (CJF). Noteworthy indeedwere several reports of the Merlin, including anunprecedented 2 individuals on the Middlebury CBC.Given the seasonal scarcity of this species (just threewinter records in the past ten years), your editor isgrateful that supporting details in most casesaccompanied these reports. In any event, at least 4 andas many as 1 individuals seem to have been present: the2 Middlebury birds, an imm. at Button Bay on 12/19(AP,BPG,JW) and single birds in Clarendon on 1/1(BLR,GEHa), in Addison on 1/4 (WJC), in south Burlingtonon 1/4 (MS) and in Weybridge on 2/18 (DLC). ThePeregrine Falcon also was in evidence with 3 sightingsreported: a well-described ad. m. at Button Bay on12/18 (BLR), a "possible" at Dorset on 12/17 (EFG) contributor's candor noted and appreciated - i and asingle along Jersey Street in Addison on 1/9 (SSW).Additionally, several visits to Deer Leap in Bristolrevealed that the female of the resident nesting pairoverwintered near her nest site. The male was firstobserved at Deer Leap on 2/24, at which time territorialaggressiveness by both birds became evident, followed
Jon after by courtship displays (MSL). Completing ajlean sweep for the falcons was the mighty Gyrfalcon,again with multiple sightings. In addition to the CBCbird at Burlington, 1 was at Button Bay on 12/18 (BLR),
GYRFALCON
-3- 2. were at Fort Cassin on 1/6 (GEHa) and 1 was atShelburne on 1/28 (DLC,BLR). Finally, 2 "possibles,"in each case in pursuit of Snow Buntings, were reportedwith commendable observer caution, the first inCharlotte on 1/7 (WAM) and the second on Orwell on 2/17(EE,LB) .
GRAY PARTRIDGE THROUGH SNIPE. Vermont's local andelusive Gray Partridge continue alive and well, judgingfrom a report of 33 individuals at st. Albans Bay on12/10 (DLC). Six Ring-necked Pheasants from 4 differentCBC circles was a good showing, although the origins ofthe birds found at Ferrisburg and the Champlain Islandsseem worthy of some question. Four f. at Ferrisburg on12/18 were certainly beneficiaries of a well-stockedfeeder station (JID,MCD). Though absent from the CBCroster Spruce Grouse were, happily, representednonetheless, as 4 individuals, all f. "and totallyunfearful" were observed "eating parrot-like immediatelyoverhead" near Moose Bog on 2/20 (ATA). Meanwhile,Ruffed Grouse were plentiful indeed, with a CBC tallyof 166, the highest since 1979. Individual contributorsconfirmed the trend with numerous sightings, includinghigh counts of 5 at Reading on 12/9 (FMH,GEH), 4 atSouth Duxbury on 1/11 (FAP) and another 4 in Marlboro,regular visitors to the local chicken coop (JPN). WildTurkeys, too, enjoyed a prosperous winter, as 217 CBCbirds were recorded, not far shy of the recordestablished in 1987. Notable sightings included 14 inWoodstock on 1/11 and 1/13 (MLW,CRP) and 15 in New Havenon 2/26 (MBN). A group of 6 were in Wilmington fromearly Feb. through Mar. feeding on birdseed and chasingaway hungry Blue Jays (HCB). An unexpected bonus wasa twosome of American Coot on the Ferrisburg CBC,discovered, alas, on the New York side of L. Champlain.A Killdeer at Bennington was only the second CBC recordfor the species since 1976, that individual alsorecorded in the Bennington circle. Less surprising wasa Common Snipe found also on the Bennington CBC. It wasjoined by two others, one observed in Tinmouth on 12/13(PMB) plus the Clarendon regular that has overwinteredthe past several yeara (BLR,CJF).
GULLS. Seventeen Bonaparte's Gulls on the FerrisburgCBC was the only report of the season for this handsomealmost tern-like species. Ring-billed Gulls reportswere certainly numerous, but numbers seemed subdued withmax. counts by individual observers in the 100-150range. The CBC total of 637 was the lowest since 1977 -
and significantly below those of all the interveningyears. Herring Gulls were also down, suggesting perhapsthat menu selections at Vermont landfills are now morehighly regarded than those available on the Burlingtonwaterfront. A carefully described THAYER'S GULL atBlodgett's Beach on 12/19 (CSP) certainly deservesspecial note, not only for the rarity of the species butalso for the difficulty of its identification. Further,this editor's hunch is that Thayer's may soon revertback to its former status as a race - but of IcelandGull rather than of Herring, as used to be the caseprior to 1973 (see Kenn Kaufmann's Advanced Birding).Throw in the additional problems caused byhybridization, and one can readily appreciate why thisbird must be approached with extreme caution. TwoIceland Gulls were at the Burlington waterfront on 1/17(MS) and at Blodgett's Beach on 1/28(DLC,GEHa,BLR,WAM),while a first-winter bird was observed on 1/31, also atBlodgett's (PCR). Presumably just two individuals wereinvolved, with a third at the Brattleboro dump on 2/18,this last also being in first-winter plumage (DHC). AGlaucous Gull was also at Blodgett's on 1/28(DLC,GEHa,BLR,WAM) and on 1/31 (PCR), possibly the sameindividual as identified on the Burlington CBC. Thelast of the Laridae for the season was the Great Blackbacked Gull, present in good if not unusual numbers andshowing no ill effect from the harsh winter.
DOVES. Our resident Columbidae show remarkably stablepopulations, as CBC totals of 6668 Rock Doves and 4825Mourning Doves were little changed from the prior year.Feeder-related concentrations of Mourning Doves werereported from several locations, headed up by 75 atGrand Isle on 12/15 (EMH), 70 at Middlebury (JAP) and65 in Randolph (EWC,MCC).
OWLS. Eastern Screech-Owls were decidedly underreportedas only 2 CBC birds were found, singles at Middleburyand the Champlain Islands. One unhappy individual wasfound dead on 12/26 at Pawlet (JM), while one was verymuch alive - and perched in a tree by the observer'shome in Brandon on 1/21 (SSW). The rather moreconspicuous Great Horned Owl was of course betterrepresented, but numbers were far from overwhelming.Eleven CBC birds, helped in great measure by 6 atMiddlebury, were merely average, while only a handfulof other reports came in. Two birds were heard callingback and forth in Ferrisburg on 1/29 (WGE,NLM,DHC) andanother two were in Dorset on 1/15 (EFG). Unhappily,not a single Snowy owl was reported, the first timesince the winter of 1979-80 that Vermont birders havemissed this magnificent raptor. Even the moredependable Barred Owl remained pretty much out of sightand hearing. One individual at Island Pond saved theCBC from total embarrassment, while other reports, allof calling birds, were limited to 2 in Woodstock on 1/8(JMN) and singles in Ferrisburg on 12/27 (JID,MCD), inWaterbury Center on 1/1 (EK), in Reading on 1/4 and 2/22(FMH,GEH) and in West Bolton on 2/11 and 2/14 (MC).Despite the seasonal shortage of Strigidae, there weretwo reports of the rare Long-eared Owl: the CBC regularat Burlington and £ birds observed - and photographed roosting in a pine woodlot in Charlotte throughoutFebruary (IN). A major surprise of the season was anear-record 14 CBC Short-eared Owls, headed up by 11individuals at Ferrisburg. Subsequent reports, however,were limited to a single along Jersey Street on 1/14(WGE,NLM) and 2 birds along the Farrell Access at DCWMAon 1/21 (BLR). Finally, there was little good news toreport regarding the charming and well-loved NorthernSaw-whet Owl. Missed entirely by the CBC, just sevenreports were received, often accompanied by sad tidings.One bird was killed by a car in Hartland about midnightof 12/10-11 (BS); another, found injured in Springfieldon 12/29 (TN), was brought to the VRC where it died on1/2; a third was found injured in Woodstock on 1/5 butsuccumbed (SS); and a fourth was found in Windham on1/20 (SPe) and in due course became a patient at theVRC, recovered, and was released in early March(SN,VINS). Two sightings in February were lesstraumatic: one bird was observed on 2/3-4 visiting aWest Woodstock feeding area (LH) while another flew intoa glass door in West Pawlet on 2/6 but quickly recovered(YB). The last Saw-whet of the season sadly, was founddead in Brownsville on 2/27 (SM).
KINGFISHERS AND WOODPECKERS. Notwithstanding theDecember deep freeze, 13 Belted Kingfishers stayed onfor various CBC festivities. Additionally,overwintering individuals sought out favored locationssuch as South Woodstock, where 2 birds were observed on2/16 (LHR) Ii Plymouth, where 1 was seen along the BlackR. on 2/24; (GHS); and Arlington, where another singlewas noted along the Battenkill on 2/11 (WGE,NLM) . Otherreports came from Hinesburg on 1/26 (MSL) and fromCenter Rutland along the Otter Creek on 1/14 (WGE,NLM).For the Picidae it was a notable winter indeed, startingwith 3 records of RED-BELLIED WOODPECKER. All were f.and all well-documented: the CBC bird from Brattleboro,which remained in residence in Marlboro throughout theseason (ABM,WDN,JPN et al.); the Middlebury bird, whichoverwintered in an oak-hickory-white pine woodlot inBridport (JSA,KMA,WGE,NLM et al.); and a third, firstdiscovered in early october, which continued in Grand
-4-Isle until 12/28 (EMH). Also noteworthy were 3 reportsof Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, the first winter recordsfor this species since December 1984. A f. on theHanover-Norwich CBC was a first for that circle, whilean imm. in West Windsor was spotted at a suet feeder o~
1/28 (LG,MG). The third was reported as overwinteri~
on Grand Isle (ES). Downy Woodpeckers fell just shy ~~.a new record as 758 CBC birds were tallied. Among otherreports were 6 individuals in Benson on 1/14 (WGE,NLM)and 5 each in Grand Isle (EMH), Winhall (WJN) andBrandon (SSW). Hairy Woodpeckers also fared well, witha CBC total of 442 birds, exactly one more than in 1988.Feeder observations were numerous but numbers small.Max. counts were 4 each in Reading (FMH,GEH) and Brandon(SSW). Four Black-backed Woodpeckers at Island Pond wasthe best CBC showing for this difficult species since1982. Also reported were a m. near Holland Pond on 1/12(LLA) and a f. on 1/2-3 in Winhall (WJN). NorthernFlickers persisted through the early-winter freeze witha surprisingly good CBC tally of 7, plus a count periodbird at Bennington. Other observations included singleson 12/4 in Weybridge (MBN) and in Sudbury (SSW), andpossible overwinterers in Arlington (via NS), at theShelburne Fishing Access on 1/28 (BLR), and in SouthBurlington on 1/17 and 1/27 (MS). A CBC tally of 50 wasonly average for the splendid Pileated Woodpecker.However, other reports were too numerous to leave doubtabout the continued prosperity of this much admiredspecies.
HORNED LARK THROUGH CREEPER. Horned Larks swept to newrecords as Ferrisburg alone located 2438 individuals,more than half the CBC total of 4799. Reports fromcontributors were also impressive, notably 160 atwestminster on 1/30 (DHC), 204 in Addison on 2/17(WGE,NLM,SJS) and 500 in Bridport on 2/18 (DLC). TheGray Jay was reported from its usual haunts in tr(Northeast Kingdom in modest numbers: 3 CBC birds ci...~Island Pond, along with 2 on 12/5 in Lewis (DLC,TM), 2on 1/30 at Moose Bog (ATA) and 2 on 2/19 in Brighton(WGE,NLM). One wayward individual, having taken upresidence at a feeding station in Shelburne in November(MLu), was finally identified and photographed on 2/3(ECC, TGC) . Blue Jays, to nobody' s surprise, werenumerous and widespread, with feeder flocks up to 40 inRandolph (EWC,MCC) and 45 in Sheffield (PFW,SAW).
RED-BELLIED WOObPECKER
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American Crows were also abundant, though not quite atthe record level of a year ago. At Brandon 105 werecounted on 1/28 (SSW) while 150 were in Weybridge on1/25 (MBN). The Common Raven was nicely represented by
CBC tally of 152 birds, plus several other reports.~our were near Moose Bog on 2/20 (ATA) while 19 were at10dstock on 1/28 (JMN) and another 22 were at Hartland
on 12/13 (NLM). These last were evidently a residentlot, since 16 were also observed at Hartland on 1/18,complete with "much chasing and play" (WGE). Anotherpopular resident, the Black-capped Chickadee, enjoyeda banner season with both Woodstock and Hanover-Norwichsurpassing the old CBC high for a single circle. Feederflocks of 50 were reported in Grand Isle (EMH), Reading(FMH,GEH) and Winhall (WJN). An albino bird, seensporadically all fall, was still visiting a Woodstockfeeder on 12/28 (NHM). Forty-five Boreal Chickadees atIsland Pond, plus a single at Plainfield, produced anabove-average CBC total. Other sightings were limitedto 3 in Lewis on 12/6 (DLC,TM), 2 at Moose Bog on 1/30(ATA) and 4 in Sheffield on 2/3 (PFW,SAW). The TuftedTitmouse maintained its momentum through a second year,recording a new CBC high of 240 individuals. TheFebruary census was down a notch from last year'srecord, but feeder reports were generally encouraging.Five birds were in Ferrisburg on 12/16 (JID,MCD), 6 werein Marlboro on 1/10 (JPN) and a "small flock" wasobserved working a New Haven hedgerow on 2/27 (JAP).The Sittidae prospered as well, as the Red-breastedNuthatch produced a CBC total of SOl, easily its bestshowing since 1979. The largest feeder flock reportedwas a gang of 7 in Winhall (WJN). The White-breastedNuthatch followed suit, coming up with a near-record1117 CBC birds, just 70 shy of last year's mark. Bestindividual count was 10 birds between Winhall andArlington on 2/11 (WGE,NLM). The Brown Creeper was also-1idely reported, as an excellent CBC showing was backed
lp by nearly 20 other sightings.
CAROLINA WREN THROUGH STARLING. Despite a bone-chillingDecember, the Carolina Wren continued its resurgencewith determination and energy. Three CBC count-periodreports, to say nothing of 8 additional sightings, aretestimony enough to the remarkable vigor of thisspecies. Of course, feeders have also played a role.In any event, at least 8 individuals can be identified:one at a Burlington suet feeder on 12/13 (FCH), one inCastleton until at least 12/25 (PSA), one visiting asuet feeder in Woodstock on 12/23-24 (MSa), one at aNorwich feeder on 12/29 (GFE), one observed at FortCassin on 1/3 (JAP), one visiting a feeder by theBattenkill in Manchester as late as 2/12 (SDA) and ~ ata Brandon feeder throughout February (SSW). This latterpair may have been present throughout the winter, butonly after singing began in early February were two Seentogether. Another individual was also noted inFerrisburg on 1/12 (DLC), possibly the same bird seenearlier at Fort Cassin. Against this remarkable record,the Carolina's feisty little cousin, the Winter Wren,could only come up with a lone CBC bird at Ferrisburg.Turning to the Muscicapidae, the Golden-crowned Kingletseemed somewhat more elusive than usual with a CBC totalof 113, the lowest since 1983. Only a half dozen otherreports were received, headed up by 4 in Brattleboro on1/6 (WGE,NLM): and 3 in Ripton on 2/22 (MBN,JAP). TheRuby-crowned' Kinglet, however, countered with asurprising two records: one at Shelburne Point on 12/1(TSA) followed by a CBC bird at Brattleboro. A BLUE'RAY GNATCATCHER on the Middlebury CBC was certainly aemarkable find - and only the second appearance ever
for the species on the CBC roster. Curiously, this isthe third gnatcatcher in the last six years to appearin the winter Records. Eastern Bluebirds gaveindications of a modern revival as near record CBCnumbers were tallied in both Middlebury and Bennington.Other late reports were also encouraging: 25 birds in
-7- mid winter in Old Bennington (JMT via NS), 4 feeding onred cedar in Benson on 1/14 (WGE,NLM) and 2 birds eachin West Arlington in late December (via NS) and inLeicester on 1/10 (SSW). More exciting was the earlyrush to check out nest boxes and similar attractions:3 were in Ferrisburg as early as 1/27 (JID,MCD), 4 inNew Haven on 2/12 (JAP), 6 in Orwell on 2/19 (EE,LB) and6 in Bennington on 2/20 (MR via NS). For the thirdwinter in a row a single Hermit Thrush appears in theseRecords, a bird in Albany on 12/1 (TP). Sixty-nineAmerican Robins was a surprisingly good turnout for theCBC, but most apparently quickly reconsidered the meritsof staying the winter. The only late-January sightingswere singles at the Woodstock Elementary School on 1/22(courtesy of Miss Hathorn's second grade) and in Addisonon 1/28 as well as 2 birds along the Basin Harbor Roadon 1/31 (ATA). But by late February robins were backin surprising numbers as 30 were on a lawn in Shaftsburyon 2/21 (JCo) and another 15 were in Weybridge on 2/22(JAP). The Northern Mockingbird repeated its patternof the prior winter: a strong CBC performance followedby a disappearing act, with only two January reports:1 in Brattleboro on 1/1 (BLR) and 1 was seen inBurlington on 1/8 (JDL1). A paltry 2 birds wererecorded in the February census, although later in themonth a scattering of reports came in, with single birdsin Shelburne on 2/21 (JAP), in Rutland on 2/25 (CJF),in Brandon on 2/28 (SSW) and in Charlotte on 2/28 (SSW).After a hiatus of one year, the Bohemian Waxwing onceagain invaded in numbers that only a few years ago wouldhave been considered extraordinary. CBC records fellas 652 individuals were tallied overall, with 315 inFerrisburg alone. Reports from contributors reveal theinvasion began in late october and never let up: 130in south Duxbury on 12/6 (FAP), 300 in Shelburne on 12/6(DLC,TM), 350 in Brandon on 1/12 (SSW), 300 inMiddlebury on 1/19 (JAP), 211 in Weybridge on 2/18 (DLC)and 150 at the BNP in Woodstock on 2/21 (VINS). CedarWaxwings did their best to keep pace: a strong CBCtally of 567 birds; widespread appearances in January,oftentimes in flocks in the 20-40 range; and a burst ofenergy in February, featuring flocks of 55 in Ferrisburgon 2/18 (DLC), 55 in Woodstock village on 2/19(WGE,NLM), 95 in Weybridge on 2/18 (DLC) and 200 insouth Burlington on 2/24 (MS). By contrast, NorthernShrikes experienced their second dismal winter in a row.Six CBC birds made for the poorest showing since 1984,while contributors' reports did little to improve thepicture. Five birds only were uncovered: singles inLewis on 12/5 (DLC,TM), in Colchester on 1/7 (DLC,BLR),at Lewis Pond on 1/14 (MS), near Barnet on 1/30 (ATA)and in Ferrisburg on 2/17 (PHu). Sadly, the EuropeanStarling showed no such decline. On the CBC 11,426birds approached the high set back in 1984 andindividual reports provided little solace. Four hundredwere in Shelburne on 1/9 (TGM) while 500 were duly notedin Middlebury on 2/1 (JRA).
WARBLERS THROUGH SNOW BUNTING. The rugged littleYellow-rumped Warbler provided testimony anew of itswinter hardiness as no less than 7 were found on theFerrisburg CBC. One was in Bloomfield until 12/10feeding on such hearty fare as suet and egg yolk(CS,DK), another was in Ferrisburg on 1/13 (DLC) and 4were in a red cedar grove at Benson Landing on 1/14(WGE,NLM). For the second year in a row the NorthernCardinal established a new CBC record as 1114individuals were counted. Feeder reports were alsoimpressive with up to 25 in Ferrisburg (JID,MCD) and 42in Middlebury (JAP). The February census was morerestrained with a population of 354, down over 100 froma year ago. The rare DICKCISSEL joined the CBC ranksfor just the second time, as an apparent female wasfound in Bennington. A touch more surprising was theGREEN-TAILED TOWHEE located on the Brattleboro CBC. Thebird, normally associated with higher elevations and
DICKCISSEL
chaparral in the southwest and a regular winter vagrantto the east coast, found winter and spring in Vermontso congenial that it remained on location until 5/5 (WONet al.). A Rufous-sided Towhee, the first in wintersince 1983-84, was at a feeding station in South Herofrom 1/31-2/9 (MD). Completing an astonishing year fortowhees was a male Rufous-sided Towhee of the western"SPOTTED" race, in residence at feeders in ManchesterCenter from mid-December until at least 2/11(JGe,SGe,WGE,NLM). For the second year running,American Tree Sparrows set a new CBC high with 2813birds tallied. Flocks continued on through the season,especially in the less wintry parts of the state.sixteen were in West Addison on 1/29 (JRA), 22 were inPanton on 2/17 (WGE,NLM) and on 1/14 21 were inCastleton, 34 in Orwell and 46 in Shoreham (WGE,NLM).Chipping Sparrows appeared on the CBC rosters of bothChamplain Islands and Winhall, with the Grand Isle birdstaying on until at least 12/25 (RBL). A CBC total of6 Field Sparrows was the highest in at least a dozenyears, while a well-described Vesper Sparrow on theChamplain Islands CBC was the first since the winter of1984-85. Two Savannah Sparrows on the Middlebury CBCwere also well described and noteworthy, the firstwinter record of the species since 1985. A Fox Sparrowat a Brunswick feeder on 12/8-9 (JSB,DK) was yet anothergood find. A report that 2 imm. were overwintering inMarlboro unfortunately could not verified. Songsparrows were widespread in early winter as 14 of 16 CBCcircles came up with 126 individuals. Six birds werein Shoreham, Orwell and Benson on 1/14 (WGE,NLM), 5 werein Essex Junction on 2/13 (TSA) and 1 was heard singingin Shoreham on 2/26 (JAP). The lone Swamp Sparrow ofthe season was in the company of a Song Sparrow inBrandon on 12/13 (SSW). White-throated sparrows werein good supply with 67 CBC birds a strong if notmemorable showing. Three individuals were in Hubbardtonand Benson on 1/14 (WGE,NLM), while overwintering birdswere in Marlboro (via JPN), in Sheffield (PFW,SAW) andin Manchester Center (SGe,WGE,NLM). Four White-crownedSparrows in Middlebury, Brattleboro and Spr ingf ieldmaintained a sterling CBC record going back to 1984.Additionally, a single was spotted at a Bethel feederon 12/20 fEH). Dark-eyed Juncos rounded out anextraordinary year for sparrows, coming up with theirbest CBC showing since 1984. Readers reported largeflocks of wintering birds including 31 at Benson on 1/14(WGE,NLM), 21 at Chester on 1/27 (CEAd), 14 at Sandgateon 2/19 (WGE,NLM), 14 at DCWMA on 2/21 (ATA) and 20 atWeybridge on 2/22 (JAP). Lapland Longspurs overwhelmedprevious records as 258 CBC birds were found, including153 at the Champlain Islands. Contributors followed upwith numerous reports from the Champlain valley, headedup by 13 at Addison on 2/17 (WGE,NLH,SJS). Heanwhile,astonishing numbers of Snow Buntings invaded for the
-8-
"SPOTTED" TOWHEE
I;!,AI(TIN<lft~, photo by.:riidi-t\, Gterla k
second successive year. Both Middlebury and ChamplainIslands exceeded 1500 birds as the CBC total of 5647 wasmore than twice last year's record high. Further, therewas no let-up as the winter wore on. Fifteen hundredwere in Bridport on 1/14 (FAP), 1900 were in Orwell on1/14 (WGE,NLH), 1000 were still in Orwell on 2/19(EE,LB) and another 1000 were in Charlotte on 2/24(WAM). One observer commented that after 1/23 buntings"appeared in huge flocks of up to 2000 birds with larksand 10ngspurs .... As of the end of February they areeverywhere." (JAP).
ICTERIDS. Red-winged Blackbirds tolerated the Decembetfreeze in surprising numbers, as a CBC population of 51 ~
birds was the largest since 1983. Late reports ofsingles, generally f. or imm. came from Chester on 12/19(CEAd), Brandon on 12/19 (SSW) and Woodstock on 12/2526 (CRP). A m. was in Brownsville the week of 1/14(BMH), while a f. in Hartland on 2/10 was presumablyoverwintering (WGE,NLH). However, 2 singing m. were inAthens on 2/10 (LS), the first of numerous Februaryreports of returning red-wings. A single was inWoodstock on 2/14 (NHM), another was in Ferrisburg on2/17 (WGE,NLM), 3 were in Middlebury on 2/20 (JAP), aflock was in Peru on 2/24 (ACB) and 20 were in SouthWoodstock, also on 2/24 (LHR). Rusty Blackbirds wereeven more surprising, as unprecedented numbers of CBCbirds were found, topped by ~ at Saxtons River and Q atBrattleboro, both easily surpassing the old record fora single circle. Winter-plumaged Rustys were also notedin February: one at a Hiddlebury feeder from 2/3-12(JAP), 2 at the same feeder on 2/18 (JAP) and a singleat a South Woodstock feeder on 2/26(LHR). CommonGrackles, on the other hand, were anything but commonas a mere 7 birds comprised the poorest CBC tally since1976. Three individuals at a Norwich feeder on 2/23(ML) were the earliest returnees from the south. Brownheaded Cowbirds suffered no such scarcity as 222 CBCbirds were counted, while January flocks numbered 22 atHartland Four Corners on 1/6 (WGE,NLM), 14 at EastThetford on 1/19 (DHC) and 15 at South Burlington on1/20 (WGE,NLH,DHC). February reports were confined tooverwintering birds with 3 at Weybridge on 2/4 (HBN),4 at Brandon on 2/9 (SSW) and 2 at Middlebury on 2/10(JAP) .
FRINGILLIDS THROUGH HOUSE SPARROW. Pine Grosbeaks werewidely reported in modest numbers, with the largestflocks 27 in Hinesburg on 1/20 (PRW), 23 in White RiverJunction on 2/15 (JMN), 18 in Barnard on 2/22 (NLH) and15 near Woodstock on 2/19 (WHB). The CBC total of 224was the best in four years - but way short of t.he
numbers associated with major incursions. The plightof the Purple Finch continues to cause concern asobserver reports were infrequent and a CBC tally of 64was mediocre at best. Consider maximum feeder flocksof 3 at Ferrisburg on 1/1 (JID,MCD) and 4 at Wallingford
1 2/6 (SJD). Not unrelated, one fears, is the..mtinuing explosion in House Finch numbers. CBC
records were again shattered with both Ferrisburg andMiddlebury setting new highs. Meanwhile, contributors'reports only confirmed the bad news: 75 birds were inGrand Isle on 12/14 (EMH), 58 were in Hubbardton on 1/14(WGE,NLM), 60 were in Weybridge on 1/28 (MBN) and 50were in Manchester on 2/11 (WGE,NLM). The Red Crossbillwas predictably scarce with reports limited to a singleCBC bird at Burlington and a flock of 9 at Randolph on1/13 (DLC). However, White-winged Crossbills had theirbest year since 1984, chalking up an impressive 546 CBCbirds. Among the better reports from individualobservers were 20 birds in Weston on 12/2 (SDA), 24 inBrunswick on 12/8 (TGM), 25 in Hancock in early December(JAP) and 30 in West Brattleboro on 1/6 (WGE,NLM). Forthe most part Common Redpol1s limited their foraging tothe Northeast Kingdom, where their relative abundancewas noted by Christmas Counters and individual observersalike. In addition to the 370 birds at Island Pond, 229were in Granby on 1/9 (DLC), another 75 were in Victoryon 1/9 (DLC) and 150 were at Lewis Pond on 1/14 (MS).In other parts of the state numbers were low, with thebest reports: 14 at Ripton on 12/19 (WBK), 20 at WestGroton on 1/9 (WBK) and 12 at West Bolton on 2/24 (MC).Pine siskins warmed up to the season slowly with CBCresults acceptable but certainly not exciting. Latewinter reports, however, were reminiscent of the massiveinvasion of two years ago: 150 in Woodstock on 1/21(JHH), 200 in Marlboro on 2/16 (JPN), 200 in Weybridgeon 2/24 (MBN), 150 in Middlebury on 2/25 (JAP), 175 inhaftsbury on 2/27 (JCo) and 250 in Proctorsville on/27 (TR). American Goldfinches were widespread during
the CBC season but later reports were restrained. Aflock of 100 was in Middlebury on 1/24 (JRA), whilefeeder crowds in the 30-40 range were present in GrandIsle (EMH) , West Bolton (MC), Hinesburg (PRW) andBrandon (SSW). An albinistic bird with just a hint ofyellow was at a Pit'csford feeder on 1/24-25 (RE).Evening Grosbeak numbers were about average on the basisof CBC results, but feeder managers were generallyspared the usual ravenous throngs. Maximum counts were70 in Middlebury (JAP), 50 in Winhall (WJN) and 70 inHinesburg (PRW). A "reverse" albino (white body, yellowwings and tail) was spotted in Hartland on 2/12-13(MB,LC). Finally, 10,011 House Sparrows were dutifullycounted on the CBC, a decrease of 167 birds from theprior year, but still uncomfortably close to the recordpopulation of 1981.
CONTRIBUTORSCEAD Chester AdamsSDA Stan AllabenTSA Ted AllenPSA Paul AndersonJSA Jim AndrewsKMA Kris AndrewsLLA Linda Lee AndrewsJRA Jean ArrowsmithASNH Audubop society of
N.H.ATA Anne AversaPMB Phillip Ballou"~B Mary Barber
MB Margaret BarkerWHB William BarnardCB Clint BarnumJSB Jim & Shirley
The Records of Vermont Birds is published quarterlyby the Vermont Institute of Natural Science. Subscription is on an annual basis, dating from the originalmonth of subscription. Yearly subscription $7.00
Special thanks to all who participated in theChristmas Bird Counts; Cardinal, Tufted Titmouse,Mockingbirds Counts; and Bald Eagle Surveys
Abbreviations Used in TextBNP Bragdon Nature PreserveNWR National Wildlife RefugeCBC Christmas Bird Countad. adult (s)f. female (s)imm. immature (s)juv. juvenile (s)m, male (s)max. maximummph miles per hourR. River
Contributors are reminded to send in rare and unusualbird sightings at once (or to call the Vermont BirdAlert) and to submit seasonal summaries promptly atthe end of each season. This publication is only ascomplete as you make it. If you need sighting cards,write VINS, PO Box 86, Woodstock, VT 05091, or callus at 457-2779.
SPRING - I March - 31 MayEditors, Whitney Nichols
William NorseSUMMER - I June - 31 July
Editors, Lynn ErbRoy Pilcher
AUTUMN - I August - 30 NovemberEditors, Jeremy Coleman
Walter EllisonWINTER - I December - 29 February
Editor, Frederick PrattMANAGING EDITOR: Sarah LaughlinASSISTANT EDITOR: Julie NicholsonLAYOUT & ILLUSTRATION: Nancy MartinFIELD CARD COM}lITTEE CHAIRMAN: Whitney Nichols
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VERMONT INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE, P.O. Box 86, Woodstock, Vermont 05091
RECORDS OF VERMONT BIRDSVolume 18, Number I - Winter 1989-90Published November 1990
Vermont Institute of Natural SciencePO Box 86Woodstock, Vermont 05091
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