Embrace the quiet beauty of winter with the Martha’s Vineyard Bird Club on a late December walk at Crystal Lake on East Chop Drive. Even in the depths of winter, this freshwater pond and surrounding woodland provide a peaceful refuge for resident birds and hardy waterfowl.
Birds we might see include black-capped chickadee, tufted titmouse, white-breasted nuthatch, and golden-crowned kinglet flitting through the trees, along with downy and hairy woodpeckers. Open water may host mallard, American black duck, and the occasional hooded merganser, while blue jay, American crow, and Northern cardinal add bright color to the winter landscape. Keep an eye and ear out for raptors such as red-tailed hawk or Cooper’s hawk patrolling overhead.
This walk is suitable for birders of all experience levels and offers a serene winter outing on the Vineyard. Dress warmly, bring binoculars, and enjoy the crisp air and subtle activity of late-season birds at Crystal Lake.
Parking for Crystal Lake is along East Chop Drive and we meet at the path halfway down by the lake on East Chop Dr. look for the group of people with binoculars!