Join the Martha’s Vineyard Bird Club for an early December bird walk at Mud Creek and Lagoon Pond in Vineyard Haven, a productive mix of tidal creek, salt pond, and sheltered shoreline that often shines during the early winter season.
We’ll scan the open water and creek edges for wintering waterfowl such as Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Hooded Merganser, and Red-breasted Merganser, with the chance of Common Loon or Horned Grebe nearby. Mud Creek’s quiet edges are a good place to look for Great Blue Heron (lingering individuals), and Belted Kingfisher, can often be present. Gulls and seaducks may be moving through the lagoon..
Along the paths and brushy margins, we’ll watch for winter songbirds including Yellow-rumped Warbler, White-throated Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, and flocks of American Goldfinch. This walk is suitable for birders of all levels and offers a great opportunity to learn about coastal winter birds and seasonal changes in Vineyard Haven’s harbor habitats. Dress warmly, bring binoculars, and enjoy a rewarding December outing by the water.