Topics in Field ID: Shades of Brown Field Trip September 11, 2010

Do you cringe at the thought of fall birding's rumored identification challenges - "LBJ's", "confusing fall warblers", sparrows, winter plumaged shorebirds, juvenile hawks, etc? The truth is that, while cryptic coloration may make ID's less obvious, the basics of size, shape, bill type, and behavior are still the same, and sorting out these groups is possible even by birders with relatively little experience. And while the bright colors of spring and summer have given way to the subtle hues of fall, intricate feather details in shades of brown, rufous and gray are stunning in their own right. Conditions permitting, the field trip will include a visit to a local banding station where we can appreciate this beauty up close, while honing our ID skills. The evening session will provide a framework for the bird ID process, with an emphasis on becoming confident using the myriad of non-color clues the bird provides us. For the field trip bring binoculars, field guide, snacks, drinks, and lunch. - - Open to anyone age 16 or older. Registration is required. Call 781-259-2200 for details. See http://www.massaudubon.org/catalog/listing.php?program_code=1677-DFP10SU2 for more information.