Record setting heat continues

Common Goldeneyes, Quabbin Park, MA, Feb 24, 2017

Looking east from Hank's Meadow, Quabbin Park, MA, Feb 24, 2017

Ring necked Ducks, Winsor Dam, Quabbin Park, MA, Feb 24, 2017

Winsor Dam, Quabbin Park, MA, Feb 24, 2017

Winsor Dam, Quabbin Park, MA, Feb 23, 2017

After nearly setting a record yesterday with a temperature in the upper 60's, today's high of 73 not only broke the previous record high for the date but also set an all time February high temperature (with records going back to the late 1800's).  Tomorrow is forecast to also reach the mid 60's but without the sun we have enjoyed the last few days.  The party is over by Sunday with highs in the 40's with a strong wind.  The strong southerly winds have continued to bring in more early migrants with loads of Red winged Blackbirds, Common Grackles, Brown headed Cowbirds and Turkey Vultures as well as a number of waterfowl species.  I did not have anything way out of the ordinary for waterfowl but managed nine species yesterday with my first Wood Ducks of the season as well as larger than expected numbers of Ring necked Ducks.  I'm sure something unusual is out there waiting to be found given the extreme temps and strong winds...it is really tough to believe it is still late February.