The second week of December has now come to a close and far and away the highlight of the week was a Smith's Longspur that showed up on the 12th and continued through today. The species has only occurred a handful of times in the state and there has never been an accepted record anywhere away from the eastern end of the state. It was not only a new species for me in Hampshire County (#305) but also a life bird (#1714)! Will the bird continue to be counted for the upcoming Northampton Christmas Bird Count? If it is seen tomorrow then it at least makes it in as a count week species. If one goes looking for it make sure to give the bird space and don't block the road as you admire the bird. Besides the above mentioned longspur, the second week of the month has produced a few other notable species as we have felt the first onslaught of true winter with some snow and cold temperatures. The highlights included an Eastern Phoebe that appears to be trying to overwinter for a fourth consecutive year. The recent cold temps have frozen smaller bodies of water and this has concentrated some waterfowl resulting in some high counts of a few species. I tried to relocate a few rarities I had the first week of the month but mostly failed in doing so. Although not a record setting pace for the month I have still found a very respectful 84 species so far for the month in Hampshire County.
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