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Vesper Sparrow Pooecetes gramineus

10,000 Birds

Between the two breeding bird atlases in the state – one done in the early ’80s and one in the early ’00s – the number of atlas blocks with Vesper Sparrows declined 49%, a decline that is echoed in breeding bird survey routes as well. What has caused the decline? What has caused the decline? … a.

Sparrows 165
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The Summer Doldrums

10,000 Birds

Nothing is quite as much of a downer to a birder than the summer doldrums. Migration hasn’t really kicked in, the breeders aren’t tied to breeding territories any more, and it is hot and sweaty outside. Who wants to spend time with a Canada Goose ? Uncomfortable weather and a lack of birds make birders grumpy.

Downers 164