On the afternoon of Saturday, March 14, I ventured to Walpole on a wild goose chase. I was far from disappointed. My first stop was Sawyer Farm on River Road, where there were hundreds of Canada Geese, a few Mallards, and some American Black Ducks. I made several swipes from left to right and back again with my binoculars to scan the birds and get a closer look. After that, I begrudgingly got out of my warm vehicle to set up the scope and have a closer look.
My goal was to find a Cackling Goose among all the Canadas, but it was a futile endeavor. I failed to find one. After scouring the field for several more minutes, I decided to move north up the Connecticut River Valley and see if anything interesting could be spotted. I made stops at a few more hot spots with no luck. It seemed that maybe it was time to wrap up my birding adventure for the day.
As I made my way back down Route 12, toward home, I decided give Sawyer Farm one last look. I am certainly glad that I did, it proved to absolutely be the right call.
I call myself a fair-weather birder. I’d rather not be outside in freezing temperatures, especially with high winds, so again I started scanning with my binoculars from the warmth of my car. After about a dozen passes with the bins, I was about to give up—but I got a glimpse of a bird with a white face. It was partially hidden behind a pile of manure! Of course, excited by this bird, I swiftly exited my warm car.
My heart was pounding, and I wanted to get a better look at whatever this bird was!
Even though I had never seen a Barnacle Goose before, I knew exactly what I was looking at. I had researched the possible species that could present themselves during migration. I grabbed my camera and took a few shots—just in case this striking goose flew off!
Thankfully, the bird stayed put and I sent out the alarm via texts, local WhatsApp birding groups, and eBird. I wanted to spread the exciting news and not hog this special goose all to myself.
Finding a lifer and an ABA (American Birding Association) rarity was thrilling for me, but sharing the sighting with friends and other birders was just as exciting. I was incredibly grateful that the bird stuck around for the next five days. The Barnacle Goose’s extended stay gave many other birders the opportunity to share in the joy of this magnificent bird.
The rare Barnacle Goose Donna found! Photo by Donna Keller.