Tag Archives: birds

September 5, 2016

Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary (Natick, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Visited: August 13, 2016

Location: 280 Eliot Street Natick, MA

Hours: Tues-Fri, 9 am-5 pm
Sat, Sun, & Mon holidays, 10 am-5 pm
Closed Mondays

Trails:
Tues-Sun, & Mon holidays, dawn to dusk
Closed Mondays

Cost:

(MA Audubon) Members: Free
Nonmembers:
$5 Adults
$4 Children (2-12)
$4 Seniors (65+)

Parking: There are about 50 0r so parking spaces in the parking lot

Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Size: 9 miles of trails

Time To Allot For Visit: 2 to 3 hours

Highlights: abundant wildlife, clearly defined trails, lookouts and bridges, several pond areas

Lowlights: One of the ponds (Little Farm Pond) is only accessible via motor vehicle and is not accessible from the sanctuary, according to one of the staff workers at the sanctuary

Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary Web Site

Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary Trail Map

From the moment I drove into the parking lot for Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary (a MASS Audubon sanctuary), I could tell it was going to be a special place. The pretty trees and stocks of grass reminded me of some rural, country farm.

The 10 trails at Broadmoor are fairly easy to negotiate (the Charles River Loop is probably the most challenging). There are a few trails that cross over ponds and marsh land.

Overall, the trails are easy with a few moderately difficult trails such as The Charles River Loop. The trail on the Charles River Loop is somewhat narrow in some places and it can be hard to follow the trail (look for the yellow and blue marked trees).

There was a lot of activity, such as turtles, in the ponds. Can you spot the turtles in this photo? There are three.

What if I get closer?

How about now?

Broadmoor is teeming with wildlife. I found these critters during my hike.

There is also a lookout area where you can sit and look out upon the pond where I found this heron hiding.

There is a lot to see at Broadmoor. There are lots of turtles, butterflies, birds and evidence of other wildlife.

I found this beautiful swan as I was walking along the park.

All that swimming and looking for food can make you tired. So, she decided to take a nap.

There are also beautiful views of the park. The flowers, plants and trees make for a beautiful backdrop.

Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect visitors of all ages (I even saw some visitors in strollers). It can be buggy but, as lucky would have it, that won’t be a problem for much longer in New England as fall descends upon us.

Similar Places I Have Visited In New England:

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary (Topsfield, MA)

Borderland State Park (North Easton, MA)

9 Comments | tags: birds, butterfly, ducks, flowers, Massachusetts, Nature, New England, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, pond, sanctuary, trees | posted in birds, massachusetts, New England, park, photographs, photography, photos, swan, Uncategorized, wildlife

September 4, 2016

Bear Brook State Park (Allenstown, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Visited: August 27, 2016

Location: 157 Deerfield Rd, Allenstown, NH

Cost: $4 for adults, $2 for children (ages 6-11), children 5 and under get in for free, NH residents 65 and older are also admitted free of charge

Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset, campground schedule: May 6 -Oct. 29 (2016), Sun-Thu 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Fri 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Size: 10,000 acres

Time To Allot For Visit: 2 to 3 hours

Parking: There are about 50-60 parking spaces in the main parking area (see photo below)

Additional parking can be found at Hayes Field (see attached map)

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: Very popular with cyclists, several large ponds and marshes, teeming with wildlife, campgrounds, archery target area, fishing (fly fishing only)

Lowlights: too big to hike or bike all in one day

Bear Brook State Park

Bear Brook State Park Trail Map

A haven for cyclists and nature lovers, Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown, New Hampshire is the largest developed state park in New Hampshire. Boasting 10,000 acres, over 40 miles of trails, several ponds and other bodies of water and marsh lands, Bear Brook is the biggest state park I have hiked.

Although there were many frogs and turtles visible at Bear Brook, birds, deer and other wildlife proved to be more elusive.

Bear Brook also has a fishing area, two of them actually. There is the Archery Pond, which also has an archery target area. Only fly fishing is allowed in the pond.

The archery target practice area is to the right of the pond.

Across the paved road from Archery is a kids fishing pond for children 12 years old and younger. A fishing pond for children! How cute is that?

What my visit to Bear Brook lacked in deer, birds and other more typically photographed wildlife, it made up for in smaller critters.

I did see a few runners and hikers but the overwhelming majority of the visitors at Bear Brook were cyclists. The trails vary from flat and easy to steep, rocky and challenging. I would consider some trails to be very challenging even for the advanced cyclist and I did not see any cyclists on some of the more steep and rocky trails.

You never know what you’ll find at Bear Brook State Park. While walking along the main trail, I came across this grave site for an unknown soldier from the Civil War. There is no marker for the Union or Confederacy. The only flag or designation displayed is an American flag.

There is also a stream running under a bridge at the entrance

There are also several ponds, marshes and creeks.

There are also beautiful, vividly colored trees, plant life, spiderwebs (ok, maybe that’s not so beautiful) and a sign that summer is soon ending.

Speaking of beautiful trees and plants, one that thing is hate to see at parks is the cutting down of trees or, as the parks call it”sanitation timber harvest.” However, in the case of Bear Brook, and most state parks, there was good reason for this sanitation. Because of an infestation of red pine scale, many of the red pine plantations had to be cut down. The sanitation began in 2013 and was completed in 2014. For whatever reason, it’s always sort of sad to see so many open spaces and stumps.

The trail for Hayes Farm does not lead to a farm but rather what used to be a farm. You can see remnants of the stones which surrounded the farm from the trail.

This is my only gripe about the park. There are long swaths of land without much there. It’s very pretty and largely untouched by humans. In fact, it is such a big park that I was unable to get to one of the bigger attractions, Catamount Trail that is supposed to have pretty scenic views. But, after 6 hours of hiking and photographing the park I didn’t have the energy for that hike. But, keep it in mind if you do go.

There is also a campground with a place to park your camper or rent one of their own. Check their website for fees and availability.

There were not many dogs at Bear Brook. In fact, Jack, a 9 year old rat terrier from Rhode Island, is the only dog I saw during my trip.

Similar Places I Have Visited In New England:

Breakheart Reservation (Saugus, MA)

Pawtuckaway State Park (Nottingham, NH)

Please Connect With me On Facebook:

Facebook

16 Comments | tags: birds, dog, flowers, frogs, New England, new hampshire, photographs, Photography, photos, plants, trees, turtles | posted in birds, dog, New England, new hampshire, park, photographs, photography, photos, ponds, Uncategorized

August 31, 2016

World’s End (Hingham, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Visited: August 28, 2016

Location: 250 Martin’s Lane, Hingham, MA

Hours: open everyday, 8:00 a.m. until sunset

Cost: $6 for adults, annual memberships which include free admission are available for $47

Size: 4.5 miles of continuous trails, 251 acres

Parking: there are three parking areas with roughly 20 spots each. When I left at 1:00 p.m. the lot was full and there was a line of about half a dozen cars waiting to get into the park.

Time To Allot For Visit: 2 hours

Dog Friendly: Yes

Trail Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Highlights: scenic views of the Boston skyline and surrounding area, wildlife, occasionally they display exhibits at the park, benches to sit along the trail, pretty trees and flowers, perfect for walkers, joggers, runners, cyclists and even horseback riders and anowshoeing during the winter

Lowlights: limited parking (if you follow the reservation Twitter they post alerts when the lot is full)

Website: World’s End

World’s End Trail Map

I “misunderestimated” World’s End. I figured it would be an “easy” quick jaunt (I usually save my easier treks for Sundays). So, I slipped on my Chuck Taylor All-Stars and figured I would be home in a few hours. Not the best choice of footwear in retrospect. The trails can be rocky (particularly if you go off trail) and deceivingly steep in some areas.

There are a lot of side trails and it’s easy to get confused and cover the same area twice (or more) which can add quite a bit of time to your journey. In fact, for a while, I thought World’s End would never end. It’s a good idea to take a map of the trails with you. But, the trails are clearly marked and easy to negotiate with some slight inclines.

Undoubtedly, the main attraction for many visitors at World’s End are the views of the Boston skyline. World’s End affords several views of the skyline and surrounding areas. From the shoreline views to the views atop the highest point on the top of one of the many views of the rolling, hilly trails, the views are majestic.

World’s End is teeming with wildlife, particularly birds. They’re very good at camouflaging themselves so you might have to squint to see a few of them.

But, the real gem of my visit was this deer I spotted on my way to Rocky Neck, one of the more secluded areas. We stood mere feet away from each other staring, until she finally took off.

There are not just an abundant of bird life in the water. Being a picture perfect summer day with low humidity and a slight breeze and calm waters, it was ideal for many of the boaters, paddlers and other seafaring folks.

This boater wanted some privacy, apparently.

World’s End has many other charming features such as this huge rock and an elevated viewing area for bird watching.

Of course, sometimes the more simpler things can be the prettiest features of the park. These flowers, tress and views off the water caught my eye.

Some people took advantage of the shore to skim some stones.

If there is one photo that sums up a trip to World’s End it is this photograph of a hammock with a bicycle next to it. World’s End is the perfect place to lie out in a hammock with only the sounds of nature to keep you occupied and maybe a good book or your Itunes collection.

There is also an art exhibit on display until Oct. 31, 2017. The display was created by Jeppe Hein, an artist based out of Copenhagen and Berlin. He is known worldwide for his interactive exhibits. The exhibit is called, “A New End”. According to the website for the exhibit, Hein wants to invite visitors to reflect and to transform how we view a familiar place like World’s End.

There were dogs-a-plenty at World’s End during my visit. World’s End is a great place for dogs to play around in since there are many open, grassy areas and, of course, water to frolic around in.

Casey is a happy, 8 year old English Pointer mix. He is a rescue.

Gus is a 2 year old Ridgeback mix. He was very excited to be at the park!

Tande is an 8 month old Portuguese Water Dog. If Tande looks familiar, you may have seen a similarly looking dog on the news. The President also has the same breed of dog. Tande came all the way from the Odysea Portuguese Water Dogs breeder in Colorado.

One of my easiest subjects to photograph ever, Bella is a gentle 7 year old Shetland Sheepdog.

I also saw a variety of other dogs playing in the water and running around.

viewsofanemergencyrn was kind enough to nominate me for the One Lovely Blog Award. Thank you! I usually don’t post about these awards but I figured I would play along since she was so nice to mention me and I wanted to acknowledge her. She is a sweet, strong person and a survivor (read her post to see what I mean).

So, the rues are I have to mention 7 random things about me.

I didn’t take up photography seriously until last year
I love dogs and all animals (big surprise there) but they also seem to love me – the key is to not show fear and be confident and friendly around them (they can sense fear)
I am a pescatarian (I only eat seafood and do not eat meat, primarily)
People often say I bear a strong resemblance to Donnie Wahlberg (but I can’t sing like him)
Although I love dogs, I don’t have one (I have a cat instead)
Until my work schedule got too busy, I had been an active literacy tutor at my local library
I run (and/or walk) 3 miles (at least) a day everyday

The rules say to nominate other bloggers to participate. But, I’m going to skip that part. In my experience, people have usually already posted a blog like this in the past and don’t want to do it again, or they don’t participate or they seem to be too busy. But, thank you, once again for the mention, viewsofanemergencyrn! I do appreciate you and I look forward to reading more of your posts. You all should also!

Similar Places I have Visited In New England:

Webb Memorial State Park (Weymouth, MA)

Blue Hills Reservation (Milton, MA)

14 Comments | tags: attractions, birds, boats, deer, dogs, flowers, Hiking, Hingham, Massachusetts, Nature, New England, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, scenic, trees, water | posted in birds, Hingham, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, scenic, skyline, Uncategorized, water, wildlife

August 24, 2016

Odiorne Point State Park (Rye, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Visited: August 6, 2016

Location: 570 Ocean Blvd, Rye, NH 603-436-7406

Hours: Open everyday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (I got there well before 8 and the gates were already open). Open but unstaffed after 10/11

Cost: $4 for adults $2 for children (ages 6-11), NH residents who are seniors (over 65) or younger than 6 get in free

Parking: There are about 50 parking spots in the main parking area. There are additional parking lots along the beach

Time To Allot For Visit: 1 to 2 hours

Trails: Easy

Dog Friendly: No

Highlights: abundant wildlife (mostly birds), pretty flowers and trees, lighthouse (Whaleback Light), scenic views, play area for children, “sunken forest”, science center, historical site

Lowlights: Parking can be tough (especially during the summer), since it is considered a beach dogs are not allowed at the park

Odiorne Point State Park Trail Map

Odiorne Point State Park Website

The location of the first English settlement in New Hampshire, Odiorne Point has a very storied past.

Named after the Odiorne family who settled there during the 1660’s, Odiorne Point is probably best known for being a military installation during World War 2. Known as Fort Dearborn at the time, Odiorne Point was part of the military’s attempt to modernize the U.S. coast defenses. Part of the military installation served as a radar station by the United States Air Force beginning in 1949, and in 1955 this became the Rye Air Force Station. None of the Air Force’s installation remains there. Looking at the historical remnants of the fort it is obvious how far we have come as a military power. Real shells, a bunker entrance, a battery and other historical structures are scattered throughout the entrance to the park.

The park also has a science center located at the end of one of the main paths where people can learn about nature and the various wildlife that inhabit the park.

The trails at the park were easy to negotiate. However, if you do go off trail to get a closer view of the surroundings and wildlife you have to be careful and be mindful of the water level. I will touch on this later in the post.

As you can see from the photos above, the plants and trees at Odiorne are beautiful even if they are directly next to a dumpster.

Only about an hour’s drive north of Boston, Odiorne Point has something for people of all ages to enjoy. There is a play area for children as well as picnic tables and benches for people to sit and eat while they take in all of the beautiful views.

This particular family had a hungry visitor eyeing them as they ate lunch.

The birds are one of the main attractions of the park. A wide variety of gulls, egrets and other birds frequent the park.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The views at Odiorne State Park are pretty all year round. The lighthouse, Whaleback Light, provides a majestic backdrop for any photo. The weather was very erratic when I made my visit. It was rainy and raw when I first arrived at the park in the early morning hours. After waiting out the rain, the clouds gave way to the sun. Then, the wind picked up and drove the waves against the rocks. Basically, I experienced just about all the weather New England has in one day. In other words, it was a typical New England day.

Perhaps the biggest attraction of Odiorne Point State Park is the “sunken forest”. If you arrive during low tide, you can see what used to be a forest or some other land. What appears to be tree stumps, rocks and other land based structures appear on the floor of what will rapidly become the bottom of the body of water.

So, during low tide you can easily traverse these rocks (make sure to not try this with sandals on or barefoot) and get closer to the birds, ocean and other rocks. One important thing to keep in mind is the tide comes in pretty quickly. I made it out to the rocky area where the birds were all hanging out. Then, suddenly, I realized just how much water had accumulated around me. I quickly ran/sloshed through ankle deep water along the pebbles to make it back to land before it got too late. If I waited half an hour longer I would have been swimming back to shore. Below are some side side examples of just how quickly the water rises. The time lapse is only about an hour.

Below are two videos of the waves and scenery at Odiorne Point.

Similar Places In New England I Have Visited:

Colt State Park (Bristol, RI)

Moswetuset Hummock (Quincy, MA)

Hammonasset Beach State Park (Madison, CT)

Please Follow Me On:

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

11 Comments | tags: attractions, birds, boats, ducks, flowers, Historical, Nature, New England, new hampshire, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, rocks, scenic, trees, water | posted in birds, boats, flowers, forest, New England, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, Uncategorized

August 11, 2016

Dorrs Pond (Manchester, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Visited: August 7, 2016

Location: Dorrs Pond is part of Livingston Park which is located at 244 Hookset Rd, Manchester, NH (off Daniel Webster Highway)

Hours: Open 24 hours (use your best judgment if you go at nighttime)

Cost: Free

Parking: There are about 70 or so parking spots by Dorrs Pond. There is also additional parking by the play area and field by Livingston Park.

Dog Friendly: Yes

Size: 1.2 mile loop with some short side trails.

Time To Allot For Visit: 1 or 2 hours

Fun For One: Yes

Highlights: abundant wildlife, popular trails for runner, cyclists and walkers, pretty views, very well maintained, benches for sitting, skating on the pond during the winter

Lowlights: short loop (only 1.2 mile) so many runners have to complete the loop several times to get a good workout, some side trails end abruptly at parking lots or just stop without going anywhere

Once an artificial pond to serve the people of Manchester, Dorrs Pond now serves a scenic retreat for cyclists, runners, nature lovers and dogs.

“hidden gem” is a phrase that gets thrown around a lot. But, the photos below will show how this description is apt for Dorrs Pond. In fact, I, and many people I talked to about it, had never been to this pond or ever even heard about before I went there.

One of the great things about Dorrs Pond is it is not a particularly difficult trail. The trails are Dorrs Pond are pretty level with a few small inclines

The views at Dorrs Pond are beautiful. Vivid greens and a variety of green, purple and other vibrant colors dot the landscape.

One of the best parts of Dorrs Pond is the wildlife. There is a variety of birds, amphibians and other animals at the pond.

I also found this interesting shelter. Unfortunately, no one was home.

During the winter, skating is allowed on the pond. Also, there is a play area, playing field, restrooms and pool for children (and some adults) in addition to Dorrs Pond at Livingston Park.

Doors Pond is a great place to bring your dog. The trail is not too long and the inclines are not very steep. And it was a perfect day for taking your pooch out for a stroll. I saw lots of dogs at Dorrs Pond. Here are a few of the cute dogs at the park Sunday:

Katie, a 9 month old German Shepherd.

Finley, a Cavachon who will be 2 in September

Reagan, a 4 month old Golden Retriever

and Jackson, a 2 year old Basenji Greyhound.

Please follow me on Facebook: New England Nomad

Similar Places In New England I Have Visited:

Ames Nowell State Park

Cutler Park

11 Comments | tags: attractions, birds, bridges, chipmunks, dogs, Dorrs Pond, ducks, frogs, Nature, New England, new hampshire, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, pond, scenic, turtles, views, water | posted in animals, birds, bridges, dogs, ducks, nature, New England, new hampshire, park, pets, photographs, photography, photos, plants, pond, scenic, trails, trees, Uncategorized, wildlife

July 18, 2016

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary (Topsfield, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Visited: July 16, 2016

Location: Mass Audubon, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield, MA (about half an hour north of Boston, MA and an hour southeast of Manchester, NH) 978-887-9264

Hours: presently, Tues–Fri, 9 am–4 pm
weekends & Mon holidays, 9 am–5 pm

November-April
Tues-Sun & Mon holidays, 9 am-4 pm

May-October
Tues–Fri, 9 am–4 pm
weekends & Mon holidays, 9 am–5 pm

Trails
Tues-Sun, & Mon holidays, dawn to dusk

Cost:

Members: Free
Nonmembers:
$4 Adults
$3 Children (2-12)
$3 Seniors (65+)

Parking: There are about 50 parking spots. You shouldn’t have too much of a hard time finding parking unless there is an event or summer camp is in session

Size: 12 square miles

Time To Allot For Visit: I was there 5 hours and I still didn’t see everything but you can take in most of the best parts of the park in 2 to 3 hours

Dog Friendly: No, most Audubon parks are not dog friendly

Highlights: bodies of water, plentiful wildlife, pretty flowers and plants, observation tower, canoe rentals (if you’re a Mass Audubon member)

From the moment I walked to the visitor center at the Mass Audubon Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, I encountered wildlife. In fact, I found this rabbit chewing on some greenery in the shrub by the office.

That is the great thing about Ipswich River Sanctuary. If you’re an animal lover, or even if you just like them a little, then you will love this place.

Not only are the animals abundant, they are also relatively friendly and not all that shy. Well, most of them weren’t too shy.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The well-fed red squirrel let me get very close to him or her, so long as I didn’t affect his or her food supply. A lady who had been sitting there on the bridge wall before I arrived has been intentionally leaving seeds or some other type of food the squirrel was enjoying which allowed me to get some great shots. Thanks, random lady!

There are also a wide variety of bugs and other insects at the park. Bug spray and covering up are a must (I especially suggest a hat since one particular bug kept landing in my hair). And most bug sprays don’t stop all bugs. The black insect below was particularly menacing. Also, I never saw so many dragon flies in one spot as I did at Ipswich River Sanctuary but they were pretty harmless.

There are some beautiful views and plant life at Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary. The colors of the flowers really pop out and the trails are well defined. Many of these pretty features of the landscape were created 15,000 years ago by a glacier.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

You can also rent canoes, if you are a member, for $10/hour for a minimum of 2 hours. So, the cost is $20 or more. You pay for the canoes at the front office and then you have to lug the paddles and life vests along with a key to the where the canoes are locked up (about a half a mile or so away) at the canoe launch. The canoe launch is right next to where the canoes are locked up.

One thing I have seen at other parks that is present at Ipswich are bat boxes. These bat boxes are designed to give daytime roots for little brown bats. Bats are important because they eat lots of mosquitoes and other insects, the plaque next to the boxes explains (then get more bats there please). Little brown bats have been the victims of white nose syndrome,an illness which has been affecting brown bats while they hibernate during the winter. The cause is not yet known. So, the boxes are meant to give them a safe and convenient way for them to rest. The boxes were constructed by Eagle Scout Sean Enos and Boy Scout Troop 48 of Lynnfield, MA. The lumber was donate by a local business.

There is also an observation tower at Ipswich Wildlife Sanctuary. The three story tower built of wood is a little shaky but safe. The tower overlooks a swamp and meadow. There wasn’t much wildlife except for the very occasional bird (I included photos of the egret and other bird who landed in the water in the earlier slideshow). I think that is you had unlimited time and a lot of patience as well as a good set of binoculars (I didn’t have any of those things) you could see a few grand birds.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

One of the things I noticed and I had not seen before my trip to Ipswich are pink water lilies. I have seen white water lilies but never saw the pink water lilies until my visit there.

Like most Mass Audubon sanctuaries, the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary is well kept and family friendly. The grounds are well manicured and there is even a play area for children. They also have a summer camp program where they teach children about nature in a fun and exciting way. All in all, the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary is a fun and exciting place for people of all ages.

Please connect with me on Facebook: New England Nomad’s Facebook Page

3 Comments | tags: animals, birds, Hiking, Massachusetts, Nature, New England, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, river, scenic, tower, trees, water | posted in animals, birds, fish, flowers, hiking, New England, park, photographs, photography, photos, plants, trails, Uncategorized

July 10, 2016

Robinson State Park (Feeding Hills, MA)

By New England Nomad

Dates Visited: July 3 & 4, 2016

Location: 428 North St, Feeding Hills (Agawam), MA

Cost: $8 for MA vehicle, $10 for non-MA vehicle

Parking: There are about 50 parking spots in the park itself at various designated parking areas. There are also several entrances besides the actual entrance to the park where you can park for free but there are gates at these entrances and you have to walk rather than drive to the beach and fields in the park.

Time To Allot For Visit: 3 to 4 hours to hike the entire park

Size of the park: 800 acres, 5 miles of frontage on the Westfield River

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: walking trails, stream, beach, picnic area, fields, lots of wildlife, great for bikers, joggers, walkers and dogs

Known for its abundant wildlife, long paved trail and scenic views of the Westfield River, Robinson State Park is one of my favorite parks to visit. I love the paved, winding trail and abundant wildlife. I have jogged the main trail hundreds, if not thousands, of times. The wide paved trail is wide enough to accommodate joggers, bikers, walkers and even vehicles (cars are allowed on the main paved trail during the summer months only).

About a mile or a little more than a mile from the main entrance there is a small beach next to a grassy area for people to relax and sun themselves. If you’re lucky, you may even see a tadpole.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

One thing to keep in mind is there are a lot of bugs in the area. Since it is located by a stream of water, bugs and mosquitoes are a real problem, especially during the summer months. So, either cover up or use bug spray if you plan on hiking the various trails. Another downside to the park, if you want to call it that, is that some trails just seem to end…right in people’s backyards. This happened on two of the side trails I ventured on. No biggie. You just turn around and come back the way you came. But it can be anticlimactic and annoying (for the homeowner as much as it would be for you).

The Westfield River runs along the paved trail giving off some pretty views. There are some side trails you can use to get a better view.

There is a pond just down the trail from the beach. I heard lots of frogs, toads and other wildlife in the pond but they are pretty well hidden.

Robinson Park is also teeming with wildlife. In fact, Westfield, one of the cities the park borders, is known for its black squirrels. Unfortunately, I didn’t see any during my visit or at least none that I could photograph. But, there were plenty of other animals visible at the park the days I visited.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

There is also a pond and a variety of trees, plants, flowers and berries along the trails.

The trails are well defined and there are a number of bridges at the park.

Because it has such a wide main trail and lots of area to roam, Robinson Park is a great place to walk your dog and I ran into quite a few cute dogs during my visits.

Oliver is an 11 year old Collie and Chow mix.

Josie is a 9 year old Cocker Spaniel.

And Bruno is a 2 year old Shepherd and Lab mix rescue.

Please connect with me on Facebook to view photos, videos and other posts I don’t include in my blog! New England Nomad

19 Comments | tags: attractions, beach, birds, dogs, Massachusetts, Nature, New England, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, pond, scenic, trees, water, wildlife | posted in animals, family friendly, Massachusetts, nature, New England, park, photographs, photography, photos, Uncategorized, wildlife

June 24, 2016

Colt State Park (Bristol, RI)

By New England Nomad

Date Visited: June 19, 2016

Location: Rte 114 (off Poppasquash Rd – yes that is the real name of the road – or Hope St depending which direction you’re coming from), Bristol, RI

Cost: It was free when I visited, according to the new parking fees it is $7 for residents and $14 for non residents to park at beaches in Rhode Island (lawmakers in Rhode Island recently cut the costs in half)

Parking: There are several parking areas. But, they fill up quickly. Arrive early to ensure you get a good spot, especially during the summer weekends. There are also electric vehicle charging stations available for 4 hours max while enjoying the park or other facility.The EV station does not guarantee a space on full capacity days

Hours: open daily dawn to dusk.

Time To Allot For Visit: This can vary depending on what you’re doing there (kayaking, running, cycling, barbecuing, etc.) If you’re just going for a walk or jog an hour to two hours should be enough time. I spent three hours there but I was stopping a lot to take photos

Size of Park: 464 acres

Highlights: scenic waterscape, various wildlife, walking/running/biking trails, fields and picnic areas, beach, bridge and pretty architecture and well kept trails

Named after Samuel P. Colt who owned the property in the early 1900’s where he built his home the Casino, Colt State Park has been considered the “gem of Rhode Island.” With its pretty views, teeming wildlife and peaceful setting it lives up to its name.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The park is surrounded by water for people to launch their boats, kayaks and other types or watercraft.

One of the best things about Colt State Park is the abundant wildlife. There are birds aplenty.

Egrets

Red Winged Blackbird

American Black Crow

Mallard Duck

Robin

??????

There are many other animals at the park like this chipmunk

I even saw lions at the park

Off the beaten path, I found these top bar bee hives. And they get nasty when you get too close and I had a bee sting to prove it! I suppose I wouldn’t like it if someone came into my home and started taking photos either.

And, of course, there were dogs at the park.

Butch, a Lab mix, is a shelter dog from South Carolina. His mommy wasn’t sure of his age (either 3 or 4 years old probably).

Max is a 6 year old English Lab. He is also an AKC (American Kennel Club) dog.

Please connect with me on Facebook: New England Nomad

15 Comments | tags: attractions, birds, Bristol, Colt State Park, dogs, Nature, New England, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, Rhode Island, scenic, water | posted in animals, birds, boat, bridge, dogs, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Rhode Island, scenic, Uncategorized

June 12, 2016

Dinosaur Footprints Reservation (Holyoke, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Visited: May 31, 2016

Location: US-5, Holyoke, MA – it comes up pretty quick (about half a mile from the entrance to Mount Tom on Reservation Rd).

Cost: Free

Hours: Open from dawn until dusk

Parking: There is room for about 5 cars.

Dog Friendly: I didn’t see during my visit. But, yes, they are welcome!

Highlights: Dinosaur footprints, Connecticut River behind the footprints, active wildlife, very short and easy trail to the footprints and river

A long, long time ago, the entire Connecticut River Valley, specifically the Holyoke area, was home to a variety of dinosaurs. And you can still see their footprints in the ancient mudflaps of the region. There are also remnants of flowers and even ripples of water from the streams that once flowed in the area.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The prints are believed to have been formed during the early Jurassic period, making them approximately 200 million years old. Or, about as long as your average RMV/DMV wait time.

The main types of dinosaurs that are thought to have existed in this location are theropod dinosaurs. Theropod dinosaurs are mainly 2 legged creatures. Some of the more well-known Theropods are Tyrannosaurus Rex, Velicoraptor and Torvosaurus (think some of the dinosaurs from the Jurassic Park movies). It is believed these types of dinosaurs evolved into the birds that we now see so prevalent in the area.

I did see a lot of bird life but I didn’t see any theropods.

One of the nice surprises was seeing the stream behind the footprints; the Connecticut River. In fact, although seeing the footprints was cool, this may have been the highlight of the trip for me.

The Dinosaur Footprints Reservation is a great place to visit if you want to check out some cool remnants from a distant era. But, it is also a nice place to go and sit by the river or go fishing. Just don’t stay too long if you start seeing the water shaking. You know, like in the movie.

Connect with me on Facebook: New England Nomad

6 Comments | tags: birds, dinosaurs, ducks, footprints, Holyoke, Massachusetts, New England, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, water | posted in blog, dinosaurs, footprints, parks, photographs, photography, photos, river, scenic, Uncategorized, water

June 9, 2016

Mass Audubon Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary (Easthampton, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Visited: June 1, 2016

Location: 127 Combs Rd, Easthampton, MA

Hours:

Trails & Restrooms:
Daily, dawn to dusk

Visitor Center
Mon-Thurs, 9 am – noon
Fri, 9 am – 3:30 pm
Sat, 9 am – noon
Sunday seasonally

Cost:

Members: Free
Nonmembers:
$4 Adults
$3 Children (2-12)
$3 Seniors (65+)

A year long pass for new members cost me $32 for a “family” pass which includes two named adults living in the same household and their children or grandchildren under the age of 18 to free admission. It usually costs $65. The levels of passes can range from an individual ($48) to patron ($500). Check their website or call them for more details.

Parking: Parking was abundant. There were some events for children going on when I went and there was room for everyone to park there.

Dog Friendly: No pets are allowed. So leave Fido at home!

Highlights: miles of trails, observation tower, lots of wildlife, great blue heron rookery, camps, programs, classes and activities (particularly for children), friendly and helpful staff

Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary

Located about 20 minutes north of Springfield, MA and just over an hour and a half west of Boston, MA, Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary is teeming with a variety of wildlife. Some of the wildlife you see may surprise you.

I had never been so close to a deer, at least not in the wild. I was close enough to almost pat her. It was almost unreal to be so close to such a beautiful animal and not scare her off.

According to the staff member I spoke to about this doe, this particular doe was not an original resident of the sanctuary. But, due to over development of the area and other factors, she has found her way to the sanctuary.

The 5 mile loop is well marked (remember the yellow path leads back to the visitor center). There is an observation tower on the main trail (to the right of the trail). It was pretty shaky but it gave some great views.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

On the walkway to the tower, I made a friend. This immature redtail hawk is another animal that wasn’t originally at the sanctuary. But, he or she has made a home there and the bird didn’t seem to shy until I got too close when he or she flew off onto a tree branch.

Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful park. Even if you’re not into photography, birding or looking for wildlife you would still enjoy a scenic hike on the trails.

There are two markers on a pole next to the observation tower displaying the levels of two of the big floods in the area (the floods of 1936 and 1984).

I was a little disappointed too not see any turtles, frogs or other critters. But, I saw and heard lots of chipmunks. Either the last chipmunk in the right hand corner is very long or I should have changed my photo settings. I thought it looked funny so I kept it!

Audubon sanctuaries are always a safe bet for a fun time at a clean and well maintained park with a lot of wildlife and Arcadia was no different.

Please connect with me on Facebook! New England Nomad

12 Comments | tags: birds, deer, doe, hawk, Hiking, Massachusetts, New England, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, plants, trees, water | posted in birds, hawk, Massachusetts, New England, park, photographs, photography, photos, Uncategorized, wildlife

New England Nomad

Tag Archives: birds

Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary (Natick, MA)

Bear Brook State Park (Allenstown, NH)

World’s End (Hingham, MA)

Odiorne Point State Park (Rye, NH)

Dorrs Pond (Manchester, NH)

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary (Topsfield, MA)

Robinson State Park (Feeding Hills, MA)

Colt State Park (Bristol, RI)

Dinosaur Footprints Reservation (Holyoke, MA)

Mass Audubon Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary (Easthampton, MA)

Categories

Social