New England Discovery’s Wildlife Inventory Project members help to collect field data by monitoring wildlife activity in local open space areas.
By locating and documenting critical habitat (areas used for feeding, beds, corridors etc.), local areas of importance to wildlife can be identified.
Accurate, confirmed data is provided on request to conservation organizations, schools and local planning agencies.
Volunteers are needed to help with field data collection. Training is provided in survey methods and identification of specific wildlife tracks and sign.
The data collection period runs from January 1 to April 15. During that time, participants are asked to spend 2 hours per week recording wildlife sightings and track and sign data.
Current survey sites are in Amesbury and Newburyport, Massachusetts.
All experience levels are welcome. For more information, attend one of our planning meetings or email us at: info@newenglanddiscovery.com
| Notes to Volunteers |
| 2007/2008 Seasons |
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Last winter, with the continued help and support of the Powow River Watershed Council, we moved forward with our exploration of The Town Forest and Woodsom Farm in Amesbury, Massachusetts.
In Newburyport and Newbury, Massachusetts, we increased our efforts along The Little River Nature Trail and public land in the vicinity of The Common Pasture, including Coffin's Island. In both areas, the focus was on the activity and movement of Red Fox, Gray Fox, Coyote and Fisher. We also looked for high use areas for River Otter and Mink. Thanks to EVERYONE for a great season! See you next winter. Bob Metcalfe |
| 2008 Season |
| Planning Meeting and First Field Day |
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It seems as if we are having a winter with snow in it at last !
Hopefully it willl last long enough to get some tracking in. I have scheduled an indoor planning meeting for: Tueaday, January 22, 2008 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at The Amesbury Health Center Carriage Room 24 Morrill Place Amesbury, Ma We can go over plans and get groups organized then. The first field session wil be: Saturday, January 26, 2008 9:00 AM to Noon at the Town Forest in Amesbury. and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at The Little River Nature Trail in Newburyport, MA. New volunteers and anyone interested in learning more about the project are welcome at both the indoor and field sessions. I'm looking foward to seeing everyone again. If you can't make the planning meeting but are still interested in participating this year, or if you have any questions Call me at 978-361-7569. Bob Metcalfe |
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Coffin's Inland Progress
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This was the second season of our inventory on Coffin's Island in Newbury and Newburyport, Massachusetts. Even though snow conditions were difficult thru most of the winter, we did find tracks of many different mammals that are using the area. The weasel family was well represented, with Ermine, Mink and Fisher tracks present. Thanks to Beverly and Ross for their work there. Next season we will continue on Coffin's Island and other areas of the common pasture.
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| (Photo: Fisher Trail by Ross Wescott) | ||||
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Camp Kent Moose
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That's no long legged dog headed for the restrooms at Camp Kent.
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Sighted by Rebecca Schwer and Chris Gette on August 27, 2007.
After the restroom stop, the Moose headed toward Battis Farm. |
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Gray Fox!
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Gray fox tracks were documented on Woodsom Farm in both 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2007. The most common places were along wetland edge, next to forested areas. Are these animals living or hunting in the area, or just traveling through? How do they interact with the Red Fox and Coyote that are also there? Maybe this season will answer these questions.
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| (Photo: Measuring Gray Fox tracks in the snow) | ||||
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Tracks along the Powow
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After Rebecca and Chris told us about their Moose sighting (see above) we checked along the Powow River, and sure enough there were fresh Moose tracks along the river bank.
This should provide some added excitement to this year's upcoming field work ! |
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Lake Gardner
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A brief walk around the lake on a warm day last February showed some interesting animal activity. Highlights were Mink and Racoon tracks in the mud, along with tracks and opened Mussel shells from a Muskrat's lunch. Thanks to Gale, Nanette, Dot, Marie, Mary and Linda for bringing me along.
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Leave No Trace | Photos
