On Sunday, May 17, 2026, 28 interested birders participated in the field trip to the Naugatuck State Forest West Block. We hiked along several footpaths as well as the gravel section of Hunter’s Mountain Road. The hike took us through brushy fields and forested habitat and past scenic woodland ponds, and a power line cut. We observed a nice variety of birds at each location. The highlights were an Acadian Flycatcher that we observed singing above the stream at the beginning of the ravine trail, a Solitary Sandpiper on a log in the woodland pond and a Hooded Warbler singing on territory from deep in the woods. Other notable species observed were: Great Blue Heron, Broad-winged Hawk, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Pileated Woodpecker, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Veery, Louisiana Waterthrush, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Prairie Warbler, and Scarlet Tanager. Over 50 species were observed in total. We all had a wonderful time hiking in this expansive forest with varied habitat. We’re looking forward to going back there again next year!
Chris Loscalzo
Photos courtesy of Frank Mantlik
