May is a time of anticipation, expectation, and joy as the songs of the first migrants announce their arrival. This is a time when the Merlin Song ID app feature is especially useful. The American Robin is a well-known and recognized member of the Thrush Family. But it is the Hermit Thrush that won the vote in 1941 to become the Vermont state bird. Why? Because it is a native Vermonter (breeding here) and a summer visitor! Sometimes difficult to see foraging for insects on the ground, this brown bird has a distinctive rufus tail. The belly is white with spots on the throat. But what really distinguishes and identifies this as a Hermit Thrush is its song. The beginning note is a strong, single whistle followed by soft, echo-like flute tones. Appropriate for birders of all skill levels, the walks run along uneven terrain on forest and meadow trails and around the main house.

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