The Land Preservation Society of Norton acknowledges that it owns land which was once a part of the original Wampanoag territory when explorers and settlers arrived in the 17th century.
Nature News: This Barred Owl was recently spotted at the L.A. Foster Nature Preserve.
Strix Baria
(Courtesy of James Bizarro)
Some of the birds observed on the LPS Bird Walk at Edith Read Conservation Area, May 18, 2024
Great-Crested Flycatcher
(Myiarchus crinitus)
courtesy of Peter Galvin
Barred Owl
(Strix varia)
courtesy of Kurt Bischoff
Wood Thrush
(Hylocichla mustelina)
courtesy of Peter Galvin
The Past, Present and Future of Birds
Flight Paths
Prof. Jessie Knowlton presented a fascinating talk on May 19, 2024 at the Annual Joint Norton Historical Society and Land Preservation Society. Here are some of the topics she covered.
Disappearing Species
2.9 Billion birds are gone since 1970.
Some Groups are Disappearing Very Rapidly
Grassland birds are the hardest hit. Their population has been reduced by 53%.
In contrast, Eastern Forest birds have been reduced by 17%.
Some Groups are Increasing in Numbers.
Waterfowl, raptors and turkeys have made gains.
Causes of Bird Mortality
By far, cats are most responsible. They are estimated to have killed over 2 billion birds. Collisions with buildings and vehicles, poisons, and electrical lines have huge impacts as well.
How to Help Birds
Keep cats indoors, make windows safer, don't use pesticides, plant native plants, leash dogs, and buy bird-friendly coffee, chocolate and tea, if possible. Join, donate to or otherwise help LPS of Norton!
Watch The Talk
The entire talk will be available soon thanks to the Norton Media Center. We will link to the video when it is available.