Wolbach Farm Interpretive Trail, Post 1

Wet Meadow

In 2002, SVT initiated an annual survey to identify and manage the diurnal (active during the day) bird population on the property. Overall, 40 species of breeding birds have been identified, nine of which are considered partners in flight priority birds.

The highest diversity in bird population on the property was identified in the field and along the field edge. Examples of birds you might see here are barn swallows and brown-headed cowbirds. You may also spot mammals such as coyotes in the field.

Barn Swallows

The barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) is recognizable by its deeply forked tail and tendency to make its nests in man-made structures. Barn swallows are the most widely distributed swallow in the world and can be found all across North America. To attract these swallows to your yard, you can't rely on bird feeders or suet. Barn swallows feed on a diet of insects, and they will also eat eggshells, oyster shells, and small pebbles in order to break up insects during digestion and to add calcium to their diet.

Photo: A barn swallow, photographed by Steve Forman.

Brown-Headed Cowbirds

Another common diurnal bird found in grassland habitats is the brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater). Unlike most birds, the cowbird is a brood parasite, meaning the female birds put all their energy into laying eggs and don’t build a nest for themselves.

Instead, they lay their eggs within another birds nest and abandon them. Most birds do not recognize cowbird eggs and raise them as their own.

Juvenile cowbirds hatch earlier than other species and develop faster, giving them a distinct advantage for survival. Because young cowbirds will smother smaller birds in the nest and crush eggs, it has been implicated in the decline of certain endangered species such as the black-capped vireo (Vireo atricapilla) and Kirtland’s warbler (Setophaga kirtlandii).

Photo: A brown-headed cowbird, photographed by Steve Forman.

Coyotes

During the cold months, most birds that use the wet meadow habitat fly south. Many mammals, however, stay behind and continue to use the barn field as an area to hunt. Coyotes (Canis latrans), for example, are a common animal spotted hunting and traveling on SVT land. Currently, coyote populations are at an all-time high due to their wide-ranging diet and adaptability. These canines are considered opportunistic feeders and can even thrive in urban environments where they eat whatever can be found.

Photo: A coyote, photographed by Lisa Eggleston.

To get to the second stop, cross Wolbach Road and enter the Founders' Garden on your left, via the path near the kiosk.

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