Local Natural Treasures - Bellows Falls Birdwatching
Other then watching the birds at your birdfeeder, you may not think much about bird-watching in the winter, but there are a number of local places where you can see interesting species in the winter. One of them is the “Thermal Pool” in Bellows Falls. The water in this small pond does not freeze during the winter, and so you are likely to see birds that you are unlikely to see in other places this time of year, such as Robins, Phoebes, Winter Wrens, Carolina Wrens and Wood Ducks. The water is warm enough that some insects are probably able to hatch out and provide food. The thermal pool is right near the Connecticut River, below the dam, so while you are visiting the pond you can also check out what avian species are visiting the river. Because the water is open below the dam you can sometimes see Bald Eagles there soaring through the skies. By March it is time to search that same open water for waterfowl such as male mergansers in their striking black and white breeding plumage. You may also see Golden Eyes, Hooded Mergansers and Bufflehead ducks. So bring your binoculars and stop by Bellows Falls for some birdwatching.
Directions:
From the north, enter downtown via Rockingham St. In town center, head west on Bridge Street. Take an immediate right between buildings. The road drops and curves sharply left, crossing RR tracks. The river is on the left. A short distance ahead on the right, is the small pond. From the south, enter town on Rt 121. Take a right on Bridge Street, then proceed as above.
