The Best Spots to See Spring Birds at Drumlin Farm

Spring migration is in full swing as birds head north through Massachusetts to breed. Resident species are also out and about as they begin to nest and rear their young.  

Drumlin Farm’s varied habitats of fields, forests, and ponds provide an oasis for birds to flock to, creating an explosion of activity. We’ve got your guide to the best hotspots around the sanctuary to view birds this season, whether you’re looking for lifers or admiring returning favorites. 

Waterbirds at the Wildlife Blind

There are several ponds around the sanctuary where you can view waterbirds, but the wildlife blind by Deer Pond allows you to go incognito. Watch in the wings for skittish Wood Ducks on a nearby branch or out on the water.  

Great Blue Herons wade in the shallows, while Belted Kingfishers perch around the edge of the pond in search of fish. Songbirds like Yellow Warblers and American Redstart also flit around in the nearby trees. Listen closely and you may hear Baltimore Orioles and Northern Parulas. 

Buntings at Boyce Field

Meander down the Boyce Field Loop and stop by “Rock Island,” a wooded oasis that stands out in the middle of the field. Song and Savannah sparrows, Yellow Warblers, Northern Mockingbirds, and Gray Catbirds (among others) take refuge in the dense vegetation. 

In the surrounding fields, Killdeer walk around on the ground in search of insects. Indigo Buntings hang out in the wooded edges of the field, and later in the year will come in close to enjoy the seeds provided by our CSA’s pick-your-own flowers. 

Breeding Bobolinks in Bobolink Field

Walk from the Boyce Field Loop to the Overlook Connector, and you’ll see an expanse of native grasses dotted with bird boxes. In early spring, the field is mowed, leaving a border of tall grasses around the edge. This way, the field grasses reach the perfect height for migrating and breeding Bobolinks in late spring and early summer. Male Bobolinks perform displays to attract mates by flying over the fields. Eastern Bluebirds and Tree Swallows also nest in the nearby bird boxes.  

Songbirds at Bathtub Field

Travel to the far point of the Hayfield Loop to find Bathtub Field. The trees around the edge of the field are favored by songbirds like Pine Warblers, Black-throated Blue Warblers, and Scarlet Tanagers. Keep your ears perked, as you may hear them before you see them. Flycatchers and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks also enjoy the habitat where forest and field meet and are drawn to the hidden pond that lies a bit deeper in the forest beyond. 

Hummingbirds around the Farmyard

Take a break between visits with our sheep, pigs, and goats to search for some of the many bird species flitting around the farmyard. The barns that house the farm animals make the perfect nesting spots for Barn Swallows, and a variety of sparrows fly between low tree branches around the trail. 

Flowers blooming in the Learning and Pollinator Gardens draw Ruby-throated Hummingbirds zipping around collecting nectar. Eastern Bluebirds and Indigo Buntings frequently visit the open fields and can sometimes be seen resting on fences. 

Start your Spring Birding Adventure

Search for some of the birds highlighted here and uncover much more during your next visit. Check out the trail map and start planning your route