Founded in 1831, Mount Auburn Cemetery in Watertown/Cambridge, MA was America's first landscaped cemetery and a major inspiration for its public parks. Today Mount Auburn, a designated National Historic Landmark, remains an active cemetery and a beautiful natural setting that inspires the living. Its well-maintained grounds offer a place to observe nature. As the popularity of the Brookline Bird Club field trips at Mount Auburn indicates, few places can rival the Cemetery for observing spring warbler migration.
In 1986, the Friends of Mount Auburn Cemetery was established to promote the appreciation and preservation of the cultural, historic, and natural resources of Mount Auburn. We invite you to show your support by joining the Friends. Members receive the newsletter, Sweet Auburn; the cemetery's Annual Report; notices of seasonal lectures and walking tours; and reduced admission to all programs.
In 2004, the Friends published a 32-page guide, Birds and Birding at Mount Auburn Cemetery, with text by Christopher Leahy and illustrations by Clare Walker Leslie. The guide includes a checklist of the birds of Mount Auburn that Bob Stymeist has compiled over many years. Copies are available at the Office ($8) or by mail ($10).
For more information, contact:
Friends of Mount Auburn Cemetery
580 Mount Auburn Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: 617-547-7105
Email: friends@mountauburn.org
Website: www.mountauburn.org
General Rules For Birding In A Cemetery
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Board of Directors
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Past Presidents
BBC Home
Trip Leader Information
TRIP LEADER INFORMATION
Notes to Leaders
If you cannot lead a scheduled trip, you are responsible for finding a substitute leader. For assistance, contact BBC Board of Directors, listed in the Blue Book. If you must cancel due to bad weather or other emergency, use the BBC Email Hotline and MASSBIRD to get the word out.
Reports are very important to the BBC. Leaders are sent in advance a copy of the Massachusetts checklist, which should be filled out as soon as possible and forwarded to the Club Statistician at:Robert Stymeist
36 Lewis Avenue
Arlington, MA 02474
If a leader records either a “write-in” or rarity on the Mass. Checklist (e.g. Sedge Wren, Barn Owl, Western Kingbird) he or she should call Bill Drummond at 978-975-1167, Steve Grinley at Bird Watcher's Supply and Gift in Newburyport 978-462-0775, and Massachusetts Audubon Society (MAS) at 781-259-2148. MAS can be phoned at any time.
BROOKLINE BIRD CLUB GUIDELINES FOR TRIP LEADERS
Thank you for leading this trip. Have Fun!
Before the trip
 | Plan the itinerary including lunch and rest stops. |
| | Contact the management of private and public sites for permission to visit and regulations. |
| | Scout for key areas, road conditions, tides, etc. |
| | If you cannot lead the trip, you are responsible for finding a substitute leader. For assistance, contact BBC Board of Directors, listed in the Blue Book. |
| | If you must cancel due to extreme weather conditions or emergency, post on MASSBIRD. |
At the meeting place
| | Introduce yourself and ask others to do the same. |
| | Welcome non-members. Invite them to Join the Club and offer a brochure or Blue Book. |
| | Brief participants on the trip itinerary and birds that you expect or hope to see. |
| | Ask participants about their birding experience: encourage new birders and acknowledge experienced birders. |
| | Encourage participants to help each other and alert leader when birds are found. |
| | Encourage car-pooling. |
| | Intersperse cars with hand-held FRS radios (channel setting: 11/22). |
| | Arrange drivers familiar with the area at the end of the car caravan. |
On the trip
| | Assume responsibility for the conduct of the group. |
| | Be familiar with the BBC Code of Ethics (on the BBC Website). |
| | The use of cell phones and radios should be discrete and used for birding info only. Their use should not interfere with others using the same area. Try setting to vibrate, not ring. |
| | In the field, if your group is large, ask another experienced birder to assist at the back of the group. |
| | Carry a notebook to record trip sightings. |
| | Familiarize participants with methods to describe the location of a bird. |
| | Try to ensure that all participants see the birds. |
| | Give ID points readily observed by all. |
| | When appropriate, invite discussions of natural history, local history and conservation. |
| | Try to make the trip fun by being an enthusiastic and considerate field leader. |
After the trip
| | Thank everyone for attending the trip. |
| | If possible, review the list of birds seen. |
| | Please report rare or interesting sightings as soon as possible on MASSBIRD and to Mass Audubon for the Voice of Audubon (781-259-2148). |
| | Consider posting the trip report on MASSBIRD. |
| | Fill out the BBC field trip card and return as soon as possible to the BBC Statistician. Note the location of any unusual birds or numbers. |
| | Thanks again, and, if you have any suggestions for this list, please contact the BBC Board of Directors listed at the link above and in the Blue Book. |
Monday, January 11, 2010
2010 Pelagic Schedule
BROOKLINE BIRD CLUB PELAGIC SCHEDULE FOR 2010
SATURDAY, JUNE 26, 2010: 4AM - 9PM: Hyannis to off-shore areas.
Hydrographer and/or Veatch’s Canyons
Birds expected: AUDUBON’S, Greater, Sooty, Cory’s and Manx
Shearwaters, Leach’s, Wilson’s & Band-rumped
Storm Petrels, Parasitic and Pomarine, Jaegers,
Gannets, Gulls, Terns and several marine mammals.
This is the time of year to look for the Pterodroma Petrels in our Massachusetts waters. Anything is possible.
Maximum participants = 75
Cost: BBC Members: $130, Non-members: $150
See the results!
July will not run due to lack of signups.
SATURDAY, SUNDAY, AUGUST 28, 29, 2010: 5:30AM Saturday TO 6:00PM SUNDAY,
Hyannis to off-shore areas:
Hydrographer, Leach’s and Veatch’s Canyons
Birds expected: AUDUBON’S, Greater, Sooty, Cory’s and Manx
Shearwaters, Leach’s & Wilson’s Storm Petrels,
Parasitic and Pomarine Jaegers, Gannets, Gulls,
Terns and several marine mammals.
We hope to see WHITE-FACED STORM-PETRELS (50%+ chance of
them being seen in August. Also: Skuas, Bridled Tern and
other rarities. It was in August, 2007 when we found a
Macaronesian Shearwater in the Canyons so anything is
possible.
Maximum participants: 50
Cost: BBC Members: $295, Non-members: $315
See the spectacular results!
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13. 2010: 7AM - 3PM
HYANNIS TO Nantucket Shoals
Birds expected: Alcids, Gannets, Phalaropes, Shearwaters, Jaegers, Several Gulls, Fulmar, any rarities.
Maximum participants- 65 people
COSTS BBC Members: $95
Non-members: $115
See the results!
Please be advised that because of the possible increase in the cost of fuel, there may be a surcharge to cover any extra expense.
Rick Heil, Steve Mirick, Jeremiah Trimble and Marshall Iliff usually lead these trips. Our boat, the Helen H, is a very comfortable, fast, 100 foot fishing boat with a knowledgeable and enthusiastic Captain and crew. There are 38 bunks aboard which will be available to the first 38 who sign up. There is a full galley with excellent food at reasonable prices. Parking is free.
To reserve a space, send a check for the full amount made out to the 'BROOKLINE BIRD CLUB AGENT' along with a signed waiver to: Ida Giriunas, 83 Summer Ave., Reading, MA, 01867 and include either your email or your postal address for confirmation, boarding instructions and further information.
For additional information, contact Ida at 781-944-5135.
SATURDAY, JUNE 26, 2010: 4AM - 9PM: Hyannis to off-shore areas.
Hydrographer and/or Veatch’s Canyons
Birds expected: AUDUBON’S, Greater, Sooty, Cory’s and Manx
Shearwaters, Leach’s, Wilson’s & Band-rumped
Storm Petrels, Parasitic and Pomarine, Jaegers,
Gannets, Gulls, Terns and several marine mammals.
This is the time of year to look for the Pterodroma Petrels in our Massachusetts waters. Anything is possible.
Maximum participants = 75
Cost: BBC Members: $130, Non-members: $150
See the results!
July will not run due to lack of signups.
SATURDAY, SUNDAY, AUGUST 28, 29, 2010: 5:30AM Saturday TO 6:00PM SUNDAY,
Hyannis to off-shore areas:
Hydrographer, Leach’s and Veatch’s Canyons
Birds expected: AUDUBON’S, Greater, Sooty, Cory’s and Manx
Shearwaters, Leach’s & Wilson’s Storm Petrels,
Parasitic and Pomarine Jaegers, Gannets, Gulls,
Terns and several marine mammals.
We hope to see WHITE-FACED STORM-PETRELS (50%+ chance of
them being seen in August. Also: Skuas, Bridled Tern and
other rarities. It was in August, 2007 when we found a
Macaronesian Shearwater in the Canyons so anything is
possible.
Maximum participants: 50
Cost: BBC Members: $295, Non-members: $315
See the spectacular results!
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13. 2010: 7AM - 3PM
HYANNIS TO Nantucket Shoals
Birds expected: Alcids, Gannets, Phalaropes, Shearwaters, Jaegers, Several Gulls, Fulmar, any rarities.
Maximum participants- 65 people
COSTS BBC Members: $95
Non-members: $115
See the results!
Please be advised that because of the possible increase in the cost of fuel, there may be a surcharge to cover any extra expense.
Rick Heil, Steve Mirick, Jeremiah Trimble and Marshall Iliff usually lead these trips. Our boat, the Helen H, is a very comfortable, fast, 100 foot fishing boat with a knowledgeable and enthusiastic Captain and crew. There are 38 bunks aboard which will be available to the first 38 who sign up. There is a full galley with excellent food at reasonable prices. Parking is free.
To reserve a space, send a check for the full amount made out to the 'BROOKLINE BIRD CLUB AGENT' along with a signed waiver to: Ida Giriunas, 83 Summer Ave., Reading, MA, 01867 and include either your email or your postal address for confirmation, boarding instructions and further information.
For additional information, contact Ida at 781-944-5135.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Code of Ethics
Adapted from the American Birding Association
Today's birdwatchers are a powerful force for nature conservation. The number of those of us interested in birds rises continually, and it is vital that we take seriously our responsibility to avoid any harm to birds or the environment on which they depend. We believe that all birders have an obligation at all times to protect wildlife, the natural environment and the rights of others. We therefore pledge ourselves to provide leadership in meeting this obligation by adhering to the following general guidelines of good birding behavior.
Birders should always act in ways that do not endanger the welfare of birds and other wildlife. Since birds' tolerance of disturbance varies between species and seasons, it is safer to keep all disturbances to a minimum. In keeping with this principle we will:
Birders should always act in ways that do not harm the natural environment. In keeping with this principle we will:
Birders should always respect the rights of others. In keeping with this principle we will:
Birders in groups should assume special responsibilities. As group members, we will:
GENERAL RULES FOR BIRDING IN CEMETERIES
Birders visiting cemeteries should be respectful of other visitors...
FRIENDS OF MOUNT AUBURN CEMETERY
Founded in 1831, Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, MA..
FRS RADIOS - CHANNEL 11 / 22 - GUIDELINES
On January 1, 2002, the Brookline Bird Club adopted the American Birding...
Today's birdwatchers are a powerful force for nature conservation. The number of those of us interested in birds rises continually, and it is vital that we take seriously our responsibility to avoid any harm to birds or the environment on which they depend. We believe that all birders have an obligation at all times to protect wildlife, the natural environment and the rights of others. We therefore pledge ourselves to provide leadership in meeting this obligation by adhering to the following general guidelines of good birding behavior.
Birders should always act in ways that do not endanger the welfare of birds and other wildlife. Since birds' tolerance of disturbance varies between species and seasons, it is safer to keep all disturbances to a minimum. In keeping with this principle we will:
- Observe and photograph birds without knowingly disturbing them in any significant way.
- Avoid chasing or repeatedly flushing birds.
- Only sparingly use recordings and similar methods of attracting birds and not use these methods in heavily birded areas, especially during breeding season.
- Keep an appropriate distance from nests and nesting colonies so as not to disturb them or expose them to danger.
- Refrain from handling birds or eggs unless engaged in recognized research activities.
Birders should always act in ways that do not harm the natural environment. In keeping with this principle we will:
- Stay on existing roads, trails and pathways whenever possible.
- Avoid trampling vegetation or otherwise disturbing fragile habitat.
- Be especially careful near breeding habitat.
Birders should always respect the rights of others. In keeping with this principle we will:
- Respect the privacy and property of others by observing "No Trespassing" signs and by asking permission to enter private or posted lands.
- Observe all laws and the rules and regulations which govern the use of public lands.
- Practice common courtesy in our contacts with others and always behave in a manner that will enhance the image of the birding community in the eyes of the public.
Birders in groups should assume special responsibilities. As group members, we will:
- Take care to alleviate the problems and disturbances that are multiplied when more people are present.
- Act in consideration of the group's interests as well as our own, and be especially accommodating to new birders.
- Realize a camera offers no privileges to push in front of others before everyone in the group has finished watching the bird.
- When using hand-held Radios in the field, be cognizant of others and adjust the volume to a level low enough that allows you to hear a radio transmission without disturbing others. If possible, put some distance between you and others while using hand-held radios and consider the use of an "Earbud" to keep any transmissions between you and other hand-held radio users private.
- Support, by our actions, the responsibility of the group leader or leaders for the conduct of the group.
GENERAL RULES FOR BIRDING IN CEMETERIES
Birders visiting cemeteries should be respectful of other visitors...
FRIENDS OF MOUNT AUBURN CEMETERY
Founded in 1831, Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, MA..
FRS RADIOS - CHANNEL 11 / 22 - GUIDELINES
On January 1, 2002, the Brookline Bird Club adopted the American Birding...
General Rules for Birding in Cemeteries
Birders visiting cemeteries should be respectful of other visitors and mindful of cemetery rules and regulations, particularly those concerning hours and parking. Picnicking is not appropriate and is against the rules in some cemeteries, such as Mount Auburn Cemetery in Watertown/Cambridge.
Leaders of groups planning to visit cemeteries should call in advance to register. Birders should avoid touching monuments and certainly should not use them for tables or backrests. If birders observe any vandalism or disturbances, they should notify cemetery management. Many cemeteries would appreciate a report of your bird sightings for their records.
Mount Auburn Cemetery, in particular, enjoys a long history of well-mannered BBC groups and depends on the efforts made by club leaders and members to set examples for the many visitors and groups that gather there each spring. Club members can do their part to maintain this relationship by observing the birding ethics published above. Further, birders in Mount Auburn should move away from areas where memorial and funeral services are being held and give grieving visitors their privacy. Birders should use paths to avoid trampling natural plantings and should gather in only small quiet groups, not large loud crowds. Cars should be parked on roads without green lines with all wheels on the pavement. Observe "no parking" signs and requests from the cemetery staff. Move far away from the entrance area to park. Do not park on sections of roads needed for funeral processions -- Central, Lawn, Spruce, and Fountain Avenues. Food and drinks are not permitted in the cemetery. Groups planning to visit the cemetery should register in advance by calling (617)607-1986 or completing the online group registration form (Note: Spring BBC trips are already registered). Birders mindful of the above will help preserve the special peace and tranquility of Mount Auburn.
FRIENDS OF MOUNT AUBURN CEMETERY
Leaders of groups planning to visit cemeteries should call in advance to register. Birders should avoid touching monuments and certainly should not use them for tables or backrests. If birders observe any vandalism or disturbances, they should notify cemetery management. Many cemeteries would appreciate a report of your bird sightings for their records.
Mount Auburn Cemetery, in particular, enjoys a long history of well-mannered BBC groups and depends on the efforts made by club leaders and members to set examples for the many visitors and groups that gather there each spring. Club members can do their part to maintain this relationship by observing the birding ethics published above. Further, birders in Mount Auburn should move away from areas where memorial and funeral services are being held and give grieving visitors their privacy. Birders should use paths to avoid trampling natural plantings and should gather in only small quiet groups, not large loud crowds. Cars should be parked on roads without green lines with all wheels on the pavement. Observe "no parking" signs and requests from the cemetery staff. Move far away from the entrance area to park. Do not park on sections of roads needed for funeral processions -- Central, Lawn, Spruce, and Fountain Avenues. Food and drinks are not permitted in the cemetery. Groups planning to visit the cemetery should register in advance by calling (617)607-1986 or completing the online group registration form (Note: Spring BBC trips are already registered). Birders mindful of the above will help preserve the special peace and tranquility of Mount Auburn.
FRIENDS OF MOUNT AUBURN CEMETERY
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