Perhaps the finest remaining location for grassland species in Burlington County is the privately owned horse farm known as Brightview Farm.The owner, Christine Connelly, is very interested in birds and maintains the farm to maximize species diversity. Fortunately she also harbors a passion for sharing this diversity with other bird enthusiasts. Most of this strikingly beautiful farm is pastureland, with several hundred acres, but it also contains a small swamp on the northwestern boundary, a small nursery (where the Dickcissels bred) and deciduous woods on the hillside behind the horse barn. Visit it and you will be enraptured not only with the grassland birds but also the shear beauty of the farm itself.
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At Brightview it is the grassland species that attract most attention. Arrive early in the day in early May and you will be treated to a chorus of Eastern Meadowlark, Bobolink, Savannah Sparrow, and Grasshopper Sparrow song. The displaying male Bobolinks rise into the air in full song, and then flutter earthward displaying their finery in hopes of attracting a partner. While the sparrows are much less flashy, a close look will reveal the subtle earthy tones of their plumage. |
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In 1997 and 1998 Dickcissels chose Brightview to breed, the males filling the air with their loud songs from the tops of small shrubs along the center road. Brightview is also home to many Eastern Bluebirds and Tree Swallows who nest in the boxes Christine has provided throughout the farm. The hillside woods can host migrants and a few breeding birds. Orchard and Baltimore Orioles, Indigo Bunting, Ovenbird and Yellow Warbler are always present. Common Yellowthroats can be found in the swamp. Stay alert for possible Blue and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks and Yellow-breasted Chat all of which have nested in recent years.This spring resolve to give this site at least one visit. I'm certain you'll go back again and again. |
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