>> UPCOMING EVENTS <<
ECOLOGY & CONSERVATION OF
BARN & CLIFF SWALLOWS
by Mara Silver
Wednesday June 19th 6:30 p.m.*
East Quabbin Land Trust Office, 120 Ridge Road, Hardwick
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Aerial insectivores, birds that catch insects while in flight, are declining in northeastern North America This group includes Cliff Swallows and Barn Swallows, both of which breed in agricultural settings; they use barns for nesting and forage in open fields. Reasons for the decline of these two species include habitat loss, climate change, agricultural intensification, and pesticides. But landowners are uniquely poised to directly help in the conservation of these native swallow species! Join us for Mara Silver's presentation on the relatively simple techniques she has developed over the past 25 years to encourage nesting success of Cliff Swallows and Barn Swallows at active nesting sites and to attract them to new nesting sites. The presentation will provide tips for creating and enhancing habitat for these two species by, for example, installing artificial nests, giving birds access to buildings, and maintaining mud sources. Additionally, there will be a display of artificial nests and printed information for participants.
Following the program we’ll car-pool to visit the nearby Korzec Farm to observe Barn Swallows in typical habitat. 
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Mara Silver has been studying swallows for over 25 years. She works with various organizations and agencies throughout New England and Canada on swallow conservation projects. She holds a Masters Degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation from UMass- Amherst. For her Masters Thesis she inventoried Bank Swallow habitat along the Connecticut River
in Massachusetts. *Pizza served at 6 p.m. ~ RSVP requested ~ Contact 413-477-8229 or chenshaw@EQLT.org ~ Photos by Tom Murray ~ |