long tailed ducks maine

Take a Deep-Dive With Long-Tailed Ducks

Long-tailed ducks (Clangula hyemalis) are a remarkable species of Arctic nesting sea duck commonly seen along Maine’s coast in the winter. Although long-tailed ducks have a wide distribution throughout high latitudes of the northern hemisphere, we still have lots to learn about this species. Unfortunately, the global population of long-tailed ducks is listed as Vulnerable…

purple sandpipers

Purple Sandpiper

The purple sandpiper is another one of Maine’s marvelous snowbirds. Not too long ago, we looked at some of the various Arctic snowbirds in Maine. Now, let’s look at one in particular—the purple sandpiper (Calidris maritima). The Purple Sandpiper’s Home The purple sandpiper is found on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. For the purpose…

arctic snowbirds in maine

Arctic Snowbirds in Maine

Many of us are familiar with the concept of birds heading south for the winter and returning when the weather gets a bit nicer (in fact, we may even know people who escape Maine for the warmer climates for the same reason). However, did you know that there are Arctic snowbirds that routinely travel to…

bird flu in maine

Bird Flu in Maine

Bird Flu is back in Maine and the fall and upcoming winter make it essential to follow proper biosecurity measures, not only to protect food sources but to protect other wildlife in Maine. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is better known as “bird flu.” The latest round of bird flu has devastated domestic poultry. This…