Barred owl at Deering Oaks Park in Portland on Jan. 11, 2019. Jeff Cherry photo

Maine winters can be dark and barren, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a great time to see birds. 

The colder months herald the arrival of dark-eyed juncos, the snowbirds, and other visitors such as finches (pine siskins and pine grosbeaks), which follow the cyclical crops of conifer tree cones. And they aren’t alone. Plenty of cold-adapted resident species, such as crows and blue jays, stick around, too. 

For those unwilling or unable to venture out, snow can draw birds to backyard feeders en masse, making them easy to observe from the warmth of indoors. Plus, they are easier to spot. With few leaves on many trees and a monochrome landscape, winter birds often make themselves known.

The menagerie of winter species can vary depending on the weather, what your yard looks like and where you live. But there’s often a nest hidden nearby. And one might wonder how they manage to survive. 

“The more people become aware of the birds around them, the more they awaken to the natural world,” said Nick Lund, Maine Audubon advocacy and outreach manager. “[They gain] an improved understanding of their habitats, which trees particular birds prefer, how they move based on the weather, what they like to eat and how they eat.” 

Staying curious can make a difference. 

For those embarking on Audubon tours or birding at their leisure this winter, Lund pointed to phone apps like eBird and Merlin Bird ID, resources he said have broken down barriers to ornithological pursuits. 

Now, people can track avifauna while contributing to a broader scientific database. Researchers receive data from millions of worldwide users, leading to information on bird movement and trends. Among the findings: Some species in Maine that used to head for warmer climates are staying put. 

Eastern bluebird (sialia sialis) at Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust Salt Bay Farm in Damariscotta on Dec. 13, 2016. Jeff Cherry photo

Pemaquid Peninsula birdwatching

Jeff Cherry, president of the Midcoast Maine Audubon Chapter, lives in Newcastle, where he spends most of his time birding within a 15-mile radius of his home.

A retired woodworker and antiques dealer, his passion for avifauna began as a Bowdoin College student pursuing ornithology. In 1976, his class visited Damariscotta Mills, where they spotted bald eagles — a rare sighting before the population rebounded from its seriously endangered status. 

From that moment on, he was hooked.

Yellow-bellied sapsucker (sphyrapicus varius) on Lewis Point Road in Newcastle. Jeff Cherry photo

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The Midcoast Maine Audubon Chapter aims to facilitate two monthly bird tours, which Cherry often leads in Knox, Waldo and Lincoln counties. 

Sometimes, there are only a handful of participants, and others, upwards of 30 people tag along. While attendance fluctuates depending on the destination, time of year and weather conditions, Cherry said the variety of enthusiasts’ skill levels stays consistent.

“We have regulars who join us,” Cherry said. “But we also welcome newcomers. There’s nothing better than watching their eyes light up their first time out.” 

He described winter as one of the most magical times for birding, grouping common species into three categories: those that are present year-round (chickadees, crows, blue jays, various seagull species, and mallard and black ducks), migratory breeds (warblers) that migrate south but return to breed, and others (common goldeneye and the American tree sparrow) that arrive from farther north. 

“This time of year, downy woodpeckers with their tidy red caps frequent the feeder,” Cherry said. “They swoop in to feast. If I ever get around to hanging a garland this year, I will try to arrange it to mimic the arc of their flight.” 

In Cherry’s opinion, the blue jay’s plumage appears even bluer against the backdrop of snow. One of his favorite events is when dark-eyed juncos return to snack on safflower seeds that the tufted titmouse pushed out of the feeder in search of sunflower seeds, which they prefer. 

In neighborhoods along the Pemaquid Peninsula, hawks perch in the bare branches of trees, in plain view. Meanwhile, the crows, aware of their presence, remain in constant surveillance.

Lesser black-backed gulls (larus fiscus) in New Harbor, Bristol, on Feb. 20, 2024. Jeff Cherry photo

Watch, learn and snap a photo

When birdwatchers understand the habitats and behaviors of species, they can identify specific trails for spotting them. To find a scarlet tanager, one might hike through mature deciduous forests where these birds are known to breed.

That said, various factors, like weather, can hinder that predictability.

“You will always find something if you approach birdwatching with an open mind,” Cherry said. “It’s almost impossible not to spot birds — even rare species. Forty years ago, eagles were uncommon. If you spend time outdoors now, you’ll notice they’re everywhere.” 

He pointed to the cardinal, red-bellied woodpecker, turkey and bluebird populations, which have also significantly rebounded.  

In Cherry’s opinion, witnessing the return of northern shrikes — whether through binoculars, cameras or the naked eye — is an inspiring experience. He encouraged locals to familiarize themselves with neighborhood birds this winter and to track their observations.

A pair of evening grosbeaks at William Broussard’s backyard feeder. Purportedly, their eastern population has decreased substantially, but they can be found in small numbers breeding in New England, and their numbers will swell in some winters during “irruptive” years. William Broussard photo

Brunswick, Topsham, Bath birdwatching

Brunswick birder William Broussard dates his love for birds back to childhood. He used to identify birds for fun — a hobby that, although solitary, “felt very social.”

“Birdwatching means observing how species interact with the environment and studying their behavior,” Broussard said. “Growing up, my mother was a gardener, so I spent a lot of time tuning into the insects and flowers — and, of course, birds. At my home now, I’ve arranged shrubs and bird feeders to attract birds to my space, so I can watch them from inside, too.” 

Putting his garden to rest this winter, Broussard admired blue jays storing seeds under bark and in the ground. 

“In the fall, their brains increase in size to help them remember where they stashed their seeds for winter,” Broussard said. “In the spring and summer, they’ll grab a peanut from the feeder and eat it immediately. But when the weather turns, they’ll take one, fly off, dig a hole in the ground and bury the peanut. They can remember where it was buried after snowfall and dig it up months later.” 

Behavior isn’t the only thing that changes. In winter, birds’ diets change from insects or worms to fruits and nuts, as do their nesting habits. 

Before snipping goldenrods or weedy plants, Broussard urged locals to consider the white-throated sparrows that seek refuge. He has seen Carolina wrens create homes in even the strangest spots — like coffee pots and canoes left outdoors. 

“We play a role in advocating for the birds,” Broussard said. “What we do in our yards matters.” 

Brunswick, Bath and Topsham residents can attract tufted titmice, black-capped chickadees and northern cardinals by placing sunflower seeds in their feeders this winter. Adding suet can also attract hairy, downy and red-bellied woodpeckers. 

Even without feeders, the Midcoast will inevitably witness the arrival of dark-eyed juncos, pine siskin and pine grosbeak finches searching for spruce and pine tree conifer seeds. 

William Broussard’s favorite duck, the wood duck, breeds in Maine and winters farther south — a few stick around the Lewiston-Auburn area. William Broussard photo

‘It’s not like having pets; it’s more like reverence’

Like Cherry, Broussard has recorded his observations on eBird since 2013, which has allowed him to track notable shifts. 

For example, most sparrows tend to leave during winter, although he has noticed that they have stayed for the past three years, which he attributes to a warming climate. 

“It’s not like having pets; it’s more like reverence,” Broussard said. “When you notice the birds in your backyard, you realize you coexist with something much greater. Seeing them evokes joy, and studies have found that observing birds in nature can reduce stress and improve your mood — it’s a natural form of medicine.”

To ensure birds remain in the environment, Broussard has planted native plants and shrubs in his yard to create a suitable habitat. 

“Birding moves you beyond people and politics,” Broussard said. “It allows you to enjoy the presence of other beings even in the harshest of seasons.” 

For those hoping to embark on their expeditions, Broussard shared some of his favorite local trails: 

• The Bowdoin College Schiller Coastal Studies Center in Harpswell, abundant with sea ducks, shorebirds, eiders and gulls.

• Green Point Wildlife Management Area in Dresden, which offers access to brackish tidal water habitats along Merrymeeting Bay.

• Sabattus Pond, purportedly an excellent spot for duck watching. 

First-time users of eBird can start a free account to chart their observations or follow along with Cherry’s adventures near the Twin Villages @JeffCherry or Broussards’ Brunswick-Bath outings @WillBroussard.

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A mainstay on Ogunquit, Maine’s Marginal Way since 1963, the Oarweed Restaurant says it will do “whatever it takes” to reopen for the 2025 season after a blaze destroyed much of the building Saturday night.

“Even though there is devastation and sadness, there is hope… rainbows, rum punches, stuffed potatoes, and more hope, for 2025 opening day!” the restaurant posted on Facebook Sunday.

Firefighters were called to Perkins Cove, a historic fishing cove and top tourist destination, at 7:17 p.m. Saturday for a reported structure fire on Perkins Cove Road, according to Seacoastonline.

When they arrived, they discovered heavy fire in Uniques and Antiques, the business that abuts the Oarweed, and the restaurant.

Amid freezing temperatures, a second alarm fire was declared and several surrounding fire departments in southern Maine responded.

Uniques and Antiques, known for its sale of Christmas heirlooms, posted on Facebook Saturday night: “This is a heartbreaking shock and we appreciate everyone who has reached out. We ask for continued prayers for all, including our neighbors at Oarweed Restaurant and our other friends in the Cove. Thank you to first responders. We will update more when we can.”

The Oarweed, a classic Maine seafood restaurant that first opened in the summer of 1963, was closed for the season when the fire struck.

In a hopeful Facebook post Sunday, just a mere hours after the blaze was put out, the restaurant said employees will be “working hard” for the 2025 season. They cited cubing potatoes for chowder, prepping the “blueberry splash” and loading up the bar, despite the devastation caused by the fire.

“Everyone is safe and ready to do whatever it takes to make our beloved Oarweed ready to go on!” the Oarweed wrote. “Thank you to all for your support and love.”

In March, Real Simple magazine named the town of Ogunquit the No. 1 vacation destination of 2024.

Ace Flagg is a power forward on the Greensboro Day School boys basketball team. Flagg will attend the University of Maine next year. Auden Forsberg/Greensboro Day School

It was a hard decision to make. For a while, at least.

The summer before Ace Flagg’s senior year was nearing its end, as was the time to make a decision on his college basketball future. He had plenty of options to choose from — Division I colleges from across the country had made their pitches.

One, though, always stood out.

“When I started weighing all the options and everything that it meant to me, I think it became pretty obvious, pretty quickly,” he said. “I knew I wanted to come home.”

It’s been nearly two months since the Newport native announced his commitment to the University of Maine men’s basketball team.

It made news around the country, and fans celebrated when Flagg made his homecoming official. After all, Ace and his twin brother, Cooper — a freshman star at Duke — have captivated the state since their high school debuts at Nokomis Regional High three years ago.

“I liked everything about it. It was great to see the attention it got, and all the support and love from all the Mainers,” he said. “It was amazing. It helped me so much. It made the whole thing a lot easier. I’ve been blessed to be able to play in Maine and have the support of everyone there.”

Flagg feels fortunate, as does his future team.

“I just love what he brings to the table, in terms of his toughness, his basketball IQ, his inside-out skill set,” Maine coach Chris Markwood said. “He’s our type of guy. He’s a Maine guy, hard-working, tough, hard-nosed and a great feel for the game.”

The announcement, though, was only part of what’s been an eventful season for Flagg. He’s also at his third school in four years, playing his senior year for Greensboro Day School in Greensboro, North Carolina. He’s adjusting to life without Cooper, on the court without his brother for the first time.

Ace Flagg averaged 12.7 points and 7.2 rebounds through his first 15 games for Greensboro Day School. Auden Forsberg/Greensboro Day School

Everything has been new: the environment, teammates, coaches and friends. He’s had to learn a new game, one that’s going to better prepare him for the college level that awaits him, and embrace a new role as a team leader.

“So far, so good,” Flagg said in a phone interview this week. “I wouldn’t say I was anxious. More just interested … to see what it would be like.

“It’s been a smooth transition, and I honestly feel like I’ve been here longer than I have.”

‘He’s unique’

Flagg said Greensboro reminds him more of the schools he grew up attending than Montverde Academy in Florida did.

“It feels a lot more like a public school, almost,” he said. “Greensboro has a more open kind of feel to it. … (There are) a lot of local kids, and not a lot of kids from all over the country.”

The kid from Maine, however, can only blend in so much.

“They do like to call me a Yankee, that is true,” he said. “They like to try to be country boys, but I tell them north is country, south isn’t. Which they don’t like.”

Flagg has made it a point to ingratiate himself with not just the team, but the community. Several of his closest friends aren’t basketball players. When Greensboro coach Freddy Johnson hosted a rec league with teams of third-, fourth- and fifth-graders, he asked Ace to work with a couple of the teams. Flagg instead spent hours working with all six.

“He’s unique,” Johnson said. “I like being around him, because he’s just such a good kid.”

Cooper Flagg, left, and his brother, Ace, share a laugh during a youth basketball camp on Aug. 10 in Orono. Anna Chadwick/Morning Sentinel

He’s also had to adjust to not sharing the court with Cooper for the first time since middle school. Flagg said there’s now more on his shoulders, which can help him as he prepares for college.

“Playing with Cooper makes the game easier,” Flagg said. “After playing with him for so long, not having him just makes everything tougher. You have to do a lot more on your own when you don’t have a player like him with you. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s going to push me to be even better than I would have been before.”

Being Cooper’s brother, let alone twin, creates a shadow that is tough to escape, given Cooper’s status as the country’s most coveted college prospect. Ace, however, said there were “no hard feelings at all” on his part as he watches the buzz around Cooper soar.

“I’m super proud of him and everything he’s doing. He deserves everything that he’s got, he’s worked so hard. Seeing all this attention for him is just amazing,” he said. “I want him to succeed more than maybe he does. I have nothing but love for him and hope nothing but the best for him.”

Growing his game

Johnson didn’t have much of a scouting report on Flagg when he came aboard in July.

“I really didn’t know much about him, other than he was a good basketball player,” said Johnson, who earlier this month became the sixth high school coach to reach 1,200 career wins. “He has a lot of respect from a lot of different people.”

Johnson quickly saw the tools Flagg had, and the set of abilities that have helped him average 12.7 points and 7.2 rebounds per game (as of Tuesday) while leading the 13-2 Bengals in minutes.

“His feet are unbelievable,” he said. “He has such good movement, he knows how to fake and get guys up. He can go around a 6-9 guy. … He passes like a point guard.”

It’s been a season of adjustment and acclimation, however. A pure forward who played as a big man with Nokomis and Montverde Academy in Florida, the 6-foot-7 Flagg has been playing more on the perimeter for a Greensboro team that likes to run and has four players around the center playing positions based on matchups.

“I’ve started to play out further, closer maybe to a 3 (small forward) than a 4 (power forward), and playing a lot out on the wing,” he said. “It’s one of the things that I needed. Playing that 4, 5 role at 6-(foot-)7, it doesn’t usually work out. I knew I needed to start transitioning outside and sharpen up my skills there.”

Ace Flagg looks for an open teammate while playing for Montverde Academy during a game in Portland on Jan. 6. Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer

It didn’t click right away. Flagg was unselfish to a fault while playing with his new teammates, and Johnson spoke to him about taking over with the ball.

“Around game 5, 6, I reminded him that he needed to be more assertive,” he said. “He wanted to keep all his teammates happy by sharing the ball, and I explained to him that we’re not running five plays for him to catch the ball and throw it to somebody else. We want him to take it and score.”

The chat worked.

“If you saw him play the first three games and you saw him play the last three games, he’s a totally different player,” Johnson said.

A home state spotlight

It’s not as if Ace doesn’t generate his own hype and attention. Johnson said attendance at Greensboro games, both home and away, has climbed, and that the opportunity to cheer or jeer the player they’ve seen in stories and video clips online is likely what’s brought the fans out.

“He has his fan section that comes to cheer against him,” Johnson said. “We draw more on the road than we ever have.”

When he committed to Maine on Oct. 30, the news stretched beyond the state and even landed as a headline on ESPN’s homepage. He’s been in the spotlight for a while, but Flagg said those moments don’t get old.

“It’s definitely a little weird,” he said. “Growing up, you’re always watching games on ESPN. Seeing yourself on there is definitely a strange feeling.”

Flagg announced his Maine commitment on Instagram, sharing a SportsCenter post, and the post has garnered 215,000 likes and 710 comments. News quickly reverberated around the state and zipped through the Orono campus.

“When the news hit, that was the big talk around the rec (center). ‘Ace is coming, Ace is coming,’” said Landen Chase, 19, a UMaine sophomore. “I had a friend who texted me, he doesn’t know a lot about basketball, but he texted me and his whole family was curious about why Ace was coming and what happened. It was cool. It was all around campus, everyone was talking about it.”

It’s buzz that hasn’t been there for a program that went 28-105 between the 2017-18 and 2021-22 seasons.

Ace Flagg drives to the basket while playing for the Greensboro Day School boys basketball team. Flagg will attend the University of Maine next year. Auden Forsberg/Greensboro Day School

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“They want to win (at Maine). It’s a winning mentality there,” Chase said. “People feel like, with Ace, this is going to step up our program and make games more enjoyable, and give us a better chance to win.”

That’s Markwood’s interest as he continues to try to build Maine into a contender in America East. Sure, having more eyeballs on the program is nice, and Markwood knows the Black Bears’ profile got a boost when Flagg signed.

“There’s obviously a major buzz behind him and obviously his brother, Coop. In Maine, those two guys, everybody’s watching them grow and evolve in the highest level,” he said. “I think everybody’s excited for Ace and for us, that we’re able to get a player of Ace’s caliber to come back home and represent our state.”

What Markwood is most interested in is what Flagg can do on the court, and how he can help continue the upward trend of a team that’s gone 36-39 since Markwood took over in 2022.

“He’s got a really good knack inside, he grew up as a big man, so he’s got great touch around the rim from 15 feet and in, and now he’s really added and developed his game around the perimeter,” Markwood said. “You’ve seen the evolution, and he’s still only scratching the surface.”

That’s Flagg’s focus as well.

“I’ve never played basketball in my life with the intention of not winning,” he said. “I’m trying to bring everything I can to win. That’s what I want to do.”

The pressure’s already there. Markwood said he won’t want to add to it.

“I want Ace to enjoy the process on his own journey, at his own speed,” he said. “I don’t want him to feel like he’s got to come in right away and be Michael Jordan. He’s got to come in and be himself.”

Whatever expectations await him, Flagg knows he’s ready for them.

“I look at it as a positive,” he said. “Being able to be recognized by anyone is a blessing. … I would never take it for granted. I think every day that I’m blessed for everything I have.”

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