1. BIRDHOUSE HEAVEN
Here is an easy, 1/2 mile loop in the suburbs of southwestern RI, a nice little stop on your way to the beach perhaps.
Westerly, RI

RETIRED 28 APRIL 2006 but the associated bonus box is still there: see below.

From Wilcox Park and library in the center of Westerly, RI continue easterly on Route 1 North (up hill on Granite St. and then along Franklin St) about 1 mile to the third light on Franklin St. With the Mobil gas station in the triangle directly in front of you, bear right of the station onto East Avenue. Go exactly 1 mile to a hidden driveway on the left marked by stone pillars on either side. Although you might never have guessed, this is the main entrance to Moore Woods. Park in here next to an old brown shed (shed removed in 2002). Walk east past the red gate (not too fast - jogging is prohibited here!), with a stonewall on your right. Pass through the first stonewall opening and curve gently right (south), admiring the variety of trees that were planted here over the years. Just before the second stonewall opening swing left and eastward onto cushy pine needles. (Going through the opening will take you onto a nice short loop through another small portion of the Moore Woods property which you might like to visit now or save for the walk back.)

With stonewall and open field on your right, soon pass through another stonewall and begin to count birdhouses. How many can you find? Turn left (north) just before a metal gate and pass more birdhouses in the surrounding fields. Turn right (east again) through the next stonewall break. From the silver maple on your left, head generally southeast toward the big spruces. 15 steps due south from between the second and third spruces should take you to your treasure. Let us know your birdhouse count! (Hint: Further exploration of the area may lead you to more birdhouses and foundations, but be on the lookout for poison ivy when going off trail.)

55. LITTLE BIRD Here is an easy, 1/2 mile loop in the suburbs of southwestern RI, a nice little stop on your way to the beach perhaps.

"Birdhouse Heaven" has been retired, but for those still interested in looking for the little "Bonus Bird", after entering into the main part of the park past the house on the right, go to that second stone wall opening that leads to the southern part of the property. From the sign near that opening, head east along the stone wall, then south with the path. From the twin trunk cedar on the left, take about another 50 steps to another cedar on your right. Look left here low in the bottom of the stone wall behind a small trap door for the lonely little bird, wishing someone would carve a tiny little bird stamp to replace him, or keep him company! Please close the "cage" carefully. Thanks.

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