Wildlife of Hartford: Robins, Geese and Summer Butterflies

This guide covers common wildlife in and around Hartford, Connecticut, in the Connecticut River valley. The author logged Canada Geese, American Robins, European Starlings and Eastern Gray Squirrels in green urban spaces near Hartford, and a Mourning Cloak butterfly in wooded open space toward Bristol, west of the city. All sightings came from two days in summer. In June, most were made in the late afternoon around 5 pm, when birds and squirrels were active in park-like settings. The butterfly was found in August around mid-morning, when it was warm enough for butterflies to fly. This is a virtual guide written by someone who has watched wildlife here, not a tour. You get the author's notes on each species and can message the author with questions about timing and where to look. The species here are widespread and familiar, which makes the area a good fit for beginners or a short nature walk, but sightings are never guaranteed.