Karen Goggins

Describe your volunteer activities at HCT:
I, as part of a dedicated team of volunteers, have been monitoring nest boxes at Bank Street Bogs and recording the results.  It has been a joy to observe such birds as bluebirds, tree swallows and chickadees through the whole process from nest building to nestlings taking flight.

How long have you volunteered?
I have volunteered for about seven years and have watched the project grow in size.

What do you like most about it, memorable moments?
One moment I’ll never forget was the first time I opened a nest box occupied by an adult tree swallow with its nestlings.  It looked so vulnerable but never moved as its instinct to protect its young was more powerful than any threat I presented.

What’s special about Harwich?
We originally chose Harwich because we considered it a good central location on the Cape.  We since have come to appreciate the commitment by the community to preserve open space and save special places.   It’s a quality of life issue for us.

What else do you like to do for fun or other activities or volunteering?
I’m very interested in learning more about the natural history of the Cape so seek out volunteer opportunities that will further that aim.  I’m presently a field guide with the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster.