Strawberry Fields Birding

May 12, 2010
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

The conditions were very damp but the birding was excellent. We started the walk at 7:30 am under dark skies. Our group was reduced to eight birders. As soon as we entered Strawberry Fields we heard a Rose-breasted Grosbeak calling. The bird was easily located and viewed for a few minutes. We stayed in this area for some time locating other warblers such as Ovenbird, numerous Black-throated Blues, Redstarts and Magnolia Warbler. Construction at the Lower Lobe and Cherry Hill forced us to change our normal path and we proceeded towards Hernshead and entered the Ramble from 79th St. Once in the Ramble we headed towards the Point where warblers were reported to be. At the end of the Point the warbler show was very impressive. We saw Parula Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, and a very beautiful male Cape May Warbler. Also present was a cooperative Least Flycatcher. At about 10:30 we took a half hour break at the Boathouse to warm up and review our morning sightings.

After our break we were back birding and we returned to the Point. We saw a cooperative Wilson’s Warbler, a good looking Chestnut-sided Warbler and second looks at the stunning Cape May male. We finally left this area and headed towards the Captain’s Bench where we greeted by a Hooded Warbler female. Next we went to the Gill were we saw and heard two Northern Waterthrushes. Our group continued to Warbler Rock where we had a good ID challenge in seeing a female Cape May. We finally ended the walk at 12:30 having seen 16 warblers, 3 thrushes, 2 vireos, 2 flycatchers and numerous other birds that migrate through Central Park.

Strawberry Fields Birding

May 5, 2010
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

We started at the regular time of 7:30. Unfortunately tree removal and construction forced us to skip birding at Strawberry Fields and the Lower Lobe. We made our way to the Ramble and experienced a great day of birding.

The first warbler seen was a Wilson’s Warbler, quickly joined by Black-throated Blue, Yellow-rumped, Redstart and Blackpoll. There were multiple examples of each species. The warbler parade would continue for the entire day. Some of the best areas in the park were the Point, where we saw Chestnut-sided Warbler, the Captain’s Bench, where we saw Blackburnian Warbler, and the Gill where we saw Nashville and Northern Waterthrush. When the day was over we would record a record 20 warbler species.

Even though warblers dominated our walk we did also see three vireo species, three woodpecker species, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher and Baltimore Orioles. With so many birds to look at, 50 species in all, we didn’t finish our walk until 1pm.

Wednesday Morning Bird Walk

Date: April 28, 2010
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

We held the second in our series of Wednesday morning bird walks with brisk Northwest winds and generally chilly conditions. Our group of 15 birders started the walk at 7:30 in the regular spot, 72nd St and Central Park West. We changed the regular route as we had found out that a Prothonotary Warbler was being seen in the north part of the Ramble. We made our way to this location and quickly heard the bird singing and then had good looks. Everyone had a view of the bird. Our group continued on its walk covering areas such as Tupelo Meadow, Azalea Pond, the Oven, and then the Point. We were seeing some birds along the way but generally it was slow. A Black-and-white warbler made a nice appearance and close by to the warbler were a number of Cedar Waxwings. At about 10:30 we took a break at the Boathouse.

After about one half hour we continued our walk going to the Maintenance Meadow, Turtle Pond, the Pinetum and finally Tanner’s Springs. One tree held two warbler species, Pine and Yellow-rumped, as well as Ruby-crowned Kinglet and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher. It made for some excitement. We ended the walk at about 12 noon having seen 31 species. As a comparison during the same walk last year at this time we saw 52 species. Migration is definitely late.

Bird Song Class

Date: April 25, 2010
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

We held the field portion of our ‘Bird Song Class’ in difficult wet conditions in Central Park. Ten birders started the walk at about 8:30. We covered Strawberry Fields, the Lower Lobe, Warbler Rock and Azalea Pond hearing and seeing only Central Park regulars like Cardinal, White-throated Sparrow, and Red-winged Blackbird. An Eastern Towhee made for a nice visual and audio treat. We did see very well two adult Black-crowned Night Herons. After an hour and a half we decided to take a coffee break at the Boathouse.

The rain let up somewhat and some singing was heard. We saw a few Cedar Waxwings, heard and saw a male Black-and-white Warbler, and a Ruby-crowned Kinglet. The kinglet put on a nice display. We also heard but did not see a Northern Parula. At the Gill we saw a nice Northern Waterthrush. Continuing on our walk we covered the Upper Lobe, Humming Tombstone, Pinetum and finally Tanner Springs. We added Blue-headed Vireo and Palm Warbler to our list of sightings. We ended the walk at about 12 noon.

Spring Migration Walk

Date: April 21, 2010
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Today we had the first in our series of Wednesday morning Spring Migration Bird Walks. Our group of fifteen birders started the walk promptly at 7:30. We birded the southern part of Strawberry Fields finding only White-throated Sparrows and a few Hermit Thrushes. We left this area and headed towards the north part of Strawberry Fields where we saw two nice spring migrants, the Blue-headed Vireo and the Black-and-white Warbler. Continuing on we birded the ‘Lower Lobe’ and then crossed the Bow Bridge into the Ramble. There were not too many birds but we did get good looks at Field Sparrow and Swamp Sparrow. Our group took a break at the Boathouse for a snack and short rest.

We went back into the Ramble where the birding started to pick up. We saw Northern Parula, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Palm Warblers, and another Black-and-white. Woodpeckers became more visible and we noted Yellow-bellied Sapsucker among three other woodpecker species. Our group covered the Maintenance Meadow, ‘Upper Lobe’, and then the Pinetum. As we were leaving we heard from other birders that a Blue-winged Warbler was seen at Summit Rock. We went there and saw and heard the bird. It was a nice way to end the walk. We left the park at about 12:45.

Sandy Hook Birding

Date: March 7, 2010
Location: Sandy Hook, New Jersey
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Our group of 25 birders left the NYC Audubon Headquarters on 23rd St. at 10am. We were on the large bus and headed towards Sandy Hook NJ, part of the Gateway NRA. We arrived at a little after 11am and started birding immediately. Our first stop was the “B” lot where we scanned the Ocean for ducks. We had good views of Long-tailed Ducks and Horned Grebes. We left this spot and then stopped at the visitor’s center where we scanned the bay side in search of bay ducks. We had excellent views of a male Common Merganser and good views of Red-breasted Mergansers and a single male Bufflehead. We got back on the bus and headed towards the “Boy Scout Camp” area to do some land birding. We saw many Cedar Waxwings, some Yellow-rumped Warblers while about 20 Turkey Vultures flew overhead. We had excellent views of an adult Red-shouldered Hawk. During the day we would see many Red-shouldered Hawks, a good number of Red-tailed Hawks and a single Sharp-shinned Hawk. Our group took lunch at the picnic area and then paid NJ Audubon headquarters a visit.

We left this area and headed towards “K” lot. Located here was a viewing platform that afforded fantastic views of the New York harbor. From this one spot 4 of the 5 boroughs of NYC can be seen. Many Robins were flying overhead. They gave a real feel to the concept of spring migration. Our group made one more stop, this time at the ferry terminal. We saw a very uncooperative seal and a distant female scaup. We left Sandy Hook at about 4pm and arrived back at the NYC Audubon Center a little after 5pm

Barnegat Birding

Date: March 2, 2010
Location: Barnegat, New Jersey
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Our group of 12 birders left the Audubon Center on 23rd St. at 9am. We traveled by van and arrived at Barnegat Lighthouse at 11:30. On the way we spotted numerous Turkey Vultures flying overhead and one or two Red-tailed Hawks perched along the Garden State Parkway. Our main purpose on this trip was to see the numerous sea ducks that spend the winter at Barnegat. We walked along the concrete walkway over the jetty. Here we able to spot many Long-tailed Ducks. The views were excellent. Continuing along the jetty we also saw Common Loons and Red-breasted Mergansers. Feeding on the jetty were numerous Dunlin, Purple Sandpipers, Ruddy Turnstones and two Black-bellied Plovers. For the members of our group with cameras these birds provided excellent photographic opportunities. We were about 2/3 the way down the jetty when we spotted the birds that were our number one target. Close to the jetty were about 20 male and female Harlequin Ducks. The bird provided excellent views, no binoculars were necessary. We left the jetty and walked on the beach down to the Ocean. With the help of the five scopes that we had we were able to see Common Eiders, Great Cormorants, more Harlequin Ducks, one uncooperative Surf Scoter, Red-throated Loons and many Sanderlings. As we walked back four Horned Larks flew over and briefly landed. We had lunch in the picnic area and scanned the bay. At about 2:15 we boarded the van and headed back to NYC. We arrived at the Audubon office at about 4:30.

This was the fifth consecutive year that we have had this trip and as the saying goes “it just gets better each time”.

Croton Point Birding

Date: February 13, 2010
Location: Croton Point County Park, NY
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Thirty-two New York City Audubon birders left 23rd St. promptly at 12 noon. We were on our way to see the raptors and ducks that winter near the Croton Point County Park in Westchester County. We were well prepared as we had seven scopes with us. We made our first stop at the train station next to the park. From there we had excellent views of Bald Eagles, both adults and immature. In all we saw at least seven Eagles. We saw them perched and we saw them flying overhead. It was very exciting and someone said “I feel like I’m in Alaska”. We also saw at this stop many duck species, including Common Merganser, Redhead, Canvasback, Ring-necked Duck and Common Goldeneye. Many of these birds were “lifers” for members of our group.

We left this spot and parked at the upper parking lot just past the entrance booth. We were in search of other raptors and land birds. We saw Brown Creeper, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Red-bellied Woodpecker and some of us saw a Red-headed Woodpecker. Our group left this spot and we went to the main parking lot. We searched places where both Great-Horned Owls and Long-eared Owls were thought to be, but no luck. As we returned to the bus we did spot a perched Red-tailed Hawk and a perched Sharp-shinned Hawk. It was a great day to be out especially with seeing all those Bald Eagles and totaling 34 species. We left the park and arrived back at the Audubon Center at 7pm.

Photo © Don Riepe

Honduras: Coquettes to Cotingas

Reported by: Robert Gallado

New York City Audubon’s inaugural trip to Honduras proved to be both memorable and rewarding. With a full crew of thirteen people from all walks of life the trip was bound to be full of laughs and stories to be told.

The trip started off on the right track the very first day during on our drive from San Pedro Sula to Copan Ruinas. Getting close to dark Holly spotted a bird on a wire and I got a quick glimpse, but it was enough to identify it as a White-necked Puffbird. It is a rare sighting in Honduras and proved to be western Honduras` first record.

The first leg of the journey began in the charming little town of Copan Ruinas located in the highlands of western Honduras. The group stayed at the newly built La Chorcha Lodge located on the grounds of the Enchanted Wings Nature Center. The lodge is named after the many variety of orioles which can be seen there daily.

On the first morning we ventured up into the surrounding piney hills by four wheel drive trucks. We stopped and walked along several stretches that often provide good birding. Our first stop, where we had breakfast, was above an overgrown field that produced hordes of Indigo Buntings, Blue Grosbeaks and a male Painted Bunting. Just around the corner we got a scope view of a nice male Gray-crowned Yellowthroat. We were also able to get good views of both the male and female Barred Antshrikes who often haunt the thickets. We ran into Bushy-crested Jays in a couple of places which, along with having a restricted distribution range, are quite stunning when seen up close. Farther up the road we ran into another surprise for the trip; a small flock of Band-backed Wrens, which prove to be the first record for the Dept. of Copan. To top off our growing list we found Elegant Euphonias feeding on fruiting mistletoe with this road remaining to prove to be the best place in the country to reliably see fair numbers of this outstanding bird.

In the afternoon we received a guided tour at the renowned Copan Ruins archaeological site, known for its magnificently well preserved stone carvings.

While at Copan we also visited a shade coffee plantation far up a mountain road. Bob’s sharp eyes got us our only Yellow-faced Grassquits for the trip. Some stunning Yellow-backed Orioles were also seen atop the hill. Our biggest find of the day came when on the way back to town I spotted a Laughing Falcon sitting atop a snag overlooking a field along the road. We stopped to observe it with the scope when it suddenly dove into the grassy field and battled it out with something. It apparently came out the winner when it tried to get airborne with a very large snake! It disappeared behind a hill (actually an archaeological remnant) and we were just about ready to leave when it lifted again, this time getting up onto a low limb. Through the scope we could see it and the snake, a very limp Dry Forest Whip Snake. What a show.

During the rest of the stay in Copan we had an artisan’s tour and some free time to see other sites in and around town.

Our next leg of the trip was Lake Yojoa some 4 ½ hours away. We made our way up to Cerro Azul Meambar N.P. where we would stay two nights at their lodging facilities. Their hummingbird feeders were quite alive and buzzing with various species of hummers including Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, White-bellied Emerald, Violet Sabrewing and an occasional Long-billed Hermit. They were nice, but the star of the show was our dependable little friend, the Black-crested Coquette. This year marks the fourth consecutive season that this species has occupied some small, leafless branches on a tree above the trash cans before heading down to the waterfall trail. In fact, that day two even showed up. For its size it has to be one of the most spectacular little birds found in the country. To prove this point this little guy beat the Lovely Cotinga as the bird of the trip and it wasn`t even a close contest.

Although our rain forest hike didn`t produce much that would change with our lunch stop down at the Lake. We ate at Los Remos, a favorite spot for filling one’s stomach and our eyes with a show of water birds. There were flotillas of American Coot, Lesser Scaup, Limpkin, Purple Gallinule, hordes of Northern Jacana and a wide assortment of herons and egrets. Don got his Life White-tailed Kite that soared past us. The Snail Kites were plentiful and seem to be on the comeback after many years of a marked decline. A cooperative male even landed on a snag right in front of us. A couple of stunning Fork-tailed Flycatchers perched atop a nearby tree and we were allowed scope views.

After lunch we visited the Los Naranjos archaeological site where we spent much time scouring the marshes along the elevated boardwalk. Along with a pair of Otters we also spotted an adult Bare-throated Tiger-Heron and a number of wild Muscovy Ducks. I didn`t have any luck pulling out any crakes or rails, although a Ruddy Crake rattled away right in front of us. The only thing I fished out of the marsh was Holly’s notebook that she knocked off the rail and landed on some floating vegetation. I brought over a nearby fisherman who tried to hook it, but to no avail. I use to do a lot of fishing back home so I gave it a try and with a little patience I hooked the spine of the book and slowly hauled it up. A very happy Holly.

The following morning we birded the entrance road up to the park and had some good birding. Close up scope views of a pair of White-fronted Parrots and a Golden-olive Woodpecker was a nice way to start the day followed by a cooperative Spot-breasted Wren. The prize of the morning came when Barbara and Kathleen spotted an Olivaceous Piculet that came in to all the raucous of the flurry of birds that came in to my pygmy-owl tooting. Two very nice birds seen in the flurry was a Golden-winged and Blue-winged Warbler.

After lunch we hit the road and headed back to the north coast, making our way toward the Lodge at Pico Bonito, our last leg of the trip. We arrived fairly early and after checking in did a short walk on the grounds. Female Crowned Woodnymphs were visiting the feeders and a stunning male popped in and out.

The following day we visited the Cuero y Salado W.R. along the coast. This mangrove filled estuary nearly always gives us a show and today was no surprise. During the train ride we stopped a couple of times to enjoy the abundant waterfowl and even found a feeding flock of White Ibis in a flooded field. During our boat ride we were able to see several troops of Mantled Howlers with many up close views as they fed low. A couple giant male Green Iguanas were also seen. Perhaps the stars of the show were two gigantic Black Caiman that were warming up just inside the vegetation. One of them must have been a good twelve feet long and they slipped back into the water some of us surely felt humbled and awed. Our boat also got to see a Black-throated Trogon feeding on fruits.

We returned to the Lodge and had a free afternoon. Don was fortunate enough to spot a male Lovely Cotinga from his cabin porch while several of us got to watch a female as it fed on mistletoe fruits. The next day most of us went up the loop trail and it was tough birding. We tried hard to get the Keel-billed Motmot and only got one individual to respond to the iPod, but it didn`t come in. We ran into a couple of mixed species flocks and got brief views of Black-throated Shrike-Tanager, Spectacled Foliage-Gleaner and Tawny-crowned Greenlet. In the afternoon we found a nice Rufous Mourner and Olive-backed Euphonia down by the cabins. Most of the group had not seen a male Cotinga so on the last morning before leaving we went up to the tower in hopes of finding one. After much scanning most everyone left except Barbara and a couple of other Lodge guests. Then, suddenly out of nowhere I spotted a male through some foliage and just as I got my bins on him it flew up and landed right in the open in full sunlight. It glowed metallic aquamarine. I got the scope on it and it made Barbara’s day. The patience paid off. With that bird we ended the trip on a very positive note.

Wave Hill Birding

Date: November 29, 2009
Location: Wave Hill, Bronx, NY
Reported by: Donald Kaas
Leader: Gabriel Willow

The trip to Wave Hill was most beautiful and interesting. Although Gabriel estimated the group at 25, it seemed to me to be more people. I didn't count. Gabriel was very knowledgeable and provided much useful information, on things as squirrel habits and the use of binoculars. He was an excellent guide and kept everyone's interest.

Gabriel gave an interesting explanation of the difference between native and European sparrows, which aren't related at all.

There were few birds but the most interesting thing was seeing a group of five crows "mob" a red-tailed hawk and successfully chasing it away. Gabriel was very knowledgeable about the subject--he explained a lot of things I had seen in Costa Rica, when a small bird will go after a predator. He also pointed out that NY city has the highest density of peregrine falcons in the world --16 mating pairs in less than 250 square miles.

It was also a beautiful day --warm enough to have lunch on the terrace overlooking the palisades ( I was reminded that they go back to the Triassic when Pangaea broke up).

Snowgeese and Tundra Swan of Brigantine

Date: November 15, 2009
Location: Brigantine NWR, NJ
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Our group of 14 birders left the Audubon Center on 23rd St. at 9:30. We arrived at Brigantine NWR at 12 noon after having made one stop along the way. We had lunch in the picnic area, birded the small wooded trail and then began to bird the 8 mile auto trail. The first birds seen were Snow Geese. A large flock was present on the west pond. Within the group were three ‘Blue Geese’, a color morph of the Snow Goose. We also had excellent scope views of a Tundra Swan. Close by were some Mute Swans so we were able to make excellent comparisons. A little further down the trail we saw many Pintail. Both males and female were present in large numbers. While we were viewing the ducks we could hear Clapper Rails calling from behind us. Looking around we were able to see very well two Clapper Rails walking along the shoreline. Before the day was over we would see six Clapper Rails in all. Two Eastern Meadowlarks presented so-so views for the group. They were hidden in the grass and were seen by about half of our group. We continued along on the auto trail seeing common duck species such as Mallard and Black Duck. At one spot we stopped the van, exited and saw many shorebirds. Among the flock were Greater Yellowlegs, many Dunlin, Western Sandpipers and Black-bellied Plover. The Western Sandpipers were ‘lifers’ for many in our group. Also along the creek we scoped a very nice Tricolored Heron.

A Peregrine hacking platform visible through the scope had a large raptor perched on its left side. One might think that it was a Peregrine but something was just not right. Moments later two Peregrines appeared and started to harass the raptor. The bird was forced out and we could clearly see that they had moved along a Red-tailed Hawk who had taken up perching on their platform. Continuing along the trail we had excellent views of a small flock of Savannah Sparrows. We moved along seeing common gull species, Hooded Merganser and many more Dunlin. We stopped the van and exited once again at a spot that had many shorebirds and another flock of Snow Geese. Among the shorebirds we viewed about 10 Long-billed Dowitchers. We had excellent views and the dowitchers were ‘lifers’ for many in our group. In all we exited the van about 10 times during our tour. Almost everyone picked up ‘lifers’ on our trip. We left the park at about 4pm and after making one stop along the way we arrived back at the Audubon Center at about 7pm.

Winter Wildlife Preparations

Date: November 14, 2009
Location: Alley Pond Park, NY
Reported by: Donald Kaas
Guide: Ranger Jeff

Ostensibly, the idea of the walk was to see the preparations for winter of different animals. There were about fifteen people. First we had a demonstration of pelts of different mammals that might be found in the park (squirrels, rabbits, possums, skunks, fox, raccoon). Then, we went to walk to see preparations for winter. Early into the walk, I mentioned that I had once looked for what is supposedly New York's tallest and oldest tree in Alley Pond Park. The guide asked, do you want to see it. This made the walk longer but everyone was enthusiastic. We could hear spring peepers but few birds in the walk. Most of the trees had lost their leaves but some of the beech trees still had yellow leaves --there seem to be an unusual number of beech trees in the park but we also saw pin oak, tuliptrees, pines. We turned over logs looking for salamanders and eventually found one red backed salamander. The only birds we saw were white throated sparrows, a downy woodpecker, and mourning doves. There is supposedly an owl's nest somewhere in the park but we didn't see it.

There is a fence around the tree but the sign that once described it was missing. On the way to the tree, we also saw a marker that said that George Washington came through the park in 1790.

In an attempt to see more birds, we walked over to a pond but we only saw fowler's toads and a bullfrog. The guide said that on warm days, frogs will come out of hibernation in winter. We found a discarded animal cage which indicated that someone had probably released a pet in the pond -- we hope it is not an invasive species. We saw many earthworms which led to the interesting discussion of whether earthworms are native to North America. Apparently, they only survived in the non-glaciated areas and have slowly moved north-- meanwhile many European earthworm species have been introduced. New York thus has a mixture of native and European earthworms while Minnesota only has non-native species.

It was a very pleasant and enlightening experience. It stopped raining for most of the walk which ended up talking more than two hours. The park ranger was very knowledgeable and attentive. We signed up one new NY Audubon member.

Central Park Evening Walk Trip Report V

Date: October 27, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Gabriel Willow

On this evening's walk, the last of the series, we ventured into exciting unexplored territory of Central Park, 25 blocks to the north of our usual haunts. Thus, we were able to visit areas and habitats that we hadn't in the past, specifically the Reservoir and the many water birds that call it home this time of year.

We started at 96th St. and headed East towards the reservoir. En Route we briefly spotted a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker feeding on a tree that was damaged from August's microburst...Turns out I was incorrect, a microburst is quite different from a tornado in terms of the air movement. Well, I'm not a meteorologist.

We saw a large flock of European Starlings and Common Grackles feeding in the grass. Large flocks of American Robins and Blue Jays were also in evidence, and White-throated and Song Sparrows were hopping about all over the place.

At the Reservoir, we quickly encountered a large line of Ring-billed, Herring, and Great Black-backed Gulls standing on the submerged pipe. We also found several Gadwall, Mallards, and a large flock of Ruddy Ducks, as well as a single Double-crested Cormorant and most excitingly, a Pied-billed Grebe, which as you can see here is a NY State Threatened Species. And very cute too.

We finally encountered some wild-type Black Ducks, although from the way they were milling about with the Mallards some hybrids are likely on the way.

In the lovely recent plantings of native plants edging the Reservoir, among the asters and polk, we encountered some milkweed with its fluff-spewing seed pods. The plant's stems were coated with bright orange aphids; they attain toxicity by sucking on the plant's distasteful sap. They advertise their unpalatability (new word, freshly made up) with their bright color, much like the monarch butterflies that feed on the same plant as larvae.

As the sky dimmed and turned pink, the Ruddy Ducks clumped together and swam off to the south end of the Reservoir. The gulls lifted off of their pipe perch and spiraled skyward on a thermal rising over the warm water.

We wandered on to the Pinetum, in hopes of perhaps finding an owl. None were seen or heard, but there was much activity and cacophony of Robins and White-throated Sparrows settling down to roost for the night. They make a lot of noise as they figure out which perch to select for their bed.

A fitting end for this lovely walk series. I hope to see everyone again on future walks or even trips abroad. Find out more about our other trips, such as my exciting trip to Trinidad and Tobago, here. And more details about the T&T trip can be found here.

Fall Foliage and Raptor Migration Hike

Date: October 25, 2009
Location: Sterling Forest, NY
Reported by: Andrew Baksh

On Sunday October 25th, eighteen participants assembled in front of the NYC Audubon headquarters on 71 West 23rd St and boarded a van and car for a trip to Sterling Forest. Naturalist, Don Riepe, and I were the drivers and leaders of this group and we would join naturalist John Yrizarry who was going to be our guide for a day hike of Fall Foliage and Raptor Migration at Sterling Forest.

Our weather looked good. We had clear skies and the temperature was just about right for a good hike with the expectation that it would be a few degrees cooler at Sterling Forest. We left Manhattan around, 10:15 a.m. and got to Sterling Forest around 11:30 a.m. Along the way, we saw Turkey Vultures, Black Vultures, Blue-Jays, Starlings, Common Grackles, Red-tail hawks and a Golden Eagle.

After some discussion, we decided on hiking Lake Sterling. John Yrizarry, is a well known naturalist and beloved by many. He was in fine form and entertained the group with anecdotes of his experience as a naturalist – the group loved it. Don did the same and took the time to discuss many of the plant species we encountered during our hike. With the sun behind us, we had good light and the foliage was beautiful to behold. The views were breathtaking and all the participants were amazed at the colors. In addition to the gorgeous foliage we got a number of birds including views of a Pileated Woodpecker, a bird we always try for and have heard but had only had one sighting since the annual Sterling Forest trip began. The first time bird was seen, only two of us got on the bird – John and I. We picked up the Pileated way across the lake flying left over the ridge; John jokingly averaged the distance at a good 20 miles away. Try as we might to get the group on the bird it was rather difficult given the distance. We explained to the group that we were able to ID this bird due to the deep wing flaps and white underwing coverts. The second Pileated sighting of the day, the entire group was able to get on the bird; it flew in while we were having lunch by the lake and came in right over us. The view was spectacular and a treat for everyone - for many it was a life bird.

By then, we had hiked well over 4 miles and the group was starting to tire, so we rested a bit and headed back to the visitor’s center. We made one other stop at Eagle Lake where we picked up a few more bird species and headed back to NYC arriving around 7:00 P.M. It was a wonderful day for a hike - everyone loved the trip and looked forward to the spring trip to Sterling Forest when we will go looking for warblers and other spring beauties.

Fall Migration Bird Walks, Part 6

Date: October 21, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Today was the last in our series of six Wednesday morning bird walks. Our group of 15 birders started the walk at 7:30. The park was very birdy. As soon as we entered the park from 72nd St. we were met by at least 50 White-throated Sparrows. Mixed in the flock were other species such as Junco, Song Sparrow, and a good number of Hermit Thrushes. In an oak tree close to the entrance of Strawberry Fields we saw a late Black-throated Green Warbler. This bird was joined by two Yellow-rumped Warblers and a very cooperative White-breasted Nuthatch. Our group would also have excellent views of a Field Sparrow. We would spend over an hour and a half in this area also seeing Winter Wren, Brown Thrasher, Blue-headed Vireo, Eastern Phoebe and Towhee. Before the day would be over we would see almost 15 Winter Wrens. We finally left this area and headed towards the ‘Lower Lobe’. The parks department had done some draining of the lake and an exposed mud flat could be seen. Here we saw two Swamp Sparrows and both Kinglets. We continued on our regular route seeing other common birds of Central Park. Overhead two Peregrine Falcons flew by. Searching the Lake we saw Mallards and Black Ducks and an interesting Mallard-Black Duck hybrid. We continued walking, first to ‘Warbler Rock’ then to the ‘Riviera’ and then to the ‘Oven’. We were seeing birds all along the way but no new species. At 10:30 we took a break at the boathouse.

After one half hour we were back birding, this time in the ‘Ramble’. One tree was loaded with Hermit Thrushes. We counted 9 of them feeding on the fruit and berries at this location. I don’t remember ever seeing so many Hermit Thrushes in one small tree. We continued the walk going to the ‘Maintenance Meadow’. Here we saw Chipping Sparrows and Palm Warblers. Overhead were a few late Chimney Swifts. We went around ‘Turtle Pond’. On the pond were many Gadwall. After checking for other species we then headed towards the ‘Pinetum’. On the way we saw two immature White-crowned Sparrows mixed in with White Throats and Hermit Thrushes. At the ‘Pinetum’ some Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers had opened up some trees and Yellow-rumped Warblers were feeding on the sap and the insects attracted to the sap. A Red-breasted Nuthatch was seen feeding on a pine cone. We finished the walk by going to ‘Sparrow Ridge’ where we saw a few Chipping Sparrows and more Hermit Thrushes. We ended the walk at 1pm. It was a great series of walks and the members of the group were already looking forward to next spring when we can do it again.

Central Park Evening Migration Walks

Date: October 19, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Gabriel Willow

The cold weather and rain we had for the past several days seemed to wash away most of the neotropical migrants (warblers, vireos, earlier thrushes, orioles, etc.) and usher in the late-Fall migrants, northern species that are harbingers of the coming winter. Whereas we saw no sparrows last week, this week the undergrowth, brush, and leaves of Central Park were alive with the scratching and hopping of several species of sparrows. (Just in time for my Sparrow Workshop TOMORROW NIGHT! It is only about half-full, so there are still plenty of spaces if you haven't signed up yet.)

White-throated Sparrows were the most abundant. We encountered a flock of at least 20 birds just inside the Park entrance at 72nd st. Most of them were lightly streaked immature birds.

Near the WTSs we heard a group of Blue Jays raucously screaming their alarm calls high in an oak. They sounded quite worked up, so I predicted a hawk or owl was nearby, and sure enough a Red-tailed Hawk flew over seconds later. Thanks for the heads-up jays!

Flitting in a tree over the path were a couple of Ruby-crowned and Golden-crowned Kinglets, providing a nice comparison of the two. Nearby, in a berry-laden hawthorn tree, several Hermit Thrushes were practicing a kamikaze berry-grabbing technique, where they would swoop by berry bunches hanging at the tips of small branches, presumably too thin for them to perch upon, and snatch berries on the wing. Very entertaining.

Usually Hermit Thrushes are shy, retiring birds of the dark woods and shady understory (hence their name) but these birds were real show-offs, and we saw two hopping about out in the open a little later. This seemed to be a theme of the walk: birds hopping about in the open and giving us unusually good views.

One such moment was our sighting of three Song Sparrows with two Swamp Sparrows hopping around on the path by the pond. They were picking at grass-seed, and seemed unconcerned by all the people. A great opportunity to compare these closely related species.

We also had the unusual sight of a whole flock of Ruby- and Golden-crowned Kinglets hopping in the grass, allowing us to notice the differences between these little greenish balls of fluff (head-stripes). They appeared to be gleaning small insects from the grass.

We also saw a nice male Yellow-bellied Sapsucker high in a cherry tree. While some stay during mild winters, most of them are heading south by now, as unlike other woodpeckers, they drill for sap rather than boring into trees for beetle larvae and carpenter ants, and sap is in short supply in the winter.

As dusk descended, we saw an adorable small raccoon peeking out from under a rock by the recently restored Oak Bridge. Across the bridge, we got a brief glimpse of a Winter Wren, which bore a surprising resemblance in size, color, and movements to the house mice that were becoming active for the evening.

Next week is our final walk, so I hope to see you all at 96th st for our walk to the Reservoir. And hopefully I'll see many of you tomorrow for my sparrow workshop too!

Cape May, Part 2

Date: October 17-18, 2009
Location: Cape May, NJ
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Under very challenging weather conditions our group of 11 dedicated birders left the NYC Audubon headquarters at 9am. It would rain off and on for the next two days making our trip difficult as a northeaster moved up the coast. The first thing I did was to change the itinerary somewhat to keep our group as dry as possible. Instead of going immediately to the hawk watch in Cape May we went to Brigantine where we birded the auto loop. At Brigantine we saw many birds from the van and we also got out at appropriate times to view interesting species. The first birds seen were Northern Harriers as at least 3 flew very close to us. Special birds seen were many Snow Geese including one Blue Goose. We witnessed a Merlin on the ground feasting on a passerine or more likely a Dunlin. The number of Dunlin probably exceeded 5,000. The shorebirds were constantly harassed by Peregrine Falcons and Merlins. Northern Pintails provided excellent views. All four of the regular gull species were seen. At one time two Forster’s Terns flew right next to our van but they seemed immobile as they fought against the wind but didn’t make any progress. This provided excellent views for our group. Just as we left the park and crossed the exit bridge we saw both Blue-winged Teal and a very impressive Wood Duck. After spending about three hours in this venue we left and headed towards our Hotel, the Ocean Holiday, in Wildwood Crest.

After checking in at the hotel and taking a short break we were on the road again. This time we headed for Nummy Island. The rain had stopped, at least momentarily, and we were able to exit the van. At exactly ten minutes after sunset many Black-crowned Night Herons left their day time roost and headed out to feed. It was a very impressive sight. We left this area and headed towards the Lobster House where we would have a leisurely dinner.

I wanted to bird the beach just at sunrise but the weather prevented this. We went to WAWA and had an excellent breakfast. I really enjoyed this new store as it was computerized and the food was far above expectations. I set the Tom-Tom for Higbee Field and we arrived there just after 8am. There were hardly any other birders there. Hard to believe but the number of birds was extremely high. Best of all was that after about one half hour the rain stopped and we would be basically dry for the rest of our trip. The storm must have forced birds down as they were all around us. One tree held 10 Yellow-rumped Warblers and there were many trees like this. Swamp Sparrows could be found almost anywhere you looked. Species diversity was not high but the number of birds was very high. Everywhere you looked you saw a bird. Merlins, Peregrines, Cooper’s Hawks and Sharp-shinned Hawks were constantly seen as they buzzed through the flocks of migrants. It was a real fallout. Of special note was an adult White-crowned Sparrow which gave everyone excellent looks. One grassland field had a somewhat cooperative Meadowlark. Everyone got good views. We stayed in Higbee Field about three hours. I again changed the route to take advantage of the weather and we went right to the Hawk Watch Platform. The number of Hawks flying over was very high. We saw Kestrel, Merlin, Peregrine, Sharp-shinned, and Cooper’s Hawks. Sometimes three or four flew over at a time. An immature Bald Eagle flew over. The most interesting bird seen from the platform was an American Avocet. The bird was in the small pond in front of the platform. We put the scope on the bird and everyone had excellent views. The temperature on the platform was about 45 degrees and with the wind it felt colder than that. We didn’t stay too long at this location as we had basically seen all the hawk species that can be expected. We went to the NJ Audubon/Cape May Bird Observatory (CMBO) for a break and a chance to pick up some books and souvenirs.

After leaving CMBO we picked up lunch and were on the road again, this time heading for Jakes Landing. Wind and drizzle made this venue difficult. We saw numerous Savannah Sparrows, Egrets and a Marsh Hawk. We could not locate any Seaside or Saltmarsh Sparrows which are known to winter here. We left this venue, set the Tom-Tom for NYC and after one stop along the way we arrived back at 23rd St. at 6pm. Believe it or not we actually saw more species on this damp trip than on the two previous dry NYC Audubon Cape May trips.

Central Park Migration Walks, Part 6

Date: October 14, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

The fifth in our series of six Wednesday morning bird migration walks started promptly at 7:30. As we entered Strawberry Fields our group of fifteen birders was greeted by a large number of migrants. Most numerous were White-throated Sparrows. They conservatively numbered over 100 birds, mostly on the ground. Mixed in with the White-throats were Song Sparrows, one White-crowned Sparrow and some Juncos. The trees in Strawberry Fields were holding Pine Warblers, a good number of Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers both Ruby-crowned and Golden-crowned Kinglets, as well as a Brown Creeper and a Blue-headed Vireo. It was very impressive and we stayed in this area for over an hour and forty five minutes. Leaving Strawberry Fields we saw other birds like Yellow-rumped Warbler, many Hermit Thrushes, and a few Swamp Sparrows. Our group made our way to the Boat House. We saw, after searching for awhile, a female Wood Duck on the lake. With the Wood Duck were many Mallards, a Northern Shoveler, and a female Gadwall. At 10:30 we took a break for about 30 minutes enjoying a cup of coffee or a bowl of hot soup.

We continued our walk by going into the Ramble and seeing a Sharp-shinned Hawk pursue some land birds while two Red-tailed Hawks soared above us. We went to Tupelo Meadow where we saw many flickers, some phoebes and had excellent looks at a Winter Wren. During the day we would see a total of six Winter Wrens. The walk continued through the Maintenance Meadow, around Turtle Pond, and then to the Pinetum. We were seeing birds at all these locations and adding new for the day species such as Palm Warbler, Red-breasted Nuthatch and Chipping Sparrow. We ended the walk at about 12:30.

Barrier Island Birding at Robert Moses

Date: October 11, 2009
Location: Robert Moses State Park, Fire Island, Suffolk County
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Our group of 30 birders left the Audubon Center on 23rd St. at 10am. After about an hour on the bus we arrived at our destination, Robert Moses SP. We were here to bird this famous barrier island. Shai Mitra came on the bus to tell us how birding a barrier island differs from birding an inland spot like Central Park. Even though we were a large group we had many resources as we had two leaders, four spotters, two Audubon volunteers and seven scopes. Our group exited the bus and the birding began.

Our first bird seen was a cooperative Savannah Sparrow which perched on top of a fence. We got great scope views of the bird. As we moved along the central median we saw Junco, Song Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow and Flickers. All this time a steady stream of Yellow-rumped Warblers flew by. Eastern Phoebes would be continuously spotted by our group. We walked from the median to the hawk watch platform. We were hoping for northwest winds but had to settle for southwest winds. Our hawk count was low as only Merlin, Kestrel and a single Peregrine gave us good views. Leaving the hawk watch platform we made our way towards the lighthouse. Along the way we saw both Kinglets and a Blue-headed Vireo. On our way back from the lighthouse we had excellent views of an Eastern Meadowlark. The bird perched on top of some Goldenrod flower heads and we just put our scopes on the bird and checked off a ‘lifer’ for many in our group.

We left this area, boarded the bus and headed towards a different parking field. Here we saw a somewhat uncooperative Palm Warbler and had a better look at a Sharp-shinned Hawk. Again many of the common migrants, Yellow-rumped Warbler, and Phoebes, flew by. We walked to the ocean and did an ocean watch hoping for Gannets and Scoters. The birds were there but only as specks on the horizon. After a great day of birding we boarded the bus and headed back to NYC. Our group arrived back at 23rd St. at 5:30.

Rowing and Estuary Ecology

Date: Oct. 7, 2009
Reported by: Mary Nell Hawk - East River C.R.E.W.

We rowed with Audubon, saw birds on Mill Rock Island, had a great time!

Wednesday October 7, 2009 was the second East River CREW rowing event on this year’s NYC Audubon calendar, and the plan was to row around Mill Rock with naturalist Don Riepe and check out the bird life there.

Stong winds up to 40 mph from the NW had been blowing all day! I went to open the container at 4pm, basically to tell people at 5 it was too windy to row, and let’s look at Sibley’s bird guide on the esplanade instead.

Several experienced rowers who come from afar called early, and I told them not to bother coming by.

However, despite what NOAA said, there was no wind off our davit, and none of our scattered gusts on-water felt anywhere near the 40 mph NW wind predicted. Over at Pier 40 on the Hudson, relentless strong winds, west / northwest across the Hudson, raised whitecaps in the Pier 40 cove, and kept the rowers inside! Our E. 96th Street cove is protected from westerlies by the buildings and hills of Manhattan Island, precisely why the East River, on the "leeward" side of Manhattan island, was NYC’s first port from its earliest Dutch beginnings. This is info that everyone had 100 years ago, now forgotten by most New Yorkers.

Well, Sharon J. arrived, then the naturalist with a friend, and next thing you know we had Audubon rowers on the esplanade for a full-crew-plus. Audubon’s website posting reiterated CREW’s first come-first serve tradition. When the Whitehall gig Saint David launched with passengers in the “engine room” (middle seats of a racing rowboat) and cox seat, there were community onlookers including middle school youth who wanted to row, but we had not enough October daylight hours or experienced rowers to launch a 2nd boat and divide into two crews. Eight-plus, the second 25-foot gig, has returned after repairs at the shop at Floating the Apple / Pier 84 on the Hudson, so two boats might have gone out for a May-August row given more hours of daylight.

Audubon early-bird rowers got to circumnavigate Mill Rock, weighed off at the north end cove, and Don Riepe pointed out a grebe on the shore, a bird I’d never seen! We also saw three species of gulls (Herring gulls, Ring-billed gulls, Black-backed gulls), and cormorants. Don, let me know if I missed anything! We did not see the Night Heron from last time at Mill Rock, or an American Oystercatcher identified last time on North Brother Island.

As we returned to East 96th Street an opera performance sounded across the water from a tent on Gracie Mansion’s lawn.

Also, that evening was the lowest tide I have ever seen at East 96th Street! The rocks / concrete lumps just south of our davit were fully uncovered, almost a foot above water with some spiky metal and re-bar attached. New rower Chris was great helping me get folks on and off that last long step between the ladder and the boat below. After the row we found data that strong northwest wind makes low tides lower around our Hell Gate area.

Can anyone, including the astronomers among us, give other reasons why this was such an extra-low tide? The full moon was October 4th, but how do we know the “moon’s position in its elliptical orbit – tides being highest when the moon is at Perigee; or the effect of the moon’s declination,” which are factors involved in extreme high and low water according to Eldridge, p. 235?

It was a great outing and we look forward to more!

Central Park Migration Walks 4

Date: Oct. 7, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

The walk was the fourth in our series of six walks. We started at 7:30am in conditions what were somewhat damp but within 10 minutes the showers stopped and it would remain dry for the rest of the day. At about 10:30 the sun would come out and remain out for the rest of the walk.

The first stop in Central Park was Strawberry Fields. We had an excellent number and variety of birds. Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers seemed to be everywhere. We had good views of a Scarlet Tanager, winter plumage, and a fleeting view of both Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Baltimore Oriole. Blue-headed Vireo, Magnolia Warbler, Eastern Towee, Eastern Wood-pewee, Brown Thrasher and many White-throated Sparrows were all seen. Our group of 10 birders remained in Strawberry Fields for two hours just taking in all the birds. After leaving this area we walked along the lake getting excellent views of male and female Wood Ducks. Our group headed towards the ‘Oven’ where we saw an adult Red-tailed Hawk that had just captured a squirrel. We decided to take a break at the boathouse for some coffee and a chance to review our sightings. After about one half hour we were back in the ‘Ramble’ birding.

At Tupelo Meadow we had good views of Wood Thrush, Hermit Thrush, Swainson’s Thrush and Robin. Numerous Flickers were found on the ground. Next we moved over to the ‘Maintenance Meadow’ where Palm Warblers and Phoebes were seen. We continued the walk going along ‘Turtle Pond’ and then the ‘Pinetum’ . Again Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers seemed to be everywhere. During our entire walk I would say that we saw over 30 of them. We ended the walk at ‘Sparrow Ridge’ where we saw some Chipping Sparrows and two Common Yellow-throats. At 12:30 we were on our way out of the park.

Central Park Evening Walk II

Date: Oct. 5, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Gabriel Willow

We had much more cooperative weather for our second Central Park outing, which was a relief after several soggy tours. We also encountered a bunch of interesting migratory songbirds busily feeding in the foliage in the waning fall light. We had some warbler-identification challenges, and fun discussions about how birds look larger in treetops, and plants use birds and other animals as pollinators and seed-dispersers. I also discussed how animals tend to be larger in northern climes than in the south. I remembered the name of this rule: Bergmann's Rule!

I mentioned a couple of favorite books on the walk: my field guide of choice is the National Audubon Sibley Guide to Birds, although everyone has their own favorite, and many might want the slimmed-down Eastern version for field use. Also worth reading is anything by author Bernd Heinrich, particularly Summer World and Winter World.

At the end of the walk we were treated to a beautiful sunset over the West Side and the sight of two charming Raccoons coming out for the evening and grooming their fur.

Birding and Canoeing at Constitution Marsh

Date: Oct. 4, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Gabriel Willow

What a magical and beautiful day we had on Sunday. After some initial difficulty escaping Manhattan due to a bike race (they were literally closing off entrances to the West Side Highway just as we pulled up to them), we had an easy traffic-free ride up the Palisades Parkway and over the stunning Bear Mountain Bridge to Garrison/Cold Spring.

En route, we spotted Red-tailed Hawks, and an uncommon (this far north) Black Vulture circling the road with its Turkey Vulture cousins.

Rich Anderson met us at the Constitution Marsh Audubon Sanctuary and Center, as did a Bald Eagle with a quick flyover. After a lesson in canoeing 101, we took to the water and navigated amongst the beautiful canals of the marsh, while learning about its fascinating history and ecology from Rich. We saw the native wild rice in abundance, as well as the Indigo Buntings, Common Grackles, Red-winged Blackbirds, Green-winged Teal, Mallards, Black Ducks, and Wood Ducks that feed on its seeds. We heard Sora Rails calling, and a few people may have spotted this elusive species, although I wasn't so lucky.

Some dramatic cloud formations brought a brief rain-shower and some of the dramatic vistas and quality of light that the Hudson Valley is famous for, and which has attracted artists to the region for generations. As the rain cleared we saw pterodactyl-like Great Blue Herons flapping majestically over the marsh, and a Sharp-shinned Hawk circling on thermals alongside 3 Red-tailed Hawks and a Turkey Vulture.

After having lunch on the water, we canoed back and took a walk along the marsh's scenic boardwalk, bid our farewells, stopped for coffee and snacks, and made it back to Manhattan, incredibly, at 5 on the dot!

I hope we can do this trip again in the Spring to see how the marsh changes with the seasons. I'm sure many of the participants would be interested in returning as well!

Cape May Birding Trip

Date: Oct. 3-4, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

“The Hawk Flight was fantastic!”. That says a lot about our trip, and here are the details.

Our group of 11 birders started the trip at 9am leaving from the NYC Audubon Center on 23rd St. We took the van and after making one stop along the way we arrived at the world famous hawk watch platform in Cape May at about 12:30. The conditions were poor for hawks as the winds were out of the south-east. The only hawks that we saw were a few Peregrines and both Turkey and Black vultures flying above. A flyby American Bittern did add some excitement. In the pond in front of the hawk platform we saw Pied-billed Grebe and some of the common geese and gulls that feed and roost there. We took a walk around the area only seeing a Palm Warbler (western subspecies). Then things started to get exciting as two Caspian Terns flew overhead. They landed near us and we were able to get excellent scope views. The terns were ‘lifers’ for some of our group. We stayed in this area until about 3pm and then made our way to our hotel, the Acacia. Before we got to the hotel we made one stop in an area known for Clapper Rails. We didn’t see any rails but did hear two of them.

After freshening up at the hotel we were back in the van heading for the Wetlands Institute and Nummy Island. The Wetlands Institute has a trail and boardwalk the leads in to the marsh. Here we saw numerous Greater Yellowlegs, Least Sandpiper and some Boat-tailed Grackles. At the end of the trail and from a small platform we were able to see Willet and best of all, a Clapper Rail. As the sun started to get lower in the sky we headed for Nummy Island. After exiting the van we aimed our scopes into the marsh and saw six Marbled Godwits. This was quickly followed by many (25) Black-crowned Night Herons leaving their daytime roost for evening feeding. There was a full moon and some of the birds flew right across the sky with the moon as their background, a sight some people will never forget. It was a great way to end our first day of birding. We headed towards the ‘Lobster House’ for dinner and then back to our hotel. The view from the hotel was quite spectacular as we had a full moon and the hotel was right on the ocean beach.

At 6:30 am, a half hour before sunrise, we were out on the beach looking for birds. We saw loons, many Royal Terns and some Black Skimmers flying by. We also saw about three or four dolphins breaking water in front of us. The morning star, Venus, put on a nice show as it was the brightest object in the eastern sky while the full moon was still visible in the western sky. We checked out of the hotel, picked up a continental breakfast on the way and headed towards Higbee Field and the morning warbler flight tower. Fog started to come in and visibility was reduced. At the warbler tower we saw Magnolia Warbler, Parula Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler and Yellow-rumped Warbler. Also visible were Indigo Bunting, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Brown Thrasher, Blue-headed Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo and some common resident birds of Higbee Field. We left the tower and walked some of the trails only finding a Common Yellow-throat. After Higbee Field we were on our way towards CMBO (Cape May Bird Observatory) visitor’s center/nature store. It’s a great place to pick up some hard to find birding accessories. Our group left this spot and headed back towards the hawk watch platform hoping for a better flight than yesterday. At the platform the conditions were still poor as the fog continued. A Clay-colored Sparrow was easily seen as it was only about 15 feet from the viewing area. Then everything changed.

At 12 noon the fog lifted and the hawks came in. First came a good number of Peregrine Falcons. A kettle of Broad-winged hawks formed above the tower. Bald Eagle adults flew by and everyone on the platform applauded. An American Kestrel flew right above the tower. Numerous Sharp-shinned Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks flew by. Putting one’s binoculars into the sky would reveal 10-15 hawks in one view, and there were many views. It was very exciting and the reason we were at this spot at this time. The action was so good that I decided to skip the other set of ponds and stay with the excellent hawk flight.

At about 1:30 we forced ourselves to leave this spot as we had one more venue to visit. Picking up a quick meal along the way we headed towards Jakes Landing. Arriving at Jakes Landing the first bird we saw was a flyover immature Bald Eagle. Over the marsh at least four Marsh Hawks were hunting. We were after one more target bird, the Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrow. It took us about 15 minutes to locate the sparrow. Half our group had good views while the other half had to be satisfied with a skulking sparrow not seen that well. We left this spot and headed back to NYC. After making one stop along the way we were back at 23rd St. at about 7pm. It was an excellent trip had by all.

Fall Migration at Randall's Island

Date: Oct. 3, 2009
Location: Randall's Island, NYC
Reported by: Gabriel Willow

Well, this was certainly a memorable trip! I must commend our intrepid members for their fortitude and determination in the face of extremely damp weather. I had thought maybe one or two people might show up given the diluvial conditions, but fully 15 people attended!

And those who did brave the elements were treated to a beautiful walk to some less-explored habitats in the further reaches of the city, and even a rainbow arcing over Icahn Stadium. No pot of gold was found, but we did see golden monarch butterflies and a lovely sunset.

We walked over the pedestrian footbridge and were met by Colby Feller, horticulturalist from the Randall's Island Sports Foundation and all-around nice guy. He provided some wonderful historical context, and plant and ecological information.

We almost immediately encountered a male Belted Kingfisher sitting in a snag by the water. He treated us to wonderful views as he plunge-dived for fish and preened.

Further along the waterfront green-way, we had the opportunity to compare various gull species and ages. Along the beautiful salt marsh we saw Mallards and Black Duck/ Mallard hybrids, as well as Double-crested Cormorants and elusive Savannah Sparrows (come to my sparrow workshop on Oct. 21st and 25th to learn more about how to identify these challenging species!).

In the freshwater marsh across the street, birds were few but interesting invertebrates were abundant. We saw huge Green Darner dragonflies hawking for mosquitoes, Monarch and Sulphur butterflies fluttering among the goldenrod and asters, a huge brown praying mantis, and numerous striped land snails.

The sun finally came out towards the end of the walk, as we bid farewell to Colby and boarded the bus for 125th st. I hope to revisit Randall's Island in the Spring the see what other seasons bring to this under-explored but easily accessible marshy oasis.

Wine Tasting & Birding on the North Fork

Date: October 1, 2009
Location: Mattituck, Long Island, NY
Reported by: Gabriel Willow

We had a perfect early fall day for this trip: cool, sunny weather and bright blue skies. Had an initial bad start to the day when I found our rental van had been in an accident and I couldn't open the dented driver's side door, but everything after that went smoothly.

We had a full van: ten participants. Traffic was light, so we made it out to Shinn Estates Vineyard in Mattituck, NY in about two hours. Barbara Shinn, the vineyard's founder and owner, met us and gave us a fascinating personal tour. She spoke about how the vineyard is biodynamic, which is an agricultural philosophy that treats the entire farm as a living organism. They plant native grasses and other meadow plants among the grape vines, use no pesticides, herbicides, or artificial fertilizers, and encourage beneficial insects to control pests. All this creates an excellent habitat for birds, and of course delicious wines, which we got to taste after the tour.

Their visitor center is lovely, and we happily tasted multiple whites, reds, and sparkling wines sitting on the deck in the sun.

After buying bottles of local, bird-friendly wine, we returned to the van and headed east, to Orient Beach, the eastern-most point on the North Fork of Long Island. We stopped at a lovely farm-stand and bought apples, corn, and other bounties of fall, and had a picnic on the beach. We then combed the salt marshes for shorebirds, which were sadly lacking. We observed Great Egrets catching small fish, and discussed the finer points of gull aging and identification while viewing Herring, Ring-billed, and Great Black-backed Gulls. We also saw numerous Double-crested Cormorants sunning themselves on what I believe was an oyster farm.

We didn't see many birds, but enjoyed the beautiful day, enchanting location, and delicious wine that made us feel far from New York City although we were within a couple hours' drive of the city.

Central Park Migration Walk, Part 3

Date: September 30, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

The walk started at 7:30am with fifteen excited birders. The winds were brisk and the temperature was in the upper fifties, good conditions for fall birding. We first birded Strawberry Fields finding a few Brown Thrashers and a very cooperative Blue-headed Vireo. Our first warbler was a Redstart and it was quickly followed by a Common Yellowthroat. We stayed in this area about 45 minutes seeing many of the common birds of Central Park. Our group walked across the road to the ‘Lower Lobe’ where we saw two Yellow-rumped Warblers. Right next to this area were a Brown Creeper and a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. A first of the season Winter Wren gave us a nice show. Continuing on our walk we had a good ID challenge with a Blackpoll Warbler in an area known as the ‘Oven’. We had to see the yellow feet before we were sure of the species. Our group of fifteen birders headed to the boathouse for a coffee break, but we were interrupted by a Kestrel that was migrating just above us. A nice view had by all.

After a half hour we were back in the Ramble looking for birds. We had excellent views of a Cooper’s Hawk that had captured a Flicker. We birded areas known as ‘The Gill’ and ‘the Maintenance Meadow’ finding some species in each spot. We headed towards the ‘Pinetum’ where we saw a couple of Pine Warblers, Magnolia Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Rudy-crowned Kinglet and Gray-cheeked Thrush. The Pine Warblers were in different stages of plumage which made for interesting comparisons. The walk ended at ‘Sparrow Ridge’ with an excellent view of a Palm Warbler, eastern subspecies. At 12:30 we exited the park already looking forward to next week.

Beginning Bird Class, Field Trip

Date: September 27, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Because of the rain we postponed the starting time from 8am to 10am. This helped somewhat but the conditions were still damp. Surprisingly we were still able to see 25 species of birds. The walk started in Strawberry Fields where we had excellent looks at Brown Thrashers and a Magnolia Warbler. A Scarlet Tanager in fall plumage was a good find. A female Red-bellied Woodpecker was an easy view as it just stayed put 20 feet above us. After Strawberry Fields we birded the ‘Lower Lobe’. The only birds present were a few cooperative Mallards. We decided to take a break at the Boathouse hoping that the rain showers would abate.

After about one half hour break we were back birding, this time in the Ramble. We had excellent views of Blackpoll Warbler and Black-and-white Warbler. We went to Tupelo Meadow where a very cooperative Wood Thrush perched on top of a small boulder. Excellent view! We finished the walk in the ‘Upper Lobe’ where we saw two Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers in a willow tree. The walk ended at about 2pm.

Central Park Migration Bird Walks 2

Date: September 23, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

This was the second in our series of Wednesday Morning Fall Migrations walks. We started the walk with 15 birders at 7:30am. The conditions were dry but on the hot and humid side, very unfall like. We entered Strawberry Fields and quickly saw a Peregrine Falcon perched on a building across the way. It was probably the same bird that we saw last week as it was in exactly the same spot. In this area we had good looks at Northern Parula, American Redstarts and Brown Thrasher. As we moved from this area we also saw Common Yellowthroat and Ovenbird. In the ‘Lower Lobe’ we had excellent looks at a Black-crowned Night Heron as a Great Blue Heron flew by. We made our way along the lake, then to ‘Warbler Rock’. We were spotting many of the common birds of Central Park, like, Cardinal, Downy Woodpecker and Flickers. We decided to take a break at the boathouse.

After about a one half hour break we were back birding this time going into the Ramble. Here we saw a very cooperative Rose-breasted Grosbeak and a first of the season Ruby-crowned Kinglet. We had heard that there was a Golden-winged Warbler present in the area. We spotted the bird but unfortunately only three in our group had good looks before the bird flew away. At ‘Turtle Pond ‘we saw 14 Gadwall, some starting to come into breeding plumage. We continued birding going through the ‘Maintenance Meadow’, ‘Pinetum’ and ending the walk at ‘Sparrow Ridge’. In all we recorded 36 species. We ended the walk at about 12:30.

Central Park Migration Bird Walk I

Date: September 16, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

We had the first in our series of Wednesday morning fall migration bird walks. Fifteen birders started the walk at 7:30 am. We entered Strawberry Fields and immediately saw a Peregrine Falcon. The bird circled above and landed on a building just across from us. The Peregrine had prey in its talons. We stayed in Strawberry fields for about 2 hours seeing many birds and getting excellent looks at Chestnut-sided Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Pine Warbler, Parula Warbler and Black-and-white Warbler. We also found at least three Rose-breasted Grosbeaks. We went over to the ‘Lower Lobe’ where we saw Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart and Black-throated Blue Warbler. We headed towards the Boathouse picking up a few Palm Warblers along the way.

After about a half hour break we entered the Ramble. We saw Black-throated Green Warbler, Ovenbird and Canada Warbler. These birds were all near the area known as Azalea Pond. Walking along the side of the ‘Gill’ was a cooperative Northern Waterthrush. One of the last birds seen was a winter plumage Scarlet Tanager. In all we were to see 13 warbler species and 45 species altogether. We ended the walk at 12:30.

Fall Warblers Trip Report

Date: September 13, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

We had the classroom portion on Sept. 9 and the field trip on Sept. 13. The field trip started at 8am meeting at 72nd St. and Central Park West. Our class of 10 birders were out to see, identify and appreciate warblers. Our first warbler was a Chestnut-sided. The bird was found in Strawberry Fields. Next we saw a somewhat uncooperative Ovenbird, low in the vegetation also at Strawberry Fields. In the same area on a Dawn Redwood was seen a Magnolia warbler and an American Redstart. The Redstart would become a common warbler for us this day. After about one hour in this area we moved over to the ‘Lower Lobe’. Here we found a very challenging warbler to identify. The bird looked like a Yellow Warbler but upon closer inspection we saw no wingbars and a slight indication of a blackish cap. After about 5 minutes on the bird we were all satisfied that the bird was a Wilson’s Warbler. Also in this area on some Viburnum was a cooperative Black-throated Blue Warbler. We headed towards the Ramble making a stop at ‘Warbler Rock’. Here we saw the most interesting bird of the day, a Worm-eating Warbler. It was a ‘lifer’ for some of us in the group. We took a break at the boathouse before continuing.

We went back into the Ramble seeing Black-and-white Warblers, Northern Waterthrush, more Redstarts and a challenging Blackpoll Warbler. It was important for our group to see all the field marks of the fall Blackpoll because it can be easily confused with Pine Warbler and Bay-breasted Warbler. During the day we also saw the ‘Big Three’, namely Scarlet Tanager, Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Baltimore Oriole. We ended the walk about 12 noon, having seen 11 warbler species and 35 species overall.

Shore Birds at Jamaica Bay

Date: August 22, 2009
Location: Jamaica Bay, NWR
Reported by: Joe Giunta

We had our class about shorebirds on Wed. night and now we were out to see the shorebirds that we talked about in class. We started the field trip at 9:30am. Instead of going to the West Pond we headed immediately to the north end of the East Pond. This is the location where the shorebirds were reported to be. When we entered the East Pond we saw many sandpipers. We picked our way through Semipalmated Sandpipers and Least Sandpipers, and then found a few White-rumped Sandpipers. A group of birds were feeding in the water, mostly Lesser Yellowlegs, but we had excellent views of a couple of Stilt Sandpipers mixed in the flock. We picked them out by the way they were feeding and their bills, which had a slight droop at the tip. Across the pond we saw a very active Wilson’s Phalarope. The bird was spinning and we had excellent scope views. We moved along passing a very muddy cove and came upon a flock of about 400 shorebirds. In this flock we found Red Knot (3), Ruddy Turnstone (4), Short-billed Dowitchers (50), Black-bellied Plover (100), American Oystercatcher and a very beautiful American Avocet. The Avocet was a ‘lifer’ for many in our group. On our way back we had very good views of both Lesser Yellowlegs and Greater Yellowlegs together. This made for an excellent learning opportunity as we were able to compare sizes and bill shapes. We also saw some of the larger waders which were feeding in the pond, namely, Great Egret, Snowy Egret, Glossy Ibis and Little Blue Heron. We ended the walk at about 12:30. The class and field trip made for a very educational experience and a great time had by all.

NYC Audubon Camera Club trip to Ward Pound Ridge

Date: August 1st, 2009
Location: Ward Pound Ridge, NY
Reported by: Lloyd Spitalnik

On Saturday, August 1st, I led a photo tour to Ward Pound Ridge located in Westchester, NY. Macro photography was the goal of this NYC Audubon Camera Club event. We met at the reserve at 10am. Everybody liked the idea of coming out there on their own to keep the cost of the trip down. Weather was sunny and warm, conditions perfect for finding insects but not ideal for taking photos. Despite the high sun, all of us were able to get more than satisfactory images. I couldn't have asked for a nicer group of people to attend. Everybody got along really well. Conversation was constant and there was always a good exchange of information. My wife Sandy came along and was a tremendous help. She's my bug expert and found so many small insects to photograph that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. One of the participants commented that "I feel like a whole 'underworld' was opened to me". Butterflies weren't abundant, but there were very good photo opportunities for dragonflies and damselflies. We also observed a snake wrapped around a bush. There were beetles, leafhoppers, bees and wasps. We all had a great time and stayed a half hour beyond schedule. We probably could have stayed longer, but there are always other commitments that get in the way.

NYC Audubon Camera Club trip to Nickerson Beach

Date: July 25, 2009
Location: Nickerson Beach and Oceanside, NY
Reported by: Cal Vornberger

The New York City Camera Club outing to Nickerson Beach took place on Saturday, July 25th. The weather was bright, hot, with only a few clouds in the sky. After meeting in the parking lot for a few pointers, we proceeded to the area where terns and skimmers were nesting. Unfortunately, the fence that separates the colony from the rest of us had been moved back about 30-40 feet, so one could not get close to the birds. This is probably good for the birds but not so good for photographers. As dedicated naturalists, we always approached the birds slowly on our stomachs so as not to disturb them and the birds always seemed comfortable with that behavior. I can't say the same for other photographers out there who apparently abused the privilege. This was told to me by one of the Nassau County Police officers who patrol the park.

After about an hour of shooting flight shots and a few errant tern fledges, we decided to go over to Oceanside, as it was only about 15 minutes away. After packing our gear and sharing a large bottle of Tea's Tea (the best tea on the planet) we headed over the Oceanside.

Upon arriving at Oceanside we were greeted by a Great Egret that landed on the roof of Mark's car (see photo in Camera Club gallery).

We spent another 1.5 to 2 hours shooting at Oceanside. There were 20-30 newly minted Yellow-crown Night-herons perched all around and 5-7 Great Egrets. Mike Farina, the resident biologist at Oceanside, was seine netting to feed the egret and this created an excellent photo and teaching opportunity (the low-hanging fruit I am always alluding to). There were also three recently fledged Osprey and a Green Heron out and about.

We finally left around 12:15, but Alex and her father stayed on. A good time was had by all.

Doodletown, Bashakill and Shawangunk NWR

Date: June 13-14, 2009
Location: Bashakill, Shawangunks NWR, Doodletown
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Our group of 12 birders left the NYC Audubon office just before 9am and headed north towards our first venue of the trip which was Doodletown. After driving for about 1 and 1/2 hours, with one stop, we arrived at the small parking area on 9W just south of the Bear Mountain Bridge. The door of the van opened and we immediately heard a Warbling Vireo and a Yellow Warbler singing. This was a very nice way to start the trip and just a harbinger of what was to come. We walked 200 feet up the trail and were stopped by a very cooperative singing Indigo Bunting, quickly followed by an American Redstart. We walked further up the trail seeing Ruby-throated Hummingbird and Scarlet Tanager. A Hooded Warbler was singing but we could not locate him. Not to worry, we would see more of them later. We rounded the lake and saw and heard a very nice Yellow-throated Vireo. The birding became very serious as a key target bird of the trip, a Cerulean Warbler, presented himself, at eye-level, to our group. It was a 'lifer' for some of the members of our group. We also heard several more Ceruleans singing close by. We walked 50 feet and saw our next target bird, a cooperative Hooded Warbler. As it was getting close to lunch time we took a break and ate by the lake. As we were eating a Louisiana Waterthrush flew from one side of the lake to the other side and back again. Someone told us that a Pileated Woodpecker could be found close by. We searched but could not find the bird but we were satisfied as we picked up a Blue-winged Warbler. As we left Doodletown another Hooded Warbler presented himself and sang for us.

We drove in the van for about one hour heading towards venue number two, Bashakill WMA. This wildlife area has about 10 parking areas with trails. We first chose the Haven Road area. Here we were to see Wood Duck and Common Moorhen. We then drove to the 'boat ramp' area. At this spot we were treated with scope views of Bald Eagles, on the nest, and Osprey, also on the nest. What happened next was probably the highlight of the trip. A Least Flycatcher was singing. We followed him down the trail just a bit and saw a Virginia Rail walk across the path. We then saw and heard an American Bittern. The bird was singing and we could see the notes in his throat before he exploded them into the air. A sight none of us will ever forget. We then went to the south parking lot finding Orioles, Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Veery. All this time we were also hearing the songs of many warblers. We left this area and headed towards our motel, the Day's Inn. For anyone staying in this area I highly recommend staying at this motel. It is very clean, comfortable and located perfectly to enjoy the area. We had dinner at a local restaurant, Danny's. Our group tried to do some nighttime birding but the weather turned on us and it began to rain heavily. The Whip-poor-will and other nighttime birds will have to be left for another year.

The next day we woke up early and had a good breakfast at the motel. Our breakfast time was 6am and by 6:30 we were back in the van on our way to the B&H Canal for more birding. We drove about a mile, opened the door of the van and another key bird of the trip was singing for us. We all heard and saw a beautiful Alder Flycatcher. He was right in the Alder bushes. We walked along the very scenic canal hearing and seeing other birds such as Black-billed Cuckoo and Scarlet Tanager. After walking a half mile we came to a spot where Golden-winged Warblers are known to breed. Almost on cue, the Golden-winged Warbler appeared. It was a 'lifer' for many members of our group. We then walked the other way on the trail picking up Field Sparrow, Eastern Bluebird, Pine Warbler and Chestnut-sided Warbler. After three hours in this spot we boarded the van, drove about 5 minutes to Gumaer Falls Road and a completely different habit. We were now in Pine trees, Hemlocks and Mountain Laurel. We heard and saw Blackurnian Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Acadian Flycatcher and a very nice Olive-sided Flycatcher. A Winter Wren was heard singing but we could not locate him. We went back to the motel, checked out, picked up lunch at a local deli and drove to the Eagle spot to relax and eat. After about a half hour we were back in the van heading towards our last venue.

We were going to Shawangunks NWR. This area is also known as the grasslands. Before this last venue we made a stop at Blue Chip Horse Farm. We were looking for a reported Upland Sandpiper. After searching for about 15 minutes we found one. The bird was a distant scope view but still quite recognizable. We were to locate four altogether. The bird was a 'lifer' for almost everyone. We drove for two minutes and arrived at the grasslands. We were looking for a few special birds and happily we were able to find all of them. First was a Willow Flycatcher, in a willow tree. Next was the Eastern Meadowlark. There were many Meadowlarks and we had excellent views. Lastly we saw the uniquely colored Bobolink. Again we all had excellent views. It was getting late so we decided to leave this lovely spot and head home. After making one stop along the way we arrived back at the Audubon office just after 7pm.

Photos © Andrew Baksh

Doodletown

Date: June 7, 2009
Location: Doodletown Bear Mountain NY
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Doodletown is probably the best breeding warbler spot that is closest to NYC. It is a must spring venue for any serious NYC birder. We left the Audubon office at 9:30 and after making one stop along the way we arrived at Doodletown at 10:45. As soon as we opened the door of the van we heard birds singing. We quickly saw and heard a Yellow Warbler and a Baltimore Oriole. As we walked up the trail we saw two of the target birds of the trip. First we had a singing Indigo Bunting at the top of a dead snag. This was quickly followed by a cooperative Hooded Warbler. A Cerulean Warbler was singing but we could not find it. We would do more searching for Ceruleans later. Continuing on the path we saw other birds like Scarlet Tanager and American Redstart. We had heard that a Kentucky Warbler was seen in the vicinity last week but we could not locate the bird. As we passed by the lake we heard and poorly saw an uncooperative Yellow-throated Vireo. Continuing on the trail we heard another Cerulean Warbler, but again we could not locate the bird. We decided to have lunch in the spot where we had the Cerulean last year and hoped that he would show himself. Again we heard the bird but no luck in spotting him.

After lunch we started down the trail, seemingly having to be satisfied with seeing many beautiful species of birds but for the Cerulean, who was only heard. Then our luck changed. A male Cerulean appeared at eye-level right in front of us. We all had fantastic views. Then we had more good luck: an immature Bald Eagle was soaring within a flock of Black Vultures. The vultures provided us with a very good size comparison. With things now clearly in our favor I decided to leave Doodletown and head for Mine Road, West Point, where a Golden-winged Warbler was reported. Again we hit a home run. The Golden-winged warbler was clearly seen by the members of our group as the bird was only about 25 feet from us. It was a 'lifer' for most of our group. This topped off a great day of birding. We forced ourselves to leave and after making one stop along the way we arrived back at the Audubon office at about 4:30.

Delmarva

Date: May 15-17, 2009
Location: Delmarva
Reported by: Joe Giunta

The Delmarva (Delaware, Maryland, Virginia) peninsula is located about 200 miles south of New York City. It is a must birding destination for any serious birder. This year our group of eight birders started the trip at 9am on Friday May 15. We took the van from the Audubon office and after about three hours of driving, with one break, we arrived at our first birding venue, Bombay Hook NWR. Funny as this may seem, our first task was to have lunch. The birds kept interfering. We almost immediately saw a Blue Grosbeak, one of the key birds of our trip. Bluebirds and Indigo Buntings were also seen. There is nothing like seeing all these 'birds of blue'. Next was a very cooperative Orchard Oriole. We got in the van and rode the auto loop making several stops. One of the best stops was when we easily saw a beautiful Marsh Wren. The bird was singing and did a display flight. At another great stop we saw several Black-necked Stilts. A surprise was an Eastern Screech Owl which peeked out of a wood duck nesting box. Before we left this venue we had an adult Bald Eagle fly over.

Our next stop was probably our most impressive. We drove about 10 miles until we reached Little Creek WMA, the Port Mahon entrance. The beach was moving with shore birds. A few thousand Dunlin, Ruddy Turnstones, and Semipalmated Sandpipers were seen very closely, within 30 feet. Also in this group were three Red Knots. All these birds were feeding on the eggs of Horseshoe crabs. It was a sight none of us will ever forget. We continued on our way to Salisbury where we had dinner and checked into our hotel, Microtel Inn and Suites. I might say that this hotel was excellent and we would definitely stay there again.

On the next day, Saturday May 16, we started with an excellent enhanced continental breakfast at the hotel. This enabled us to get an early start and head towards our first venue of the day, Whaleyville, the Pocomo swamp. As soon as we got out of the van at Whaleyville we heard the Worm-eating Warbler singing. The bird was a key bird of our trip and seen by everyone. Next, another key bird of the trip was seen; a lovely male Prothonotary Warbler, singing and displaying, was right next to us. He must have been nesting real close. The Prothonotary Warbler would become so common that someone would say 'It's just another Prothonotary'. At this venue we saw/heard Acadian Flycatcher, Yellow-billed Cuckoo and Scarlet Tanager. At one point while we were looking at a Yellow-throated Vireo someone was to say "the problem with the birds is that they are so close I can't use my binoculars". As we were leaving we tried an area that looked promising for Prairie Warbler but instead we found and clearly saw a Blue Grosbeak and a fabulous Red-headed Woodpecker.

We picked up lunch and made our way to the second Saturday venue which was Assateague Island, the north end. We went to the woodland trail where we almost immediately saw and heard the Yellow-throated Warbler, another key bird of the trip. We also had Pine Warbler and a quick view of a Clapper Rail. We would see this bird much better the next day. On the marsh trail we had binocular views of several of the 'Ponies of Assateague'. We drove about one half hour until we came to the beautiful Nassawango Creek. Next to the creek in a grassland area we saw a Bluebird Trail with many boxes and a few Bluebirds. Also present were a few Purple Martin houses with many Purple Martins flying around. We parked the van and then had one of the most memorable moments of the trip. A beautiful male Summer Tanager was right in front of us. With the male was an equally beautiful female. To top off the experience was a singing Scarlet Tanager about 20 feet away. W e walked the mile woodland/swamp trail looking for the Swainson's Warbler but we had to be satisfied with more Prothonotary Warblers and a few Louisiana Waterthrushes. As we were just about to leave we picked up another Red-headed Woodpecker. We had dinner at a local restaurant and prepared for our next day.

On Sunday we again had breakfast at the hotel and left early so that we could catch the ferry to Cape May, NJ. The weather turned on us and we picked up some showers, the first rain that we had experienced. The ferry ride was relatively smooth with our group seeing many dolphins and a few Northern Gannets along the one hour and twenty minute ferry ride. We set the Tom-Tom for Reeds Beach hoping to see more shorebirds. When we arrived at Reeds Beach the rain become more intense and scanning the beach from the van produced little in the way of bird life. We decided to have lunch before we moved on. It was a good decision as the rain let up and we were on our way to the last venue of the trip, Brigantine NWR.

As soon as we got to Brigantine we saw the rarest bird of the trip, a White-faced Ibis. We all had excellent looks, seeing the bird first through our scopes and then through our binoculars and finally with just our eyes. It was a 'lifer' for more than half of our group. We drove the auto trail making several stops along the way. Some of the excellent birds that we saw were: Whimbrel, Clapper Rail (excellent view), both Seaside and Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrows, and many Gull-billed Terns. On our way out the last bird that we saw was another Eastern Bluebird. Altogether the group saw 125 species and almost all with excellent quality views. We arrived back at the Audubon office a little before 8pm.

Spring Migration Bird Walks - Trip 4

Date: May 13, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Today was the last birding trip in our series of four Wednesday morning bird walks. Our group of fifteen birders started the walk promptly at 7:30 by entering Strawberry Fields. Three warblers, Parula, Black-throated Blue and American Redstart were singing and quickly located by our group. We moved on to the north end of Strawberry Fields and had so-so views of a Philadelphia Vireo. The bird was at medium canopy but somewhat hidden by leaves and not the most cooperative. It did provide us with enough viewing so that we could compare against the Warbling Vireo and the Red-eyed Vireo. We left this part of the park and entered the 'Lower Lobe'. The water level was greatly reduced from last week and provided extensive mud flats. We located a beautiful Swamp Sparrow, a Northern Waterthrush, and a Spotted Sandpiper. We tried to find a Solitary Sandpiper but were unsuccessful. On the small island near 'Bow Bridge' an Eastern Kingbird was gathering nesting material. As we went closer to the island we saw a beautiful Wilson's Warbler which put on quite a show as it was at eyelevel with no leaves in front of it. At about 10am we took a break at the Boathouse for coffee and a snack.

After a half hour we were back in the Ramble looking for birds. In a tall Tulip Tree we saw Scarlet Tanagers, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Baltimore Oriole, Parula Warbler, Magnolia Warbler and best of all a Cape May Warbler. Wow! We walked on to the 'Point' where we again saw Wilson's Warbler and Black-throated Blue Warbler, both at eye level. We walked the trails in the Ramble looking for other birds and found a somewhat cooperative Gray-cheeked Thrush. This bird also made for a good ID challenge as it is very similar to a Swainson's Thrush. We concluded the walk by going through the 'Maintenance Meadow', the 'Upper Lobe' and finally 'Tanner's Springs'. At about 12 noon we left the park. It was a great series of walks and everyone was looking forward to our fall series.

Spring Migration Bird Walks - Trip 3

Date: May 6, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Our group of 15 birders caught a break as the almost unending rain of the last four days stopped and at 7:30am we were in the field birding. We started the trip as usual by birding Strawberry Fields first. We immediately saw Parula and Black-and-white warblers. Both were singing and made for good views. A nice find in the same area was a singing Indigo Bunting and a not so cooperative Rose-breasted Grosbeak. We changed our regular route and decided to check out the Hernshead area. There we saw two adult Black-crowned Night Herons. We crossed the bridge and entered the Ramble. We picked up a visiting birder from London and got him a few 'lifers',namely, Blackpoll Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler and Ovenbird. He was thrilled. An interesting find was a calling Fish Crow flying over the lake. At about 10:30 we took a break at the Boathouse and then reviewed the birds seen.

After about 30 minutes we were back in the Ramble birding. Very shortly we spotted a very cooperative Blackburnian Warbler. The bird was at mid-canopy and gave everyone great views. Next we saw a Northern Waterthrush. The bird was very close and we were able to watch his beak as he sang. At Azalea Pond we saw a beautiful Green Heron. The heron could not have been more than 20 feet away and below eye level. We left the Ramble and went through the Maintenance Meadow and then along the south side of Turtle Pond, an area also known as 'Warbler Walk'. Two more excellent birds that we saw in this area were a singing White-eyed Vireo and a very nice Blue-winged Warbler. We left the park at about 1pm having had an excellent day of birding.

Spring Migration Bird Walks - Trip 2

Date: April 29, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

At 7:30 am a Baltimore Oriole was singing and drew us right into Strawberry Fields. The bird was a FOS (first of the season) bird for almost everyone of our group of fifteen birders and a great way to start off our walk. We continued in Strawberry Fields and found an oak tree that had a concentration of warblers. The tree had Prairie, Black-and-white, Blackpoll, Palm and Yellow-rumped Warblers. Walking along the trail we also had so-so views of Hooded Warbler and Winter Wren. Overhead we saw a Peregrine Falcon and then a Kestrel. Across the way in the 'Lower Lobe' we heard the beautiful song of the Warbling Vireo. After a good hour and a half in this part of Central Park we made our way to 'Warbler Rock' and then to the 'Riviera'. We were birding all the way seeing many of the common species of Central Park. At about 10:30 our group took a break at the boathouse. We reviewed the great birds that we had already seen and got ready for some more birding.

We went to the 'Point' where we saw a beautiful Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Our group continued the walk seeing and hearing more warblers. Notable was a Northern Waterthrush at the 'Gill' and a FOS Swainson's Thrush. A Swamp Sparrow made for an interesting ID challenge. We made our way into the 'Maintenance Meadow' where one oak tree had many warbler species. We saw Chestnut-sided Warbler, Black-throated Green, Northern Parula and a somewhat rare warbler for Central Park, the Orange-crowned Warbler. The Orange-crowned was not too cooperative and the view was not the best, but the Chestnut-sided gave us all great views as it did a lot of flycatching above our heads. We finished the trip with a visit to 'Tanner Springs' and left the park at about 12 noon.

Spring Migration Bird Walks - Trip 1

Date: April 22, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Today we had the first in our series of Wednesday morning Spring Migration Bird Walks. Our group of fifteen birders started the walk promptly at 7:30. We usually start by birding the south part of Strawberry Fields but because as soon as we entered the park we heard a Black-and-white Warbler singing we changed the walk and did the north part first. We all had great views of the Black-and-white Warbler. Right next to the warbler was a cooperative Blue-headed Vireo and many Ruby-crowned Kinglets, some of which were displaying. After a good hour in Strawberry Fields we made our way to the "Lower Lobe" where we saw two Swamp Sparrows and an interesting Boat-tailed Grackle. We moved on to the Ramble and in particular the "Oven" part of the Ramble. At this spot we saw Palm Warblers, Louisiana Waterthrush, a very cooperative Purple Finch and a Winter Wren. We took a break at the Boat House before continuing on.

We went back into the Ramble where we saw Pine Siskins and a very beautiful Fox Sparrow. We met some other birders who told us about Hooded Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler and Worm-eating Warbler. Again I changed our regular route and tried for these three warblers since they would be "lifers" for most everyone. We readily found the Hooded Warbler, a beautiful male seen at close range. We nixed on the other two birds but were satisfied with Black-crowned Night Heron and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher as alternates. We ended the walk at 12 noon.

Distinguishing Birds By Their Song - Field Trip

Date: April 19, 2009
Location: Central Park, NYC
Reported by: Joe Giunta

The first part of our trip was in the classroom. On the evening of Wed. April 15 we spent 2 hours listing to different bird songs and learning how to distinguish one song from another. On Sunday April 19 we would put these new skills to use..

The field trip started at 8am. We went immediately to Strawberry Fields where we saw and heard many bird species that were using Central Park either as a stopover spot in migration or a place to set up nesting territories. We heard and/or saw countless White-throated Sparrows, Robins and a great number of Hermit Thrushes. After an hour we left this part of Central Park and proceeded to the 'Lower Lobe'. More bird species were seen including a Swamp Sparrow, Pine Warbler and a very cooperative Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. We moved on crossing the Bow Bridge and entering the Ramble. In the Ramble we were able to close our eyes and listen as White-throated Sparrows, Tufted Titmice, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, and Flickers all sang or called. Our group of 13 birders took a break at the boathouse before proceeding on. It was noted that a Yellow-throated Warbler was seen the previous day at the Model Boat Pond. We took a look but couldn't find him but were very satisfied with a beautiful Palm Warbler. We went back into the Ramble for more bird species. At the area were some feeders are set up we saw Pine Siskins, Purple Finch, Goldfinch and a Black-and-white Warbler. As we moved forward we went through the Maintenance Meadow, where we saw a White-eyed Vireo and a Brown Creeper. We ended the walk at the 'Upper Lobe' were we saw a Ruby-crowned Kinglet displaying. We left the park at about 1pm being very satisfied with a great day of birding.

Early Spring Migrants at Jamaica Bay

Date: March 24, 2009
Location: Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, Queens NY
Reported by: Andrew Baksh and Don Riepe

Don Riepe and I met a group of about 45 attendees at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife refuge for an Early Spring Migrants walk at Jamaica Bay, which was scheduled from 10:00 to 12:00 am. The turnout, was rather well considering the rain that had fallen earlier in the day. Don began the walk by talking for a bit about the refuge and then we began our walk along the West Pond trail. The day felt and sounded like a true spring day, with the sounds of Red Winged Black birds, Carolina Wrens and House Finches permeating all along the trail.

The group was very alert and before long were pointing out birds and asking questions. As Don and I spotted different birds we pointed them out to the group and since I had my scope with me I was able to put several birds in the view, allowing many folks to get good close up looks at many birds. Our first highlight of the day was a Great Egret that was observed in the marsh; many in the group got good looks and were treated to the bird in flight. Our next neat find were a pair of Ospreys on the nesting platform. We had looks at both male and female and for some it was a life bird. As we continued on the trail, Don pointed out the various nest boxes and their uses as well as the plants that play a critical role in sustaining our feathered friends. Bench one, gave us our first look out on the West Pond and we had nice looks at Ruddy Ducks, Red-breasted Mergansers and Greater Scaup. While looking at some Buffleheads, a couple of Tree Swallows flew in doing what appeared to be a courtship dance in midair. As we continued along the trail, we observed a decent number of Snow Geese, a couple of Mute Swans and an American Coot. We had stopped along the trail when the second highlight of the day was spotted in the form of a Canvasback Duck; for many in the group, this was a life bird.

We continued on and along the way picked up several birds including a Great Blue Heron, Glossy Ibis in flight and Oystercatchers out on the edge of the marsh in pumpkin channel. We made the loop back to the visitor's center where we broke for a few minutes. It was here that Don spotted the third highlight and probably our best find; a Merlin, right outside the visitor's center. Then, it was onto the East Pond. On our way to the East Pond, an alert participant spotted our first garter snake, which slithered away into the brush before anyone could get a photograph. Our second garter snake was spotted sometime later and that made it two for the day. While no Spring peeper was spotted, we could hear them all around us;a pleasant sound that coincides with the arrival of spring. Out on the East Pond, most of the species were the same that we had noted earlier with the exception of a few including American Wigeon and a Great Cormorant. We wrapped up the walk around 1:00 pm; it was way over the time for the event, but we were all having such a good time that no one paid any attention to the clock. The feedback and consensus among the group was that the event was excellent and many wanted to signup for the the next walk.

Photos © Andrew Baksh

Winter Birds of Barnegat

Date: March 24, 2009
Location: Barnegat, New Jersey
Reported by: Joe Giunta

Our group of 11 birders left the Audubon Center on 23rd St. at 9am. We traveled by van and arrived at Barnegat Lighthouse at 11:15. On the way we spotted numerous Turkey Vultures flying overhead and one or two Red-tailed Hawks perched along the Garden State Parkway. Our main purpose on this trip was to see the numerous sea ducks that spend the winter at Barnegat. As soon as we left the van and began walking on the concrete walkway over the jetty we spotted , through scope and binoculars, Surf Scoters, Black Scoters, Red-breasted Mergansers and Long-tailed Ducks. On the jetty, at extremely close range, Ruddy Turnstones, Dunlin and first of the year American Oystercatchers were seen. A brief appearance of a Red-necked Grebe was noted and seen by half our group. After a short talk about locating rare gulls we walked towards the end of the jetty in search of the key target bird of the trip, namely the beautiful Harlequin Duck. We didn't get far when a rare gull, an Iceland Gull, gave us an excellent view as it flew over the group and we were able to see its overall white creamy color, black bill and white wing tips. It was a 'lifer' for almost everyone.

We continued walking along the jetty for about one quarter of a mile until we peeked over and saw our key target bird. About 30 Harlequins, both males and females, were seen at extremely close range. It was a very beautiful sight and will be well remembered by everyone in our group. We continued to walk along the jetty until we reached the end. At this spot we saw Common Loon and Red-throated Loon and were able to scope another Iceland gull. Through our scopes and binoculars we saw many gulls, shorebirds and sea ducks but only added Black-bellied Plover as a new species. We went back to the van, had lunch while viewing the bay and then forced ourselves to make the trip back to New York City. We arrived back at the Audubon Center at about 4:30.

Peregrine Walk

Date: March 22, 2009
Location: Manhattan
Reported by: Gabriel Willow

Thank you for joining us this past Sunday morning! We had lovely weather (although slightly chilly and windy on the bridge) and a nice walk.We started out near City Hall, walked half way across the Brooklyn Bridge, then down to South Street Sea Port and along the waterfront to 55 Water Street. We saw a couple of nesting sites of the Peregrines, including their distinctive white-wash. So those of you who didn't get to see the falcons at least got to see threatened-species droppings.

At SS Sea Port we saw a House Finch, a flock of Brant along the shore, and a couple of Buffleheads along the waterfront. Those who stayed until the end of the tour were treated to the exciting sight of the male Peregrine from 55 Water St. circling overhead while we stood at the Elevated Acre Park. He soared on the updrafts of warm air, chased a House Sparrow, and flew off to perch on the Woolworth Building's green spires.

We then managed to talk our way into the building lobby to see (on a live-feed TV screen) the female Peregrine sitting on her first egg. Thanks again for joining me; please check www.nycaudubon.org under "trips & classes" for future tours, and here are some Peregrine links that may be of interest: www.55water.com/falcons - Peregrine web-cam and info from 55 Water St.