Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of March 1 - March 2, 2025:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Winter’s Swan Song at Shirley Chisholm State Park
Saturday, March 1, 2025
Leader:Max Epstein
Description: The focus is primarily coastal waterfowl, gulls, raptors, late winter land birds, and grassland species.
Registration: Donna Evans email devansny@earthlink.net
View Details

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, March 1, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
View Details

First Sunday Bird Outings
Sunday, March 2,2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club in search of dozens of species that visit the park through all seasons. Learn about the different habitats in Prospect Park and why they are important for all types of birds.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
View Details


**********

Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, March 2, 2025, 6:45am - 8:15am
Description: Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean that there aren’t interesting birds to discover in Green-Wood. For some bird species that migrate south after the breeding season, Brooklyn is their Miami during the cold months. Spend the early morning exploring the cemetery, looking for overwintering waterfowl, nuthatches, woodpeckers, sparrows, finches, and any half-hardy birds that decided to stick around. By February we’ll see some of the early north-bound birds beginning to trickle back into the area.
View Details


**********

Hudson River Audubon Society

Marshlands Conservancy - Timberdoodles
Saturday, March 1, 2025, 4:00pm
Leader: Michael Bochnik
"Description: Afternoon and sunset at Marshlands Conservancy, 220 Boston Post Rd, Rye, NY We will take a walk to the marsh looking for early spring arrivals, then check out the fields for displaying Timberdoodles, another name for American Woodcocks.
" Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

Brooklyn Coastal Birding
Saturday, March 1, 2025
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: March is a time when few winter birds remain, and early spring migrants are just starting to arrive. However, birding in coastal Brooklyn is always satisfying. The trip involves visits to multiple sites, and in the past, it has featured Calvert Vaux Park, Coney Island Creek, Manhattan Beach Park, and Marine Park. Each site has a unique ecosystem with corresponding bird species. Highlights have included Black-headed Gulls, Eurasian Wigeons, Snowy Owls, Horned Larks, Eastern Meadowlarks, American Pipits, all three scoter species, loons, grebes, and both types of scaup.
Registration: Miriam Rakowski — rakowskimiriam@gmail.com
View Details

Croton Point Park
Sunday, March 2, 2025
Leader: Ethan Goodman
Description: Croton Point Park is a 508-acre park on a peninsula on the east shore of the Hudson River. Easily reached by public transportation or car, the walk begins at the train station where Bald Eagles typically nest. This location is well known for Red-headed Woodpeckers. In past years, we have seen Great Horned Owls, Eastern Screech Owls, American Tree Sparrows, Field Sparrows, Horned Larks, Snow Buntings, Common Goldeneyes, and Common Mergansers, among other species. This lengthy and often chilly walk includes hills, fields, pine groves, and a large landfill.
Registration: Suzanne Zywicki — suzannezywicki@hotmail.com
View Details


**********

Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

Willowbrook Park Walk
Saturday, March 1, 2025, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Leader: Don Recklies
Description: We’ll meet in the parking lot at Eaton Place, off Richmond Avenue, then loop Willowbrook Lake, returning to do an out and back on the White Trail, passing the deer exclosures and crossing the bridge over the brook by the chimney to the restoration areas between the chimney and Rockland Avenue.  We’re not likely to see much of Spring this early in the year, so consider this a winter walk.  Some of the White Trail is a wet trail, so inclement weather, or a heavy rain the day before (but not a light rain) will cancel this walk.
Registration: For more information call Don Recklies at (718) 768-9036.


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Mill Pond Park
Sunday, March 2, 2025
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: Use street parking on the westbound side of Merrick Road. The park is four blocks west of the Wantagh State Parkway.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details
...Read more

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of February 22 - February 23, 2025:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Common Goldeneye: Golden Target Bird #2 in a celebratory year
Saturday, February 22, 2025
Leader:Peter Dorosh
Description: In 2025, we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the leader’s birding journey, which began in 1975 with his first spark bird, the Scarlet Tanager. To commemorate this milestone, the theme of the year’s celebrations will focus on bird species named “golden,” along with all birds that continue to inspire joy and wonder. Throughout the year, seven “golden” bird species will be featured in various walks and trips, honoring nature, the outdoors, and the many birds that enrich our lives. This trip will spotlight the Common Goldeneye, a species commonly found in specific locations across the eastern U.S. Our journey will begin at Manhattan Beach, followed by stops at Floyd Bennett Field and Gravesend Bay, where we will continue to explore and celebrate the beauty of birdlife.
Registration: Peter Dorosh, email Prosbird@gmail.com or Prosbird@aol.com
View Details

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, February 22, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
View Details


**********

Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, February 23, 2025, 6:45am - 8:15am
Description: Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean that there aren’t interesting birds to discover in Green-Wood. For some bird species that migrate south after the breeding season, Brooklyn is their Miami during the cold months. Spend the early morning exploring the cemetery, looking for overwintering waterfowl, nuthatches, woodpeckers, sparrows, finches, and any half-hardy birds that decided to stick around. By February we’ll see some of the early north-bound birds beginning to trickle back into the area.
View Details


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

Pelham Bay Park – Orchard Beach Area
Saturday, February 22, 2025
Leader: Jack Rothman
Description: Pelham Bay Park is New York City’s largest park, covering 2,772 acres. Our winter walks start at Orchard Beach and center around the northern forested areas of Hunter Island and Bartow-Pell Woods. The waters off Orchard Beach and Twin Island are excellent spots to scan flocks of overwintering waterfowl, loons, and grebes and Harbor Seals. Sightings from prior walks included Red-necked Grebes, Purple Sandpipers, American Widgeons, and Razorbills in the water. Tree Sparrows and hawks were seen on the land and in the air.
Registration: Evelyn Huang — evelynhuang1@yahoo.com
View Details


**********

NYC Bird Alliance

Winter Birding at Pelham Bay Park
Sunday, February 23, 2025, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Richard Aracil
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance to explore New York City's largest park! Pelham Bay Park's forested areas, salt marshes, and grassy meadows offer rich habitat for a variety of migrating birds.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Birding in Central Park: Ramble to Reservoir
NEW DATE: Sunday, February 23, 2025, 8:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Enjoy a winter trek through Central Park. We'll explore the Lake, Ramble, and Turtle Pond in search of wintering songbirds and owls, and then trek up to the Reservoir to look for ducks, gulls, and Peregrine Falcons.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Birding in the Midtown Greenway
Sunday, February 23, 2025, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Leader: EsplanadeFriends
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance and EsplanadeFriends to discover the East River Esplanade through the newly opened East Midtown Greenway! This green corridor spans from 53rd to 61st Street. Join us as we explore this new public space in search of water birds swimming in and flying over the East River.
Registration: Event Registration is closed.
View Details


**********

Queens County Bird Club

Baisley Pond
Sunday, February 23, 2025, 9:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: John & Mary Borowski (347) 705-2963
Description: This mini-trip starts at 9am and ends before lunch. It is a great trip for beginners, but birders of all levels can enjoy the diversity of waterfowl we will see.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location.
View Details


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, February 22, 2025
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Southern State Parkway, travel west to the Belt Parkway. Exit at Cross Bay Boulevard (Exit 17) south. Continue south on Cross Bay Blvd. through Howard Beach and over the North Channel Bridge (also known as the Congressman Joseph P. Addabbo Bridge). The entrance to the refuge parking lot is on the right side of the road, at a traffic light approximately one and a half miles past the bridge.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


**********

Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, February 22, 2025
Birding: Winter Waterfowl at Parking Lot (in Manhattan Beach Park), Brooklyn
11:00am–12:30pm
Birding programs are an all-inclusive safe space and appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome.
Free
...Read more

Best of the Fortnight

Below of some favs taken during the first two weeks of February:

American Robin

American Kestrel

White-breasted Nuthatch

Cooper's Hawk with full crop

Red-tailed Hawk

Female Common Merganser

Hooded Mergansers

Merlin

Northern Pintail

'Jelena' Witch-hazel

Black-capped Chickadee

Immature Red-headed Woodpecker

Baltimore Oriole

Ice formation with leaves

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of February 15 - February 16, 2025:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, February 15, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
View Details


**********

Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, February 16, 2025, 6:45am - 8:15am
Registration: See details link below. Description: Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean that there aren’t interesting birds to discover in Green-Wood. For some bird species that migrate south after the breeding season, Brooklyn is their Miami during the cold months. Spend the early morning exploring the cemetery, looking for overwintering waterfowl, nuthatches, woodpeckers, sparrows, finches, and any half-hardy birds that decided to stick around. By February we’ll see some of the early north-bound birds beginning to trickle back into the area.
View Details


**********

NYC Bird Alliance

Winter Birding on Governors Island
Saturday, February 15, 2025, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Leader:
Description: Meet the winter birds of Governors Island! Nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on the island, which provides excellent habitat all year round. Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover all of the bird life the island has to offer this winter. Don’t forget to bring binoculars and dress in warm layers!
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Birding in Central Park: Ramble to Reservoir
Sunday, February 16, 2025, 8:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Enjoy a winter trek through Central Park. We'll explore the Lake, Ramble, and Turtle Pond in search of wintering songbirds and owls, and then trek up to the Reservoir to look for ducks, gulls, and Peregrine Falcons.
Registration: Registration page
View Details


**********

Queens County Bird Club

NJ Shore/Barnegat
Saturday, February 15, 2025
Leader: Ian Resnick (917) 626-9562
Description: Meeting location will be posted closer to the trip date. We will explore many of the duck ponds in coastal New Jersey, including Takanasee Lake, Shark River, and southward. We will view Manasquan Inlet from several locations. The highlight of the trip will be Barnegat Lighthouse for a walk on the jetty to view sea ducks, including Harlequins. Order of stops will be dependent on weather conditions. In addition, itinerary may be modified if there are any reported unusual sightings of birds in the area.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location.
View Details


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Massapequa Preserve
Sunday, February 16, 2025
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From Sunrise Highway, turn north onto Broadway, Massapequa. Travel under the Long Island Rail Road overpass, then make the first right onto Veterans Boulevard (headed east). Go past the Massapequa train station and into the parking lot at the east end of the station. The preserve is directly east of the parking lot.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


**********

Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, February 15, 2025
Birding: Bald Eagle Watch at Payson Park House (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
10:00am–11:30am
Winter is a spectacular time for observing bald eagles in New York City parks. See if you can spot any on this adventure with our Urban Park Rangers. Please dress warmly.
Free

Birding: Bald Eagle Watch at Palisade Avenue and Spaulding Lane (in Riverdale Park), Bronx
11:00am–12:30pm
Winter is a spectacular time for observing bald eagles in New York City parks. See if you can spot any on this adventure with our Urban Park Rangers. Please dress warmly.
Free

Sunday, February 16, 2025
Birding: All About Pigeons at Lawn Area (in Seaside Wildlife Nature Park), Staten Island
11:00am.–12:00pm
Pigeons are among some of the most abundant species of birds in our city. Learn more about what makes these birds so unique and interesting.
Free

Birding: You Gotta Love Birds at Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
12:00pm–1:00pm
With Valentines Day in our rear view mirror, let's take a deeper look into the love lives of birds.

Marine Park Alliance Presents Beginner Birding: Bird Love at Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
12:00pm.–1:00pm
Celebrate Valentine's Day with the birds! Learn about bird courtship rituals and get a chance to observe some for yourself. Sponsored by the Urban Park Rangers.
Free

...Read more

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for Saturday, February 8 - Wednesday, February 12, 2025:

Bedford Audubon Society

Hudson River Eagle Trip
Saturday, February 8, 2025, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Whether it’s your first or 101st time, seeing a Bald Eagle is always a thrill and the stretch of the Hudson River that borders northwestern Westchester holds the largest concentration of wintering Bald Eagles in the Northeast north of Chesapeake Bay.
Registration: Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Easy. Registration required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org or by calling 914-302-9713.
View Details


**********

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, February 8, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
View Details


**********

Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

Dune Road, Shinnecock to Tiana
Saturday, February 8, 2025 . Meet at 8:00am
Leader: Eileen Schwinn
Description: Meet at the Hampton Bays side of the Shinnecock Inlet. Eileen Schwinn will be leading this trip.
Registration: Please contact Eileen to register and for questions, beachmed@optonline.net
View Details


**********

Gateway National Parks

Jamaica Bay: Winter Wander
Sunday, February 9, 2025, 1:00mm — 2:30pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Wander with a park ranger at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge while it’s a winter wonderland! Explore how plants and animals at the park survive and adapt to the winter. Open to all ages. Heavy rain/snow or wind chills below 25 degrees Fahrenheit will cancel this event. Dress for the weather.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: Yes
View Details


**********

Great South Bay Audubon Society

Jones Beach West End State Park Bird Walk
Saturday, February 8, 2025, 8:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: John Gluth, Mike Cooper
Description: Join us for a wonderful bird walk as we head out to Jones Beach West End for an early morning adventure.
Registration: info@greatsouthbayaudubon.org
View Details


**********

Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 7:00am - 8:30am
Description: Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean that there aren’t interesting birds to discover in Green-Wood. For some bird species that migrate south after the breeding season, Brooklyn is their Miami during the cold months. Spend the early morning exploring the cemetery, looking for overwintering waterfowl, nuthatches, woodpeckers, sparrows, finches, and any half-hardy birds that decided to stick around. By February we’ll see some of the early north-bound birds beginning to trickle back into the area.
View Details


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

Montauk Weekend
Saturday, February 8 - Sunday, February 9, 2025
Leader: Joseph DiCostanzo
Description: Montauk is the easternmost point of New York State and is known for the high numbers of ducks and pelagic birds that concentrate there in winter. On our way to and from Montauk, we will make several stops, including Point Lookout, Jones Beach, and various freshwater ponds. We will spend the night at Daunt’s Albatross Motel.
Registration: Amanda Bielskas — bielskas@gmail.com
View Details


**********

NYC Bird Alliance

Birding at Freshkills North Park
Saturday, February 8, 2025, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Join Staten Island resident Anthony Ciancimino for a tour of Freshkills Park’s North Park. This park is a beautiful oasis of wetlands and grasslands, where you can expect to see a wide variety of wintering waterfowl, raptors, and sparrows.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Winter Birding at Shirley Chisholm State Park
Saturday, February 8, 2025, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: Outdoor Afro
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance and Outdoor Afro to explore the largest state park in New York City, Shirley Chisholm State Park! Named after the trailblazing Shirley Chisholm—Brooklyn native, first African American Congresswoman, and the first woman and African American to run for President—this park is a must-see. Built on what was once a landfill, the park is now a thriving spot full of wildlife, including hawks, waterfowl, wetlands, and native plants. Come out and enjoy the beauty of this amazing space while honoring Shirley Chisholm’s incredible legacy!
Registration: Registration page
View Details


**********

Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

A Walk in Wolfe’s Pond Park
Sunday, February 9, 2025, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Leader: Don Recklies
Description: Meet at the entrance to the Park and Ride at the end of Herbert Avenue (off Seguine). We will walk through the lesser visited (but often biked) north side of the park, pausing beside Acme Pond, then cross Hylan Blvd. to visit the Wolfe’s Pond berm on Ratitan Bay. We’ll return by the main White Trail, recross Hylan, then follow the Blue Trail, passing the bluebelt dam behind Tottenville High School. This may be a cold walk, so dress warmly! Heavy rain, but not a light drizzle, will cancel this walk.
Registration: For more information call Don Recklies at (718) 768-9036
View Details


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake State Park
Saturday, February 8, 2025
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Southern State Parkway, take Exit 18 (Eagle Avenue) south to Field 3 (use second park entrance and make an immediate left turn.)
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

...Read more

Best of the Fortnight

Below is a selection of my photos from the second two weeks of January. Unless otherwise noted, all my "Fortnight" photographs were taken somewhere within New York City:

Carolina Wren

Great Blue Heron

'Jalena' Witch-hazel buds

Striped Skunk

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Baltimore Oriole

Immature Cooper's Hawk

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Immature Red-tailed Hawk

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of February 1 - February 2, 2025:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Jones Beach in Winter Glory
Saturday, February 1, 2025
Leader: Adelia Harrison
Description: The focus is primarily coastal waterfowl and gulls, possible Snowy Owl, wintering shorebirds, dune species, raptors, finches and other winter passerines.
Registration: Adelia Honeywood email honeywood5@yahoo.com
View Details

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, February 1, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
View Details

First Sunday Bird Outings
Sunday, February 2, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club in search of dozens of species that visit the park through all seasons. Learn about the different habitats in Prospect Park and why they are important for all types of birds.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details


**********

Gateway National Parks

Birding for Beginners at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, February 1, 2025, 10:00am — 11:30am
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Is one of your New Year's resolutions to become a birder? Look no further and come with a ranger on this birding for beginners walk around West Pond. All skill levels welcomed; binoculars provided. Dress for the weather.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details


**********

Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, February 2, 2025, 7:00am - 8:30am
Description: Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean that there aren’t interesting birds to discover in Green-Wood. For some bird species that migrate south after the breeding season, Brooklyn is their Miami during the cold months. Spend the early morning exploring the cemetery, looking for overwintering waterfowl, nuthatches, woodpeckers, sparrows, finches, and any half-hardy birds that decided to stick around. By February we’ll see some of the early north-bound birds beginning to trickle back into the area.
View Details


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

Coney Island Pier to Coney Island Creek
Saturday, February 1, 2025
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: This casual four-mile loop begins by exploring the shore, water, and jetties of the lower bay along Coney Island Beach. Walking west towards the border between Coney Island and the private community of Seagate, we expect to observe Common and Red-throated Loons, Horned Grebes, Long-tailed Ducks, scoters, and several other species of waterfowl. The overwintering Purple Sandpipers along the rock jetties are always a delight. We may find a rare Lesser Black-backed Gull or an Iceland Gull among the abundant common gulls. The second half of the loop takes us to the tranquil Gravesend Bay and Coney Island Creek.
Registration: Mary Braza — brazamary@gmail.com
View Details

Staten Island
Sunday, February 2, 2025
Leader: Richard ZainEldeen
Description: Staten Island’s habitats include woodlands, coastal beaches, marshes, parks, and more. We have seen shorebirds, Bonaparte’s Gulls, Horned Grebes, and other grebe species. Many rare birds may make surprise appearances. One year, a Summer Tanager stayed throughout the winter, eating bees found in a tree hole. Hairy Woodpeckers are not uncommon. The itinerary may evolve based on sightings or rare bird species.
Registration: Ursula Mitra — ursula.mitra@verizon.net
View Details


**********

Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

A Walk in the Woods at Blue Heron Park
Sunday, February 2, 2025, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Leader: Don Recklies
Description: We’ll brave the chill—if there is any—to see winter activity in the park and try to identify a few trees by their bark. Perhaps we’ll run across a shed or hear the pileated woodpeckers. We’ll meet at the Blue Heron Nature Center then walk around Spring Pond and the Arbutus Woods Trail loop to the north. (Inclement weather will cancel; should earlier weather have made the Orange trail impassible, we’ll choose another route.)
Registration: For more information call Don Recklies at (718) 768-9036
View Details


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Point Lookout Town Park (and Lido Preserve afterwards)
Sunday, February 2, 2025
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Southern State Parkway, exit onto the Meadowbrook State Parkway south. Exit from the Meadowbrook at Loop Parkway (just before the Jones Beach toll booths) toward Point Lookout. The Loop Parkway ends west of Point Lookout at Lido Boulevard. Continue straight across Lido Boulevard into Point Lookout Park. Travel past the ticket booths and curve left into the very large parking lot on the south side of the park. Park in the southeast corner, closest to the private homes of the village of Point Lookout and the beach. We will walk east along the beach toward Jones Inlet. After returning to the parking lot, we will drive west on Lido Boulevard to Lido Beach Passive Nature Preserve on the north side of Lido Boulevard to walk through the bay marsh.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


**********

Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, February 1, 2025
Birding: Winter Birds at Forest Avenue and Silver Lake Park Road (in Silver Lake Park), Staten Island
11:00am - 12:30pm
Join us on this Ranger led walk along the trails identifying various woodland birds and winter waterfowl.
Free

Sunday, February 2, 2025
Birding: All About Woodpeckers at Alley Pond Adventure Course (in Alley Pond Park)
10:00am - 11:00am
Join the Urban Park Rangers as they guide you through the forest of Alley Pond Park while highlighting the signs and tracks of woodpeckers.
Free

Birding: Winter Waterfowl at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome.
Free

...Read more

Winter Orioles

Baltimore Orioles are one of my favorite, locally breeding songbirds. During the spring, I love hearing their loud, clear, flute-like whistled song broadcast from the treetops. Locating the source is usually fairly easy given the male's vivid orange body and matte black head. In addition to the whistled call, they frequently make an almost mechanical chattering sound. I look foward to hunting down their finely woven, hanging basket nest, which is often accented with colorful bits of discarded ribbon or string.

The orioles that nest in Brooklyn usually have a brief breeding season, with many heading south as early as July. Described as a medium to long-distance migrant, most winter in Florida, the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. Here's a range map from Cornell's "All About Birds" website:

Their usual diet consists of insects, berries and nectar. In Brooklyn's historic Green-Wood Cemetery there is apparently a lot to eat as several pair nest there every year.

I was motivated to write this post as I've been watching an overwintering pair at Green-Wood since December 13th of last year. Their plumage is much more subdued in the winter, but they are still a nice bright spot in a mostly drab landscape. The orioles were first observed feeding on the small red fruit of a spawling yew tree at Pastoral Dell. Yew trees provide an important source of food to many animals, especially when other trees, such as, holly and persimmon are depleted. Over the course of two weeks I noticed that they were actually remaining in a relatively small area along Hillock Avenue. There are several yews in that area and the two orioles would regularly move between them.

Eventually I could not longer find them at those trees. I didn't think that they suddenly decided to leave New York and head to the tropics, but rather another source of food was found.

Approximately 200 yards south of the yew trees in a small protected valley is a manmade pond named "Dell Water". There are huge fluctuations in the water level, but there's always enough to attract wildlife. Deep leaf litter on the surrounding ridges and a general "messy" habitat makes it a prime spot for birds. The cemetery maintains winter bird feeding stations here, plus, there are about a dozen honeybee hives. The latter will become an important point. On January 2nd I encountered both the orioles at Dell Water.

I wasn't sure what they were eating as I didn't notice them chowing down on the abundant mixed seed or thistle. Ultimately, I saw one nibbling on the suet feeder. Occasionally, they'd break off pieces, fly to a distant section of grass and eat it away from all the other birds.

Apparently, orioles cannot survive on suet alone. On January 14th I noticed one of them foraging in the leaves that had collected below the bee hives. It appeared to be finding some small insects, then flying to an adjacent crabapple to devour it. I watched it going back and forth for about 15 minutes wondering what it was eating. When I uploaded my photos to the computer I saw what should have been obvious. It was eating dead honeybees. Subsequently, I observed that they figured out bees can also be found inside the hive openings. Note that on a couple of mild days, the honeybees were actively moving around at the entrance to some of the hives. That might explain the red welt at the corner of one oriole's mouth. Oops.

This is not the first Brooklyn winter that I've seen Baltimore Oriole hanging around. In fact, on the annual Christmas Bird Count, this species has become semi-regular. So, it begs the question, why are a pair of neotropic songbirds sticking around in the northeast? In an article by Terry W. Johnson of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division, the author writes:

"For untold thousands of years, Baltimore orioles have traditionally wintered
far south of the U.S. in southern Mexico southward to Columbia. Consequently,
they were rarely, if ever, seen in North America in winter."

"However, as long ago as the 1890s, a smattering of Baltimore orioles began
showing up at bird feeders during the winter. Thereafter, from time to time, one
would be spotted in the northern U.S. Then, for reasons we do not fully
understand, by 1950 these gorgeous birds were regularly appearing in small
numbers across New England."

"In the years since, sightings have come in from feeder watchers as far south as
the Carolinas and Georgia. Now Baltimore orioles are regular winter visitors
throughout much of eastern North America."

Perhaps many more people putting out feeders in the winter, plus the planting of more fruiting botanics have made it easier for the Baltimore Oriole to survive cold winters. Whatever the reasons, I look forward to seeing this fascinating species more often...maybe even year-round.

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of January 25 - January 26, 2025:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Counting Waterfowl in Prospect Park
Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Tina Alleva
Description: The annual NYS Waterfowl count commences this week with the aim of counting ducks, swans, geese, grebes and coots among the species documented. Prospect Park’s tally will be part of the overall Kings County count.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

Staten Island Winter Trip
Saturday, January 25, 2025
Leader: Tom Preston
Description: We will visit several locations in Staten Island on this trip. There is good birding year round on the island. In winter coastal spots are often productive, but we will visit inland areas too.The exact spots will be finalized later, based on conditions and reports. Staten Island has many productive and easily accessible birding spots, we will visit a number of them.
Registration: JoAnn Preston email jocrochet@verizon.net Members and drivers get priority.
View Details

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January 25, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
View Details


**********

Gateway National Parks

Winter Wander at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, January 25, 2025, 1:00pm — 2:30pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Wander with a park ranger at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge while it’s a winter wonderland! Explore how plants and animals at the park survive and adapt to the winter. Open to all ages. This is an all-weather walk, so please dress for the conditions.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details


**********

Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace: Late-Risers Edition (Members Only)
Sunday, January 26, 2025, 10:00am - 11:30am
Description: You may know birding expert Rob Jett from his Birding in Peace tours. You know, the ones that meet at 6am? Always wanted to go on a birding tour at Green-Wood but not much of a morning person? This tour is for you!
View Details


**********

Hudson River Audubon Society

Jones Beach Inlet, a walk out to the jetty
Saturday, January 25, 2025, 8:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: On our walk out, we will check out the dunes and sand for Snow Bunting, Horned Lark and maybe a Snowy Owl. At the jetty we hope to find Harlequin Ducks, Purple Sandpiper, scooters, loons and Northern Gannets.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

Breezy Point
Saturday, January 25, 2025
Leader: David Spawn
Description: Breezy Point, Queens, is located on the western end of the Rockaway peninsula, between Rockaway Inlet and Jamaica Bay to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. It is part of Gateway National Recreation Area, which the National Park Service manages. This isolated, 200-acre area includes an ocean-facing beach, a shoreline on Jamaica Bay, dunes, and marshland.
Registration: Matthew Fischer — matthewwfischer@gmail.com
View Details


**********

NYC Bird Alliance

Birding at Wolfe's Pond Park
Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance at one of Staten Island's hidden gems, Wolfe's Pond Park. Explore the park’s diverse habitats and spot wintering birds like Northern Pintails, American Black Ducks, and Red-bellied Woodpeckers. Staten Island resident and birder, Anthony Ciancimino will led us through the space.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Highland Park and Reservoir Birding
Sunday, January 26, 2025, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: Oliver Lopez
Description: Located in both Queens and Brooklyn, Highland Park boasts forested areas, reservoir, and a community garden. Join NYC Bird Alliance in search of winter migrants in this beautiful outdoor space.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Birding in Midtown Greenway
Sunday, January 26, 2025, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Leader: EsplanadeFriends
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance and EsplanadeFriends to discover the East River Esplanade and its adjacent green spaces. Expect to see many water birds right off the coast.
Registration: Registration page
View Details


**********

NYC Queer Birders

Birding at Riverside Park
Sunday, January 26, 2025, 9:00am
Leader: _____
Description: Meet at 120th St. and Riverside Dr.
Registration: Registration not required.
View Details


**********

Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

The Richard Buegler 10-Mile Spring Greenbelt Walk
Sunday, January 26, 2025, 9:15am - 3:45pm
Leader: Hillel Lofaso
Description: Join with Protectors of Pine Oak Woods for a hike through the winter woods of the Greenbelt. Beginning at the trailhead on Staten Island Boulevard behind the Petrides School, participants will climb through Deere Park, cross the top of Todt Hill and wander down through the Saint Francis Woodlands. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, dress appropriately for the weather. Be sure to confirm that the walk is not cancelled due to snow or forecast storms.
Registration: To confirm a day prior please call Hillel Lofaso at (718) 477-0545
View Details


**********

Queens County Bird Club

Montauk
Sunday, January 26, 2025, 7:30am - 4:30pm
Leader: Joe Schiavone (203) 640-2927
Description: We will start the trip viewing from the back of the restaurant specified by the map. Parking is in the lot on the opposite side of Montauk Hwy. If you have a scope, it will be useful here. Razorbills and gannets are possible here, and you will definitely see Common Eider and scoters. We will proceed to various birding spots in the Montauk area. We usually end the trip with a visit to the Shinnecock Inlet and dinner at a restaurant near there.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location.
View Details


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Jones Beach Coast Guard Station Parking Area
Saturday, January 25, 2025
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Wantagh State Parkway, travel south. Upon entering Jones Beach State Park, exit at Bay Drive and continue west. Turn right (north) at entrance for Coast Guard Station and West End Boat Basin; turn right again for parking.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


**********

Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, January 25, 2025
Birding: Winter Waterfowl at Shore Parkway and Rabbi Block Street (in Calvert Vaux Park), Brooklyn
10:00am - 11:00am
Birding programs are an all-inclusive safe space and appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome.
Free

Sunday, January 26, 2025
Birding: Raptors at West 218th Street and Indian Road (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Join the Urban Park Rangers as we explore Inwood Hill Park's ecosystem and determine what kind of raptors make it their home.
Free

...Read more

Best of the Fortnight

Here is my first "Best of" installment for 2025. Enjoy:

Cooper's Hawk

Peregrine Falcon

Red-tailed Hawk

Baltimore Oriole

Northern Cardinal

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

White-breasted Nuthatch

Black-capped Chickadee

Immature Red-headed Woodpecker

White-throated Sparrow

Great Blue Heron

American Herring Gull

Purple Sandpiper

Northern Pintail

Gadwall

Carolina Wren