Best of the Fortnight

Here's a selection of my photos from over the past 2 weeks:

American Robin, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Northern Shoveler, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Immature Cooper's Hawk, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Pied-billed Grebe, Spring Creek, Brooklyn, NY

American Tree Sparrow, Shirley Chisholm State Park, Brooklyn, NY

Immature Red-shouldered Hawk, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Baltimore Oriole, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Herring Gull, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY

Purple Sandpiper, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY

Iceland Gull, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY

Hermit Thrush, Coney Island Creek Park, Brooklyn, NY

Greater & Lesser Scaup, Coney Island Creek, Brooklyn, NY

Fish Crow, Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, NY

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of February 5-6, 2022:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, February 5, 2022, 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. Please bring binoculars if you have them.
View Details


Winter at Jones Beach State Park and Point Lookout
Saturday, February 5, 2022
Leader: Adelia Honeywood
Description: Winter water birds and sea ducks, beach dune species, raptors, possibly irruptive finches in small numbers.
Registration: Adelia Honeywood email honeywood5@yahoo.com. Registration Period: Jan 30th-Feb 3rd Current club members will receive priority.
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First Sunday Prospect Park Walks in Winter
Sunday, February 6, 2022, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: The Sunday walks will start at The Audubon Center at the Boathouse.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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After Hours Sunset Walk at Shirley Chisholm State Park
Sunday, February 6, 2022, 2:00pm - 6:00pm
Leader: Adelia Honeywood and Shirley Chisholm State Park Staff
Description: A special opportunity hosted by park staff to enjoy Shirley Chisholm State Park at sunset after it closes to the public. We will start at 2 pm for some daytime winter birding and then meet up with parks staff at 4 pm for a twilight hike until 6pm. Scopes are recommended for the daytime portion.
Registration: Adelia Honeywood, email honeywood5@yahoo.com. Jan 30th-Feb 3rd Please only register if you can attend the entire event 2 – 6 pm.
View Details


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Gateway National Parks

Fort Wadsworth Tour
Every week on Sunday February 06, 2022 to February 27, 2022, 2:00pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a hike around Fort Wadsworth as we explore both the natural areas and the remnants of the former harbor defense system. Inclement weather will cancel this program. Dress appropriately. Bring water, face mask required.
Registration: Call 718 354-4655 to make a reservation.
View Details


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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Jones Beach West End State Park Nature Walk
Saturday, February 5, 2022, 8:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: Mike Cooper, Bob Grover
Description: Meet in the parking lot at the Marina near the Coast Guard Station.
Registration: info@greatsouthbayaudubon.org
View Details


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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, February 6, 2022, 7:00am–8:30am
Before our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful Sunday morning walking tours to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home.
View Details


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Linnaean Society of New York

Coney Island Pier to Coney Island Creek
Saturday, February 5, 2022
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 & Red-throated Loons, Horned Grebes, Long-tailed Ducks, scoters and several other species of waterfowl. Purple Sandpipers typically overwinter along the rock jetties. Among the abundant common gulls, we may find a rare Lesser Black-backed or Iceland Gull. The second half of the loop explores Gravesend Bay and Coney Island Creek. Returning towards Stillwell Avenue the group may opt to lunch at NYC landmark Totonno’s pizzeria or stop in for a cold one at Coney Island Brewery.
Registration: Linda Labella — lblabella@gmail.com
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Jones Beach
Sunday, February 6, 2022
Leader: Gordon Lam
Description: Jones Beach State Park is among the best location in the area for viewing wintering ducks, loons, grebes, geese, gulls, shorebirds, passerines, raptors and owls. The state park occupies 6.5 miles of a barrier island along the Atlantic coast of Nassau County and contains varied habitats, including ocean beaches, bays, dunes and forested areas. eBird records for January include over 100 avian species. Exciting rarities that might be seen, including Snowy Owl, Harlequin Duck, Purple Sandpiper, Razorbill, Murres, Horned Lark and Lapland Longspur.
Registration: Lori Lam — lamonthelam2@gmail.com
View Details
Note: This trip replaces the January 28, 2022 trip to Breezy Point, which was cancelled due to inclement weather.


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New York City Audubon

Winter Bird Exploration in Central Park
Sunday, February 6, 2022, 9:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Kellye Rosenheim
Description: Venture out with Kellye Rosenheim to explore the winter bird life of Central Park. We'll seek out waterfowl, raptors, and hearty year-round residents.. Limited to 15. $36 (25).
Registration: Via Eventbrite
View Details


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South Shore Audubon Society

Massapequa Lake
Sunday, February 6, 2022
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: Use street parking on the westbound side of Merrick Road. Massapequa Lake is at the south end of Massapequa Preserve, between Lakeshore Boulevard and Ocean Avenue.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, February 5, 2022

Birding: Winter Waterfowl at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
10:00am - 11:00am
Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. Please bring your own binoculars.
Free

...Read more

New York City Rare Bird Alert

Below is the New York City Rare Bird Alert for the week ending Friday, January 28, 2022:

- RBA
* New York
* New York City, Long Island, Westchester County
* Jan. 28, 2022
* NYNY2201.28
- Birds mentioned


PINK-FOOTED GOOSE+
THICK-BILLED MURRE+
WESTERN TANAGER+
(+ Details requested by NYSARC)

GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE
Blue-winged Teal
EURASIAN WIGEON
KING EIDER
HARLEQUIN DUCK
Red-necked Grebe
Common Gallinule
PIPING PLOVER
LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER
Razorbill
Black-legged Kittiwake
BLACK-HEADED GULL
Iceland Gull
GLAUCOUS GULL
American Bittern
Eastern Phoebe
NORTHERN SHRIKE
LAPLAND LONGSPUR
Vesper Sparrow
YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT
Baltimore Oriole

- Transcript

If followed by (+) please submit documentation of your report electronically and use the NYSARC online submission form found at http://www.nybirds.org/NYSARC/goodreport.htm

You can also send reports and digital image files via email to nysarc44 (at)nybirds{dot}org.

If electronic submission is not possible, hardcopy reports and photos or sketches are welcome. Hardcopy documentation should be mailed to:

Gary Chapin - Secretary
NYS Avian Records Committee (NYSARC)
125 Pine Springs Drive
Ticonderoga, NY 12883

Hotline: New York City Area Rare Bird Alert
Number: (212) 979-3070

Compiler: Tom Burke
Coverage: New York City, Long Island, Westchester County

Transcriber: Ben Cacace

BEGIN TAPE

Greetings. This is the New York Rare Bird Alert for *Friday, January 28th 2022* at 11pm. The highlights of today's tape are WESTERN TANAGER, THICK-BILLED MURRE, NORTHERN SHRIKE, PINK-FOOTED GOOSE, GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE, EURASIAN WIGEON, KING EIDER, HARLEQUIN DUCK, BLACK-HEADED GULL, GLAUCOUS GULL, PIPING PLOVER, LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER, LAPLAND LONGSPUR, YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT and more.

There are two WESTERN TANAGERS in Manhattan, the one wintering around Carl Schurz Park continues to visit the feeder area there with some regularity this site located along East End Avenue near East 86th Street. The TANAGER near the private Clinton Community Garden noted last Saturday should be looked for between West 47th & 48th Street east of 10th Avenue.

Following last week's two occurrences, sightings this week of THICK-BILLED MURRE commenced last Saturday with one in Shinnecock Inlet where perhaps the same bird was photographed today floating into the bay around midday. Another THICK-BILLED was photographed last Monday moving slowly westward off Fort Tilden. More expected RAZORBILLS were also present off Montauk Point with a good count of 51 on Tuesday with a few others along Long Island's south shore. In addition a small number of BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES were seen offshore out east where other species of alcids can also occur though sufficient documentation to substantiate such findings can be difficult to obtain.

NORTHERN SHRIKE was still present Monday at the North Fork Preserve in Northville where it is usually noted along fields west of the entrance road located on the north side of Sound Avenue.

PINK-FOOTED GOOSE continues at Stony Brook University on a pond near the Charles B. Wang Center. Today 2 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were spotted at Sunken Meadow State Park west of the entrance bridge and another was today again roosting on the lake at Playland Park in Rye. Continuing single female type EURASIAN WIGEON were seen as recently as today both at Bush Terminal Piers Park in Brooklyn and on Patchogue Lake the north end of which contains a good variety of water birds including a drake BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Single drake KING EIDER were still today at both Great Kills Park on Staten Island and at Shinnecock Inlet and 5 HARLEQUIN DUCKS can be found along the Point Lookout jetties. A PIPING PLOVER was also present at Point Lookout yesterday.

An adult BLACK-HEADED GULL continues to frequent the waters around the Coast Guard Station at Jones Beach West End where a single LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER was seen again Tuesday that bay also producing a LAPLAND LONGSPUR there. LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS also remain along Santapogue Creek in West Babylon. GLAUCOUS GULLS were seen today at Brooklyn Army Terminal Pier 4 and at Bellport Bay Yacht Club while several ICELAND GULLS include birds on Central Park's Reservoir and at Randall's Island plus a few sites in Brooklyn and out at Shinnecock Inlet.

Other notable non-passerines include a RED-NECKED GREBE continuing at Culloden Point in Montauk, a COMMON GALLINULE still at Mill Pond in Bellmore and a couple of AMERICAN BITTERN along Dune Road and another at Tobay.

Out in Montauk 2 YELLOW-BREASTED CHATS were seen today, one around the parking lot at the point and the another at Theodore Roosevelt County Park. Up to 3 VESPER SPARROWS still reside at the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center off Yaphank Avenue and an EASTERN PHOEBE plus a BALTIMORE ORIOLE both remain in Brooklyn's Green-wood Cemetery.

To phone in reports, call Tom Burke at (914) 967-4922.

This service is sponsored by the Linnaean Society of New York and the National Audubon Society. Thank you for calling.

- End transcript ...Read more

Green-Wood Cemetery: Weeks 3 & 4

I think a good theme for this period would be "Eat or Be Eaten". One big change has been plummeting temperatures and this weekend's forecast nor'easter. Still time to see a few rare visitors from the north:

The spiky sweetgum ball produce several dozen seeds. Typically large numbers of birds are found in the tops of the trees picking the seeds out directly, or scratching in the grass below for spilled seeds. This year many winter specialists have not been around. I don't know why.

There are lots of apple trees in the cemetery and some are still holding onto a few fruit. This Granny Smith variety has been attracting birds, apparently taking a break from eating seeds or other fruit.

A pair of overwintering Baltimore Orioles have been finding food in the cemetery's numerous yew trees. As that source becomes exhausted they've been visiting suet feeders. Maybe a few orange halves could be added to the menu.

Northern Shovelers are an abundant overwintering species around Brooklyn. When all the ponds and lakes freeze, look for them in the creeks around the coast.

Another sparrow that is only found in winter is the American Tree Sparrow. This gregarious species can usually be found in fairly large flocks around the borough. That hasn't been the case this year...yet.

Pine Hill has been a good spot to find mixed sparrow flocks, robins, kinglets and nuthatches. It should be no surprise that this Sharp-shinned Hawk has also been lurking around there, too.

Red-shouldered Hawks used to be rare in Brooklyn during the winter. They have gradually become a fairly regular sighting during the cold months. This immature individual was hunting on the Hill of Graves.

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of January 29-30, 2022:

Bedford Audubon Society

EagleWatch
Daily, January 13, 2022 – February 17, 2022, 1.5 hours before sunset
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Join Naturalist Tait Johansson and his team from Bedford Audubon and Saw Mill River Audubon for EagleWatch to monitor roosting Bald Eagles within the Lower Hudson Valley Important Bird Area (IBA). We share the data with Audubon New York to monitor and advocate for IBAs, and with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to supplement their eagle monitoring efforts and to facilitate decision-making that impacts this Important Bird Area. Family friendly—a fun way to introduce ecology to your kids!
Registration: Registration required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org or by calling 914-302-9713.
View Details


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Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January 29, 2022, 10:00 am - 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. Please bring binoculars if you have them.
View Details


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Gateway National Parks

Fort Tour and Hike
Every week on Sunday, January 09, 2022 to January 30, 2022
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a hike around Fort Wadsworth as we explore forts and natural areas. Inclement weather will cancel this program. Dress appropriately. Visitors are encouraged to bring masks and water. Call 718 354-4655 to make a reservation.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details


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Linnaean Society of New York

Breezy Point
Saturday, January 29, 2022
Leader: Gordon Lam
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 is run by the National Park Service. This isolated, 200-acre area includes an ocean-facing beach, a shoreline on Jamaica Bay, sand dunes, and marshland. We expect to see both Common and Red-throated Loons, Common Eider, Long-tailed Duck, and Red-breasted Mergansers, and if we are lucky we may get Razorbills and Purple Sandpipers. Be sure to dress warmly, for cold winter weather, with possible winds.
Registration: Lori Lam — lamonthelam2@gmail.com
View Details


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New York City Audubon

Intro to Birding: Bird Walk in Central Park
Saturday, January 29, 2022, 8:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Are you curious about "birding" but don’t have much (or any) experience? Come on a relaxed walk in Central Park to go over birding basics and see sparrows, finches, ducks, and more. Binoculars available upon request. Limited to 12. $36 (25).
Registration: Click Here to Register
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Governors Island Winter Bird Tour
Saturday, January 29, 2022, 9:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Gabriel Willow
Description: Birding hot spot Governors Island is finally open to the public during the wintertime! Come seek overwintering birds and rarities with fellow hearty birders. Participants must reserve their own spot on the 9am Governors Island Ferry from Manhattan here. Limited to 15. $36 (25).
Registration: Click Here to Register
View Details


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South Shore Audubon Society

Jones Beach Coast Guard Station Parking Area
Sunday, January 30, 2022
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


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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, January 29, 2022

Birding: Winter Waterfowl at West 90th Street and Central Park West
Description: Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. Please bring your own binoculars.
View Details
Free

Winter Bird Walk at Touchdown of the 103rd Street Footbridge (in Randall's Island Park), Manhattan
Description: Join the Randall's Island Park Alliance for a guided tour to look for and learn about the approximately 50+ species of birds that migrate to the park during the winter.
View Details
Free


Sunday, January 30, 2022

Birding: Bald Eagle Watch at Payson Park House (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
Description: December 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. Bring your own binoculars.
View Details
Free

...Read more

New York City Rare Bird Alert

Below is the New York City Rare Bird Alert for the week ending Friday, January 21, 2022:

-RBA
* New York
* New York City, Long Island, Westchester County
* Jan. 21, 2022
* NYNY2201.21


- Birds Mentioned

PINK-FOOTED GOOSE+
THICK-BILLED MURRE+
WESTERN TANAGER+
(+ Details requested by NYSARC)

GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE
Canada Goose
EURASIAN WIGEON
KING EIDER
HARLEQUIN DUCK
Red-necked Grebe
Long-billed Dowitcher
DOVEKIE
Razorbill
Black-legged Kittiwake
BLACK-HEADED GULL
Iceland Gull
GLAUCOUS GULL
Eastern Phoebe
NORTHERN SHRIKE
VESPER SPARROW
Baltimore Oriole
Orange-crowned Warbler

If followed by (+) please submit documentation of your report electronically and use the NYSARC online submission form found at http://www.nybirds.org/NYSARC/goodreport.htm

You can also send reports and digital image files via email to nysarc44nybirdsorg

If electronic submission is not possible, hardcopy reports and photos or sketches are welcome. Hardcopy documentation should be mailed to:

Gary Chapin - Secretary
NYS Avian Records Committee (NYSARC)
125 Pine Springs Drive
Ticonderoga, NY 12883

Hotline: New York City Area Rare Bird Alert
Number: (212) 979-3070

Compiler: Tom Burke
Coverage: New York City, Long Island, Westchester County

Transcriber: Gail Benson

[~BEGIN RBA TAPE~]

Greetings! This is the New York Rare Bird Alert for Friday, January 21, 2022 at 11:00 pm.

The highlights of today’s tape are DOVEKIE and THICK-BILLED MURRE, WESTERN TANAGER, NORTHERN SHRIKE, PINK-FOOTED and GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, EURASIAN WIGEON, KING EIDER, HARLEQUIN DUCK, BLACK-HEADED and GLAUCOUS GULLS, VESPER SPARROW and more.

Weather conditions at Montauk last Sunday and Monday were sufficiently windy to produce a few DOVEKIES moving past the Point along with decent numbers of RAZORBILLS, and on Monday a few BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES were also reported, although waterfowl numbers remain notably low. Another DOVEKIE was also spotted off Robert Moses State Park Monday morning, and, thanks to the storm, widely separated THICK-BILLED MURRES were also uncovered and photographed, one off Coney Island Creek Park that soon drifted north into the Bay, and another seen from the Bellport Bay Yacht Club that ultimately moved south into Bellport Bay.

Manhattan's two WESTERN TANAGERS both continue, one visiting the feeder area at Carl Schurz Park located off East End Avenue near East 86th Street, and another remaining around the private Clinton Community Garden site off West 48th Street east of 10th Avenue, this latter bird moving around somewhat and harder to find.

A NORTHERN STRIKE continues to frequent the North Fork Preserve, though it can be quite elusive. The Preserve is on the north side of Sound Avenue in Northville.

A PINK-FOOTED GOOSE was still present today with CANADA GEESE on a pond near the Charles B. Wang Center at Stony Brook University, and lingering GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen as recently as today on Playland Lake in Rye, at Tung Ting pond in Centerport Wednesday, and at Rockland Lake State Park Tuesday.

A EURASIAN WIGEON was spotted last Sunday at Bush Terminal Piers Park in Brooklyn, with another still on the mostly frozen Mill Pond in Oyster Bay Monday.

The drake KING EIDER was still off Great Kills Park on Staten Island Wednesday, and another was still being reported around Shinnecock Inlet last weekend.

Five HARLEQUIN DUCKS were frequenting the jetties at Point Lookout last Saturday, and three were seen in Shinnecock Inlet Wednesday and Thursday.

Three separate BLACK-HEADED GULLS involve recurring individuals seen at Jones Beach West End Monday, in Setauket Harbor Wednesday, and at Randall's Island Thursday. Randall's Island also produced GLAUCOUS and ICELAND GULLS during the week, with other GLAUCOUS GULLS reported from Coney Island Creek and the Bellport Bay Yacht Club, while ICELANDS were noted at several Brooklyn sites, including Prospect Park, plus one yesterday at the Meer in Central Park.

Single RED-NECKED GREBES were spotted at Coney Island Beach Sunday and off Truman's Beach in Orient up to Wednesday. A few LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS continue along Santapogue Creek in West Babylon.

A hardy EASTERN PHOEBE continues in Brooklyn's Green-Wood Cemetery, along with one or two BALTIMORE ORIOLES, and a few VESPER SPARROWS remain at the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center off Yaphank Avenue. ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLERS were seen during the week at Randall's Island, Calvert Vaux Park and a few other sites.

To phone in reports call Tom Burke at (914) 967-4922.

This service is sponsored by the Linnaean Society of New York and the National Audubon Society. Thank you for calling.

- End transcript ...Read more

Green-Wood Cemetery: Week 2

Week two in Green-Wood Cemetery and any seasonal changes are subtle, if discernible at all.

"Jelena" Witch Hazel, a cross between Japanese witch hazel (H. japonica) and Chinese witch hazel (H. mollis), has begun unfurling its spindly, ribbon-like petals. It will be at least another month before we see the more familiar yellow blossoms of the native Hamamelis vernalis.

Many species of roses around the cemetery are heavy with rosehips. However, the birds are primarily feeding on holly and yew berries right now, so it won't be until those sources are exhausted that they start eating these fruits.

Not really a source of food for the local wildlife, these Pussy Willow (salix discolor) are merely a feast for my eyes.

Not certain if this is a cypress or juniper as both can have blue fruit. Whichever it is, these Northern Cardinals were taking a break from the red fruits to snack on the abundant berries. I frequently find cardinals in winter at the tops of tuliptrees eating the small nut at the base of the seed spikes.

Mourning doves have begun gathering in flocks on the sunny slopes of the Dell Water. In addition to the "safety in numbers" aspect of this behavior, the thick leaf litter here likely holds an abundance of food.

If you hear a mewing call from the treetops, it's not a stuck cat. The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is a common winter visitor who's typical vocalization is more reminiscent of a feline than a bird. Look for evenly spaced, horizontal rows of holes to discover a favorite feeding spot.

Roving flocks of Blue Jays have an extremely varied diet. Feeding on everything from acorns to insect larvae, they are intelligent opportunists. These sometime mimics will often imitate Red-tailed Hawks when near bird feeders to clear the area, then monopolize the feeding station.

With little in the way of cover in winter, any small bird is a target for the local American Kestrels. This Blue Jay-sized raptor will hunt insects, as well as, rodents and small birds. Hill-of-Graves is a good spot to look for them.

This young Red-tailed Hawk is giving me the evil eye because he's clutching a freshly killed squirrel in his talons. The resident red-tails should be courting now and beginning their annual nest building activity.

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of January 22-23, 2022:

Bedford Audubon Society

EagleWatch
Daily, January 13, 2022 – February 17, 2022, 1.5 hours before sunset
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Join Naturalist Tait Johansson and his teamfrom Bedford Audubon and Saw Mill River Audubon for EagleWatch tomonitor roosting Bald Eagles within the Lower Hudson Valley Important Bird Area(IBA). We share the datawith Audubon New York to monitor and advocate for IBAs, and with the New YorkState Department of Environmental Conservation to supplement their eaglemonitoring efforts and to facilitate decision-making that impacts thisImportant Bird Area. Familyfriendly—a fun way to introduce ecology to your kids!
Registration: Registration required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org or by calling 914-302-9713.
View Details


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Brooklyn Bird Club

Rescheduled - “If it walks like a duck…” A BBC duckathon”
Saturday, January 22, 2022
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: The quest for 15 duck species from Prospect Park to Coney Island via subway.
Registration: Peter Dorosh: email Prosbird@aol.com or Prosbird@gmail.com.
View Details


Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January 22, 2022, 10:00 am - 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. Please bring binoculars if you have them.
View Details


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Gateway National Parks

Fort Tour and Hike
Every week on Sunday, January 09, 2022 to January 30, 2022
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a hike around Fort Wadsworth as we explore forts and natural areas. Inclement weather will cancel this program. Dress appropriately. Visitors are encouraged to bring masks and water. Call 718 354-4655 to make a reservation.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details


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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Connetquot River SPP Bird at the Preserve
Saturday, January 22, 2022, 8:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: John Gluth, Ken Thompson
Description: Join us for a wonderful bird walk as we head out to Connetquot River SP Preserve for an early morning adventure.
Registration: Reservations required – call Connetquot River State Park Preserve at 581-1072 to register.
View Details


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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, January 23, 2021, 7:15am – 8:45am
Before our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful Sunday morning walking tours to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home.
View Details


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Hudson River Audubon Society

Baisley Pond
Saturday, January 22,2022, 8:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: Wintering ducks should include Redhead and Ring-necked Ducks.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details


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Linnaean Society of New York

Governors Island
Sunday, January 23, 2022
Leader: Annie Barry
Description: Governors Island is a 172-acre island located 800 yards off the southern tip of Manhattan. Governors Island has a long history as a military installation dating back to the Revolutionary War. After its decommissioning as a military base in the 1990s, the island was opened to the public and quickly became a popular birding destination. Over 200 species of birds have been found there, including nesting Common Terns and a wide variety of spring and fall migrants. In winter, the birds we might expect to see include waterfowl, raptors, gulls (possibly including some uncommon species), Great and Double-crested Cormorants, and Purple Sandpipers.
Registration: Debbie Mullins — deborramullins3@gmail.com
View Details


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New York City Audubon

Winter Eagles on the Hudson
Saturday, January 22, 2022, 9:00am - 4:00pm
Leader: Gabriel Willow
Description: Join NYC Audubon in seeking out one of the most incredible avian spectacles in New York: Bald Eagles wintering along the frozen Hudson River by the dozens or even hundreds. We will travel in comfort by Metro-North to Croton Point Park, where we will look for eagles before hiking up to Croton Point to seek out wintering Short-eared and Snowy Owls, Snow Buntings, Horned Larks, and other cold-weather specialties. Limited to 15. Round-trip Metro-North fare ($20.50) not included in trip price. $53 (37).
Registration:
View Details


Bird Walk to Central Park's Ramble and Reservoir
Sunday, January 23, 2022, 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 Falcon. Limited to 15. $36 (25).
Registration: Click Here to Register
View Details


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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

Mount Loretto State Forest
Sunday, January 23, 2022, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Leader: Don Recklies
Description: Meet in the parking lot at Cunningham and Amboy Road for a loop walk on Mount Loretto trails to see how nature responds to winter impacts. Depending on condition of the trails we may make a side trip to the Mill Creek Bluebelt north of Amboy Road, or into Long Pond park to the west. Inclement weather (but not a light rain) will cancel this walk.
Registration: For more information call Don Recklies at (718) 768-9036.
View Details


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South Shore Audubon Society

Massapequa Preserve
Sunday, January 23, 2022
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


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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, January 22, 2022

Birding: Winter Birds at Parking Lot (in Clove Lakes Park), Staten Island
Description: Join us on this Ranger led walk along the trails identifying various woodland birds and winter waterfowl.
View Details
Free

Birding: Winter Waterfowl at Baisley Blvd. & 157th Street (in Baisley Pond Park), Queens
Description: Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. Please bring your own binoculars.
View Details
Free


Sunday, January 23, 2022

Birding: Winter Waterfowl at 43rd Street and 1st Avenue (in Bush Terminal Park), Brooklyn
Description: Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. Please bring your own binoculars.
View Details
Free ...Read more

New York City Rare Bird Alert

Below is the New York City Rare Bird Alert for the week ending on Friday, January 15, 2022:

-RBA
* New York
* New York City, Long Island, Westchester County
* Jan. 14, 2022
* NYNY2201.14


- Birds Mentioned

PINK-FOOTED GOOSE+
WESTERN TANAGER+
(+ Details requested by NYSARC)

GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE
Cackling Goose
EURASIAN WIGEON
KING EIDER
BARROW’S GOLDENEYE
Red-necked Grebe
Common Gallinule
Long-billed Dowitcher
DOVEKIE
Razorbill
BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE
Bonaparte’s Gull
BLACK-HEADED GULL
ICELAND GULL
GLAUCOUS GULL
Northern Gannet
American Bittern
WESTERN KINGBIRD
Blue-headed Vireo
NORTHERN SHRIKE
CLAY-COLORED SPARROW
VESPER SPARROW

If followed by (+) please submit documentation of your report electronically and use the NYSARC online submission form found at http://www.nybirds.org/NYSARC/goodreport.htm

You can also send reports and digital image files via email to nysarc44nybirdsorg

If electronic submission is not possible, hardcopy reports and photos or sketches are welcome. Hardcopy documentation should be mailed to:

Gary Chapin - Secretary
NYS Avian Records Committee (NYSARC)
125 Pine Springs Drive
Ticonderoga, NY 12883

Hotline: New York City Area Rare Bird Alert
Number: (212) 979-3070

Compiler: Tom Burke
Coverage: New York City, Long Island, Westchester County

Transcriber: Gail Benson

[~BEGIN RBA TAPE~]

Greetings! This is the New York Rare Bird Alert for Friday, January 14, 2022 at 11:00 pm.

The highlights of today’s tape are DOVEKIE, WESTERN TANAGER, WESTERN KINGBIRD, NORTHERN SHRIKE, PINK-FOOTED and GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, EURASIAN WIGEON, BARROW’S GOLDENEYE and KING EIDER, BLACK-HEADED, GLAUCOUS and ICELAND GULLS, BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE, CLAY-COLORED and VESPER SPARROWS and more.

Last Sunday's rough weather paid dividends at Montauk Point, where duck numbers remained low, but a productive offshore morning flight did provide 9 DOVEKIES as well as 65 RAZORBILLS, 30 BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES, around 100 NORTHERN GANNETS and even 7 BONAPARTE’S GULLS, quite scarce this winter. Thursday morning there produced 23 RAZORBILLS and a couple of BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES as well.

Also in the Montauk area, a WESTERN KINGBIRD, likely the bird found on the Christmas count near West Lake Drive, was seen briefly both Saturday and Sunday mornings along East Lake Drive near Little Reed Pond.

Manhattan's two WESTERN TANAGERS were still in place this week, one at Carl Schurz Park off East End Avenue around East 86th Street, and the other near private Clinton Community Garden around West 48th Street east of 10th Avenue.

A NORTHERN STRIKE also continues at the North Fork Preserve out in Northville on the north side of Sound Avenue, but this bird can be quite elusive.

Among the waterfowl, a GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE continues to visit Tung Ting Pond in Centerport, and the lower Westchester bird was on Playland Lake in Rye today, but more unusual was a PINK-FOOTED GOOSE that's been visiting a small pond on the Stony Brook University campus since Monday. A few CACKLING GEESE are also around.

A drake EURASIAN WIGEON continues to be seen on the mostly frozen Mill Pond in Oyster Bay, with another continuing on Patchogue Lake. Still present, too, are a drake BARROW’S GOLDENEYE off Crab Meadow Beach in Fort Salonga and drake KING EIDERS at Great Kills Park on Staten Island and around Shinnecock Inlet.

An adult BLACK-HEADED GULL was still in the vicinity of the bar off the Jones Beach West End Coast Guard Station at least to Wednesday, and another BLACK-HEADED was spotted from the Veterans Memorial Pier in Brooklyn on Tuesday. GLAUCOUS GULLS were noted on Central Park reservoir and at Randall's Island during the week, with Randall's Island also producing a couple of ICELAND GULLS Saturday, with other ICELANDS seen today on Prospect Park Lake and at Sheepshead Bay in Brooklyn.

Other interesting non-passerines featured RED-NECKED GREBE at Culloden Point in Montauk Sunday and at Orient Point Wednesday, a COMMON GALLINULE continuing at Mill Pond Park in Bellmore, four LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS Tuesday at Santapogue Creek in West Babylon, and AMERICAN BITTERN along Dune Road.

A BLUE-HEADED VIREO was seen Monday at Floyd Bennett Field, and a CLAY-COLORED SPARROW along with a few VESPER SPARROWS were both still present at the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center off Yaphank Avenue yesterday.

To phone in reports call Tom Burke at (914) 967-4922.

This service is sponsored by the Linnaean Society of New York and the National Audubon Society. Thank you for calling.

- End transcript ...Read more

Green-Wood Cemetery: Week 1

As the year unfolds I'll be doing weekly updates on the seasonal changes at Green-Wood Cemetery. Not just birds, but everything that I observe.

Week 1:

The winter has been relatively mild around New York City, so many of the expected cold weather species have remained in their northern habitats. I miss seeing and hearing the finches, chickadees and titmice.

Rain and fog have stimulated the sprouting of a variety of fungi. These oyster mushrooms seemed to have appeared overnight. Two days later I noticed that someone had helped themselves to most of this cluster.

Once the birds had exhausted the cemetery's supply of Green Hawthorn berries, they moved on to the plump, juicy berries of the yew trees.

Another important source of food for a variety of birds were an abundance of small, firm, holly berries. Flocks of robins and cedar waxwings took advantage of the sudden windfall. Cooper's Hawks were targeting the hollies for a different reason.

Winter finches have remained in the far reaches of the state this winter. Conifers, like this Norway Spruce, have few animals to disperse the seeds from their plentiful cones.

The Green Hawthorn (Crataegus viridis) is a favorite of the robins and waxwings. In addition, a large flock of European Starlings & Red-winged Blackbirds alternated their feedings between this stand and some adjacent yew trees.

The four ponds used to attract a greater diversity of winter waterfowl in past decades. Now one mostly sees just Canada Geese & Mallards. Ring-necked Duck are always a rare treat and this drake on Sylvan Water was accompanied by 2 hens.

Tiny Golden-crowned Kinglets are surprisingly hardy and seem to find enough insects to eat in the cemetery, even during the harshest of winters.

I found this Red-breasted Nuthatch in the company of a small flock of kinglets foraging within a stand of yew trees. Nearly as small as a kinglet, I nearly always hear their nasal, "yank, yank, yank" call before I spot them.

The Great Blue Heron is one of the few wading birds that is hardy enough to remain through the winter. Even a tiny opening in one of the pond's ice (or the cemetery's koi pond) offers opportunities for a fresh fish meal.

The Fox Sparrow in one of my favorite winter species. They have the ability to find plenty of seeds to eat even when the cemetery is blanketed in snow. I look forward to their sweet, whistled song as spring approaches.

With less cover for protection from predators, all the cemetery's small birds and mammals need to be extra wary. It's not just the resident Red-tailed Hawks that are looking for an easy meal. Competition for food is great during the winter. The cold weather list of raptors also includes Bald Eagle, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper's Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, American Kestrel, Merlin and Peregrine Falcon.

This week's cold front could bring some northern visitors. We'll see.

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of January 15-17, 2022:

Bedford Audubon Society

EagleWatch
Daily, January 13, 2022 – February 17, 2022, 1.5 hours before sunset
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Join Naturalist Tait Johansson and his teamfrom Bedford Audubon and Saw Mill River Audubon for EagleWatch tomonitor roosting Bald Eagles within the Lower Hudson Valley Important Bird Area(IBA). We share the datawith Audubon New York to monitor and advocate for IBAs, and with the New YorkState Department of Environmental Conservation to supplement their eaglemonitoring efforts and to facilitate decision-making that impacts thisImportant Bird Area. Familyfriendly—a fun way to introduce ecology to your kids!
Registration: Registration required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org or by calling 914-302-9713.
View Details


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Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January 15, 2022, 10:00 am - 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. Please bring binoculars if you have them.
View Details


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Gateway National Parks

Fort Tour and Hike
Every week on Sunday, January 09, 2022 to January 30, 2022
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a hike around Fort Wadsworth as we explore forts and natural areas. Inclement weather will cancel this program. Dress appropriately. Visitors are encouraged to bring masks and water. Call 718 354-4655 to make a reservation.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details


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Linnaean Society of New York

Shawangunk Grasslands N.W.R.
Saturday, January 15, 2022
Leader: Julien Amsellem
Description: Shawangunk Grasslands N.W.R. is located in Ulster County, New York. The trip starts mid-morning and ends usually at dusk with the dramatic appearance of Short-eared Owls, followed by the ride back to the city. The daylight belongs to the Northern Harriers and other raptors. Wintering passerines, woodpeckers, Eastern Bluebirds, and Common Mergansers are also target birds.
Registration: Evelyn Huang — evelynhuang1@yahoo.com
View Details


Governors Island
Monday, January 17, 2022
Leader: Annie Barry
Description: Governors Island is a 172-acre island located 800 yards off the southern tip of Manhattan. Governors Island has a long history as a military installation dating back to the Revolutionary War. After its decommissioning as a military base in the 1990s, the island was opened to the public and quickly became a popular birding destination. Over 200 species of birds have been found there, including nesting Common Terns and a wide variety of spring and fall migrants. In winter, the birds we might expect to see include waterfowl, raptors, gulls (possibly including some uncommon species), Great and Double-crested Cormorants, and Purple Sandpipers..
Registration: Theresa Brown — actuary2t@gmail.com
View Details


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New York City Audubon

Intro to Birding: Bird Walk in Van Cortlandt Park
Saturday, January 15, 2022, 8:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Are you curious about "birding" but don’t have much (or any) experience? Come on a relaxed walk in Van Cortlandt Park to go over birding basics and see sparrows, finches, ducks, and more. Binoculars available upon request. Limited to 12. $36 (25).
Registration: Click Here to Register
View Details


Intro to Birding: Willow Lake, Queens
Sunday, January 16, 2022, 8:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Are you curious about "birding" but don’t have much (or any) experience? Come on a relaxed walk along the trails of Flushing Meadows Corona Park to go over birding basics and see sparrows, finches, ducks, and more. Binoculars available upon request. Limited to 12. $36 (25).
Registration: Click Here to Register
View Details


Ducks, Raptors, and More at Pelham Bay Park, The Bronx
Sunday, January 16, 2022, 9:00am - 3:00pm
Leader: Gabriel Willow
Description: Come explore the lovely coves and rocky outcroppings of Pelham Bay Park, as we look for wintering ducks, raptors, and more. Pelham Bay Park's combination of open water, salt marsh, rocky shore, both young and old growth forest, rare coastal tall grass meadows, and patches of dry and wet oak savanna are not just unique within the city, but also on this continent. Transport by passenger van included. Limited to 12. $100 (70).
Registration:
View Details


Twilight Winter Bird Stroll on Governors Island
Monday, January 17, 2022, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Leader: Annie Barry
Description: Meet the winter birds of Governors Island! Over 220 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. RSVP to reserve your spot, more detailed meeting information will be sent out to registrants prior to the event. Limited to 15. Free.
Registration:
View Details


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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

Staten Island Winter Waterfowl Count
Sunday, January 16, 2022, 8:00am - 4:00pm
Leader: Cliff Hagen
Description: Each year local birders take a census of Staten Island’s population of waterfowl. The count is an organized effort where teams of birders count each duck, goose, swan, loon, cormorant and grebe in a well-defined territory. Our local data is compiled along with census data from across the New York City/Long Island region. That data and data from across the country, allow for a consistent snapshot of population figures for these hardy, winter visitors.
Registration: Anyone interested in taking part in this year’s Waterfowl Count can contact Cliff Hagen at (718) 313-8591 or e-mail him at ppow@siprotectors.org.
View Details


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South Shore Audubon Society

Massapequa Preserve
Sunday, January 16, 2022
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


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Urban Park Rangers

Sunday, January 16, 2022, 10:00am - 11:00am

Birding: Bald Eagle Watch at Palisade Avenue and Spaulding Lane (in Riverdale Park), Bronx
Description: December 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. Bring your own binoculars.
View Details
Free

...Read more

New York City Rare Bird Alert

Below is the New York City Rare Bird Alert for the week ending Friday, January 7, 2022:

- RBA
* New York
* New York City, Long Island, Westchester County
* Jan. 7, 2022
* NYNY2201.07


- Birds mentioned
FRANKLIN'S GULL+ (extralimital)
ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER+
WESTERN TANAGER+
(+ Details requested by NYSARC)

ROSS'S GOOSE
GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE
Cackling Goose
TUNDRA SWAN
EURASIAN WIGEON
KING EIDER
HARLEQUIN DUCK
BARROW'S GOLDENEYE
Common Gallinule
Semipalmated Plover
Piping Plover
Western Sandpiper
Long-billed Dowitcher
American Woodcock
Wilson's Snipe
Black-legged Kittiwake
BLACK-HEADED GULL
Iceland Gull
Lesser Black-backed Gull
American Bittern
NORTHERN SHRIKE
Red Crossbill
Vesper Sparrow
Nelson's Sparrow
Saltmarsh Sparrow
Lincoln's Sparrow
Baltimore Oriole
Orange-crowned Warbler
Nashville Warbler
Cape May Warbler
Palm Warbler
Pine Warbler
DICKCISSEL

- Transcript

If followed by (+) please submit documentation of your report electronically and use the NYSARC online submission form found at http://www.nybirds.org/NYSARC/goodreport.htm

You can also send reports and digital image files via email to nysarc44 (at)nybirds{dot}org.

If electronic submission is not possible, hardcopy reports and photos or sketches are welcome. Hardcopy documentation should be mailed to:

Gary Chapin - Secretary
NYS Avian Records Committee (NYSARC)
125 Pine Springs Drive
Ticonderoga, NY 12883

Hotline: New York City Area Rare Bird Alert
Number: (212) 979-3070

Compiler: Tom Burke
Coverage: New York City, Long Island, Westchester County

Transcriber: Ben Cacace

BEGIN TAPE

Greetings. This is the New York Rare Bird Alert for *Friday, January 7th 2022* at 11pm. The highlights of today's tape are ROSS'S GOOSE, ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER, WESTERN TANAGER, GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE, TUNDRA SWAN, EURASIAN WIGEON, BARROW'S GOLDENEYE, KING EIDER, HARLEQUIN DUCK, BLACK-HEADED GULL, NORTHERN SHRIKE, DICKCISSEL, Christmas Count results, extralimital FRANKLIN'S GULL and more.

The lackluster accumulation of waterfowl regionally so far this season has shown some signs of improving recently. For instance the discovery yesterday of 2 ROSS'S GEESE on the Eastport pond off Route 27 on the east side of town. However the 2 geese did soon take off together and have not been seen since. Fitting this pattern too were 4 TUNDRA SWANS photographed flying over Croton Point Park in Westchester last Sunday. Among other notable waterfowl have been single GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE with one seen again last Sunday at Dix Hills High School West and another still roosting on the Bowman Avenue pond in Rye Brook yesterday while the pond's icing over might be a problem. Drake EURASIAN WIGEON continue to be seen on the Mill Pond in Oyster Bay on Patchogue Lake and a drake BARROW'S GOLDENEYE has recently returned to Crab Meadow Beach in Fort Salonga generally seen in the offshore Common Goldeneye flock. A drake KING EIDER remains at Great Kills Park on Staten Island and a young male was spotted at Shinnecock Inlet Monday.

An ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER was still present in Brooklyn's Owl's Head Park today seen along the northeast side of the hill and 2 WESTERN TANAGERS continue in Manhattan, one at Carl Schurz Park off East End Avenue around 86th Street and the other near private Clinton Community Garden around West 48th Street east of 10th Avenue but this one does move around a bit.

An adult BLACK-HEADED GULL continues at Jones Beach West End often around the bar off the Coast Guard Station but also moving well out into the channel to feed. ICELAND GULLS this week have been seen on Central Park's Reservoir, at Randall's Island and at Plumb Beach and around Sheepshead Bay.

A NORTHERN SHRIKE continues to be seen at the North Fork Preserve reported yesterday in this park located north of Sound Avenue out in Northville. Four VESPER SPARROWS were uncovered yesterday at the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center off Yaphank Avenue. A RED CROSSBILL was spotted early in the week at Jones Beach West End and a DICKCISSEL was still visiting the Prospect Park feeders Tuesday.

The quite successful Southern Nassau Christmas Count last Sunday recorded 139 species among its highlights were CACKLING GOOSE, 3 HARLEQUIN DUCKS continuing at Point Lookout, a COMMON GALLINULE at Mill Pond Park in Bellmore, single SEMIPALMATED and PIPING PLOVERS, WESTERN SANDPIPER, a LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER at Jones Beach West End, 7 AMERICAN WOODCOCK and a WILSON'S SNIPE, the BLACK-HEADED GULL and 7 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS, 2 AMERICAN BITTERNS, NELSON'S, 2 SALTMARSH and LINCOLN'S SPARROWS, 2 BALTIMORE ORIOLES and 5 ORANGE-CROWNED, 3 PALM and 2 PINE and single NASHVILLE and CAPE MAY WARBLERS.

A little to our north in Orange and Dutchess Counties an immature FRANKLIN'S GULL remains mostly along the Hudson River in Newburgh but also crossing over occasionally to the Beacon Waterfront where an immature BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE was also seen offshore last Tuesday.

To phone in reports, call Tom Burke at (914) 967-4922.

This service is sponsored by the Linnaean Society of New York and the National Audubon Society. Thank you for calling.

- End transcript ...Read more