Week 17 - Green-Wood Cemetery

Towards the end of week 17 southerly winds brought a noticeable change in the status and abundance of birds. I suspect that week 18 will see a profound difference in the diversity of species.

Pine Warblers have mostly disappeared from the trees, Palm Warbler numbers have declined, but Yellow-rumped Warblers have remained the dominant warbler species. By the weekend there were several more new warbler arrivals with 12 species observed during my weekend tours. In addition, many more Baltimore and Orchard Orioles could be heard chattering in the treetops. The cemetery's oak trees are now bejewelled with dangling, mustard-colored catkins drawing insects, which in turn, attract the hungry songbirds.

The ponds, which had been the winter domain of the hardy Great Blue Heron, will now share them with Great Egrets and Green Herons until the fall. With a little luck, I'll find a Green Heron nest somewhere near the water's edge.

Great Egret

Green Heron

The early Brown Thrashers have establised their territories and can be found serenading from high perches daily. The Gray Catbird, their smaller cousin, has just arriving in good numbers, signaling that we are approaching peak migration.

Brown Thrasher

Gray Catbird

Both species of oriole are long distance migrants wintering in Florida, the Caribbean, Central America, and the northern tip of South America. So glad these beautiful birds decide to stop off in Brooklyn...with some nesting here.

Baltimore Oriole

Immature Orchard Oriole

To give you an idea of how the weather affects the status of northbound migrant birds, on Wednesday I observed 52 species of bird. By Friday night the winds moved to the south, giving these feathered travellers a tailwind to assist in their long journey. On Sunday my walks saw 72 species. My warbler list alone was Ovenbird, Louisiana Waterthrush, Northern Waterthrush, Blue-winged Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Northern Parula, Yellow Warbler, Palm Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Prairie Warbler and Black-throated Green Warbler. That is nearly double from only a few days earlier.

Yellow Warbler

As the water level at Sylvan Water remains low, several Northern Rough-winged Swallows have been exploring the newly revealed drain holes on the lake's island. This burrow nesting species will also make use of crevices in gutters, drainpipes, walls, and bridges. If they remain and nest in the cemetery it will be the first time ever.

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

The number of blooming wildflowers and shrubs are almost too numerous to list here. Instead, here are a few noteworthy ones from last week.

Drooping Star-of-Bethlehem

Wild Blue Phlox

Tulip

Tulips

Chokecherry

Blue Iris

I haven't seen a lot of pollinators other than the previously mentioned butterflies. Queen Bumblebees emerged from hibernation a couple of weeks ago and that species is currently the dominant pollinator visiting the flowers. They will have a lot of competition shortly.

Bumblebee

One flying migrant of the non-avian variety that I spotted last week was a nice surprise. I've seen bats flying around Brooklyn many times, but it was the first time I found an Eastern Red Bat sleeping in a tree. This short distance migrant winters in the warmer southern parts of the country then flies as far as Canada during the spring to breed.

Eastern Red Bat

Finally, here are a few recently flowering trees that caught my eye.

Unusual yellow flowered Saucer Magnolia

Mountain Silverbell

River Birch

If you haven't been getting outside much, this is the week to make the effort. I guarantee it will be worth it.

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of May 4 - May 5, 2024:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, May 4, 2024, 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.
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Prospect Park Saturday Spring Migration Walks
Saturday, May 4, 2024, 7:30am
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Walks typically go into early afternoon or later if the birding is great. Bring water, snacks and/or a sandwich if you plan to stay the whole duration–but feel free to leave whenever you want.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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First Sunday Bird Outings
Sunday, May 5, 2024, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Paul Keim, Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Join naturalist and birder Paul Keim 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.
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Cinco de Mayo in Green-wood Cemetery
Sunday, May 5, 2024, 8:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Linda Ewing and Valerie Masten
Description: The peak spring of neotropical warblers, vireos, buntings and other songbird species, flycatchers, orioles, sparrows and typical winter resident species, raptors.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

EPCAL
Saturday, May 4, 2024, 8:30am
Leader: Byron Young
Description: Meet at Veteran’s Memorial Park Parking Lot, on Route 25, Calverton, this walk will follow the biking/hiking trail south toward the western runway.
Registration: Byron Young - youngb53@optimum.net
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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Central Park Nature Walk
Sunday, May 5, 2024, 7:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Vera Capogna, John Gluth
Description: Join us for what should be a fantastic bird walk as we head out to Central Park for an early morning adventure.
Registration: You must register for this trip. Text or email to Vera Capogna 516-639-5430 vlvcap@yahoo.com
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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Wednesday, May 1, 2024, 6:00am - 7:30am
Description: Before our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful early morning walking tours to discover the many birds that make Green-Wood their home—at least temporarily. From ruby-throated hummingbirds to over twenty species of colorful wood warblers, our peak migration tours will feature many of the 163 bird species that have been recorded at Green-Wood during the month of May. Beginning just after sunrise, we will experience spring’s dawn chorus at the most active time of day for birds.
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Birding in Peace
Sunday, May 5, 2024, 6:00am - 7:30am
Description: Before our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful early morning walking tours to discover the many birds that make Green-Wood their home—at least temporarily. From ruby-throated hummingbirds to over twenty species of colorful wood warblers, our peak migration tours will feature many of the 163 bird species that have been recorded at Green-Wood during the month of May. Beginning just after sunrise, we will experience spring’s dawn chorus at the most active time of day for birds.
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Hudson River Audubon Society

Central Park at the peak of spring
Saturday, May 4, 2024, 8:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: The height of spring migration in one of the most famous hot spots around.
Registration: No registration required.
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Linnaean Society of New York

Central Park Family Walk
Saturday, May 4th, 2024
Leader: Eric Ozawa
Description: Many scientists come to a love of nature first as children. With that in mind, this walk is for children and their families (parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, all are welcome). Together, we will look for the birds migrating through the park, and learn how to find and identify some of these spectacular visitors. We’ll also pay close attention to the plant and insect life along the way.
Registration: Amanda Bielskas — bielskas@gmail.com
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Bashakill Marsh & Environs
Sunday, May 5, 2024
Leader: John Haas
Description: The Bashakill Marsh, located in both Sullivan and Orange Counties, is the largest freshwater wetland in southeastern New York State. It is a state-designated Bird Conservation Area, with over 220 species of birds recorded. The area supports characteristic wetland-dependent species, abundant waterfowl, and several species at risk. Highlights include Common Gallinule, empids such as Alder Flycatcher, migrating and nesting warblers, vireos, cuckoo species, raptors, and more.
Registration: Leslie Fiske — lesliefiske@gmail.com
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New York City Audubon

Snug Harbor Birding
Saturday, May 4, 2024, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Join NYC Audubon at Staten Island's beloved Snug Harbor. This botanical garden and cultural center is sure to be teeming with avian visitors during spring migration.
Registration: Registration page
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Kissena Park Birding
Saturday, May 4, 2024, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: Woo Sung Park
Description: Join NYC Audubon's Woo Sung Park to explore the beautiful Kissena Park in Queens! This green space contains a wide variety of trees as well as a lake that make great habitat for migrating and resident birds alike.
Registration: Registration page
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New York Botanical Garden Bird Tour
Saturday, May 4, 2024, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Rich Aracil
Description: Join NYC Audubon and the New York Botanical Garden for some spring birding! Get to see some of NYBG’s diverse landscape and learn why this unique green space is such a vital haven for a great variety of species year-round. The tour will meet at the Reflecting Pool in the Native Plant Garden.
Registration: Registration not required. No limit. Free.
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Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, May 4, 2024, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Leader: ____
Description: Nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors 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 birdlife the island has to offer. Binoculars are available to borrow.
Registration: No registration required. Free.
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Spring Birding at Inwood Hill Park
Sunday, May 5, 2024, 8:30am - 10:30am
Leader: Annie Barry
Description: Inwood Hill Park is a jewel of New York City. Nestled between the Hudson River, Dyckman Street, and Seaman Avenue, this last tract of largely old-growth oak and tulip forest transports you to another world and another time. Glacial ""pot holes,"" towering trees, and stunning river views create an unrivaled birding backdrop.
Registration: Registration page
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Bilingual Intro to Birding in Marine Park
Sunday, May 5, 2024, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Heydi Lopes
Description: Explore the beauty of Brooklyn’s largest park, Marine Park, in both English and Spanish! Consisting of grassland and salt marshes, this park is habitat for a variety of migratory songbirds and waterbirds. This series is hosted in partnership with the Marine Park Alliance.
Registration: No registration required. No limit. Free.
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Queens Botanical Garden Birding
Sunday, May 5, 2024, 10:00am - 11:00am
Leader: ____
Description: Explore Queens Botanical Garden in search of migrant songbirds and learn about the resources the Garden offers to birds and other wildlife. These outings are held in partnership with the Queens Botanical Garden.
Registration: Registration page
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North Shore Audubon Society

Valley Stream State Park
Saturday, May 4, 2024, 7:30am – 12:00pm
Leader: Bobby B (516) 578-6324
Description: Valley Stream State Park Rd, Valley Stream, NY 11580
Registration: Limited registration. You must register via email to nsaudubonsociety@gmail.com, and you will receive a confirmation email. If you become unable to attend, please email to allow someone on the waiting list to take your slot.
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Queens County Bird Club

Forest Park
Sunday, May 5, 2024, 7:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Jean L (917) 575-6824
Description: Enjoy a jaunt through Forest Park, including a stop at the "Water Hole", which many returning warblers include in their itinerary.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location. Ask whether to pack a lunch or whether to plan on eating lunch out.
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, May 4, 2024
Wonderful Warblers at Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect Park), Brooklyn
10:00am – 1:00pm
Join the Alliance at the Prospect Park Audubon Center to discover why Prospect Park is an important place for over 250 species of birds.
Free

Sunday, May 5, 2024
Birding for All with the Feminist Bird Club at Margaret Corbin Circle (in Fort Tryon Park), Manhattan
9:00am – 10:30am
Join the Feminist Bird Club of NYC for a beginner-friendly birding walk and workshop in Fort Tryon Park.
Free

Birding: Spring Migration at Upper Highland Playground (in Highland Park)
10:00am – 11:30am
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Highland Park to look for spring migrants that include warblers, raptors and more!
Free

Birding: Warbler Watch at The Overlook (in Forest Park), Queens
10:00am – 11:00am
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Forest Park to look for spring warblers and more!
Free

...Read more

Best of the Fortnight

Here are some of my favorite photos from the second half of April. Enjoy:

Blue Grosbeak

Red-breasted Nuthatch

House Wren

Blue-headed Vireo

Cherry petals and elm keys

Eastern Kingbird

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Palm Warbler

Lone Tulip

Bathing White-throated Sparrow

Baltimore Oriole in apple tree

Yellow Warbler in crabapple

Orchard Oriole

Sleeping Eastern Red Bat

Marigold

Week 16 - Green-Wood Cemetery

Changes are coming fast and furious. The most profound changes are happening with the botanics. It is difficult to keep up with, but I'll do my best to summarize here. We're seeing more new migrant bird arrivals, but the biggest changes are yet to come.

The status and abundance of warblers have started to shift. In addition we saw our first Baltimore Oriole and Indigo Bunting over the past week. Pine Warblers have begun dispersing, but Yellow-rumped Warblers and Palm Warbler have dramatically increased in numbers. The first Black-and-white Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Northern Parula and Black-throated Green Warbler arrived last week, although mostly just single individuals.

Black-and-white Warbler

Northern Parula

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Palm Warbler

Other species of birds have begun showing up, some temporarily, other to look for a mate and nest in the cemetery. Green Herons, one of our smallest wading birds, regularly nests around the ponds. Hopefully they'll be successful this year. American Goldfinches, now in their brilliant spring plumage, can be heard chattering in the tops of the tallest trees. They also nest locally. The first of the House Wrens have also started arriving and looking for a nice hole in a tree in which to raise a family. Shorebirds are also on the move. A pair of Killdeer at Sylvan Water seem to be considering nesting here. A Solitary Sandpiper is also a new arrival, with Spotted Sandpiper and yellowlegs soon to join in. Belted Kingfishers have arrived just in time to take advantage of, not just goldfish fries, but also scores of young bullfrogs.

Green Heron

American Goldfinch

House Wren

Eastern Kingbird

Solitary Sandpiper

Belted Kingfisher and frog

Most of the early blooming cherries and magnolias have dropped their flowers. The kanzan cherries, however, are now in peak bloom. Crabapple and apple flowers have started opening up. Also, one of my favorites, the Eastern Redbud in now in full bloom.

Cherry petals and elm keys

Kanzan cherry

Crabapple

"Morse" Apple

Eastern Redbud

Some other, more subtle, flowering trees observed last week were European Ash, Flowering Dogwood, Norway Maple and Sassafras.

European Ash

Flowering Dogwood

Norway Maple

Sassafras

Tulips are really conspicuous now, but I'll cover that more next time. Two yellow wildflowers I noticed over the past week were Golden Alexander and Tuolumne dog's tooth violet. The Golden Alexanders are the dominant species on the wildflower meadow right now with tiny pansies beginning to emerge.

Tuolumne dog's tooth violet

Golden Alexander

Butterflies have taken flight with a large number of Painted Lady butterflies seen flitting about low to the ground. A much smaller number to Red Admirals have also been around.

Painted Lady

Finally, the Ladybug has many different symbolic associations across several cultures. They all seem to be connected to positive meanings. If true, then I guess it will continue to be a good Spring at Green-Wood Cemetery. Until next week, enjoy a walk in nature.

Ladybug