Upcoming Nature Trips

Below is a list of upcoming nature trips within NYC's 5 boroughs for the weekend of December 4th - 5th, 2010:

Audubon Center in Prospect Park (Brooklyn)
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Introduction to Birdwatching
Every Saturday, 12 - 1:30 p.m.
Explore the Park's natural areas and learn how to look for amazing birds.

Discover Tours
Every Saturday and Sunday, 3 p.m.
Discover the Prospect Park you never knew! Meet birds and other wildlife on this walk, guided by a naturalist.

Sunday, December 5, 2010
Morning Bird Walk: Twelve Birds of Winter
Meet the amazing birds of Prospect Park on this expert-guided walk. Start your Saturday morning surrounded by nature!


New York Botanical Garden (Bronx)
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Debbie Becker leads a free bird walk at the Garden every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. beginning at the Reflecting Pool in the Leon Levy Visitor Center


Brooklyn Bird Club
Sunday, December 5th, 2010
Prospect Park
No registration necessary. Meet 8 am at Grand Army Plaza entrance (Stranahan Statue)
Focus: winter species, sparrows, raptors, ducks
Trip Leader: Eddie Davis


New York City Audubon Society
Saturday, December 4, 2010, 8am – 9:30am
Van Cortlandt Bird Walks
Guide: Andrew Baksh or Urban Park Rangers. With the Van Cortlandt Park Conservancy, NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, and Urban Park Rangers.
Meet at Van Cortland Nature Center.
The history of birding and Van Cortlandt Park are inseparable. Influential birders such as Roger Tory Peterson and Allan D. Cruickshank got their starts on Van Cortlandt’s ecologically diverse grounds. These walks celebrate the tradition set forth by these great ornithologists. Participants will look for various species of migrants and discuss a wide range of avian topics.
For more information, please call 718-548-0912.
No registration necessary.
No limit.
Free.


Protectors of Pine Oak Woods (Staten Island)
Saturday, December 4, 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Page Avenue Beach and Woods
We’ll begin with a look at the local geology then move to examining the flotsam and jetsam accumulated at the high tide lines to see what nature's debris has to tell us. As the water recedes with the tide we'll move into the intertidal zone to find out what sorts of living things survive in this challenging environment. A variety of crabs, snails, clams, worms and small fish are likely to be discovered. It's going to be muddy so dress appropriately.
Meet at the parking lot at the bottom of Page Avenue below Hylan Blvd.
For more information call Clay Wollney at (718)869-6327.

Saturday December 4, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Winter Scavenger Greenbelt Walk
Do you want to relieve cabin fever? Join Sandra Mechanic, naturalist and photographer, for an exciting day out. We will look for three trees that still have their leaves. Can you identify them? We will look for galls on golden rod and oak plants, rolled leaves and signs of insects. How many squirrels’ nests can we find? Let’s connect with nature and find a lot of special items like hickory nuts, twigs, abandoned bird nests, male deer rubbing his antlers on the base of a tree, insects leaving trails on overturned branches or logs. Dress warm and let’s have fun.
Meet at the end of Nevada Avenue in the parking lot.
For more information call Sandra Mechanic at (718) 967 1037.

Sunday, December 5, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Great Kills Park
Join Howie Fischer as he helps birders identify wintering waterfowl in the waters of Great Kills Park. This is the time of year for the arrival of wintering waterfowl such as Common Goldeneye, Bufflehead and Greater Scaup. Both the Red-throated and Common Loons as well as Horned Grebes are also possible. If our luck is good, we may find Snow Buntings or Lapland Longspur among the flocks of Horned Larks. We will search the tidal flats, beaches and the Nature Center for a variety of birds in the park. The recent burn may be excellent habitat for raptors. Bring a pair of binoculars and be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.
Meet in the parking lot as you first enter the park at Buffalo Street and Hylan Blvd.
For more information call Howie Fischer at 718-981-4002.


Urban Park Rangers
Saturday, December 4, 2010

Van Cortlandt Bird Club: Bird Feeders
8:00 a.m.
The best way to help birds out during the harsh winter months -- no stopping once...
Location: Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
Cost: Free

Early Birding
8:00 a.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for early morning birding at Marine Park.
Location: Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
Cost: Free

Healthy Hike
10:00 a.m.
Let your feet do the walking while the Rangers do the talking on this fast-paced outing. If...
Location: Cunningham Park - Union Turnpike Parking Lot (in Cunningham Park), Queens
Cost: Free

Winter Tree ID
11:00 a.m.
How do you identify a tree when there are no leaves, flowers, or fruit? Let us teach you...
Location: Martling Pond (in Clove Lakes Park), Staten Island
Cost: Free

Native American Ethnobotany
12:00 p.m.
The forest of Inwood Hill Park provided the Lenape tribe with many natural resources vital...
Location: Inwood Hill Nature Center (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
Cost: Free

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Slippery Seals and Wintry Waterfowl
11:00 a.m.
These marine mammals have been known to show up in the area during their migratory journey....
Location: Conference House Beach at Joline Avenue (in Conference House Park), Staten Island
Cost: Free

Nocturnal Hike
6:00 p.m.
Join us as we explore the wonderful world of wildlife after-hours. Bats, raccoons, and...
Location: Fort Totten Visitor's Center (in Fort Totten Park), Queens
Cost: Free ...Read more

Friday's Foto

This is my second Wood Duck "Friday's Foto". The first was back on February 12th. All I can say is, how can I NOT post another photo of this beautiful bird? The bird in the background is a female Wood Duck.

Happy Holiday

Brooklyn Weekend Birds

While I didn't find any new year birds over the weekend, there was still some interesting observations to report.

The weather has remained unseasonably mild this month, extending the season for some insects. As I walked around Green-Wood Cemetery, I was surprised by the number of crickets that were still singing. In addition, Green Darner dragonflies are still relatively abundant and patrol territories around many of the open, grassy areas. Around the edges of the Crescent Water pond I spotted lots of Yellow-legged Meadowhawks. The bright, crimson dragonflies nearly become invisible when perched among the autumn red foliage of a small weeping cherry tree.

The leaves on the Sweetgum trees have turned a shade of flame orange that seems to illuminate the surrounding landscape. The tree's fruits have begun ripening, sprinkling tiny, white seeds into the leaf litter below. It sounds and looks like a light dusting of snow. The side of these spikey balls that face the sun have turned brick red, while the shaded side remains green. Hundreds of hungry chickadees, nuthatches, goldfinches, siskins are now targeting these trees for the short lived windfall. White-throated Sparrows, Fox Sparrows and Dark-eyed Juncos scratch the ground beneath the trees.

I was surprised to see blossoms on some of the cemetery's hundreds of azalea shrubs. The mild weather has coaxed fresh blooms on these, nearly century old shrubs. A few of the roses have also begun flowering, but I suspect that these might just be autumn blooming species. I also spotted new buds on some magnolia trees.











There were a couple of Red-breasted Nuthatches making alarms calls on the hillside above the Valley Water pond. These tiny birds aren't really capable of scaring anything other than, maybe, a mosquito, but it doesn't stop them from trying. A Red-tailed Hawk perched in a beech tree was the object of their ire. It was a juvenile hawk and she was dining on a freshly killed squirrel. I wondered if she was the survivor from Junior and Big Mama's recent family. It's difficult to be absolutely certain. She seemed unfazed by my presence, so is likely one of our city raptors and not a passing migrant.

I watched the hawk for a few minutes then continued walking up the hill. Several yards from the tree, I flushed a woodcock, who was certainly very happy that the hawk had caught a squirrel and not him. Later in the morning, while walking with Joe B. near the Crescent Water, I spotted another woodcock in the leaf litter below Samuel Morse's monument. A third was seen flying over the rock pile, while a Cooper's Hawk soared just behind him. This woodcock was also lucky because, judging by the raptor's bulging crop, he wasn't hungry and continued flying in the opposite direction from the timberdoodle.

On the ridge above the Sylvan Water I found an old owl roost. I say "old" because there wasn't any signs of whitewash or pellets, just some squirrel remains. They were probably within the regurgitated pellets, along with some fur, but the elements have washed away all but the largest parts of the skeleton. I spotted them at the base of a large pine tree, which would be a reasonable place for an owl roost. Later that day, as the sun was beginning to set, Marge and I spotted the silhouettes of our resident Great Horned Owls. They were perched side by side at a new roost. Perhaps they are starting to scout for a new nest location. I'd like to think so, anyway. Trying to think like owls, Marge and I scanned the surrounding trees for potential sites. A nearby Tuliptree looked promising. In another month we should know for certain if they will try again. ...Read more

Upcoming Nature Trips

Below is a list of upcoming nature trips within NYC's 5 boroughs for the weekend of November 27th - 28th, 2010:

Audubon Center in Prospect Park (Brooklyn)
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Introduction to Birdwatching
Every Saturday, 12 - 1:30 p.m.
Explore the Park's natural areas and learn how to look for amazing birds.

Discover Tours
Every Saturday and Sunday, 3 p.m.
Discover the Prospect Park you never knew! Meet birds and other wildlife on this walk, guided by a naturalist.


New York Botanical Garden (Bronx)
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Debbie Becker leads a free bird walk at the Garden every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. beginning at the Reflecting Pool in the Leon Levy Visitor Center


New York City Audubon Society
Saturday, November 27, 2010, 8am – 9:30am
Van Cortlandt Bird Walks
Guide: Andrew Baksh or Urban Park Rangers. With the Van Cortlandt Park Conservancy, NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, and Urban Park Rangers. Meet at Van Cortland Nature Center. The history of birding and Van Cortlandt Park are inseparable. Influential birders such as Roger Tory Peterson and Allan D. Cruickshank got their starts on Van Cortlandt’s ecologically diverse grounds. These walks celebrate the tradition set forth by these great ornithologists. Participants will look for various species of migrants and discuss a wide range of avian topics.
For more information, please call 718-548-0912.
No registration necessary. No limit. Free.

Sunday, November 28, 2010, 9:30am – 11:30am
Nature in the Garden Discovery Walk
Explore Wave Hill’s woodlands and gardens and discover the world of insects, flowers, trees, birds and their fascinating habitats on this naturalist-led walk, offered jointly by Wave Hill and NYC Audubon. Ideal for ages 5 and up and their curious adult companions. Rain or shine, so dress for the weather! Space is limited; advanced registration recommended, online, at the Perkins Visitor Center when you next visit or by calling 718.549.3200 x305.
Fee: Free for Wave Hill Members/Non-members $5. Free for NYC Audubon Members with 2-for-1 admission to the grounds.


Protectors of Pine Oak Woods (Staten Island)
Sunday, November 28, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Bloomingdale Woods
Join Sandra Mechanic, naturalist and photographer, for an exciting walk in Bloomingdale Woods. It has been a long time since I have done this walk and I hope to see many new faces come out to explore. This is a great haven to see deer foraging on plants. This rich woodland is a special, hidden gem. We will see the rare fragrant Bush Honeysuckle, “Standishii” along the Drumgoole Road West side. We will walk along Staten Island’s only true meandering stream and find some beautiful plants. Meet at the intersection of Maguire Avenue and Drumgoole Road West.
For more information call Sandra Mechanic at (718) 967 1037.


Urban Park Rangers
Saturday, November 27, 2010

Early Birding
8:00 a.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for early morning birding at Marine Park.
Location: Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
Cost: Free

Post-Turkey Day Super Hike
11:00 a.m.
Work off those extra helpings of stuffing and potatoes on this long hike.
Location: Tortoise and Hare Statue (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
Cost: Free

New York City's Wildlife
11:00 a.m.
New York City might be known for its wild nightlife, but that would be news to the wildlife...
Location: Fort Greene Park Visitor Center (in Fort Greene Park), Brooklyn
Cost: Free

Post-Thanksgiving Hike
11:00 a.m.
Take an extended hike on some of the park’s longest trails to “burn off”...
Location: Alley Pond Park Adventure Center (in Alley Pond Park), Queens
Cost: Free

Life in the Leaf Litter
11:00 a.m.
Rotting leaves and logs are more than they appear to be—they are microhabitats...
Location: Blue Heron Nature Center, Staten Island
Cost: Free

Tracking Wildlife
12:00 p.m.
Animals leave distinctive tracks and other traces as they travel through our parks. Learn...
Location: W 158th Street and Edgecombe Avenue (in Highbridge Park), Manhattan
Cost: Free

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Winter Waterfowl
12:00 p.m.
Explore the salt marsh at Orchard Beach as we search for ducks and other waterfowl of the...
Location: Orchard Beach Nature Center (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
Cost: Free

Making Tracks
1:00 p.m.
Learn how to locate and identify animal tracks found in and around woodland areas, then...
Location: Blue Heron Nature Center, Staten Island
Cost: Free

Discover Tour: Winter Survival
3:00 p.m.
Come exploring with us on a nature hike that will focus on the winter adaptations used by...
Location: Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect Park), Brooklyn
Cost: Free ...Read more

Friday's Foto

As the weather turns colder, a greater diversity and abundance of waterfowl can be found around New York City's coastal waters, lakes and ponds. I spotted this male Bufflehead resting on a log floating in Brooklyn's Prospect Lake.

Autumn Colors

Here's a slideshow of some recent photos from around Brooklyn.

Upcoming Nature Trips

Below is a list of upcoming nature trips within NYC's 5 boroughs for the weekend of November 20th - 21st, 2010:

Audubon Center in Prospect Park (Brooklyn)
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Introduction to Birdwatching
Every Saturday, 12 - 1:30 p.m.
Explore the Park's natural areas and learn how to look for amazing birds.

Discover Tours
Every Saturday and Sunday, 3 p.m.
Discover the Prospect Park you never knew! Meet birds and other wildlife on this walk, guided by a naturalist.


New York Botanical Garden (Bronx)
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Debbie Becker leads a free bird walk at the Garden every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. beginning at the Reflecting Pool in the Leon Levy Visitor Center


Brooklyn Bird Club
Sunday, November 21st, 2010
Rockaway Peninsula expedition
Trip Leader: Peter Dorosh
Focus: water birds and ducks (peak), dune/beach, late sparrow, early winter species, possible rarity
Car Fee: $12.00
Registrar: Peter Dorosh, Email Prosbird [AT] aol.com or TEXT Message 347-622-3559
Registration period: Nov 9th - Nov 18th


New York City Audubon Society
Saturday, November, 20, 2010, 8am – 9:30am
Van Cortlandt Bird Walks
Guide: Andrew Baksh or Urban Park Rangers. With the Van Cortlandt Park Conservancy, NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, and Urban Park Rangers. Meet at Van Cortland Nature Center. The history of birding and Van Cortlandt Park are inseparable. Influential birders such as Roger Tory Peterson and Allan D. Cruickshank got their starts on Van Cortlandt’s ecologically diverse grounds. These walks celebrate the tradition set forth by these great ornithologists. Participants will look for various species of migrants and discuss a wide range of avian topics.
For more information, please call 718-548-0912.
No registration necessary.
No limit.
Free.

Saturday, November, 20, 2010, 10am – 1pm
Winter Waterfowl Workshop
With Gateway National Recreation Area. Guide: Don Riepe. Meet at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center for a slide ID program and walk to look for wintering waterfowl. Learn about their behavior and biology, and how to identify them in the field.
To register, contact Don Riepe at 718-318-9344 or driepe [AT] nyc.rr.com.
Limited to 25.
Free.


Protectors of Pine Oak Woods (Staten Island)
Saturday, November 20, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Clove Lakes Park
Meet by the Maintenance Building at the intersection of Slosson Avenue and Drake Avenue. We will spend two hours removing alien invasive plants from areas chosen by the Natural Resources Group. If you don’t have your own, Protectors will supply gloves and pruners (& refreshments). After the work session (our 173rd consecutive monthly workshop), we will take a short walk over nearby trails.
For more information call Don Recklies at (718) 768-9036 or Chuck Perry at (718) 667-1393.

Sunday, November 21, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Reed’s Basket Willow
Discover this hidden natural park in Dongan Hills. We’ll visit the three bodies of water in the park and stroll through the woodlands. Although none of Reed’s basket willow still grow near the swamp from which the park gets its name, the woodlands and stream is still home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Meet at the Spring Street entrance in Dongan Hills.
For more information call Clay Wollney at 718-869-6327.

Sunday, November 21, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Full Moon Owl Prowl at Mount Loretto
Join Cliff Hagen and walk the fields of Mount Loretto as the sun falls below the horizon, chased by the rising of the full moon. Local and migrating owls utilize the grasslands for food and shelter so we may see various owls silhouetted by the night sky. Meet in the parking lot along Hylan Blvd. across from the CYO Center.
For more information call Cliff Hagen at 718-313-8591.


Queens County Bird Club
Sunday, November 21, 2010, 8am – 2pm
Pelham Bay Park
Leader: Eric Miller (917-631-7530)
("Birding Site Maps" page)


Urban Park Rangers
Saturday, November 20, 2010

Early Birding
8:00 a.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for early morning birding at Marine Park.
Location: Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
Cost: Free

Fun with Fungus
11:00 a.m.
Learn the basics of mycology as we search for mushrooms around the park and have some fun...
Location: Wild West Playground (in Central Park), Manhattan
Cost: Free

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Orienteering
11:00 a.m.
Learn navigation with a map and compass. You’ll never get lost in the woods!...
Location: Cunningham Park Parking Lot (in Cunningham Park), Queens
Cost: Free

Post-Thanksgiving Hike
11:00 a.m.
Take an extended hike on some of the park’s longest trails to “burn off”...
Location: Alley Pond Park Adventure Center (in Alley Pond Park), Queens
Cost: Free ...Read more

Bluebird Days

I went into Green-Wood Cemetery late in the day. Great Horned Owls begin courtship in the winter, so Marge and I are keeping tabs on our resident pair. We were planning on staying late to find out if they'd begun calling yet. However, sometimes nature has a habit of presenting alternate plans, whether we like it or not.

I got to the cemetery earlier than Marge and had time to wander around a bit. Near "Boss" Tweed's family plot I stumbled on a pair of Eastern Bluebirds. They were alternately perching on headstones and street signs, then diving down into the grass to catch insects. A short distance away, near the "Rock Pile", is a stretch of sweetgum trees. American Goldfinches were landing at the tops of the sweetgums and prying the tiny seeds from the tree's spiky fruit. My first American Tree Sparrow of the season was nibbling on the tops of some type of dried wildflower below the trees. Several Pine Siskins revealed themselves within the goldfinch flocks with their raspy "zreeeeeeet" calls .

I met Marge near the Valentine Angel and we walked the Flatlands of the cemetery. It was getting late and the bright, winter sun was casting long shadows across the grass fields. As we walked down Cypress Avenue, towards her car, I heard a bluebird call. Then I heard another. On the south side of the road I spotted a pair of Eastern Bluebirds. Another one flew across the road in front of us. Then another. Then three more. After a quick scan, we realized that there were more than just a few bluebirds and, in fact, there was a whole flock of them. I positioned myself behind a tall, granite headstone, using it as a blind, so I could get close to the birds. Some were perched on top of carved, stone obelisks; some in azalea shrubs; a few in a dogwood tree; one was even perched a foot above the ground atop a small American flag that had been placed at a gravesite. Most of the birds were making occasional, soft whistles as they fed within the grass or in shrubs . At one point they all seemed to lift up in unison and fly back across the road. They attacked a large yew shrub, snatching the plant's juicy, red fruit. I counted thirteen individuals in the flock. Marge and I were right in the middle as they continued moving back and forth across the road, alternating between foraging in the grass and filling up on yew berries. Then, as quickly as it began, it ended. A few birds called loudly and they flew up into the bare branches of a tall maple tree at the intersection of Cypress Avenue and Grape Avenue. They sat in the tree for a moment, then took off, flying deeper into the cemetery.

Here's a short video of some of the flock:

...Read more

Friday's Foto

The Pine Siskin is a close relative to the American Goldfinch. Normally found in the northern mountains of New York State, individuals are rarely found within goldfinch flocks in NYC during the winter. This bird was one of a pair I found feeding in a pine tree along the boardwalk in Coney Island.

Birding the Barrier Beaches

On Sunday Heydi and I took a road trip to the south shore of Long Island to look for some rare birds. The barrier beaches of Jones Beach have been home to some unusual vagrants over the last week and we decided to try and track some of them down.

The list of unusual species (in taxonomic order) are:

Marbled Godwit
Common Ground-Dove
Western Kingbird
Northern Shrike
Lark Sparrow

In order or rarity, the Common Ground-Dove has the others beat, hands down, as it has never been recorded in New York State. This tiny tropical dove is found in Bermuda, Mexico and the Caribbean, and South America. It is also a resident in the southern-most United States. How or why it ended up on Long Island is anybody's guess and it was the main reason that Heydi and I were actually leaving the confines of New York City to chase a bird. Newspapers have even picked up on the story. The Northern Shrike would be nearly on the opposite end of the thermometer as these "butcher birds" are normally found in northern New York's Adirondack Mountains. They are referred to as "butcher birds" because of their habit of caching their prey on thorns, barbed wire or any other available sharp objects. They rarely travel this far south, but it isn't unprecedented. The Western Kingbird, as it's common name suggests, breed mainly along the west half of the United States, wintering in Central America. The final two species aren't quite as rare, but still not seen very often in New York. The Lark Sparrow is a rare, but regular fall vagrant. The godwit is considered a rare fall migrant.

Our plan was to try and find the ground-dove first, then backtrack, heading west along the Jones Beach barrier island for the other species. The Common Ground-Dove was found at Captree State Park, which is at the eastern-most end of Jones Beach. The kingbird was also found at Captree. Zach's Bay was the location of the Lark Sparrow, the shrike was found at Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center by my friend Steve and, finally, the godwit was just down the road from the shrike at the coast guard station.

Captree State Park is about 37 miles (as the crow flies) from where I live in Brooklyn. I've been trying to use low or zero carbon methods of birding, so on the drive out I began wondering if it was possible to bicycle to see the birds (strong legs and endurance aside). In college, I lived in Nassau county and used to pedal down to Jones Beach via the bike lane adjacent to Wantagh Parkway. Unfortunately, once at the beach, there aren't any bicycle lanes that travel the length of the island and bikes are prohibited from the roadway. Seems sort of shortsighted by Robert Moses and the park planners. I guess that means no "birking" the barrier beaches for me, I'll always have to go by car.

When we arrived at the first parking lot at Captree, there were already a few birders milling about or scanning a narrow strip of grass at the edge of the lot. We asked if anyone had seen the dove yet, and they responded that there hadn't been any reports that morning. Bobby Berlingeri, who was with the group, decided that they should check the south parking lot. Heydi and I would remain, in case the bird appeared there. It seemed like they had only been gone for a few minutes when Bobby returned to let us know that he had found the bird at the "Overlook" lot. Unfortunately, once we got there, the bird had vanished. Several people were walking up and down the short grass medians, the bird's favored foraging habitat. I grumbled to Heydi and Bobby that the bird was unlikely to return with all the people walking in the grass. I think Bobby said something to them because they began to return to their cars. I've learned that patience is key when it comes to finding vagrant birds, so told Bobby that we were probably just going to sit down on a nearby park bench and wait. Turned out that the interlude was unnecessary because only a few minutes passed before the bird flew out of the dunes and onto the sidewalk. I was stunned by its diminutive size. I mean, I read that it was the smallest dove in North America, but wasn't really prepared at just how small. Let me try to put it in perspective. The two most common "doves" in New York are the Rock Pigeon and the Mourning Dove. On average, our city pigeons are about 12.5" long with a 28" wingspan. They weigh about 9 ounces. The Mourning Dove is 12" long with a 18" wingspan and weigh around 4.2 ounces. The Common Ground-Dove is nearly half the size of the Mourning Dove at 6.5" long, 10.5" wingspan and only weigh 1.1 ounce. That is only slightly larger than a House Sparrow. We can't ever be 100% certain where the dove originated, but let's say it took off flying from Bermuda. I don't think a House Sparrow could make that journey, although, knowing our city sparrow's resourcefulness, they would probably have just taken a bus up the coast. When the dove flew to the north side of the road we began walking east along the opposite side of the road to look for the Western Kingbird. I was on a tight schedule, so when the kingbird wasn't where it was last seen, we decided to leave and head towards the other locations.

Our next stop was at Zach's Bay, which is a beach on the bay side of the barrier beach. A Lark Sparrow had been found feeding within a mixed flock of sparrows at a grassy field adjacent to the water. Last year I found one at Floyd Bennett Field, I haven't been as lucky this fall, so, hopefully, the Zach's Bay bird would still be around.

As we walked up to field along the bay I noticed a birdwatcher we had seen earlier at Captree with his unleashed dog. Don't get me wrong, I love dogs, but they are seen as predators by birds, so if looking for a rare bird, leave the dog at home as they will only scare the birds (not to mention that they are prohibited at Jones Beach). Heydi and I walked to the eastern edge of the field where there were a couple of dozen nervous sparrows feeding in the grass. The dog owner had tied up his dog to a picnic bench and walked over to where we were scanning the flocks. The dog freaked out and began barking non-stop, making the already skittish birds even more jumpy. The guy eventually packed up his dog and left. We continued scanning for the Lark Sparrow. Next, a group of about 10 birders arrived, spread out the width of the field and begin marching towards us in a line, like the Redcoats ready for battle. The birds scattered. We hadn't found the bird and with the added crowd of people, decided that we probably wouldn't. As we were walking back through a tunnel that goes under the roadway, I said to her, "I bet the sparrow spooked and flew across the road." Once on the other side of the road, I spotted my friend Rob Bate scoping a small patch of grass next to the parking lot. He was looking at the Lark Sparrow. I ran back to the field to alert the others. After a quick look, we hopped back into the car and headed to the nature center in search of the Northern Shrike.

The habitat surrounding the nature center looks a bit like the arctic tundra. It is mostly patches of low, grassy hummocks interspersed with small shrubs. There is a boardwalk trail behind the nature center's building that loops around a stand of small conifers and bayberry shrubs. A few distant, dead snags look like perfect perches for a hungry shrike to scan for prey. At the southern edge of the habitat a gentle dune rises, running parallel to and muting the sound of the crashing surf. While we looked for the shrike two or three Northern Harriers cruised passed, soaring low above the dunes like surfers on the ocean. A Peregrine Falcon rocket down the beach and disappeared behind the dunes. I wondered if this fastest-animal-on-the-planet successfully snared a Sanderling or Snow Bunting that had been feeding along the ocean's edge. We spent about 30 minutes looking, unsuccessfully, for the bird. Tom, Gail and several other birders arrived and we joined them for the search. No luck. At this point we were running out of time. I had a late afternoon commitment in the city, so had to pack it in before even looking for the godwit at the coast guard station. Still, I can't complain as we added a couple of new birds to our year list, one of which was a life bird for both of us. Here is a photo of the Northern Shrike taken by Steve when he found it during a previous weekend's Brooklyn Bird Club trip.

...Read more

Upcoming Nature Trips

Below is a list of upcoming, nature trips within New York City's 5 boroughs for the weekend of November 13th - 14th, 2010:

Audubon Center in Prospect Park (Brooklyn)
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Introduction to Birdwatching
Every Saturday, 12 - 1:30 p.m.
Explore the Park's natural areas and learn how to look for amazing birds.

Discover Tours
Every Saturday and Sunday, 3 p.m.
Discover the Prospect Park you never knew! Meet birds and other wildlife on this walk, guided by a naturalist.


New York Botanical Garden (Bronx)
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Debbie Becker leads a free bird walk at the Garden every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. beginning at the Reflecting Pool in the Leon Levy Visitor Center


Brooklyn Bird Club
Sunday, November 14th, 2010
Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Trip Leader: Rafael Campos
Focus: water birds and ducks (peak), marsh species, early winter species, possible rarity
Car Fee: $12.00
Registrar: James Cooke email james [AT] jamescooke.net; home # 516-739-0647. Call before 9 pm
Registration period: Nov 2nd - Nov 11th


New York City Audubon Society
Saturday, November 13, 2010, 8:00am – 9:30am
Van Cortlandt Park
Guide: Andrew Baksh or Urban Park Rangers. With the Van Cortlandt Park Conservancy, NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, and Urban Park Rangers. Meet at Van Cortland Nature Center. The history of birding and Van Cortlandt Park are inseparable. Influential birders such as Roger Tory Peterson and Allan D. Cruickshank got their starts on Van Cortlandt’s ecologically diverse grounds. These walks celebrate the tradition set forth by these great ornithologists. Participants will look for various species of migrants and discuss a wide range of avian topics. For more information, please call 718-548-0912. No registration necessary. No limit. Free.

Sun, November 14, 2010, 9:30am – 11:30am
Wave Hill: Perkins Visitor Center
Explore Wave Hill’s woodlands and gardens and discover the world of insects, flowers, trees, birds and their fascinating habitats on this naturalist-led walk, offered jointly by Wave Hill and NYC Audubon. Ideal for ages 5 and up and their curious adult companions. Rain or shine, so dress for the weather! Space is limited; advanced registration recommended, online, at the Perkins Visitor Center when you next visit or by calling 718.549.3200 x305. Fee: Free for Wave Hill Members/Non-members $5. Free for NYC Audubon Members with 2-for-1 admission to the grounds.


Protectors of Pine Oak Woods (Staten Island)
Saturday, November 13, 2010, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Long Pond Park
Evidence of animal life as well the geologic history and human influence will be observed as we take an unhurried stroll on a one and a half mile hike through the park. Meet at PS 6, on Page Avenue and Academy Avenue about 3 blocks NW of Hylan Blvd.
For more information call Clay Wollney at (718)869-6327.

Sunday, November 14, 2010, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Save Arden Heights Woods
Meet at the corner of Woodrow Road and Arden Avenue. We will walk to the trail entrance.
For more information call Hillel Lofaso at 718-751-6629


Queens County Bird Club
Sat, November 13, 2010, 8am – 2pm
Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn
Leader: Eric Miller


Staten Island Museum
November 14, 2010, 9:00am - 11:00am
Changing Seasons at Great Kills Park
Observe the changes at Great Kills park as fall heads towards winter. Meet at the parking area for the blue-dot trail at the corner of Hylan Blvd. and Buffalo St. Enjoy the beauty & ecology of Staten Island. Wear comfortable shoes and bring binoculars.
To register and confirm meeting places call Seth Wollney at (718) 483-7105.


Urban Park Rangers
Saturday, November 13, 2010

Early Birding
8:00 a.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for early morning birding at Marine Park.
Location: Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
Cost: Free

Migration Bingo
10:00 a.m.
Add species to your year and life lists while also working to mark off a row of migrants on…
Location: Belvedere Castle (in Central Park), Manhattan
Cost: Free

Urban Sustainability Series: Green Roofing
1:00 p.m.
It’s all about the soil! Green roofs have great benefits in the urban jungle;…
Location: Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
Cost: Free

Star Gazing
5:00 p.m.
Observe heavenly bodies with the Amateur Astronomy Association of New York. Weather permitting.
Location: Fort Greene Park Visitor Center (in Fort Greene Park), Brooklyn
Cost: Free

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Fall Foliage Hike
11:00 a.m.
Why travel upstate when you have colorful views of fall foliage right in your own backyard?…
Location: Margaret Corbin Circle (in Fort Tryon Park), Manhattan
Cost: Free

Fall Foliage at Kissena Park
12:00 p.m.
The color change in leaves heralds autumn's return. Experience the diverse color palette in…
Location: Rose and Oak Avenues (in Kissena Park), Queens
Cost: Free

Life in the Leaf Litter
1:00 p.m.
Rotting leaves and logs are more than they appear to be—they are microhabitats…
Location: Blue Heron Nature Center (in Blue Heron Park Preserve), Staten Island
Cost: Free

Blind Nature Walk
1:00 p.m.
Sense the natural world as you never have before.
Location: Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (in Central Park), Manhattan
Cost: Free ...Read more

Friday's Foto

Breeding across the top of North American and Eurasia, the Dunlin is a common, gregarious shorebird whose distribution is worldwide. This individual was part of a small flock at Floyd Bennett Field. The bird has mostly transitioned to basic plumage, but some breeding feathers can still be seen. While watching the flock I was surprised to observe some birds actually swimming in shallow water and looking a bit like a phalarope. I was under the impression that shorebirds can't swim.

October Birds

October turned out to be a good month for adding new species to my year list. By October 24th I had added 7 species for New York State, bringing my year total to 257. All were observed within Brooklyn, so my borough total is now 232.

When Heydi called me about the Cattle Egret at Floyd Bennett Field early in the month, I practically dropped everything and rushed out there. Ironically, not only has the bird remained for nearly a month, two more have joined him.

Floyd Bennett Field was very productive over October as I found three good birds there. In addition to the Cattle Egret were American Golden-Plover and Blue Grosbeak. Another unexpected find was of a pair of Royal Terns just across Flatbush Avenue along the shore of Dead Horse Bay.

I did fairly well with respect to migrating sparrows and was able to add Clay-colored Sparrow, Vesper Sparrow (both in Prospect Park) and Nelson's Sparrow (Plum Beach). One sparrow that I missed this year and am unlikely to see given the late date is Lark Sparrow. A few were observed early in the migration around the city and on Long Island. My last species of the month was found at Green-Wood Cemetery. While trudging up the hillside towards Battle Hill, I heard a familiar, sweet song, searched the trees for the source, then spotted a pair of Eastern Bluebirds. A beautiful bird to end the month with.

During November the migration finally starts to peter out. It can also be a month for unusual finds as western vagrants sometimes show up around the city and Long Island. I don't expect to add many more birds during the last two months of the year, but you never know.

250) Cattle Egret (Floyd Bennett Field, 10/10/10)
251) American Golden-Plover (Floyd Bennett Field, 10/12/10)
252) Royal Tern (Dead Horse Bay, 10/06/10)
253) Eastern Bluebird (Greenwood Cemetery, 10/24/10)
254) Clay-colored Sparrow (Prospect Park, 10/05/10)
255) Vesper Sparrow (Prospect Park, 10/19/10)
256) Nelson's Sparrow (Plum Beach, 10/12/10)
257) Blue Grosbeak (Floyd Bennett Field, 10/06/10) ...Read more

Upcoming Nature Trips

Below is a list of upcoming, nature trips within New York City's 5 boroughs for the weekend of November 6th - 7th, 2010:

Audubon Center in Prospect Park (Brooklyn)
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Introduction to Birdwatching
Every Saturday, 12 - 1:30 p.m.
Explore the Park's natural areas and learn how to look for amazing birds.

Discover Tours
Every Saturday and Sunday, 3 p.m.
Discover the Prospect Park you never knew! Meet birds and other wildlife on this walk, guided by a naturalist.

Sunday, November 7, 2010, 10 a.m.
Morning Bird Walk: Feathered Friends
Meet the amazing birds of Prospect Park on this expert-guided walk. Start your Sunday morning surrounded by nature!


New York Botanical Garden (Bronx)
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Debbie Becker leads a free bird walk at the Garden every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. beginning at the Reflecting Pool in the Leon Levy Visitor Center


Linnaean Society of New York
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Leader: Joe DiCostanzo
Registrar: Pearl Broder
Registration opens Monday 10/25
Ride: $15.


New York City Audubon Society
Saturday, November 6, 2010, 8am – 9:30am
Van Cortlandt Bird Walks
Guide: Andrew Baksh or Urban Park Rangers. With the Van Cortlandt Park Conservancy, NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, and Urban Park Rangers. Meet at Van Cortland Nature Center. The history of birding and Van Cortlandt Park are inseparable. Influential birders such as Roger Tory Peterson and Allan D. Cruickshank got their starts on Van Cortlandt’s ecologically diverse grounds. These walks celebrate the tradition set forth by these great ornithologists. Participants will look for various species of migrants and discuss a wide range of avian topics.
For more information, please call 718-548-0912.
No registration necessary. No limit.
Free.


Protectors of Pine Oak Woods (Staten Island)
Sunday, November 7, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Bucks Hollow in the Greenbelt
Walk the Greenbelt with Howie Fischer as he works to identify the birds of the area. Trails may be wet or muddy, so wear appropriate shoes. Persimmons may be ripe in the Buttonbush wetland. We will search for late fall migrants, woodpeckers and some of the other resident bird species. Please bring a pair of binoculars and walking shoes. Meet on Meisner Avenue near the intersection of Rockland Avenue. Park on the hill leading to Eger Nursing Home.
For more information call Howie Fischer at 718-981-4002.


Urban Park Rangers
Saturday, November 6, 2010

Van Cortlandt Bird Club: The Woodpeckers
8:00 a.m.
Try to find all three kinds in park -- downy, hairy, and red-bellied woodpeckers. If you...
Location: Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
Cost: Free

Early Birding
8:00 a.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers for early morning birding at Marine Park.
Location: Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
Cost: Free

Fall Migration
11:00 a.m.
It’s that time of year again—many birds are heading south in preparation for...
Location: 223rd Street & 148th Avenue (in Idlewild Park), Queens
Cost: Free

Fall Foliage at Crocheron Park
11:00 a.m.
Visit Crocheron Park in search of colorful remainders from fall foliage season. A mix of...
Location: Parking Lot, intersection of 33rd Avenue and 214th Place (in Crocheron Park), Queens
Cost: Free

Hike the Midwood
1:00 p.m.
Discover the beauty of the Midwood section of Prospect Park and learn about its wildlife as...
Location: Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect Park), Brooklyn
Cost: Free

Fairy House Walk
1:00 p.m.
Take a magical walk through the Central Park Ramble woods and explore some of the smaller...
Location: Belvedere Castle (in Central Park), Manhattan
Cost: Free

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Lenape Lives Along the Creek
1:00 p.m.
Explore the world of the Lenape people who first called the area of Marine Park home....
Location: Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
Cost: Free ...Read more