Starr Saphir, In Memoriam

Yesterday New York City lost a friend and legendary birder. Starr Saphir passed away, succumbing to cancer after a ten year battle. Over that time Starr still managed to mentor hundreds of new birders. She will be missed.

The following was posted on her blog, StarrTrips:


I am deeply saddened to report that Starr Saphir died at 3:50 PM today, February 5th, at Calvary Hospice in New York, where she had been receiving palliative care after a decade-long battle with cancer.

Her skills as a birder were legendary. The “matriarch of Central Park birding,” she was a friend, teacher, mentor, and inspiration to many. Her daughters Shawna and Lara loved her very much. We are all going to miss her.

Graveside services for Starr will be at 12:30 PM Thursday, February 7th, at Kensico Cemetery (914 949 0247), 273 Lakeview Avenue, in Valhalla, New York. All are welcome to attend.


A big thank you to David Barrett for keeping all of Starr's friends, fans and extended family updated during this difficult time.