Check out City Birder Tours, and Green-Wood sponsored tours on their calendar pages here.
Celebrate your inner nerd with my new t-shirt design! Available on my Spreadshirt shop in multiple colors and products.

Monday, October 25, 2021

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of October 30-31, 2021:

Bedford Audubon Society

Chestnut Ridge Hawkwatch
August 26, 2021 - November 24, 2021, 9:00am - 5:00 pm
Leader:
Description:It’s officially Hawkwatch Season! Spectacular flocks of Broad-winged Hawks pass through our area in mid-September, but Accipiters such as Sharp-shinned + Cooper’s Hawks provide the most consistent flight throughout the fall hawk-watching season. Join us for Science in Action: Chestnut Ridge Hawkwatch to experience the miracle of raptor migration. Our data is combined with other Hawkwatch sites to create population and migration analyses that help us better protect raptors and their habitats. Hawkwatch takes place daily through November, 9:00am-5:00pm (weather permitting). Arthur Butler Sanctuary on Chestnut Ridge Road in Bedford Corners. Registration not necessary, but please abide by current Covid-19 guidelines based on your vaccination status.
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, October 30, 2021, 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.
View Details


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Feminist Bird Club

Feminist Bird Club 5th Anniversary Little Sit at Green-Wood Cemetery
Sunday, October 31, 2021, 9:00am - 12:00pm
Leaders:
Description: We’re celebrating five years of birds and fun by visiting one of our favorite places in New York City: Green-Wood Cemetery. We will be birding at a single location with Group 1 beginning at 9AM until 10:30AM, and then Group 2 taking over at 10:30AM to 12PM. You must pre-register for this event.
Registration: Register via Eventbrite
View Details


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Linnaean Society of New York

Jamaica Bay N.W.R.
Saturday, October 30, 2021
Leader: Joseph DiCostanzo
Description: Fall is a lovely time to visit Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. Snow Geese arrive at this time, and in 2019 we found a Blue Goose morph among them. Scoping the bay, we often find Horned Grebes and sometimes a loon. Both migrating and local raptors are possible. A couple of years ago, a Bald Eagle was harassing the water birds on the East Pond. There are often lingering Greater Yellowlegs and other shorebirds. Wintering finches may have arrived; Purple Finch and Pine Siskin are likely to be at the feeders.
Registration: Linda LaBella - lblabella@gmail.com
View Details


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New York City Audubon

Van Cortlandt Park Bird Walks
Saturdays, September 4 - November 27, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: NYC Audubon
Description: Explore Van Cortlandt Park's ecologically diverse grounds and celebrate a long tradition of birding in the park. We will look for various resident and migratory bird species and discuss a wide range of avian topics.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
View Details


Raptorama! Festival at Marine Park
Saturday, October 30, 2021, 10:00am-12:00pm
Leader: American Littoral Society, Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy, and Gateway National Recreation Area
Description: Join us for Raptorama! at Marine Park! See raptors up-close with live demonstrations of local hawks, owls, and eagles. Enjoy other raptor-themed crafts and activities, and meet the organizations that support bird habitat in Jamaica Bay and Marine Park.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
View Details


Governors Island Bird Walk
Saturdays, July 10-October 30, 2021, 2-3:30pm
Leader: NYC Audubon
Description: Meet the birds of Governors Island with one of our expert guides! 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. Binoculars are available to borrow. Reserve your spot by signing up at Nolan Park #17. Limited to 10. Free.
Registration: Not required.
View Details


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North Shore Audubon Society

Point Lookout & Lido Beach
Saturday, October 30, 2021, 9:30am – 12:00pm
Leader: Ralph (516) 785-3375
Description: Meet in the southeast corner of the parking lot for Point Lookout Town Park. The lot is due south of the last exit of Loop Pkwy. After we have finished Point Lookout, we will proceed to the nearby Lido Beach Passive Nature Area.
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.
View Details


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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

A Walk at Blue Heron Park
Saturday, October 30, 2021, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Leader: Don Recklies
Description: Participants will meet in the Blue Heron Nature Center parking lot, 222 Pollion Avenue, then cross the street to visit Butterfly Pond and loop the Blue Trail back to the Nature Center. If time permits, we will also loop Spring Pond. Though the fall leaves will most likely be “past peak” the colors and fresh air of autumn will make for an enjoyably relaxing walk.
Registration: For more information contact Don Recklies at 718-768-9036.
View Details


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South Shore Audubon Society

Oceanside Marine Nature Study Area
Saturday, October 30, 2021
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From Sunrise Highway in Rockville Centre, turn onto Long Beach Road, traveling south. Proceed to Waukena Avenue and turn left. From this point onward, there are brown signs directing visitors to the sanctuary. Turn right onto Park Avenue (at a traffic light), then turn left onto Golf Drive. Continue on Golf Drive to Slice Drive, turn right, and proceed one short block into the sanctuary.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, October 30, 2021

Birding: Raptor Watch at West 116th Street and Riverside Drive (in Riverside Park), Manhattan
1:00p - 2:00pm
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure along the Hudson River in search of migratory birds of prey.
Free
...Read more

Monday, October 18, 2021

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of October 23-24, 2021:

Bedford Audubon Society

Chestnut Ridge Hawkwatch
August 26, 2021 - November 24, 2021, 9:00am - 5:00 pm
Leader:
Description:It’s officially Hawkwatch Season! Spectacular flocks of Broad-winged Hawks pass through our area in mid-September, but Accipiters such as Sharp-shinned + Cooper’s Hawks provide the most consistent flight throughout the fall hawk-watching season. Join us for Science in Action: Chestnut Ridge Hawkwatch to experience the miracle of raptor migration. Our data is combined with other Hawkwatch sites to create population and migration analyses that help us better protect raptors and their habitats. Hawkwatch takes place daily through November, 9:00am-5:00pm (weather permitting). Arthur Butler Sanctuary on Chestnut Ridge Road in Bedford Corners. Registration not necessary, but please abide by current Covid-19 guidelines based on your vaccination status.
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

Floyd Bennett Field
Saturday, October 23, 2021
Leader: Heydi Lopes
Description: Sparrow species, grassland/open field species, raptor peak, early winter birds, saltwater waterfowl, always a potentially great bird possible.
Registration: Registration Period is Oct 17th-Oct 21st. Registrar: Bobbi Manian - email roberta.manian@gmail.com
View Details


Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, October 23, 2021, 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.
View Details


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Linnaean Society of New York

Floyd Bennett Field
Saturday, October 23, 2021
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places for its historic significance, Floyd Bennett Field’s 1,280 acres feature one of the few remaining grasslands within New York City. Part of the Gateway National Recreation Area and located in southwestern Brooklyn, it is a major birding destination, with a freshwater pond, successive upland areas, wooded campgrounds, and extensive coastal views of Jamaica Bay. The number of bird species recorded at Floyd Bennett Field totals over 280. October is sparrow season, and on a good day we should expect to observe anywhere from 10-14 different species. Over the grasslands expect to see American Kestrel, Northern Harrier, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, and more.
Registration: Amanda Bielskas - bielskas@gmail.com
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New York City Audubon

Birding Brooklyn Bridge Park
Saturday, October 23, 2021, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Heather Wolf
Description: Join Heather Wolf, author of Birding at the Bridge, for a picturesque bird walk along the Brooklyn waterfront in search of fall migrants. RSVP required. Limited to 19. Free.
Registration: Event Registration is closed.
View Details


Van Cortlandt Park Bird Walks
Saturdays, September 4 - November 27, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: NYC Audubon
Description: Explore Van Cortlandt Park's ecologically diverse grounds and celebrate a long tradition of birding in the park. We will look for various resident and migratory bird species and discuss a wide range of avian topics.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
View Details


Queens Botanical Garden Bird Walk
Saturday, October 23, 2021, 9:30am - 10:30pm
Leader: NYC Audubon with Queens Botanical Garden
Description: Explore Queens Botanical Garden in search of migrant songbirds and learn about the valuable resources that the Garden offers birds and other wildlife. Binoculars available. Register for one date or the whole series of five walks (walk-ins welcome).
Registration: Visit www.queensbotanical.org/calendar to register. Each walk limited to 25. Free (with Garden admission).
View Details


Governors Island Bird Walk
Saturdays, July 10-October 30, 2021, 2-3:30pm
Leader: NYC Audubon
Description: Meet the birds of Governors Island with one of our expert guides! 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. Binoculars are available to borrow. Reserve your spot by signing up at Nolan Park #17. Limited to 10. Free.
Registration: Not required.
View Details


Fall Walk in Green-Wood Cemetery
Saturday, October 23, 2021, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Leader: Gabriel Willow
Description: Explore Green-Wood Cemetery, rich in both history and wildlife, in search of fall migrants and its unique avian residents: the brilliant green Monk Parakeets that nest there. Native to South America, these charming immigrants flourish even in our harsh winters. Limited to 15. $46 (32).
Registration: Via Eventbrite
View Details


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North Shore Audubon Society

Garvies Point Preserve
Saturday, October 23, 2021, 9:30am – 12:00pm
Leader: Lindy (516) 628-1315
Description: https://www.garviespointmuseum.com/
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.
View Details


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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

Long Pond Park
Sunday, October 24, 2021, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Leader: Clay Wollney
Description: In addition to the fall foliage, participants will look for evidence of animal life; from deer preparing for the rutting season to turtles and frogs that may still be active at this time of year. We’ll also look for the bird life, examine the geology of the area and observe evidence of past human use of the area during this unhurried stroll through about one-and-a-half miles of the park. Participants will meet at Public School 6, at the corner of Page Avenue and Academy Avenue.
Registration: For more information contact Clay Wollney at 718-869-6327.
View Details


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South Shore Audubon Society

Jones Beach Coast Guard Station Parking Area
Sunday, October 24, 2021
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
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, October 23, 2021

Birding: Hawk Watch at Pelham Bay Nature Center (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
1:00p - 2:00pm
Join the Rangers as they hike up the hills of the Bronx-Pelham Landfill, a site closed off to the public.
Free
...Read more

Saturday, October 16, 2021

Rover as a Fledgling

As many of you know, a young Bald Eagle has been making Brooklyn his territory since spring of 2020. Based on his bands, "Rover" was hatched on a nest in a cemetery in New Haven, CT. Below is a news story about the eagles from that year. Amazing to think that one of the fledglings in the video could be "Rover":

New York City Rare Bird Alert

Below is the New York City Rare Bird Alert for the week ending Friday, October 15, 2021:

- RBA
* New York
* New York City, Long Island, Westchester County
* Oct. 15, 2021
* NYNY2110.15


- Birds mentioned
BROWN BOOBY+
SAY'S PHOEBE+
GRAY KINGBIRD+
(+ Details requested by NYSARC)

EARED GREBE
AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVER
HUDSONIAN GODWIT
MARBLED GODWIT
Baird's Sandpiper
RED-NECKED PHALAROPE
Parasitic Jaeger
BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE
Caspian Tern
Cory's Shearwater
Great Shearwater
Manx Shearwater
GREAT BLUE HERON
SEDGE WREN
CLAY-COLORED SPARROW
Vesper Sparrow
Nelson's Sparrow
YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT
YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD
Orange-crowned Warbler
Connecticut Warbler
BLUE GROSBEAK
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, October 15th 2021* at 11pm. The highlights of today's tape are GRAY KINGBIRD, SAY'S PHOEBE, BROWN BOOBY, EARED GREBE, SEDGE WREN, YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD, white morph of GREAT BLUE HERON, AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVER, MARBLED GODWIT, HUDSONIAN GODWIT, RED-NECKED PHALAROPE, BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE, YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT, CLAY-COLORED SPARROW, BLUE GROSBEAK, DICKCISSEL and more.

A GRAY KINGBIRD was spotted Wednesday morning during a field trip to the Fire Island Lighthouse, but after being photographed the bird quickly disappeared. The searches there and at adjacent Robert Moses State Park were unsuccessful in relocating it. Another flycatcher though has been more accommodating. This a SAY'S PHOEBE found Thursday at Caumsett State Park. This somewhat dull immature was still around a corral area near the parking lots today often near an Eastern Phoebe for comparison.

Saturday morning a seawatch off Robert Moses State Park field 2 produced a BROWN BOOBY moving east well offshore. This was followed Wednesday morning by a BROWN BOOBY spotted heading west leading to a suggestion that these and the westbound bird back on October 5th may involve the same individual. The Saturday watch also produced 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS with one on Wednesday.

An EARED GREBE was photographed Wednesday in Shinnecock Bay near the Ponquogue Bridge. A SEDGE WREN was a surprise find on top of the landfill at Croton Point Park Wednesday morning but has not been relocated there since. In contrast a female type YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD continues to be seen by persistent searchers around Nickerson Beach west of Point Lookout usually with a flock of Cowbirds and Starlings.

A GREAT WHITE HERON continues at Marshlands Conservancy in Rye normally roosting during high tide around the central island in the marsh moving to feed at lower tides in the cove west of the causeway out to Marie's Neck.

Among the shorebirds an AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVER was still reported today among the flock lingering at Floyd Bennett Field and a MARBLED GODWIT was still visiting the bar off the Coast Guard Station at Jones Beach West End today. An HUDSONIAN GODWIT appeared in Watermill last Sunday with one also at Mecox Bay Sunday and Monday and a BAIRD'S SANDPIPER was at Plumb Beach to Monday while a RED-NECKED PHALAROPE was a highlight on the East Pond at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge last weekend.

A few CASPIAN TERNS continue along the coast.

Birds seen off Montauk Point last Saturday featured 2 BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES, a PARASITIC JAEGER and 1 MANX, 1 GREAT and 37 CORY'S SHEARWATERS while Sunday produced a BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE, 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS and 20 CORY'S.

Among the sparrows this week were a CLAY-COLORED at the Lido Beach Passive Area Sunday and Monday, a VESPER at Floyd Bennett Field Monday and some NELSON'S of both the coastal and inland races at various coastal locations.

A YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT was seen near the GRAY KINGBIRD on Fire Island Wednesday while warblers included CONNECTICUTS on Staten Island Monday and Manhattan's TriBeCa area to Wednesday and in Prospect Park Thursday though a few ORANGE-CROWNEDS and other lingering species also noted.

Continued sightings of BLUE GROSBEAKS include one on Randall's Island on Saturday and one on Governors Island today while late week DICKCISSELS were at Moses Park yesterday and moving over mid-Manhattan this morning.

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

Friday, October 15, 2021

Friday's Foto

Blue-headed Vireo, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn
The Blue-headed Vireo was originally named the "Solitary Vireo" until DNA analysis revealed it was three separate species. In 1997 they were reclassified as Blue-headed Vireo (Vireo solitarius), Plumbeous Vireo (V. plumbeus) and Cassin's Vireo (V. cassinii), the latter two having ranges west of the Mississippi. A common species in our area during migration, they breed in mature boreal and montane forests from NE British Columbia across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec and south to southern Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Their clean, sweet whistled song is often described as "see you, cheerio, be-seein-u, so-long, seeya". The IUCN Red List lists this species as "Least Concern" with their populations currently increasing.

Monday, October 11, 2021

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of October 16-17, 2021:

Bedford Audubon Society

Chestnut Ridge Hawkwatch
August 26, 2021 - November 24, 2021, 9:00am - 5:00 pm
Leader:
Description:It’s officially Hawkwatch Season! Spectacular flocks of Broad-winged Hawks pass through our area in mid-September, but Accipiters such as Sharp-shinned + Cooper’s Hawks provide the most consistent flight throughout the fall hawk-watching season. Join us for Science in Action: Chestnut Ridge Hawkwatch to experience the miracle of raptor migration. Our data is combined with other Hawkwatch sites to create population and migration analyses that help us better protect raptors and their habitats. Hawkwatch takes place daily through November, 9:00am-5:00pm (weather permitting). Arthur Butler Sanctuary on Chestnut Ridge Road in Bedford Corners. Registration not necessary, but please abide by current Covid-19 guidelines based on your vaccination status.
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

Prospect Park Saturday Fall Migration Walks
Saturday, October 16, 2021
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Meet 7:45 am at the “Pergola” entrance on Ocean and Parkside Avenues.
Registration: No registration necessary; however, if more than 20 people show up we will split the group.
View Details


Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, October 16, 2021, 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.
View Details


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Gateway National Parks

4th Annual Raptorama Festival at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sunday, October 17, 2021, 10:00am — 2:00pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: See and celebrate hawks, falcons, eagles, owls, and other birds of prey. Learn about raptor behavior, biology, and migration, as well as where to find many species around the city. Activities include a presentation of live hawks and owls provided by a local rehabilitation center, and a visit to the hawk watch platform at Fort Tilden, Queens (must provide your own transportation).
Registration: Not registration required.
View Details


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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, October 17, 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

Hawk Watch at Lenoir Nature Preserve
Saturday, Oct 16, 2021, 10:00am
Leader:
Description: Lenoir Nature Preserve, 19 Dudley St, Yonkers 10701, behind the Mansion; we suggest bringing a chair..
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details


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Linnaean Society of New York

Fort Tilden
Saturday, October 16, 2021
Leader: Gordon Lam
Description: Fort Tilden, on the Rockaway Peninsula in southern Queens, is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, which also includes the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. This trip is scheduled to coincide with sparrow migration. Every year we have seen a Nelson’s among the many other sparrow species, and Royal Terns never disappoint us. With the right winds we can expect good raptor sightings. Late warblers, vireos and other passerines also visit this area.
Registration: Lori Lam — lamonthelam2@gmail.com
View Details


Randall’s Island
Sunday, October, 17, 2021
Leader: Alan Drogin
Description: The leader of this trip added Randall’s Island to the birders’ map of New York City in October of 2012, when he came upon a Nelson’s Sparrow in one of the only saltmarshes in the Borough of Manhattan. Since then, mid-October has been the time to bird Randall’s for sparrows—Savannah, Swamp, Song, Chipping, Field, and an occasional Vesper, but especially the elusive Ammodramus sparrows of the marshes—Nelson’s, Saltmarsh, Seaside. We also get late migration warblers and sometimes interesting gulls.
Registration: Lynne Hertzog — lynnehertzog@gmail.com
View Details


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New York City Audubon

Harlem Goes Birding! Birding Field Trip in North Central Park
Saturday, October 16, 2021, 8:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Christian Cooper, Efua Peterson
Description: Let's get out and bird! Meet at the Dana Discovery Center on the Harlem Meer to explore the north end of Central Park and all the wonderful birds it has to offer. Then, join us for a potluck picnic in the park. Bring something to eat and drink (non-alcoholic, please) and a little extra to share. Beginners of all ages welcome! Binoculars available to borrow.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
View Details


Van Cortlandt Park Bird Walks
Saturdays, September 4 - November 27, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: NYC Audubon
Description: Explore Van Cortlandt Park's ecologically diverse grounds and celebrate a long tradition of birding in the park. We will look for various resident and migratory bird species and discuss a wide range of avian topics.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
View Details


World Migratory Bird Day: Breezy Point Hawk Watch, Queens
Saturday, October 16, 2021, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Leader: Don Riepe
Description: Meet at the Chapel at Fort Tilden (on Murray Road near the Beach 169th Street entrance to Fort Tilden) and join us during the peak of fall raptor migration. Hike the beach, dunes, woodlands and visit the hawk watch platform on top of Battery Harris east where you'll get great views of the bay and ocean.
Registration: For more info and reservations call (718) 474-0896; e-mail: donriepe@gmail.com. Free.
View Details


Governors Island Bird Walk
Saturdays, July 10-October 30, 2021, 2-3:30pm
Leader: NYC Audubon
Description: Meet the birds of Governors Island with one of our expert guides! 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. Binoculars are available to borrow. Reserve your spot by signing up at Nolan Park #17. Limited to 10. Free.
Registration: Not required.
View Details


Intro to Birding: Bird Walk in Van Cortlandt Park
Sunday, October 17, 2021, 8:30am - 10:30am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Are you curious about "birding" but don't have much (or any) experience? Come on a relaxed walk around Van Cortlandt Park's nature trails to go over birding basics and look for warblers, sparrows, woodpeckers, raptors, and more. Binoculars available. Limited to 15. $36 (25) per walk.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
View Details


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North Shore Audubon Society

Planting Fields Arboretum
Saturday, October 16, 2021, 9:30am – 12:00pm
Leader: Jennifer (516) 767-3454
Description: NYS State Park parking fee may apply. No fee for age 62+ or for Empire Pass holders.
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.
View Details


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Queens County Bird Club

Shirley Chisholm State Park
Sunday, October 17, 2021, 8:30am - 1:00pm
Leader: Ian Resnick (917) 626-9562
Description: Mini trip. Shirley Chisholm State Park is named in honor of Shirley Chisholm, a Brooklyn-born trailblazer who was the first African American Congresswoman, as well as the first woman and African American to run for President. Rising up 130 feet above sea level, this new park occupies some of the highest ground in New York City and offers spectacular panoramic views of the Empire State Building to the northwest, the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and New York Harbor to the west, and Jamaica Bay to the south.
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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South Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake State Park
Sunday, October 17, 2021
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Southern State Parkway, take Exit 18 (Eagle Avenue) south to Field 3 (use second park entrance and make an immediate left turn.)
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


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Urban Park Rangers

Sunday, October 17, 2021

Birding: Raptors at Arthur Kill Road and Brookfield Avenue (in Brookfield Park), Staten Island
9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Forest Park to look for Fall migrants that include warblers, raptors and more.
Free

...Read more

Saturday, October 09, 2021

New York City Rare Bird Alert

Below is the New York City Rare Bird Alert for the week ending Friday, October 8, 2021:

- RBA
* New York
* New York City, Long Island, Westchester County
* Oct. 8, 2021
* NYNY2110.08


- Birds mentioned
BROWN BOOBY+
VARIED THRUSH+
(+ Details requested by NYSARC)

KING EIDER
AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVER
Whimbrel
HUDSONIAN GODWIT
MARBLED GODWIT
Baird's Sandpiper
Parasitic Jaeger
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Caspian Tern
GREAT BLUE HERON (white morph "Great White Heron")
GRASSHOPPER SPARROW
CLAY-COLORED SPARROW
LARK SPARROW
Vesper Sparrow
YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT
YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD
Orange-crowned Warbler
Connecticut Warbler
Mourning Warbler
Hooded Warbler
Cape May Warbler
Bay-breasted Warbler
BLUE GROSBEAK
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, October 8th 2021* at 11pm. The highlights of today's tape are VARIED THRUSH, BROWN BOOBY, YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD, white morph of GREAT BLUE HERON, KING EIDER, AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVER, HUDSONIAN GODWIT, MARBLED GODWIT, LARK SPARROW, CLAY-COLORED SPARROW, GRASSHOPPER SPARROW, YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT, BLUE GROSBEAK, DICKCISSEL and more.

Certainly a surprise was the appearance of a VARIED THRUSH last Tuesday at the Sands Point Preserve. A bird decently photographed before it disappeared during a day when the park was closed.

A seawatch off Robert Moses State Park Tuesday morning produced an immature BROWN BOOBY moving west followed by a PARASITIC JAEGER doing the same. Twenty-two LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS were also counted on the beach at Moses that morning.

An elusive YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD usually seen mostly with cowbirds and starlings around Nickerson Beach including last Sunday, Monday and yesterday. It was also reported Tuesday near the Point Lookout Town Park at the end of Lido Boulevard thus expanding the search range.

A white morph of GREAT BLUE HERON, also referred to as GREAT WHITE HERON, remains in Rye at Marshlands Conservancy through today. At high tide the heron has been roosting by an island in the middle section of the marsh moving south 200 yards at lower tides to feed in the cove off Murray's Neck.

The KING EIDER was still around Midland Beach on Staten Island Monday and another immature male was off Napeague State Park Tuesday and Wednesday.

Immature AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVERS were seen at Plumb Beach Wednesday, at Floyd Bennett Field Wednesday through today and also at Heckscher State Park today.

A couple of MARBLED GODWITS have been visiting the bar off the Coast Guard Station at Jones Beach West End at least to yesterday while an HUDSONIAN GODWIT was seen again on the East Pond at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge last Saturday. Continuing WHIMBREL have included 5 on Fire Island Wednesday and up to 6 at Smith Point County Park in Shirley and 3 still at Fort Tilden yesterday and a BAIRD'S SANDPIPER was spotted at Plumb Beach last Sunday.

Some CASPIAN TERNS peaked Thursday with 5 at Mecox and 6 in Gardiners Bay in East Hampton.

A LARK SPARROW visited Plumb Beach Monday and another was seen again today near the Fire Island hawkwatch. Among the few CLAY-COLORED SPARROWS were singles in Prospect Park and Green-wood Cemetery in Brooklyn last Saturday, at Plumb Beach Tuesday and at Jones Beach West End today.

Both GRASSHOPPER and VESPER SPARROWS were found at Randall's Island last Saturday and on Governors Island Sunday with another GRASSHOPPER at Pelham Bay Park Sunday. YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT and BLUE GROSBEAK were also on Governors Island Saturday with other BLUE GROSBEAKS at Central Park's north end Wednesday and in Orient today. DICKCISSELS include singles at Marshlands Conservancy and in Mattituck yesterday and at Central Park's north end to today along with Friday birds also at Governors Island and Heckscher State Park.

Warblers this week have featured ORANGE-CROWNED, CONNECTICUT, MOURNING, HOODED, CAPE MAY, BAY-BREASTED and several other species.

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.

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Friday, October 08, 2021

Friday's Foto

Lincoln's Sparrow - Dell Water, Green-Wood Cemetery
This dainty sparrow with delicately marked breast streaks is the Lincoln's Sparrow. Somewhat similar to the Song and Swamp Sparrows, it can be separated by a brown crown with gray central stripe, thick malar mark bordered by white throat, buff submustachial stripe and white belly. A skulker, they are not so much rare on migration in Brooklyn, as just hard to see. Breeding in sub-alpine and montane zones across Alaska, Canada, and northeastern and western United States, they overwinter from the southern United States to Mexico and northern Central America.

Monday, October 04, 2021

Some Recent Photos

Here's a few recent photographs from around Brooklyn:

Brown-lipped Snail or Lemon snail (Cepaea nemoralis) at Calvert Vaux Park. An introduced species from Europe. Abundant in many Brooklyn coastal areas.
Chickweed Geometer moth (Haematopis grataria) are easily overlooked due to their small size. Very pretty IMHO and very widespread in our area.
Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa) underside may lack the maroon-brown color with blue submarginal spots of the dorsal side, but still lovely in this view.
 

At this time of year the Palm Warbler (Setophaga palmarum) is ubiquitous. Flocks can be frequently seen foraging in the grass, tails a bobbing.
Not nearly as stunning in their fall plumage, this Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea) was one of several I spotted in Green-Wood Cemetery on a recent walk.
No larger than a Blue Jay, the American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) is North America's smallest falcon. What they lack in size they make up for in ferocity. They regularly harass raptors more than twice their size. This one was in Green-Wood Cemetery.
With their ability to hide in plain sight by sitting quietly in treetops, one would never realize that the Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus) is actually abundant within their range.
This Osprey at Calvert Vaux Park just finished his breakfast.
The Northern Brown Snake or De Kay's snake (Storeria dekayi) is a tiny reptile found around Brooklyn. This individual was flushed from his hiding place by park workers wielding weed whackers.
An immature Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) sharing some kousa berries with a mix of warblers, vireos and other songbirds on Ocean Ave. in Green-Wood Cemetery.

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of October 9-10, 2021:

Bedford Audubon Society

Chestnut Ridge Hawkwatch
August 26, 2021 - November 24, 2021, 9:00am - 5:00 pm
Leader:
Description:It’s officially Hawkwatch Season! Spectacular flocks of Broad-winged Hawks pass through our area in mid-September, but Accipiters such as Sharp-shinned + Cooper’s Hawks provide the most consistent flight throughout the fall hawk-watching season. Join us for Science in Action: Chestnut Ridge Hawkwatch to experience the miracle of raptor migration. Our data is combined with other Hawkwatch sites to create population and migration analyses that help us better protect raptors and their habitats. Hawkwatch takes place daily through November, 9:00am-5:00pm (weather permitting). Arthur Butler Sanctuary on Chestnut Ridge Road in Bedford Corners. Registration not necessary, but please abide by current Covid-19 guidelines based on your vaccination status.
Registration: Registration required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org or by calling 914-302-9713.
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Brooklyn Bird Club

Prospect Park Saturday Fall Migration Walks
Saturday, October 9, 2021
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Meet 7:45 am at the “Pergola” entrance on Ocean and Parkside Avenues.
Registration: No registration necessary; however, if more than 20 people show up we will split the group.
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Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 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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Feminist Bird Club

Big Sit at Shirley Chisholm State Park
Sunday, October 10, 2021, 7:00am - 6:00pm
Leaders: __
Description: Want to bird but also sit down a lot? We got you covered! Join Feminist Bird Club at Shirley Chisholm State Park’s Big Sit on October 10! The Big Sit will last all day, but will be broken into 2 hour shifts. Due to space limitations within the circle, SCSP staff will be limiting each shift to 10 individuals.
Registration: Register via Eventbrite
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Green-Wood Cemetery

Fun with Fungi: Mushroom Walk for Kids
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 10:00am - 11:30am
Description: Green-Wood is a special place for fungi of all kinds. Sigrid Jakob and Potter Palmer, members of the New York Mycological Society and founders of the Green-Wood Fungi Phenology Project, will lead a mushroom walk into the depths of Green-Wood’s lovely and extensive woodlands where all types of fascinating fungi will be encountered: amanita, russula, ....
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Birding in Peace
Sunday, October 10, 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.
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Hudson River Audubon Society

The Big Sit and Hawk Watch at Lenoir Nature Preserve
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 10:00am
Leader:
Description: The object of the "BIG SIT" is to tally as many bird species as we can in a day from a single position. We'll be out on the Lenoir lawn (at our hawk watch sight) overlooking the Hudson River and Palisades. Bring a chair, drink and snacks and join us anytime on that day and help us find the birds!
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
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Linnaean Society of New York

Staten Island
Saturday, October 9, 2021
Leader: Seth Wollney
Description: This annual trip is led by a professor in the biology department at the College of Staten Island. It starts at Conference House Park, overlooking Raritan Bay at the southernmost point of New York State, where four historic buildings trace the history of the borough of Staten Island over the course of three centuries. We will hear about the history of the park while enjoying views of gulls, loons, hawks, and as we walk the trails, woodland birds. From Conference House Park we will drive to several other destinations along the south western coast of Staten Island, usually including Mount Loretto (Bald Eagles), Great Kills Park (Royal and Caspian Terns, Little Blue Heron, Saltmarsh Sparrows), Arden Avenue Beach (hoping to see a Lesser Black-backed Gull that has returned for so many years that the locals have named it Lester), Oakwood Beach (Yellow-crowned Night Herons), Miller Beach (gulls and terns) and/or anywhere else that our leader expects interesting birds to be at the time.
Registration: Mary Beth Kooper — marybeth@nyc.rr.com
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9th Annual Starr Saphir Memorial Fall Migration Walk, Central Park
Sunday, October 10, 2021
Leader: Lenore Swenson
Description: The Fall and Spring Memorial walks honor Starr Saphir, a legend for her birding skills who led walks for nearly forty years in Central Park and elsewhere. She also taught course in beginning birding at NYC Audubon, and was an inspiration to many. These walks, led by her longtime friend and mentee, will follow traditional paths and principles (“please don’t point at the birds”) of “Starr Trips” of the past. The Fall walk covers many areas of Central Park’s north end in search of fall migrants, particularly warblers.
Registration: Lenore Swenson — lenoreswenson@gmail.com
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Littoral Society

Fort Tilden Hawk Walk
Sunday, October 10, 2021, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Leader: Don Riepe
Description: Meet at the little church in Fort Tilden. We will hike along the beach, dunes, and woodland trails to look for eagles, hawks, falcons, osprey, other raptors, and monarch butterflies as they migrate south along the coast. We will also visit the hawk watch platform on top of Battery Harris East.
Registration: Register via website
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New York City Audubon

World Migratory Bird Day: Conference House Park Walk, Staten Island
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 8:00am -10:00am
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Meet at the Visitor Center & Lenape Gallery at Satterlee Street and the end of Hylan Boulevard (parking available). From songbirds to seabirds, discover a diversity of southbound fall migrants with long-time birder and Staten Island resident Anthony Ciancimino.
Registration: No registration necessary. No limit. Free.
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Morning Fall Migration Walk in Prospect Park
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 8:00am -11:00am
Leader: Gabriel Willow
Description: Join Gabriel Willow for a leisurely walk to get to know the fall migrants of 'Brooklyn's backyard'. Beautiful Prospect Park has a wide variety of habitats that attracts a number of both breeding and passage migrant bird species, with even more recorded than in Central Park. We will explore the Park's meadows, forests, and waterways in search of migratory warblers, vireos, thrushes, tanagers, waterfowl, and more.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
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Canarsie Park Bird Walks
Saturdays, September 18th, October 2nd, and October 9th, 8-10am
Leader: Mike Yuan
Description: Meet at the Canarsie Park House at Seaview Avenue and East 88th street. Experience fall migration on the Brooklyn coast with Mike Yuan, NYCA Board Executive Vice President. All birding levels welcome. No registration necessary. Limited to 15. Free.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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Harlem Goes Birding! Birding Field Trip in North Central Park
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 8:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Christian Cooper, Efua Peterson
Description: Let's get out and bird! Meet at the Dana Discovery Center on the Harlem Meer to explore the north end of Central Park and all the wonderful birds it has to offer. Then, join us for a potluck picnic in the park. Bring something to eat and drink (non-alcoholic, please) and a little extra to share. Beginners of all ages welcome! Binoculars available to borrow.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
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World Migratory Bird Day: Gantry Plaza State Park, Queens
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 8:30am - 10:30am
Leader: Akilah Lewis
Description: Meet in front of the Pepsi-Cola sign with NYCA Young Conservationists Council member Akilah Lewis. Enjoy a slow-paced migratory bird tour of a waterfront park in an urban landscape.
Registration: Registration not required. Limited to 15. Free.
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Fall Migrants of Inwood Hill Park
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 9:00am - 11:30am
Leader: Annie Barry
Description: Join Annie Barry for a hike through a mature forest in search of kinglets, warblers, flycatchers, sparrows, thrushes, and more, then search the shore of the Inwood Hill Park saltmarshes for herons and ducks. Some hilly walking required. Limited to 15. $36.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
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Van Cortlandt Park Bird Walks
Saturdays, September 4 - November 27, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: NYC Audubon
Description: Explore Van Cortlandt Park's ecologically diverse grounds and celebrate a long tradition of birding in the park. We will look for various resident and migratory bird species and discuss a wide range of avian topics.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
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Queens Botanical Garden Bird Walk
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 9:30-10:30am
Leader: NYC Audubon with Queens Botanical Garden
Description: Explore Queens Botanical Garden in search of migrant songbirds and learn about the valuable resources that the Garden offers birds and other wildlife. Binoculars available. Register for one date or the whole series of five walks (walk-ins welcome). Visit www.queensbotanical.org/calendar to register.
Registration: Each walk limited to 25. Free (with Garden admission)
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World Migratory Bird Day: Crotona Park Bird Walk, the Bronx
Saturday, October 9, 10:00 - 11:30am
Leader: Shawn Cargil
Description: Meet at 1700 Crotona Avenue. Among naturalists, Crotona park is widely known for its variety of tree species and gorgeous 3.3-acre lake, which serves as home to turtles, ducks, and fish. Restrooms and water bottle fill station accessible at meeting location. Comfortable footwear is recommended, walk will be on mostly paved, flat surfaces. Take the Bx 17 bus or 2 train to 174th Street.
Registration: No registration necessary. No limit. Free.
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Governors Island Bird Walk
Saturdays, July 10-October 30, 2021, 2-3:30pm
Leader: NYC Audubon
Description: Meet the birds of Governors Island with one of our expert guides! 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. Binoculars are available to borrow. Reserve your spot by signing up at Nolan Park #17. Limited to 10. Free.
Registration: Not required.
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Newtown Historical Society

Mount Olivet Nature Tour
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 9:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: Explore the nature and history of this 171 year old cemetery.
Registration: Contact via email - newtownhistory@gmail.com
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North Shore Audubon Society

Garvies Point Preserve
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 9:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: Lindy - (516) 628-1315
Description: This is the Fall "Big Day" - seeing as many species as possible in a 24-hour period.
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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"Birdability" Nature Excursion - Port Washington
Saturday, October 9, 2021, 10:30am - 1:00pm
Leader: Jill Vomacka - (516) 361-3288
Description: "Birdability" field trip for those who use wheelchairs, walkers, or canes, or who do not wish to walk far. Participants may stay in car and communicate via walkie-talkies, to be provided. Walking will be limited to wheelchair-accessible areas. Limited to 5 cars.
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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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

Annual Big Sit at Clove Lakes Park
Sunday, October 10, 2021, 9:00am - 3:00pm
Leader: Ray Matarazzo
Description: Each year birders and nature enthusiasts gather for a day of leisure to conduct the Big Sit. The intent of a Big Sit is to identify each species of bird from a set location. Rather than move about to find birds, participants sit and await the arrival of different species. This year, participants will gather in the upper field of Clove Lakes Park, behind the intersection of Rice Avenue and Royal Oak Road in the lawn area with crab apples. The large radio tower is west of the location and could be used as a landmark for locating the group. Howie Fischer will be on hand for the entire six hours; however, people are free to stop in as convenient and assist with the count. Please, bring your own lawn chairs and stay for as long as you like.
Registration: For more information call Ray Matarazzo at 718-317-7666.
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Queens County Bird Club

Big Sit
Saturday, October 9, 2021
Leader: Corey Finger 10000birdsblogger@gmail.com
Description: The QCBC "Big Sit" takes place from dawn to dusk. You may come and go as you choose. Park in the lot shown in the map. Then, proceed west on Range Road (may also be called Murray Rd or Center Rd) until you reach the observation platform near Battery Harris East. You need to climb up several flights of stairs to access the platform.
Registration: Registration not required.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Mill Pond Park
Sunday, October 10, 2021
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: Use street parking on the westbound side of Merrick Road. The park is four blocks west of the Wantagh State Parkway.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, October 9, 2021
Birding: Fall Migrants at Crotona Nature Center (in Crotona Park), Bronx
11:00am - 12:00pm
Description: Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Crotona Park to look for Fall migrants that include warblers, raptors and more!
Free

Birding: Birding 101 at 164th Street and Oak Avenue (in Kissena Park), Queens
11:00am - 12:00pm
Description: Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Kissena Park to look for Fall migrants that include warblers, raptors and more!
Free
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