Best of the Fortnight

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

American Robin, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

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

Northern Shoveler, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

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

Pied-billed Grebe, Spring Creek, Brooklyn, NY

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

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

Baltimore Oriole, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Herring Gull, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY

Purple Sandpiper, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY

Iceland Gull, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY

Hermit Thrush, Coney Island Creek Park, Brooklyn, NY

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

Fish Crow, Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, NY

Upcoming Trips

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

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, February 5, 2022, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you're just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring binoculars if you have them.
View Details


Winter at Jones Beach State Park and Point Lookout
Saturday, February 5, 2022
Leader: Adelia Honeywood
Description: Winter water birds and sea ducks, beach dune species, raptors, possibly irruptive finches in small numbers.
Registration: Adelia Honeywood email honeywood5@yahoo.com. Registration Period: Jan 30th-Feb 3rd Current club members will receive priority.
View Details


First Sunday Prospect Park Walks in Winter
Sunday, February 6, 2022, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: The Sunday walks will start at The Audubon Center at the Boathouse.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details


After Hours Sunset Walk at Shirley Chisholm State Park
Sunday, February 6, 2022, 2:00pm - 6:00pm
Leader: Adelia Honeywood and Shirley Chisholm State Park Staff
Description: A special opportunity hosted by park staff to enjoy Shirley Chisholm State Park at sunset after it closes to the public. We will start at 2 pm for some daytime winter birding and then meet up with parks staff at 4 pm for a twilight hike until 6pm. Scopes are recommended for the daytime portion.
Registration: Adelia Honeywood, email honeywood5@yahoo.com. Jan 30th-Feb 3rd Please only register if you can attend the entire event 2 – 6 pm.
View Details


**********

Gateway National Parks

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


**********

Great South Bay Audubon Society

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


**********

Green-Wood Cemetery

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


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

Coney Island Pier to Coney Island Creek
Saturday, February 5, 2022
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: This casual four-mile loop begins by exploring the shore, water and jetties of the Lower Bay along Coney Island Beach. Walking west towards the border between Coney Island and the private community of Seagate, we expect to observe Common & Red-throated Loons, Horned Grebes, Long-tailed Ducks, scoters and several other species of waterfowl. Purple Sandpipers typically overwinter along the rock jetties. Among the abundant common gulls, we may find a rare Lesser Black-backed or Iceland Gull. The second half of the loop explores Gravesend Bay and Coney Island Creek. Returning towards Stillwell Avenue the group may opt to lunch at NYC landmark Totonno’s pizzeria or stop in for a cold one at Coney Island Brewery.
Registration: Linda Labella — lblabella@gmail.com
View Details


Jones Beach
Sunday, February 6, 2022
Leader: Gordon Lam
Description: Jones Beach State Park is among the best location in the area for viewing wintering ducks, loons, grebes, geese, gulls, shorebirds, passerines, raptors and owls. The state park occupies 6.5 miles of a barrier island along the Atlantic coast of Nassau County and contains varied habitats, including ocean beaches, bays, dunes and forested areas. eBird records for January include over 100 avian species. Exciting rarities that might be seen, including Snowy Owl, Harlequin Duck, Purple Sandpiper, Razorbill, Murres, Horned Lark and Lapland Longspur.
Registration: Lori Lam — lamonthelam2@gmail.com
View Details
Note: This trip replaces the January 28, 2022 trip to Breezy Point, which was cancelled due to inclement weather.


**********

New York City Audubon

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


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

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


**********

Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, February 5, 2022

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

...Read more

Green-Wood Cemetery: Weeks 3 & 4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Upcoming Trips

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

Bedford Audubon Society

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


**********

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January 29, 2022, 10:00 am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you're just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring binoculars if you have them.
View Details


**********

Gateway National Parks

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


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

Breezy Point
Saturday, January 29, 2022
Leader: Gordon Lam
Description: Breezy Point, Queens, is located on the western end of the Rockaway peninsula, between Rockaway Inlet and Jamaica Bay to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. It is part of Gateway National Recreation Area, which is run by the National Park Service. This isolated, 200-acre area includes an ocean-facing beach, a shoreline on Jamaica Bay, sand dunes, and marshland. We expect to see both Common and Red-throated Loons, Common Eider, Long-tailed Duck, and Red-breasted Mergansers, and if we are lucky we may get Razorbills and Purple Sandpipers. Be sure to dress warmly, for cold winter weather, with possible winds.
Registration: Lori Lam — lamonthelam2@gmail.com
View Details


**********

New York City Audubon

Intro to Birding: Bird Walk in Central Park
Saturday, January 29, 2022, 8:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Are you curious about "birding" but don’t have much (or any) experience? Come on a relaxed walk in Central Park to go over birding basics and see sparrows, finches, ducks, and more. Binoculars available upon request. Limited to 12. $36 (25).
Registration: Click Here to Register
View Details


Governors Island Winter Bird Tour
Saturday, January 29, 2022, 9:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Gabriel Willow
Description: Birding hot spot Governors Island is finally open to the public during the wintertime! Come seek overwintering birds and rarities with fellow hearty birders. Participants must reserve their own spot on the 9am Governors Island Ferry from Manhattan here. Limited to 15. $36 (25).
Registration: Click Here to Register
View Details


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Jones Beach Coast Guard Station Parking Area
Sunday, January 30, 2022
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Wantagh State Parkway, travel south. Upon entering Jones Beach State Park, exit at Bay Drive and continue west. Turn right (north) at entrance for Coast Guard Station and West End Boat Basin; turn right again for parking.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


**********

Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, January 29, 2022

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

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


Sunday, January 30, 2022

Birding: Bald Eagle Watch at Payson Park House (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
Description: December is a spectacular time for observing bald eagles in New York City parks. See if you can spot any on this adventure with our Urban Park Rangers. Bring your own binoculars.
View Details
Free

...Read more

Green-Wood Cemetery: Week 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Upcoming Trips

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

Bedford Audubon Society

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


**********

Brooklyn Bird Club

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


Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January 22, 2022, 10:00 am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you're just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring binoculars if you have them.
View Details


**********

Gateway National Parks

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


**********

Great South Bay Audubon Society

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


**********

Green-Wood Cemetery

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


**********

Hudson River Audubon Society

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


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

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


**********

New York City Audubon

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


Bird Walk to Central Park's Ramble and Reservoir
Sunday, January 23, 2022, 8:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Enjoy a winter trek through Central Park: We'll explore the Lake, Ramble, and Turtle Pond in search of wintering songbirds and owls, and then trek up to the Reservoir to look for ducks, gulls, and Peregrine Falcon. Limited to 15. $36 (25).
Registration: Click Here to Register
View Details


**********

Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

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


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Massapequa Preserve
Sunday, January 23, 2022
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From Sunrise Highway, turn north onto Broadway, Massapequa. Travel under the Long Island Rail Road overpass, then make the first right onto Veterans Boulevard (headed east). Go past the Massapequa train station and into the parking lot at the east end of the station. The preserve is directly east of the parking lot.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


**********

Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, January 22, 2022

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

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


Sunday, January 23, 2022

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

Green-Wood Cemetery: Week 1

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

Week 1:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Upcoming Trips

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

Bedford Audubon Society

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


**********

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January 15, 2022, 10:00 am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you're just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring binoculars if you have them.
View Details


**********

Gateway National Parks

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


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

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


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


**********

New York City Audubon

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


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


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


Twilight Winter Bird Stroll on Governors Island
Monday, January 17, 2022, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Leader: Annie Barry
Description: Meet the winter birds of Governors Island! Over 220 bird species have been spotted on the island, which provides excellent habitat all year round. Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover all of the bird life the island has to offer this winter. RSVP to reserve your spot, more detailed meeting information will be sent out to registrants prior to the event. Limited to 15. Free.
Registration:
View Details


**********

Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

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


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Massapequa Preserve
Sunday, January 16, 2022
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From Sunrise Highway, turn north onto Broadway, Massapequa. Travel under the Long Island Rail Road overpass, then make the first right onto Veterans Boulevard (headed east). Go past the Massapequa train station and into the parking lot at the east end of the station. The preserve is directly east of the parking lot.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


**********

Urban Park Rangers

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

Birding: Bald Eagle Watch at Palisade Avenue and Spaulding Lane (in Riverdale Park), Bronx
Description: December is a spectacular time for observing bald eagles in New York City parks. See if you can spot any on this adventure with our Urban Park Rangers. Bring your own binoculars.
View Details
Free

...Read more

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of January 8-9, 2022:

Brooklyn Bird Club

“If it walks like a duck…” A BBC duckathon”
Saturday, January 8, 2022
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: The quest for 15 duck species from Prospect Park to Coney Island via subway.
Registration: Peter Dorosh: email Prosbird@aol.com or Prosbird@gmail.com.
View Details


Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January 8, 2022, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details


**********

Great South Bay Audubon Society

Montauk Nature Walk
Saturday, January 8, 2022, 9:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: John Gluth, Ken Thompson
Description: Join us for a wonderful bird walk as we head out to Montauk for an early morning adventure.
Registration: info@greatsouthbayaudubon.org
View Details


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

Croton Point Park
Saturday, January 8, 2022
Leader: Ethan Goodman
Description: Croton Point Park is a 508-acre park situated on a peninsula on the east shore of the Hudson River. In past years, Great Horned Owls, Eastern Screech Owls, Bald Eagles, Common Goldeneyes and Common Mergansers have been sighted.
Registration: Marie-Claire Cunningham — mccnyc63@aol.com
View Details


Jones Beach and Point Lookout
Sunday, January 9, 2022
Leader: Joseph DiConstanzo
Description: Jones Beach State Park and nearby Point Lookout are among the best locations in the area for viewing wintering ducks, loons, grebes, geese, gulls, shorebirds, passerines, raptors and owls. The state park occupies 6.5 miles of a barrier island along the Atlantic coast of Nassau County and contains varied habitats, including ocean beaches, bays, dunes and forested areas. eBird records for January include over 100 avian species. Exciting rarities that might be seen, including Snowy Owl, Harlequin Duck, Purple Sandpiper, Razorbill, Murres, Horned Lark and Lapland Longspur.
Registration: Kathleen Howley — kathleenhowley@gmail.com
View Details


**********

New York City Audubon

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


Winter Birds of Jamaica Bay
Sunday, January 9, 2022, 8:00am - 2:00pm
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Explore Jamaica Bay's ponds in search of wintering waterfowl including American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Snow Goose, and Horned Grebe--and walk the trails in search of sparrows, Cedar Waxwings, and other surprises. Transport by passenger van included.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
View Details


**********

Queens County Bird Club

Breezy Point
Saturday, January 8, 2022, 7:45am - 12:00pm
Leader: Eric Miller (917) 279-7530
Description: This mini-trip features spectacular views and opportunities for sea-watching. Please bring your scope if you have one.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location. Ask whether to pack a lunch or whether to plan on eating lunch out.
View Details


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake State Park
Sunday, January 9, 2022
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


**********

Urban Park Rangers

Sunday, January 9, 2022

Winter Birding at Perkins Visitors Center (in Wave Hill), Bronx
9:30am - 12:00pm
Explore Wave Hill’s tranquil gardens and woodland with naturalist Gabriel Willow to observe birds in their winter habitat.
...Read more

In Memoriam

Last month New York City lost a important person in the New York City conservation/environment community. "Mickey" Maxwell Cohen passed away on December 28, 2021 at age 94. The Rockaway Wave has a really nice piece on him here. Of the many things he accomplished I remember him most for helping our community organization save and permanently protect the Ridgewood Reservoir. New York City needs more people like him.

Mickey and Barbara Cohen, photo by Don Riepe

Best of the Fortnight

Here's a few of my photos from over the past two weeks:

White-throated Sparrow, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Merlin, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Female Bufflehead, Bush Terminal Park, Brooklyn, NY

Ring-billed Gull, Bush Terminal Park, Brooklyn, NY

Ash-throated Flycatcher, Owl Heads Park, Brooklyn, NY

Sharp-shinned Hawk, Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY

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

Song Sparrow, Shirley Chisholm State Park, Brooklyn, NY