Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of February 4 - February 5, 2023:
Brooklyn Bird Club
Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, February 4, 2023, 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
A Mid-winter Walk Through Marine Park
Saturday, February 4, 2023, 8:30am - 3:00pm
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: Celebrate winter’s halfway point with an exploration of an excellent location for typical winter birds: waterfowl, gulls, and passerines.
Registration: Please register ( for weather alert): Prosbird@gmail.com or Prosbird@aol.com.
View Details
First Sunday Bird Outings
Sunday, February 5, 2023, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Paul Keim, Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Join naturalist and birder Paul Keim in search of dozens of species that visit the park through all seasons. Learn about the different habitats in Prospect Park and why they are important for all types of birds.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details
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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society
Shinnecock East
Saturday, February 4, 2023, 8:30am
Leader: __
Description: Hopefully, we will see Alcids, wintering ducks and shorebirds, and perhaps an owl and hunting raptor or two! We will be walking the jetty, shoreline and the dunes. Perhaps a stop along the road heading east after the park, will allow a Bittern or ?? to be found! Dress for the weather.
Registration: To register, please contact Eileen Schwinn (beachmed@optonline.net).
View Details
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Feminist Bird Club
NYC - Teatown Hudson River EagleFest
Saturday, February 4, 2023, 9:00am - 4:00pm
Leaders: Jeana and Martha
Description: The program includes thrilling live bird shows spotlighting birds of prey, bird walks where you can view eagles through spotting scopes, heated tents filled with educational displays and exhibits, crafts and games for children, food trucks, and more!
Registration: For tickets, please visit the EagleFest site
View Details
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Great South Bay Audubon Society
Jones Beach West End State Park Bird Walk
Saturday, February 4, 2023, 8:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Mike Cooper, Bob Grover
Description: Join us for a wonderful bird walk as we head out to Jones Beach West End for an early morning adventure.
Registration: info@greatsouthbayaudubon.org
View Details
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Green-Wood Cemetery
Birding in Peace
Sunday, February 5, 2023, 7:00am - 8:30am
Description: Before our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful early morning walking tours to discover the birds that make Green-Wood their home—at least temporarily. For some bird species that migrate south after the breeding season, Brooklyn is their Miami during the cold months. Spend the early morning exploring the cemetery, looking for overwintering waterfowl, nuthatches, woodpeckers, sparrows, finches and any half-hardy birds that decided to stick around. By February we’ll see some of the early north-bound birds beginning to trickle back into the area. Returning warblers will be in their less flamboyant fall plumage. Large numbers of blackbirds, flycatchers, sparrows, vireos, and swallows will also be passing through. By October, waterfowl are returning, and we’ll look for raptors heading south. November will bring back our overwintering feathered denizens from the north.
View Details
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Huntington-Oyster Bay Audubon Society
Jones Beach State Park
Sunday, February 5, 2023 - 8:00am
Leader: _____
Description: Get ready to see winter waterfowl as well as many resident birds. There may be some surprises!
Registration: To register, call (585) 880-0915.
View Details
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Linnaean Society of New York
Coney Island Pier to Coney Island Creek
Saturday, February 4, 2023
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 and 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
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Staten Island
Saturday, January 28, 2023
Leader: Richard ZainEldeen
Description: Staten Island’s habitats include woodlands, coastal beaches, marshes, parks, and more. We have seen Bonaparte’s Gulls, shorebirds, Horned Grebes, and other grebe species. Many birds may make surprise appearances. One year a Summer Tanager stayed the winter, eating bees it found in a tree hole. Hairy Woodpeckers are not uncommon.
Registration: Ursula Mitra — ursula.mitra@verizon.net
View Details
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New York City Audubon
Free: Twilight Stroll on Governors Island
Saturday, February 4, 2023, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Leader: Annie Barry
Description: Meet the winter birds of Governors Island! Nearly 240 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.
Registration: This event is free but attendees will need to purchase tickets for the Governors Island ferry
View Details
Free: Birding at Mount Loretto Unique Area
Sunday, February 5, 2023, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Discover a diversity of wintering birds with longtime birder and Staten Island resident Anthony Ciancimino. Expect to see a variety of species of waterfowl and wintering songbirds as we explore the diverse habitats found at the park.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
View Details
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South Shore Audubon Society
Massapequa Lake
Sunday, February 5, 2023
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
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Urban Park Rangers
Saturday, February 4, 2023
Birding: Winter Waterfowl at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
11:00am - 12:30pm
Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. Please bring your own binoculars.
Free
Sunday, February 5, 2023
Birding: Winter Birds at Rose Avenue and Oak Avenue (in Kissena Park), Queens
10:00am - 11:00am
Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best viewing spots in New York City to see migratory winter birds.
Free
Monday, January 30, 2023
Upcoming Trips
Saturday, January 28, 2023
Best of the Fortnight
 |
| Polyphemus moth cocoon, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Carolina Wren, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Immature Red-tailed Hawk, Marine Park, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Immature Red-headed Woodpecker, Marine Park, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Eurasian x American Wigeon hybrid, Marine Park, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Black-capped Chickadee, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Razorbill, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Peregrine Falcon, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Witch-hazel, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY |
New York City Rare Bird Alert
-RBA
* New York
* New York City, Long Island, Westchester County
* Jan. 27, 2023
* NYNY2301.27
- Birds Mentioned
THICK-BILLED MURRE+
PACIFIC LOON+
(+ Details requested by NYSARC)
Trumpeter Swan
EURASIAN WIGEON
Green-winged Teal (Eurasian form)
KING EIDER
HARLEQUIN DUCK
BARROW'S GOLDENEYE
Red-necked Grebe
EARED GREBE
Long-billed Dowitcher
DOVEKIE
COMMON MURRE
Razorbill
Black-legged Kittiwake
Bonaparte’s Gull
BLACK-HEADED GULL
LITTLE GULL
Iceland Gull
GLAUCOUS GULL
Red-headed Woodpecker
RED CROSSBILL
Ovenbird
Northern Waterthrush
Orange-crowned Warbler
Nashville Warbler
Palm Warbler
Pine Warbler
SUMMER TANAGER
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
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: Gail Benson
[~BEGIN RBA TAPE~]
Greetings! This is the New York Rare Bird Alert for Friday, January 27, 2023 at 11:00 pm.
The highlights of today’s tape are PACIFIC LOON, EARED GREBE, COMMON and THICK-BILLED MURRES and DOVEKIE, LITTLE, BLACK-HEADED and GLAUCOUS GULLS, EURASIAN WIGEON, KING EIDER, BARROW’S GOLDENEYE and HARLEQUIN DUCK, RED CROSSBILL, SUMMER TANAGER and more.
Delivering a repeat performance, a short trip aboard the American Princess last Sunday afternoon produced a second sighting of PACIFIC LOON in a week, this one seen south of Coney Island not too distant from last week's pelagic trip sighting. Another PACIFIC LOON was spotted in the inlet at Lake Montauk last Saturday, where it was also reported again Wednesday.
An EARED GREBE continues to be seen in Hendrix Creek along the northeastern side of Shirley Chisholm State Park at the north end of Jamaica Bay.
It was another good week coastally for alcids, with RAZORBILLS providing the bulk of the individuals, including roughly 4,800 estimated off Montauk Point last Saturday. Also at the Point were two DOVEKIES and a THICK-BILLED MURRE Saturday along with 80 BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES, and Montauk Harbor inlet attracted both single THICK-BILLED and COMMON MURRES over the weekend, a COMMON still there today. A THICK-BILLED stayed around Fort Pond Bay through yesterday, and the Camp Hero overlook produced reports of COMMON MURRE and DOVEKIE last weekend as well.
Other Montauk highlights featured a TRUMPETER SWAN continuing around the northwestern corner of Fort Pond, some HARLEQUIN DUCKS remaining off Ditch Plains, a GLAUCOUS and multiple ICELAND GULLS mostly around the Harbor inlet, and a couple of RED-NECKED GREBES still off Culloden Point yesterday.
A THICK-BILLED MURRE was also seen off Coney Island Creek Park yesterday.
An adult LITTLE GULL was photographed Wednesday along with two BONAPARTE’S GULLS just inside Shinnecock Inlet, where a drake KING EIDER has also been hanging out. A BLACK-HEADED GULL was present in Setauket Harbor last weekend, when multiple ICELAND GULLS were noted along the Staten Island coast from Fort Wadsworth down to Conference House Park.
A drake EURASIAN WIGEON continues on Long Creek in Mattituck, usually north of the Grand Avenue bridge, and a female was identified at the West Sayville Golf Course Sunday. The drake EURASIAN GREEN-WINGED TEAL was still visiting Santapogue Creek in West Babylon on Tuesday. A drake BARROW'S GOLDENEYE can still be found off Crab Meadow Beach in Northport, and a female was reported at Founders Landing in Southold yesterday.”
A RED-NECKED GREBE was still off Coney Island in Brooklyn today, two LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS have been present lately at Smith Pond in Rockville Centre, and the immature RED-HEADED WOODPECKER was still in Marine Park, Brooklyn, on Tuesday, often near the intersection of Stuart Street and Avenue T.
Last Sunday there were still 18 RED CROSSBILLS at Jones Beach West End, and 16 were found at Cupsogue Beach as well.
Recent WARBLERS have included both OVENBIRD and NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH at Brooklyn Bridge Park and several scattered ORANGE-CROWNEDS, plus NASHVILLE, PALM and PINE, and a SUMMER TANAGER continues at a private Islip feeder.
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
Monday, January 23, 2023
Upcoming Trips
Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of January 28 - January 29, 2023:
Brooklyn Bird Club
Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January 28, 2023, 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
“Gull-mania” on the Brooklyn western coast
Saturday, January 28, 2023, 8:30am - 4:00pm
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: Primary focus gulls, ducks, waterfowl species, and occasional songbird or shorebird here and there.
Registration: Please register ( for weather alert): Prosbird@gmail.com or Prosbird@aol.com.
View Details
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Feminist Bird Club
NYC - Winter Birding at Shirley Chisholm State Park
Sunday, January 29, 2023, 9:00am - 11:00am
Leaders: Jen Kepler and Martha Harbison
Description: Join Jen and Martha for an exploration of Shirley Chisholm State Park, with our eyes to the sky for raptors and sifting through loads of ducks and geese on the waterways.
Registration: Register via Eventbrite
View Details
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Hudson River Audubon Society
Winter Waterfowl at Mill Pond
Saturday, January 28, 2023, 8:00am
Leader: Mike Bochnik
Description: This pond hosts a variety of waterfowl in the winter and for the past couple of years has played host to a wintering Common Gallinule.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details
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Linnaean Society of New York
Breezy Point
Saturday, January 28, 2023
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 managed by the National Park Service. This isolated, 200-acre area includes an ocean-facing beach, a shoreline on Jamaica Bay, sand dunes, and marshland.
Registration: Lori Lam — lamonthelam2@gmail.com
View Details
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New York City Audubon
Free: Pelham Bay Park Birding
Sunday, January 29, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Joe McManus
Description: Join NYC Audubon to explore New York City's largest park. In addition to passerines and raptors, a variety of waterfowl can be found in the waters off Orchard Beach and on Hunter and Twin Islands. During low tide on sunny days, seals are usually visible!
Registration: Registration not required. No Limit. Free.
View Details
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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods
The Richard Buegler 10-Mile Winter Greenbelt Hike
Sunday, January 29, 2023, 9:15am - 4:00pm
Leader: Dominick Durso
Description: Meet at the Carousel at Willowbrook Park at the Eton Place entrance. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, dress appropriately for the weather and be sure to confirm that the walk is not cancelled due to forecasted storms.
Registration: To confirm a day prior, please call Dominick Durso at (917) 478-7607 or e-mail Protectors at PPOW@siprotectors.org.
View Details
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South Shore Audubon Society
Point Lookout Town Park (and Lido Preserve afterwards)
Sunday, January 29, 2023
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Southern State Parkway, exit onto the Meadowbrook State Parkway south. Exit from the Meadowbrook at Loop Parkway (just before the Jones Beach toll booths) toward Point Lookout. The Loop Parkway ends west of Point Lookout at Lido Boulevard. Continue straight across Lido Boulevard into Point Lookout Park. Travel past the ticket booths and curve left into the very large parking lot on the south side of the park. Park in the southeast corner, closest to the private homes of the village of Point Lookout and the beach. We will walk east along the beach toward Jones Inlet. After returning to the parking lot, we will drive west on Lido Boulevard to Lido Beach Passive Nature Preserve on the north side of Lido Boulevard to walk through the bay marsh.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details
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Urban Park Rangers
Saturday, January 28, 2023
Birding: Winter Birds at Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park), Bronx
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best viewing spots in New York City to see migratory winter birds.
Free
Thursday, January 19, 2023
Best of the Fortnight
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| Gulls reflected in Coney Island Creek, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Herring Gull, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Sanderling, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Peregrine Falcon, Green-Wood Cemtery, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Bonaparte's Gull, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Lesser Black-backed Gull, Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Eastern Gray Squirrel, Brooklyn, NY |
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| Red-tailed Hawk, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY |
Tuesday, January 17, 2023
Upcoming Trips
Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of January 21 - January 22, 2023:
Brooklyn Bird Club
Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January 21, 2023, 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
A Coney Island Winter Walk
Sunday, January 22, 2023, 8:00am
Leader: Chris Laskowski
Description: Areas that will be covered are Coney Island Beach and Coney Island Creek Park . Dress warmly and bring a scope if you own one. Be prepared for a good amount of walking. Lunch will be at Tontonno’s pizzeria on Neptune Avenue https://www.totonnosconeyisland.com.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details
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Gateway National Parks
Great Kills Park Natural History Walk
Sunday, January 22, 2023, 10:00 am - 11:30am
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a hike as we explore natural areas along the multiuse path and saltmarsh.
Registration: Call 718-338-3799 to reserve.
View Details
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Great South Bay Audubon Society
Connetquot River SPP Bird at the Preserve
Saturday, January 22, 2023, 8:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: Join us for a wonderful bird walk as we head out to Connetquot River SP Preserve for an early morning adventure. Hosted by Great South Bay Audubon and NYS Parks.
Registration: Call Connetquot River State Park Preserve at 581-1072 to register. Registration fee $4, plus $8 parking fee per car – unless you have yearly Empire Pass
View Details
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Green-Wood Cemetery
Birding in Peace
Sunday, January 22, 2023, 7:15am - 8:45am
Description: Before our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful early morning walking tours to discover the birds that make Green-Wood their home—at least temporarily. For some bird species that migrate south after the breeding season, Brooklyn is their Miami during the cold months. Spend the early morning exploring the cemetery, looking for overwintering waterfowl, nuthatches, woodpeckers, sparrows, finches and any half-hardy birds that decided to stick around. By February we’ll see some of the early north-bound birds beginning to trickle back into the area.
View Details
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Hudson River Audubon Society
Hudson River Bald Eagles
Saturday, January 21, 2023, 8:00am
Leader: Mike Bochnik
Description: We will search the trees and ice flows for wintering Bald Eagle. We may also stop at other points along the Hudson.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details
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New York City Audubon
Free: Pelham Bay Park Birding
Sunday, January 22, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Jack Rothman
Description: Join NYC Audubon to explore New York City's largest park. In addition to passerines and raptors, a variety of waterfowl can be found in the waters off Orchard Beach and on Hunter and Twin Islands. During low tide on sunny days, seals are usually visible!
Registration: Registration not required. No Limit. Free.
View Details
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Queens County Bird Club
Montauk
Sunday, January 22, 2023
Leader: Joe Schiavone (203) 640-2927
Description: This is a full-day trip that starts early and ends with dining out near Shinnecock Inlet. Of course, you may leave at any time that your schedule requires. Please pack a bagged lunch because we will not be stopping at a restaurant for lunch.
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
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Saw Mill River Audubon Society
Small Group Birding: Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Saturday, January 21, 2023, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Members of SMRA
Description: Saw Mill River Audubon small group bird walks are limited to 25 people by registration. Completed COVID vaccination required. Good for all levels of birding experience. Beginners very welcome! Walks are for adults and youth age 8 or older. Let us know in advance if you want to borrow binoculars by emailing us at: office@sawmillriveraudubon.org.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
View Details
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South Shore Audubon Society
Hempstead Lake State Park
Sunday, January 22, 2023
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
Saturday, January 21, 2023
Birding: Bald Eagle Watch at Payson Park House (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
Winter 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.
Free
Birding: Bald Eagle Watch at Palisade Avenue and Spaulding Lane (in Riverdale Park), Bronx
11:00am- 12:00pm
Winter 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.
Free
Sunday, January 22, 2023
Birding: Winter Waterfowl at Entrance-West Street and Greenpoint Avenue (in WNYC Transmitter Park), Brooklyn
11:00am - 12:00pm
Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. Please bring your own binoculars.
Free
Saturday, January 14, 2023
New York City Rare Bird Alert
- RBA
* New York
* New York City, Long Island, Westchester County
* Jan. 13, 2023
* NYNY2301.13
- Birds mentioned
PINK-FOOTED GOOSE+
TRUMPETER SWAN+
COMMON MURRE+
THICK-BILLED MURRE+
SWAINSON'S HAWK+
(+ Details requested by NYSARC)
GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE
Cackling Goose
EURASIAN WIGEON
KING EIDER
HARLEQUIN DUCK
BARROW'S GOLDENEYE
Red-necked Grebe
Common Gallinule
DOVEKIE
Razorbill
Black-legged Kittiwake
BLACK-HEADED GULL
American Bittern
Red-headed Woodpecker
RED CROSSBILL
Vesper Sparrow
Ovenbird
Northern Waterthrush
SUMMER TANAGER
- 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, January 13th 2023* at 11pm. The highlights of today's tape are SWAINSON'S HAWK, DOVEKIE, COMMON and THICK-BILLED MURRES, PINK-FOOTED and GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, EURASIAN WIGEON, BARROW'S GOLDENEYE, KING EIDER and HARLEQUIN DUCK, BLACK-HEADED GULL, RED CROSSBILL, SUMMER TANAGER and more.
Last Sunday a juvenile SWAINSON'S HAWK was spotted along the waterfront adjacent to Front Street in the Clifton section of northeastern Staten Island spending much of its time sitting along the shoreline. It continued there into late Monday morning when it suddenly took flight and disappeared to the northwest.
Alcids continue to occur along the Atlantic coast especially RAZORBILLS with over 250 counted moving west off Jones Beach West End last Tuesday. Some DOVEKIES have also occurred coastally. Single birds this week occurring off the Montauk Harbor mouth last Sunday, off Dune Road at Dolphin Beach Monday, in Jones Inlet Tuesday and off the jetty at Jones today with 2 off Robert Moses State Park yesterday. A COMMON MURRE was photographed again off Breezy Point last Saturday and a THICK-BILLED MURRE was reported off Orient Point the same day with another photographed off Smith Point County Park in Shirley on Wednesday.
A PINK-FOOTED GOOSE was noted again last Saturday at Tung Ting Pond in Centerport, this technically private pond also featuring a GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE at least to Wednesday. The southern Westchester WHITE-FRONTED had been daily on the Bowman Avenue Pond in Rye Brook until it moved over to Playland Lake in Rye today. A few CACKLING GEESE have been identified in various regional Canada flocks and a TRUMPETER SWAN was still at the western side of Fort Pond in Montauk Sunday. A drake EURASIAN WIGEON was being seen at least to Wednesday on Long Creek by looking north from the Grand Avenue bridge in Mattituck when another was on the south section of Patchogue Lake on Tuesday. A drake KING EIDER was photographed leaving Shinnecock Inlet on Wednesday and a HARLEQUIN DUCK was at Ditch Plains Beach in Montauk Monday with another still around the Jones Beach West End jetty today. The drake BARROW'S GOLDENEYE was still off Crab Meadow Beach in Northport Tuesday.
A BLACK-HEADED GULL flew by Randall's Island last Sunday with another at Brooklyn's Plumb Beach Tuesday and an adult still in Setauket Harbor Wednesday. Three BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES were spotted off Montauk Point today.
Single RED-NECKED GREBES were off Breezy Point Thursday and continuing in Fort Pond Bay today.
A COMMON GALLINULE remains at the Mill Pond Preserve off Merrick Road in Wantagh and AMERICAN BITTERN is most regularly seen along Dune Road.
An immature RED-HEADED WOODPECKER was seen in Brooklyn's Marine Park yesterday and today near the Avenue T entrance on the west side.
Up to 30 or so RED CROSSBILLS continue around Jones Beach West End with others also out along the Paumanok Trail near Jones Pond off Schultz Road in Manorville.
A VESPER SPARROW was at the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center off Yaphank Avenue last weekend with another near the west end of Hulse Landing Road in Calverton.
Both OVENBIRD and NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH continue on Brooklyn Bridge Park and the SUMMER TANAGER remains at feeders at a private Islip home.
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
Monday, January 09, 2023
Upcoming Trips
Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of January 14 - January 15, 2023:
Brooklyn Bird Club
Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January14, 2023, 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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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society
The Lakes of Patchogue
Saturday, January 14, 2023, 8:30am
Leader: __
Description: Meet 8:30 am at the parking area at the corner of Lake Drive and East Main Street in East Patchogue by the side of Swan Lake. We will check out Swan Lake and then visit several other area lakes to look at the bountiful water birds that flock to LI in the winter. Hopefully a surprise or two will be waiting for us.
Registration: Rosemary Valente: hobbesmom4ever@gmail.com
View Details
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New York City Audubon
Birding at Willow Lake, Queens
Saturday, January 14, 2023, 8:30am - 10:30am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Come on a relaxed walk along the trails of Flushing Meadows Corona Park's Willow Lake to see sparrows, finches, ducks, wading birds, and more. Binoculars available upon request. Beginning birders are welcome.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
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Free: Pelham Bay Park Birding
Sunday, January 15, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Joe McManus
Description: Join NYC Audubon to explore New York City's largest park. In addition to passerines and raptors, a variety of waterfowl can be found in the waters off Orchard Beach and on Hunter and Twin Islands. During low tide on sunny days, seals are usually visible!
Registration: Registration not required. No Limit. Free.
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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods
A Southern LaTourette Loop
Saturday, January 14, 2023, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Leader: Don Recklies
Description: A Southern LaTourette Loop — We’ll meet at the entrance to the “bike path” beside the old Saint Andrew’s Church (at the Old Mill Road and Richmond Hill Road). We will make a loop following the trail downhill and left of the bike path, then return by the Blue Trail uphill of the bike path. Note that the downhill path on the return to the parking lot might be hazardous if there is ice and snow. The low trail is unique: there are some ruins, a pine grove, and views of Brookfield Park across Richmond Marsh. The upper Blue Trail passes the site of the Revolutionary War British Redoubts and the Hessian Spring.
Registration: For information call Don Recklies at (718) 768-9036.
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South Shore Audubon Society
Mill Pond Park
Sunday, January 15, 2023
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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Friday, January 06, 2023
New York City Rare Bird Alert
- RBA
* New York
* New York City, Long Island, Westchester County
* Jan. 6, 2023
* NYNY2301.06
- Birds mentioned
PINK-FOOTED GOOSE+
TRUMPETER SWAN+
COMMON MURRE+
THICK-BILLED MURRE+
SHORT-BILLED GULL+
PACIFIC LOON+
(+ Details requested by NYSARC)
GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE
EURASIAN WIGEON
Harlequin Duck
BARROW'S GOLDENEYE
Red-necked Grebe
EARED GREBE
Wilson's Snipe
DOVEKIE
Razorbill
BLACK GUILLEMOT
BLACK-HEADED GULL
LITTLE GULL
Iceland Gull
NORTHERN FULMAR
Bald Eagle
Northern Saw-whet Owl
House Wren
Red Crossbill
Pine Siskin
LARK SPARROW
Yellow-breasted Chat
Orange-crowned Warbler
- 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, January 6th 2023* at 11pm. The highlights of today's tape are SHORT-BILLED GULL, PACIFIC LOON, NORTHERN FULMAR, BLACK GUILLEMOT, COMMON and THICK-BILLED MURRES, DOVEKIE, EARED GREBE, PINK-FOOTED and GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, EURASIAN WIGEON, BARROW'S GOLDENEYE, LITTLE and BLACK-HEADED GULLS, LARK SPARROW, Christmas Count results and much more.
It took another day of lousy weather but the SHORT-BILLED GULL did pay another visit to the fields at Randall's Island this on Tuesday though it had been searched for continuously since first spotted there on December 23rd. Other Randall's highlights this week featured a BLACK-HEADED GULL on Tuesday and Thursday and continuing ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER.
A PACIFIC LOON was spotted Wednesday morning off Kings Point in Queens and seen from Stepping Stones Park until flying off to the northeast. There had also been an earlier report of a PACIFIC LOON in Fort Pond Bay out in Montauk last Sunday.
The Southern Nassau Christmas Bird Count on Saturday the 31st reported 134 species including its first record of NORTHERN FULMAR seen moving by off Long Beach on the west side of Jones Inlet. Other count highlights included 6 HARLEQUIN DUCKS, WILSON'S SNIPE, BLACK-HEADED and ICELAND GULLS, 3 DOVEKIES and well over 1,500 RAZORBILLS, 3 NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWLS, HOUSE WREN, 14 RED CROSSBILLS at Jones Beach a PINE SISKIN and 7 ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLERS.
In Montauk a BLACK GUILLEMOT has continued in Fort Pond Bay at least to Wednesday and 2 were noted there last Monday these sightings usually from Edward Vincent Ecker Sr. County Park on the west side of the bay. A RED-NECKED GREBE has also has been residing there and a TRUMPETER SWAN continues around the north end of Fort Pond. Other recent alcid reports featured a COMMON MURRE off Breezy Point Sunday, single THICK-BILLED MURRES at Montauk Point Monday and off Robert Moses State Park Tuesday, a few scattered DOVEKIES from Montauk Point west to Jones Beach West End during the week and a good flight of RAZORBILLS noted off Moses Park Monday.
An EARED GREBE was photographed off Shirley Chisholm State Park yesterday.
Two PINK-FOOTED GEESE visited Midland Beach on Staten Island last Saturday until being flushed off and another flew west by Geisler Beach Park in Fort Salonga Wednesday morning. A GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE continues to visit Tung Ting Pond in Centerport and the Rye WHITE-FRONTED is back to using the pond off Bowman Avenue in Rye Brook. One or two EURASIAN WIGEON have been seen lately on Long Creek as viewed to the north from the Grand Avenue Bridge in Mattituck and the BARROW'S GOLDENEYE continues off Crab Meadow Beach in Northport.
One or two LITTLE GULLS were present in large Bonaparte's Gull concentrations at least Wednesday and Thursday in the Verrazzano-Narrows and adjacent Gravesend Bay.
The Central Suffolk Count on Tuesday the 27th netted 120 species including EURASIAN WIGEON, 22 BALD EAGLES, 3 NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWLS, 10 RED CROSSBILLS, 6 PINE SISKINS and 3 ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLERS. A BLACK-HEADED GULL was in Setauket Harbor Wednesday with an ICELAND GULL in Prospect Park Thursday. A LARK SPARROW was still at Heckscher State Park Monday, another at Sunken Meadow State Park Wednesday and a YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT was spotted at Midland Beach Monday.
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 and Happy New Year.
- End transcript
Tuesday, January 03, 2023
Upcoming Trips
Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of January 7 - January 8, 2023:
Bedford Audubon Society
Field Trip: Greenwich Point
Saturday, January 7, 2023, 8:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Bundle up for our annual Field Trip to Greenwich Point with Naturalist Tait Johansson. Greenwich Point is an Important Bird Area (IBA) and is essentially an island connected to the mainland by a causeway on which the park access road, Tod’s Driftway, is located.
Registration: Registration required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org or by calling 914-302-9713.
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Brooklyn Bird Club
Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, January 7, 2023, 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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A Long Coastal Trek from Sheepshead Bay to Coney Island
Saturday, January 7, 2023
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: Ducks, Gulls, waterfowl species, and occasional songbird or shorebird here and there.
Registration: Peter Dorosh 347-622-3559 (text only)
View Details
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Feminist Bird Club
NYC - Birds and the Winter Garden at Wave Hill
Saturday, January 7, 2023, 10:00am - 11:00am
Leaders: Jess Brey and Haley Scott
Description: Overwintering birds can enjoy winter with a little help from gardeners. Join Senior Horticultural Interpreter Jess Brey and birder Haley Scott on a walk as they highlight how Wave Hill’s trees and shrubs provide shelter and food for birds that live out their winter.
Registration: Advance registration encouraged online or at 718.549.3200 x251
Note: Please email us at information@wavehill.org or call the telephone number and extension above.
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Gateway National Parks
Fort Wadsworth Tour and Hike
Sunday, January 8, 2023, 12:30pm - 2:00pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a hike around Fort Wadsworth as we explore the forts and natural areas. Inclement weather and temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit will cancel this program.
Registration: No registration required.
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Great South Bay Audubon Society
Montauk Nature Walk
Saturday, January 7, 2023, 9:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: John Gluth, Ken Thompson
Description: Join us for our first bird walk of 2023 as we head out to Montauk for an early morning adventure.
Registration: info@greatsouthbayaudubon.org
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Linnaean Society of New York
Jones Beach and Point Lookout
Sunday, January 8, 2023
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, and we will be on the lookout for exciting rarities, including Snowy Owl, Harlequin Duck, Purple Sandpiper, Razorbill, Murres, Horned Lark and Lapland Longspur.
Registration: Kathleen Howley — kathleenhowley@gmail.com
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New York City Audubon
Free: New York Botanical Garden Bird Tour with Woo Sung Park
Saturday, January 7, 2023, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Annie Barry
Description: Join NYC Audubon and the New York Botanical Garden for some winter birding! Get to see some of NYBG’s diverse landscape and learn why this unique green space is such a vital haven for a great variety of species year-round. The tour will meet at the Reflecting Pool in the Native Plant Garden.
Registration: While this NYC Audubon event is free, participants are still responsible for paying for Garden admission. Admission to NYBG's grounds is free for Bronx residents every day (with proof of residency). For more information to help plan your trip to the Garden, please visit the New York Botanical Garden website.
Free: Pelham Bay Park Birding with Jack Rothman
Sunday, January 8, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Jack Rothman
Description: Join NYC Audubon to explore New York City's largest park. In addition to passerines and raptors, a variety of waterfowl can be found in the waters off Orchard Beach and on Hunter and Twin Islands. During low tide on sunny days, seals are usually visible!
Registration: Registration not required. No Limit. Free.
View Details
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Queens County Bird Club
Ft Tilden/Breezy Point
Saturday, January 7, 2023, 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.
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Saw Mill River Audubon Society
Small Group Birding: Croton Point Park
Sunday, January 8, 2023, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Leader: Members of SMRA
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: Via Eventbrite
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South Shore Audubon Society
Jones Beach Coast Guard Station Parking Area
Sunday, January 8, 2023
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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