Best of the Fortnight

Here are a few of my favorite shots from the past 2 weeks. Note that I've included my flight shot of a rare Swainson's Hawk in Green-Wood Cemetery. I'll be doing a blog posting dedicated to this incredible western visitor to NYC by the end of the week:

American Elm, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Striped Squill, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Silver Maple, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

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

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

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

American Goldfinch, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Red-breasted Merganser, Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, NY

Ring-billed Gull, Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, NY

Iceland Gull, Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, NY

Northern Mockingbird, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Groundhog, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

American Woodcock, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

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

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of March 4 - March 5, 2023:

Bedford Audubon Society

Field Trip: Edith Read Wildlife Sanctuary and Marshlands Conservancy
Sunday, March 5, 2023, 8:00am - 12:30pm
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: This trip is a favorite among members. We’ll be on the lookout for water birds like Common Loon, Greater and Lesser Scaup, Long-tailed Duck, Killdeer, and possibly Greater White-fronted Goose. If we’re lucky, we may even see a Great Horned Owl!
Registration: Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. 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, March 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.
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A Journey to Massapequa Preserve by LIRR
Saturday, March 4, 2023
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: The agenda will be a visit to a renown excellent late winter /early spring birding location mere steps from the Massapequa Long Island Railroad Station. Explore the many wooded trails as well as two water bodies fed by a main stream. Ducks, early spring migrants and other woodland denizens are the enjoyable pursuits.
Registration: Peter Dorosh - prosbird@gmail.com or Prosbird@aol.com
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First Sunday Bird Outings
Sunday, March 5, 2023, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Paul Keim
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.
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Gateway National Parks

Fort Wadsworth Tour and Hike
Sunday, March 5, 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. Dress appropriately. Visitors are encouraged to bring masks and water.
Registration: Call 718-338-3799 to reserve.
View Details


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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, March 5, 2023, 6:45am - 8:15am
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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New York City Audubon

Free: Weird Duck Spotting at Carl Schurz Park
Saturday, March 4, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Lily Mastrodimos
Description: It's winter and you know what that means. That's right, it's Weird Duck Time! Shovelers, scoters, or mergansers: which duck do you think has the most insane bill? Join us on a stroll by the water to see if we can spot any of these winter visitors.
Registration: Registration page
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Winter Birding in Inwood Hill Park
Saturday, March 4, 2023, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Leader: Annie Barry
Description: Inwood Hill Park is a jewel of New York City. Nestled between the Hudson River, Dyckman Street, and Seaman Avenue, this last tract of largely old-growth oak and tulip forest transports you to another world and another time. Glacial "pot holes," towering trees, and stunning river views create an unrivaled birding backdrop.
Registration: Registration page
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Free: Birding at Conference House Park
Sunday, March 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 songbirds, including some possible early arriving spring migrants. Waterfowl can be present in numbers off the beach and ponds as well.
Registration: Registration page
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Saw Mill River Audubon Society

Small Group Birding: Croton Point Park
Sunday, March 5, 2023, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Leader: Members of SMRA
Description: 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
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South Shore Audubon Society

Mill Pond Park
Sunday, March 5, 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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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, March 4, 2023

Winter Bird Tour at Icahn Stadium (in Randall's Island Park), Manhattan
10:00am - 11:30am
Curious about how to find our chirping friends in the winter? Join Efua Peterson for a winter bird tour on Randall’s Island!
Free

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New York City Rare Bird Alert

Below is the New York City Rare Bird Alert for the week ending Friday, February 24, 2023:

-RBA
* New York
* New York City, Long Island, Westchester County
* Feb. 24, 2023
* NYNY2302.24


- Birds Mentioned

PINK-FOOTED GOOSE+
THICK-BILLED MURRE+
(+ Details requested by NYSARC)

GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE
TRUMPETER SWAN
EURASIAN WIGEON
Green-winged Teal (Eurasian form)
KING EIDER
Common Eider
HARLEQUIN DUCK
BARROW’S GOLDENEYE
Red-necked Grebe
EARED GREBE
Long-billed Dowitcher
American Woodcock
Wilson’s Snipe
Razorbill
Black-legged Kittiwake
Bonaparte’s Gull
BLACK-HEADED GULL
LITTLE GULL
Iceland Gull
Northern Gannet
Red-headed Woodpecker
RED CROSSBILL
Vesper Sparrow
Northern Waterthrush
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 nysarc44nybirdsorg

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, February 24 at 10:00 p.m.

The highlights of today's tape are PINK FOOTED GOOSE, EARED GREBE, THICK-BILLED MURRE, LITTLE and BLACK-HEADED GULLS, TRUMPETER SWAN, GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE, EURASIAN WIGEON, KING EIDER, HARLEQUIN DUCK, BARROW’S GOLDENEYE, RED CROSSBILL, SUMMER TANAGER and more.

But first, we very sadly report the recent passing of John Yrizarry at age 96. A long-time Brooklyn resident before moving upstate, John was quite influential in local birding activities besides being an excellent artist and a wonderfully entertaining individual. Our condolences especially to his wife Mary – he will certainly be missed.

A PINK-FOOTED GOOSE was being seen at least to Wednesday at the north end of Hempstead Lake, where construction activities do hamper observation opportunities of the Goose flock.

An EARED GREBE was still present mid-week in Hendrix Creek off the southeast side of Brooklyn’s Shirley Chisholm State Park, and similarly a THICK-BILLED MURRE was seen at least to Monday out in Montauk’s Fort Pond Bay, usually in the southeast corner of the Bay. A TRUMPETER SWAN was also still residing on Fort Pond itself to Tuesday, favoring the northwest section of the pond, while at Montauk Point Sunday there were four BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES and 135 RAZORBILLS.

An immature LITTLE GULL was photographed with BONAPARTE’S GULLS in Jones Inlet off the Fireman’s Park at Point Lookout last Sunday, where 58 RAZORBILLS were also counted. Lingering BLACK-HEADED GULLS were noted in Brooklyn at Plumb Beach Monday and off Coney Island Creek Park Thursday, with one still around Setauket Harbor to Tuesday.

The Westchester GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE was still on the Bowman Avenue pond in Rye Brook today.

A female EURASIAN WIGEON is often seen around the Brooklyn Army Terminal Pier 4 but has also been noted north of there around Bush Terminal Piers Park, and a male was reported again on the West Pond at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge last Saturday.

A EURASIAN form of GREEN-WINGED TEAL was still present today on Smith Pond in Rockville Centre, where other residing birds include a LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER, up to 3 WILSON’S SNIPE and 3 PINE WARBLERS.

A drake KING EIDER was still with the COMMON EIDER flock inside Shinnecock Inlet last Saturday.

A group of 7 HARLEQUIN DUCKS continues in Jones Inlet, often around the Jones Beach West End jetty, and a drake was at the Morton National Wildlife Refuge in Noyack Monday, while the drake BARROW’S GOLDENEYE was still present off Crab Meadow Beach in Northport last Sunday.

Two RED-NECKED GREBES, along with 600 NORTHERN GANNETS and a RAZORBILL, were noted off Coney Island Beach yesterday, and 6 RAZORBILLS were in Long Island Sound off Rye Town Park on Wednesday.

Single ICELAND GULLS were noted in Sheepshead Bay to Tuesday, at Brooklyn Army Terminal Pier 4 to Wednesday, and at Breezy Point today.

The RED-HEADED WOODPECKER in Brooklyn’s Marine Park was still near Stuart Street and Avenue T on Wednesday.

AMERICAN WOODCOCK are now displaying at appropriate locations.

Six RED CROSSBILLS were still along the Paumanok Trail near Jones Pond off Schultz Road in Manorville on Monday.

A VESPER SPARROW has been present recently at the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center off Yaphank Avenue, and interesting over-wintering birds feature the NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH at Brooklyn Bridge Park and the SUMMER TANAGER at a private feeder in Islip.

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

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of February 25 - February 26, 2023:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, February 25, 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


Tilden and Breezy: The Final Weeks of Winter
Saturday, February 25, 2023
Leader: Ryan Goldberg
Description: Enjoy the last weeks of winter on the western Rockaway Peninsula as sea ducks, loons, alcids, and other waterfowl begin staging to return north. We’ll canvas the Atlantic coast from Fort Tilden to Breezy Point, a long but exciting walk on the beach that takes in some of the city’s best dune habitat and protected shoreline, and where we could also turn up open-ground specialists like snow buntings and horned larks and shorebirds such as dunlin, sanderling, and purple sandpipers.
Registration: Ryan Goldberg, ryan.goldberg@gmail.com
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Gateway National Parks

Fort Wadsworth Tour and Hike
Sunday, February 26, 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. Dress appropriately. Visitors are encouraged to bring masks and water.
Registration: Call 718-338-3799 to reserve.
View Details


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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, February 26, 2023, 6:45am - 8:15am
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

Point Lookout Beach, Lido Beach
Saturday, February 25, 2023, 8:00am
Leader:
Description: The park is located at the end of Loop Parkway to Lido Beach, stay left to continue straight at light into the park. Meet at the far west corner at the 911 memorial. We will scan the beach front for Snowy Owls – IF they are around. Other wintering birds may include Common Eider, Purple Sandpiper, scoters, grebes, loons and more.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
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Linnaean Society of New York

Pelham Bay Park
Saturday, February 25, 2023
Leader: Jack Rothman
Description: Pelham Bay Park is New York City’s largest park, covering 2,772 acres. Our winter walks center around the northern forested areas of Hunter Island and Bartow-Pell Woods in search of nocturnal raptors. The waters off Orchard Beach and Twin Island are excellent spots to scan flocks of overwintering waterfowl, loons, and grebes. Harbor Seals can sometimes be seen out on the rocks north of Twin Island.
Registration: Evelyn Huang — evelynhuang1@yahoo.com
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New York City Audubon

Free: Winter Birding with the Bronx River Alliance
Sunday, February 26, 2023, 9:00am - 13:00am
Leader: NYC Audubon and the Bronx River Alliance
Description: Join NYC Audubon and the Bronx River Alliance on a stroll along the Bronx River this winter. You'll get a chance to see and hear some of the many beautiful birds that rely on this important freshwater ecosystem, including songbirds, waterfowl, and more. Along the way, we will also highlight the importance of biodiversity and urban green space for all wildlife.
Registration: Registration page
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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

North Mt. Loretto State Forest
Sunday, February 26, 2023, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Leader: Don Recklies
Description: We’ll meet in NYSDEC parking lot at Amboy Road and Cunningham Road. We will loop the eastern side of the State Forest by the Red and Blue trails, visit the power house and church in the developed area to the south, then return to the parking lot by way of Cunningham Road, on the way examining the topography and history of the area. If there has been a recent rain, or a thaw, boots are advised, since some of the trails, if not frozen, may be muddy. Inclement weather, but not a light drizzle, will cancel this walk.
Registration: For information call Don Recklies at (718) 768-9036.
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Queens County Bird Club

Baisley Pond
Sunday, February 26, 2023, 9:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: John & Mary Borowski (347) 705-2963
Description: Join us as we look for birds in Baisley Pond Park, the winter home for hundreds of ducks and other waterfowl. The path around the lake is paved.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake State Park
Sunday, February 26, 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, February 25, 2023

Birding: Winter Waterfowl at West 90th Street and Central Park West
11:00am - 12:00pm
Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. Please bring your own binoculars.
Free

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Best of the Fortnight

As the days have lengthened, there are some hints that Spring is right around the corner. Some of the overwintering birds have begun singing, resident raptors are displaying, overwintering gulls are putting on their fancy plumage, some trees are starting to bud and a few wildflower species are emerging.

Snowdrops, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Pussywillow, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Dutch Yellow crocus, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Bald Eagle, Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn, NY

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

Immature Cooper's Hawk, Coney Island Creek Park, Brooklyn, NY

American Kestrel, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Great Black-backed Gull, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY

Bush Terminal Park, Brooklyn, NY

Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Courting Gadwall, Coney Island Creek, Brooklyn, NY

Drake American Wigeon & hen Eurasian Wigeon, Brooklyn Army Terminal, Brooklyn, NY

Lapland Longspur with Horned Lark, Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY

"Whistle Pig", Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of February 18 - February 19, 2023:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, February 18, 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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“What’s in your backyard?” The Great Backyard Bird Count: PROSPECT PARK
Sunday, February 19, 2023
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik and Bobbi Manian
Description: Celebrating the Great Backyard Bird Count with the beauty of birds, friendship, and fun discoveries of winter birding. For weather alert, check in on BBC Facebook and Twitter as well as Peter’s Prospect sightings blog. For more information about the festival event,see: https://www.birdcount.org/
Registration: NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
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Feminist Bird Club

NYC - Great Backyard Bird Count
Saturday, February 18, 2023, 9:00am - 11:00am
Leaders: Jen Kepler
Description: Join Jen Kepler in Prospect Park for a Great Backyard Bird Count event on Saturday February 18. The event will start at 9am and meet at the Dog beach inside the park which is closest to the 9th street entrance. The walk will officially be over at 11am, but may have opportunity to extend an extra 30 to 60 minutes more. The end location of the event may not be the same location as it’s start.
Registration: To register, please visit the correspondingEventBrite page
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Gateway National Parks

Fort Wadsworth Tour and Hike
Sunday, February 19, 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. Dress appropriately. Visitors are encouraged to bring masks and water.
Registration: Call 718-338-3799 to reserve.
View Details


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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, February 19, 2023, 6:45am - 8:15am
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. 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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Linnaean Society of New York

Croton Point Park
Saturday, February 18, 2023
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, we have seen Great Horned Owls, Eastern Screech Owls, Horned Larks, Snow Buntings, Bald Eagles, Common Goldeneyes and Common Mergansers.
Registration: Mary Braza — brazamary@gmail.com
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New York City Audubon

Free: New York Botanical Garden Bird Tour
Saturday, February 18, 2023, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Woo Sung Park
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: Registration not required. No limit. Free.
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Winter Birding in Inwood Hill Park
Saturday, February 18, 2023, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Leader: Annie Barry
Description: Inwood Hill Park is a jewel of New York City. Nestled between the Hudson River, Dyckman Street, and Seaman Avenue, this last tract of largely old-growth oak and tulip forest transports you to another world and another time. Glacial "pot holes," towering trees, and stunning river views create an unrivaled birding backdrop.
Registration: Registration page
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Free: Birding at Brookfield Park
Sunday, February 19, 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 raptors that utilize the important marsh habitat found at the park. The group will meet in the large parking lot inside the park; the parking lot entrance is located at Arthur Kill Road and Brookfield Avenue.
Registration: Registration page
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North Fork Audubon Society

Great Backyard Bird Count Family Walk
Saturday, February 18, 2023, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: Tyler Armstrong
Description: Learn how to participate in this global bird count while enjoying a walk through beautiful Inlet Pond County Park to Long Island Sound.
Registration: Via Eventbrite
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Queens County Bird Club

NJ Shore/Barnegat
Saturday, Feb 18, 2023
Leader: Ian Resnick (917) 626-9562
Description: This is a full-day trip that starts early and ends with dining out in central New Jersey. Of course, you may leave at any time that your schedule requires. We are planning on having lunch at a restaurant, so there is no need to pack a lunch.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Jones Beach Coast Guard Station Parking Area
Sunday, February 19, 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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Urban Park Rangers


Saturday, February 18, 2023

Birding: Bald Eagle Watch at Payson Park House (in Inwood Hill Park), Manhattan
9:00am - 10:00am
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: Winter Waterfowl at Entrance - Baisley Blvd. & 157th Street (in Baisley Pond Park), Queens
11:00am - 12:00pm
Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome.
Free

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Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of February 11 - February 12, 2023:

Bedford Audubon Society

Hudson River Eagle Trip
Saturday, February 11, 2023, 11:30am - 5:30pm
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Join Naturalist Tait Johansson for a Field Trip Along the Hudson River to a place that holds the largest concentration of wintering Bald Eagles in the area. The river and its banks provide food & nesting sites which will give us the chance to spot these majestic raptors along the river at multiple stops from Peekskill to Croton Point. This trip was so popular in 2022 that Tait decided to offer it twice this year!
Registration: Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Moderate. 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, February 11, 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


Finding Ducks of Jamaica Bay and Rockaway
Saturday, February 11, 2023
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: Ducks will be our objective with the hope for 15 duck species as well as other winter delights.
Registration: Please register ( for weather alert): Prosbird@gmail.com or Prosbird@aol.com.
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Feminist Bird Club

NYC - Gullentine's Day with Feminist Bird Club
Saturday, February 11, 2023, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leaders: Ryan Mandelbaum
Description: Seasoned FBC guide and dedicated gull enthusiast Ryan Mandelbaum will be helping us find and identify members of this most underappreciated bird family. Come learn how to ID winter-plumaged Herring, Ring-billed, and Great Black-backed Gulls! If we’re lucky, we might get a rare Iceland Gull or Black-headed Gull. And while gulls will be our focus, New York waterways also have lots of weird winter ducks, visiting Great Cormorants, and maybe even a seal or two!
Registration: To register, please visit the corresponding EventBrite page
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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Jones Beach West End State Park Bird Walk
Sunday, February 12, 2023, 8:30am - 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 12, 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.
View Details


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Linnaean Society of New York

Coney Island Pier to Coney Island Creek
Saturday, February 11, 2023 (rescheduled from 2/4)
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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Montauk Weekend
Saturday, February 11, 2023 – Sunday, February 12, 2023
Leader: Joseph DiCostanzo
Description: Montauk is the easternmost point of New York State and is known for the high numbers of ducks and pelagic birds that concentrate there in winter. On our way to and from Montauk we will make several stops, including at Point Lookout, Jones Beach, and various freshwater ponds. We will spend the night at Daunt’s Albatross Motel.
Registration: Alice Deutsch — ad@builderlevy.com
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Littoral Society

Winter Bird & Wildlife of Jamaica Bay
Saturday, February 11, 2023, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Leader: Don Riepe
Description: Join the Littoral Society's Jamaica Bay Guardian Don Riepe for an indoor slide presentation followed by a walk around the ponds and gardens to look for snow geese, owls, and other winter birds. Don will also talk about winter survival and look for signs of wildlife. Kids welcome.
Registration: To register, please visit the info page here
For more info contact Don at don@littoralsociety.org


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New York City Audubon

Free: Winter Birding at Shirley Chisholm State Park with Outdoor Afro
Sunday, February 12, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Outdoor Afro
Description: Join NYC Audubon, New York State Parks, and Outdoor Afro to explore the largest state park in New York City, Shirley Chisholm State Park! This fairly new park was built on top of landfills and now supports a rich diversity of wildlife and habitat, including hawks, waterfowl, wetlands, and many tree and native grass species.
Registration: Registration not required but encouraged (it helps us know how many extra binoculars we should bring!). No Limit. Free
View Details


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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

Oakwood Beach Discovery
Saturday, February 11, 2023, 9:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Jim Scarcella
Description: Participants will meet at the bottom of Tarlton Street off Mill Road, Oakwood and set out on an exploration of Oakwood Marsh. This vast area of open space along Staten Island’s east shore hosts a collection of visiting waterfowl, raptors and sparrows. Participants will discuss the history of the area and visit the proposed location for a seawall. Join with NRPA (Natural Resources Protective Association) to discover Oakwood Beach in winter.
Registration: For more information contact Jim Scarcella at (718) 873 4291, or e-mail him at nrpa2@aol.com.
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A Walk in the Woods at Blue Heron Park
Sunday, February 12, 2023, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Leader: Don Recklies
Description: This is a winter walk on the eastern side of the park to visit some of the lesser walked trails. From Spring Pond we’ll follow the Red Trail to Butterfly Pond, then by local roads to the eastern edge of the park. On the way we’ll try to identify some of the trees by their shape and bark. The livelier things will probably still be tucked away for winter. Heavy snow and ice, or other inclement weather (but not a light rain) will cancel.
Registration: For more information call Don Recklies at (718) 768-9036.
View Details


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South Shore Audubon Society

Massapequa Preserve
Sunday, February 12, 2023
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


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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, February 11, 2023

Birding: Winter Birds at Vermont Place Parking Lot (in Highland Park), Queens
12:00pm - 1:00pm
Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best viewing spots in New York City to see migratory winter birds.
Free

Sunday, February 12, 2023

Winter Birding at Wave Hill, Bronx
9:30am - 11:00am
The Hudson River Valley hosts an impressive diversity of bird species, even during the winter months. Explore Wave Hill’s tranquil gardens and woodlands with…
Free


Birding: Winter Waterfowl at Gateway Drive and Erskine Street (in Spring Creek Park), Brooklyn
10:00am - 11:00am
Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. Please bring your own binoculars.
Free


Birding: Winter Birds at Broadway and Arden Street (in Fort Tryon Park), Manhattan
11:00am - 12:30pm
Join the Urban Park Rangers for a birding hike and discover the bird species that inhabit New York during the winter months.
Free


Birding: Winter Waterfowl at Section 2 Orchard Beach (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Birding programs are an all-inclusive safe space and appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome.
Free

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New York City Rare Bird Alert

Below is the New York City Rare Bird Alert for the week ending Friday, February 3, 2023
- RBA
* New York
* New York City, Long Island, Westchester County
* Feb. 3, 2023
* NYNY2302.03


- Birds mentioned
PINK-FOOTED GOOSE+
TRUMPETER SWAN+
COMMON MURRE+
THICK-BILLED MURRE+
ATLANTIC PUFFIN+
(+ Details requested by NYSARC)

Greater White-fronted Goose
Eurasian Wigeon
Green-winged Teal
King Eider
Harlequin Duck
Barrow's Goldeneye
Eared Grebe
Piping Plover
Long-billed Dowitcher
Dovekie
Razorbill
Black Guillemot
Black-legged Kittiwake
Black-headed Gull
Iceland Gull
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Northern Fulmar
Northern Gannet
Red-headed Woodpecker
Tree Swallow
Red Crossbill
Yellow-breasted Chat
Ovenbird
Northern Waterthrush
Orange-crowned Warbler
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, February 3rd 2023* at 8pm. The highlights of today's tape are pelagic trip results including ATLANTIC PUFFIN, DOVEKIE, COMMON MURRE, NORTHERN FULMAR plus PINK-FOOTED GOOSE, EARED GREBE, BLACK GUILLEMOT and THICK-BILLED MURRE, EURASIAN WIGEON, KING EIDER, HARLEQUIN DUCK and BARROW'S GOLDENEYE, BLACK-HEADED GULL, YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT, SUMMER TANAGER and more.

A 12 hour pelagic last Saturday aboard the American Princess left Sheepshead Bay at 6am and got out to waters warm enough to produce nice numbers of DOVEKIES with just over 13 hundred counted along with 11 ATLANTIC PUFFINS, 2 COMMON MURRES, 33 RAZORBILLS and a NORTHERN FULMAR. Other highlights included 2 ICELAND and 11 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS and 175 NORTHERN GANNETS.

Two PINK-FOOTED GEESE were found together last Saturday morning roosting at Crab Meadow Beach in Northport and were also spotted in that area near Blanchard Lake Sunday but haven't been seen since.

The EARED GREBE at the north end of Jamaica Bay was still being seen around the mouth of Hendrick's Creek off Shirley Chisholm State Park last weekend and likely continues there.

Completing the sweep of the eastern alcids for the week a BLACK GUILLEMOT was reported flying past Montauk Point last Sunday and a THICK-BILLED MURRE was still frequenting Fort Pond Bay often off Navy Beach at least to Thursday. There were also reports of a COMMON MURRE off Montauk Point Tuesday and of a couple of DOVEKIES with 29 RAZORBILLS off Jones Beach West End Wednesday with 2 more DOVEKIES last Saturday at Montauk Point.

A TRUMPETER SWAN continues around the northwest corner of Fort Pond in Montauk and single GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE remain near Tung Ting Pond in Centerport and the Rye area in Westchester County. A female type EURASIAN WIGEON on the Brooklyn shore was seen at both Brooklyn Army Terminal Pier 4 and Bush Terminal Piers Park later in the week with a drake seen Saturday at Puppy Cove, a western arm of Huntington Harbor, while the Eurasian form of GREEN-WINGED TEAL continues at Santapogue Creek in West Babylon. Also continuing are a drake KING EIDER in a Common Eider flock around Shinnecock Inlet, up to 6 HARLEQUIN DUCKS off Ditch Plains in Montauk and a drake BARROW'S GOLDENEYE off Crab Meadow Beach.

BLACK-HEADED GULLS were noted this week off Astoria Park in Queens Sunday and Jones Inlet Wednesday and around Setauket Harbor yesterday. A BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE remained around Lake Montauk inlet to Thursday and local ICELAND GULLS were spotted in Brooklyn and Staten Island during the week.

A PIPING PLOVER was at Jones Beach West End Sunday and 2 LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS have continued at Smith Pond in Rockville Centre at least to yesterday.

The immature RED-HEADED WOODPECKER was still visiting Marine Park in Brooklyn to Wednesday usually near the intersection of Stewart Street and Avenue T. Up to 8 TREE SWALLOWS at Breezy Point from Saturday to Thursday might regret their decision to be here. RED CROSSBILLS this week included a few at Jones Beach West End to Thursday and 5 at the Quogue Wildlife Refuge Sunday. A YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT was a nice find Saturday at Fleets Cove Beach Park in Huntington.

Among some lingering warblers have been one each of NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, OVENBIRD and ORANGE-CROWNED at Brooklyn Bridge Park and a SUMMER TANAGER continues to visit a private feeder in Islip.

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