Happy Halloween!

 

Best of the Fortnight

Here are my favorite photos that I took over the previous 2 weeks. Enjoy:

Winter Wren, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Grasshopper Sparrow, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Chipping Sparrow, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Eastern Meadowlark, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Ash-throated Flycatcher, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

American Kestrel with Dark-eyed Junco prey, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Best of the Fortnight

Here's my latest fortnight photos for the first two weeks of October 2023. Enjoy:

Magnolia Warbler, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

American Kestrel with Red-eyed Vireo, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Rusty Blackbird, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Himalayan Pine dumping pollen, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Very focused Great Blue Heron, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Black-and-white Warbler, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Great Cormorant, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Goldenrod flowers, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Groundsel, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Lark Sparrow, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Savannah Sparrow, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Western Kingbird, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for Wed., October 21 - Sun., October 22, 2023:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Escape from Brooklyn: Fall Migration at Governors Island
Saturday, October 21, 2023
Leader: Ryan Goldberg
Description: A peaceful birding getaway is only a five-minute ferry ride from the tip of Manhattan, one of the most built-up spots on the planet. Ditch the crowds and explore Governor’s Island at the height of fall migration. This 172-acre island, part of the borough of Manhattan and a military outpost since before the Revolutionary War, is open year-round to the public. The Lenape called it Pagganuck, or “Nut Island,” because of its abundance of chestnut, hickory, and oak trees. The island’s geography paired with its unique mix of historic forts, officers’ houses, overgrown lots, grassy fields, mature trees, and native plantings and landscaping make for an important stopover for migrants. Target species will be sparrows, grassland specialists, warblers, arriving waterfowl, migrating raptors, and possible vagrants. On eBird, over 240 species have been reported on the island, about two-thirds of those in October.
Registration: Ryan Goldberg, email: ryangoldberg@gmail.com
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Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, October 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 bird outing 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.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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Hudson River Audubon Society

Hawk Watch
Saturday, October 21, 2023, 8:00am – 3:00pm
Leader:
Description: Hawk Watch continues on the following days in October, and November, starting at 10 AM and continuing as long as the condition are good and we’re patient. Same place, behind Lenoir Mansion. Don’t forget a comfortable chair. Snacks help keep you patient between sightings.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
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Linnaean Society of New York

Fort Tilden
Sunday, October 21, 2023
Leader: Richard ZainEldeen
Description: Fort Tilden, on the Rockaway Peninsula in southern Queens, is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, which also includes the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. This trip is scheduled to coincide with sparrow migration. There is a good likelihood that we can expect a Nelson’s among the many other sparrow species, and Royal Terns never disappoint us. With the right winds, good raptor sightings are to be expected. Late warblers, vireos, and other passerines also visit this area.
Registration: Matthew Fischer - matthewwfischer@gmail.com
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Floyd Bennett Field
Sunday, October 22, 2023
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places for its historic significance, Floyd Bennett Field’s 1,280 acres feature one of the few remaining grasslands within New York City. Part of the Gateway National Recreation Area and located in southwestern Brooklyn, it is a major birding destination, with a freshwater pond, successive upland areas, wooded campgrounds, and extensive coastal views of Jamaica Bay. The number of bird species recorded at Floyd Bennett Field totals 281. October is sparrow season, and on a good day we should expect to observe anywhere from 10-14 different species. Over the grasslands expect to see American Kestrel, Northern Harrier, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, and more.
Registration: Debbie Mullins - deborramullins3@gmail.com.
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New York City Audubon

Van Cortlandt Park Birding
Saturday, October 21, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Rich Aracil
Description: Join NYC Audubon on a bird tour in one of the Bronx's largest green spaces. Participants will look for various species of residents and migrants and discuss a wide range of avian topics. This event is held in partnership with Van Cortlandt Park Alliance.
Registration: Register online
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Prospect Park Birding
Saturday, October 21, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Ryan Mandelbaum
Description: Join NYC Audubon to get to know the fall migrants of “Brooklyn's Backyard,” beautiful Prospect Park. The meadows, forests, and waterways of Prospect Park attract a dazzling variety of migratory birds on their way south, including warblers, tanagers, cuckoos, and more.
Registration: Register online
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Queens Botanical Garden Birding
Saturday, October 21, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Explore Queens Botanical Garden in search of migrant songbirds and learn about the resources the Garden offers to birds and other wildlife. These outings are held in partnership with the Queens Botanical Garden.
Registration: Register online
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Vulture Tour at New York Botanical Garden
Saturday, October 21, 2023, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Audubon and the New York Botanical Garden for a special bird tour series all about vultures! Check out the work of visual artist, Ebony G. Patterson, now on display at the Garden. Explore some of NYBG’s diverse landscape and learn about the vulture species we can spot around the City and how they're important for our ecosystem's health.
Registration: Register online
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6th Annual Raptorama! Part 2: Marine Park
Saturday, October 21, 2023, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: It's that time of the year again, time for Raptorama! For Part 2 of this annual festival, meet us at Marine Park's Salt Marsh Nature Center to learn about hawks, eagles, owls, and more. See some of these amazing raptors during a live demonstration, and go on walks with experts to get a look at hawk species flying south for the winter.
Registration: For more information and to RSVP, please visit the American Littoral Society's Raptorama signup page.
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Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturdays, May 6 through October 28, 2-3:30pm, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Leader: ______
Description: Nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors 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 birdlife the island has to offer. Binoculars are available to borrow.
Registration: No registration required. Free.
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Bryant Park Bird Sit on World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, October 21, 2023, 10:00am - 11:00am (new date)
Leader: ______
Description: You don't have to walk around in order to bird! Join NYC Audubon and the Bryant Park Corporation on a relaxed bird "sit" this World Migratory Bird Day. Feel free to pull up a chair, lay down on a blanket, or walk around if you choose.
Registration: Register online
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The Birds of Woodlawn Cemetery
Sunday, October 22, 2023, 8:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Tod Winston, Joe McManus, and Susan Olsen
Description: Join us for a morning bird outing and tour of this beautiful cemetery. NYC Audubon's Tod Winston and Joe McManus will look for fall migrants and year-round residents on the expansive grounds, while Woodlawn Cemetery Director of Historical Services Susan Olsen will share fascinating stories about the cemetery’s history and the interesting mixture of individuals interred there. This event is held in partnership with the Woodlawn Conservancy.
Registration: Register online
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Intro to Birding in Marine Park
Sunday, October 22, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: NYC Audubon
Description: Explore the beauty of Brooklyn’s largest park, Marine Park. Consisting of grassland and salt marshes, this park is habitat for a variety of migratory songbirds and waterbirds. This series is hosted in partnership with the Marine Park Alliance.
Registration: No registration required. No limit. Free.
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Newtown Historical Society

All Faiths Cemetery Bird Walk
Saturday, October 21, 2023, 9:00am
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: Explore the nature and history of this 171 year old cemetery.
Registration: Contact us - (718) 366-3715 or newtownhistory@gmail.com
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North Shore Audubon Society

Jones Beach Coast Guard Station
Saturday, October 21, 2023, 9:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Jennifer - (516) 941-7434
Description: US Coast Guard Station - Jones Beach, Hempstead, NY 11569.
Registration: Limited registration. You must register via email to nsaudubonsociety@gmail.com, and you will receive a confirmation email. If you become unable to attend, please email to allow someone on the waiting list to take your slot.
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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

Oakwood Beach/ Cedar Grove Discovery
Saturday, October 21, 2023, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: Jim Scarcella
Description: Participants will meet at the dead end of Tarlton Street. We will discuss and explore the 5 mile line of protection (the temporary sandbag seawall) and the beach in autumn. Join us as we search for Italian wall lizards, a collection of migrating birds and southbound insects.
Registration: For more information call Jim Scarcella at (718) 873-4291.
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Saw Mill River Audubon Society

Small Group Birding: Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Saturday, October 21, 2023, 8:00am - 10:00am
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

Massapequa Preserve
Sunday, October 22, 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
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, October 21, 2023
Birding: Hawk Watch at Pelham Bay Nature Center (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
11:00am - 12:00pm
Join the Rangers as they hike up the hills of the Bronx-Pelham Landfill, a site closed off to the public.
Free

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Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for Wed., October 11 - Sun., October 14, 2023:

Bedford Audubon Society

Breakfast with the Hawks
Sunday, October 15, 2023, 9:00am - 11:030am
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: If you haven’t yet had the chance to visit us for Hawkwatch, join Naturalist Tait Johansson and Board Member Steve Ricker for a complimentary Breakfast with the Hawks on the viewing platform at Chestnut Ridge. This much-loved event is timed to take advantage of peak Cooper’s Hawk migration and is perfect for families. (All children must be accompanied by an adult.) There's also a good chance of seeing Bald Eagles. Bedford Audubon Counter Rich Aracil and Spotter Adam Bradley will also be on hand to “show and tell” what they are seeing, and we will have binoculars to share. This program is co-sponsored by Westmoreland Sanctuary where Steve Ricker is Director of Conservation and Wildlife Management.
Registration: Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Moderate (due to the climb to the viewing platform). Email Susan to register: info@bedfordaudubon.org.
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Brooklyn Bird Club

Prospect Park Saturday Fall Migration Walks
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 7:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Walks typically go into early afternoon or later if the birding is great. Bring water, snacks and/or a sandwich if you plan to stay the whole duration–but feel free to leave whenever you want.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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Autumn Sparrows in Floyd Bennett Field
Saturday, October 14, 2023
Leader: Heydi Lopes
Description: This trip focuses on late fall migrants, particularly sparrows (Emberizidae genus), plus raptors in peak, as well as early winter species, namely arriving water fowl and perhaps late shorebirds. There will be concentration on grassland species and possibly a vagrant species.
Registration: Bobbi Manian email roberta.manian@gmail.com
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Birding Scavenger Hunt – World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, October 14, 2023
Leader: ______
Description: Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with a slightly-competitive but just-for-fun event- the first-ever Brooklyn Birding Scavenger Hunt!
Registration: Please email scavengerhunt@brooklynbirdclub.org to register yourself or your team by Wednesday, October 11.
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Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, October 14, 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 bird outing 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.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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Feminist Bird Club

NYC - Bird Sit with Bird Collective
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 9:00am - 1:00pm
Leaders: Feminist Bird Club and Bird Collective
Description: Join the Feminist Bird Club and Bird Collective as we come together to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day. Whether you have just a short while or want to spend the entire morning, join us in spotting the various bird species that visit Brooklyn's Prospect Park.
Registration: RSVP Here
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NYC - Easy Mindful Birding at Wave Hill
Sunday, October 15, 2023, 10:00am - 11:00am
Leaders: Haley
Description: Join Haley at WaveHill for Easy Mindful Birding the day after World Migratory Bird Day! We’re slowing down the pace and walking on paths that are accessible for all!
Registration: Event is free with Wave Hill Admission fee.
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Gateway National Parks

Hispanic Heritage Month Junior Birder Walk at Jamaica Bay
Sunday, October 15, 2023, 2:00pm — 3:00pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Can’t get enough of birds? Join Park Rangers on a bilingual adventure to earn a Junior Birder badge. ¿Quieren aprender más sobre los pájaros? Venga con los guardabosques en una aventura para obtener medalla de Junior Birder.
Registration: For reservations, contact Ranger Kathy at (718) 354-4500.
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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Caumsett State Park
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 8:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: John Gluth, Ken Thompson
Description: Join us for a wonderful bird walk as we head out to Caumsett State Park Preserve for an early morning adventure.
Registration: info@greatsouthbayaudubon.org
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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Wednesday, October 11, 2023, 7:00am – 8:30am
Description: By September, offspring of summer’s nesting birds will be on their own. 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, we’ll be on the lookout for returning waterfowl and raptors heading south. November will bring back our overwintering feathered denizens from the north.
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Meet the Bees (Green-Wood Members-Only Beehive Tour)
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 10:30am – 12:00pm
Description: Join our beekeeper, Nick Hoefly, for an onsite exploration of Green-Wood’s beehives! Get an “in-hive” look at the incredible behaviors of honey bees, from colony workings, to gathering nectar, to producing honey.
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Birding in Peace
Sunday, October 15, 2023, 7:00am – 8:30am
Description: By September, offspring of summer’s nesting birds will be on their own. 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, we’ll be on the lookout for returning waterfowl and raptors heading south. November will bring back our overwintering feathered denizens from the north.
View Details


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Hudson River Audubon Society

Hawk Watch
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 8:00am – 3:00pm
Leader:
Description: Hawk Watch continues on the following days in October, and November, starting at 10 AM and continuing as long as the condition are good and we’re patient. Same place, behind Lenoir Mansion. Don’t forget a comfortable chair. Snacks help keep you patient between sightings.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
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Huntington-Oyster Bay Audubon Society

David A. Sarnoff Preserve, Riverside, NY
Sunday, October 15, 2023 - 10:00am
Leader: _____
Description: October on Long Island means it’s buck moth season. These Pine Barrens specialists only come out for a couple of weeks in the autumn so this is our best chance to find them.
Registration: Call 585-880-0915 to register in advance.
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Linnaean Society of New York

Floyd Bennett Field
Saturday, October 14, 2023
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places for its historic significance, Floyd Bennett Field’s 1,280 acres feature one of the few remaining grasslands within New York City. Part of the Gateway National Recreation Area and located in southwestern Brooklyn, it is a major birding destination, with a freshwater pond, successive upland areas, wooded campgrounds, and extensive coastal views of Jamaica Bay. The number of bird species recorded at Floyd Bennett Field totals 281. October is sparrow season, and on a good day we should expect to observe anywhere from 10-14 different species. Over the grasslands expect to see American Kestrel, Northern Harrier, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, and more.
Registration: Debbie Mullins - deborramullins3@gmail.com.
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Randall’s Island
Sunday, October 15, 2023
Leader: Alan Drogin
Description: The leader of this trip added Randall’s Island to the birders’ map of New York City in October of 2012, when he came upon a Nelson’s Sparrow in one of the only saltmarshes in the borough of Manhattan. Since then, mid-October has been the time to bird Randall’s for sparrows—Savannah, Swamp, Song, Chipping, Field, and an occasional Vesper, but especially the elusive Ammodramus sparrows of the marshes—Nelson’s, Saltmarsh, Seaside. We also get late-migrating warblers and, sometimes, interesting gulls.
Registration: Annie Wilker - anniewilker@gmail.com
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New York City Audubon

Conference House Park Birding
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 8:00am - 9:30am
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: This World Migratory Bird Day, discover a diversity of fall migrants with longtime birder and Staten Island resident, Anthony Ciancimino. Expect to see a variety of species of songbirds, including warblers, vireos, and tanagers. Waterfowl can be present in numbers off the beach and ponds as well.
Registration: Register online
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Intro to Birding in Morningside Park on World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 8:30am - 9:30am
Leader: ______
Description: Though nearby Central Park gets lots of attention from birders, migrating birds are equally attracted to beautiful nearby Morningside Park, also designed by Central Park architects Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmstead. We'll search for songbirds, waterbirds, and raptors that visit the wooded paths and water features of Morningside at the peak of fall migration.
Registration: Register online
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Bilingual Birding at Brooklyn Bridge Park on World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Audubon and the Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy for birding in English and Spanish on World Migratory Bird Day! We'll be distributing copies of NYC Audubon's new English-Spanish field guide (written by Dr. Adam Moreno). Come and explore the woodlands and meadows, and enjoy views of the city and the waterbirds on the East River.
Registration: Register online
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Pelham Bay Park Birding on World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Audubon to explore New York City's largest park on World Migratory Bird Day! Pelham Bay Park's forested areas, salt marshes, and grassy meadows offer rich habitat for a variety of migrating birds.
Registration: Registration not required. No Limit. Free.
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Intro to Birding in Marine Park on World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Explore the beauty of Brooklyn’s largest park, Marine Park. Consisting of grassland and salt marshes, this park is habitat for a variety of migratory songbirds and waterbirds. This series is hosted in partnership with the Marine Park Alliance.
Registration: No registration required. No limit. Free.
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Birding at Alice Austen House for World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 9:30am - 11:00am
Leader: ______
Description: Meet us at LGBTQ+ historical monument Alice Austen House this World Migratory Bird Day! Right on Staten Island's eastern coast, Alice Austen Park provides a beautiful view of The Narrows, where may also find different species of wading birds.
Registration: Register online
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Bryant Park Bird Sit on World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 10:00am - 11:00am
Leader: ______
Description: You don't have to walk around in order to bird! Join NYC Audubon and the Bryant Park Corporation on a relaxed bird "sit" this World Migratory Bird Day. Feel free to pull up a chair, lay down on a blanket, or walk around if you choose.
Registration: Register online
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Young Conservationist Birding in Gantry Plaza State Park on WMBD
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: ______
Description: Join NYC Audubon for a Young Conservationist outing to Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day! We'll spend an hour or two exploring the riverfront park, and afterwards grab refreshments nearby. We will meet at the Gantry Plaza State Park entrance at 50th Ave and Center Blvd in Queens.
Registration: Register online
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New York Botanical Garden Bird Tour on World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: ______
Description: Join NYC Audubon and the New York Botanical Garden for some fall birding this World Migratory Bird Day! 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: No registration required. No limit. Free.
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Governors Island Bird Tour on World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Leader: ______
Description: Nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors 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 birdlife the island has to offer. Binoculars are available to borrow.
Registration: No registration required. No limit. Free.
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Fall Birding at Inwood Hill Park
Sunday, October 15, 2023, 8:30am - !0:30am
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: Register online
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6th Annual Raptorama! Part 1: Jamaica Bay
Sunday, October 15, 2023, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: American Littoral Society, NYC Audubon, Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy, and Gateway National Recreation Area
Description: It's that time of the year again, time for Raptorama! Meet at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center to learn about the hawks and owls of Jamaica Bay. See some of these amazing raptors during a live demonstration, and go on walks with experts to get a look at hawk species flying south for the winter.
Registration: For more information and to RSVP, please visit the American Littoral Society's Raptorama signup page. Link to come.
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Accessible Birding in Fort Tryon Park
Sunday, October 15, 2023, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Alex Wang
Description: The beautiful Fort Tryon Park commands views of the Palisades and the Hudson River from soaring cliffs of bedrock. Fort Tryon Park’s 67 acres feature many well-paved walkways suitable for birders with strollers and carriages, as well as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, etc.
Registration: No registration required. No limit. Free.
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North Shore Audubon Society

Planting Fields
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 9:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Ralph M - (516) 445-7846
Description: Planting Fields Arboretum, 1395 Planting Fields Rd, Oyster Bay, NY 11771.
Registration: Limited registration. You must register via email to nsaudubonsociety@gmail.com, and you will receive a confirmation email. If you become unable to attend, please email to allow someone on the waiting list to take your slot.
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Queens County Bird Club

Big Sit - Fort Tilden
Saturday, October 14, 2023, 7:30am - 2:00pm
Leader: Corey Finger
Description: The QCBC "Big Sit" takes place from dawn to dusk. You may come and go as you choose. Park in the lot shown in the map. Then, proceed west on Range Road (may also be called Murray Rd or Center Rd) until you reach the observation platform near Battery Harris East. You need to climb up several flights of stairs to access the platform.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location - 10000birdsblogger@gmail.com.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Point Lookout Town Park (and Lido Preserve afterwards)
Sunday, October 15, 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
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, October 14, 2023
Fall Migration: Birding in Community Gardens at 6BC Botanical Garden, Manhattan
9:00am - 10:30am
Join us for the most sacred time of year for birding as birds make their way down the Atlantic Flyway.
Free

Sunday, October 15, 2023
Birding: Fall Migration at Brookville Boulevard and 144 Avenue (in Brookville Park), Queens
11:00am - 12:00pm
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Brookville Park and Conselyeas Pond to look for fall migrants that include warblers, raptors and more!
Free

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Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips for the weekend of October 7 - October 8, 2023:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Prospect Park Saturday Fall Migration Walks
Saturday, October 7, 2023, 7:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Walks typically go into early afternoon or later if the birding is great. Bring water, snacks and/or a sandwich if you plan to stay the whole duration–but feel free to leave whenever you want.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, October 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 bird outing 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.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details


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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

FINS Hawk Watch and Lighthouse on Fire Island
Saturday, October 7, 2023 Meet at 8:00am
Leader: __
Description: We start the walk on the boardwalk leading to the Hawk Watch Platform. The boardwalk is just above the dunes makes it ideal to spot the birds in the bushes. We should see Yellow-rump warblers, Palm Warblers, Red-breasted Nuthatches, Merlin, and hopefully an unusual find or two (it is migration time after all). We will check out what's happening at the Platform, hoping the wind is right for the hawk migration. We will then proceed to the Lighthouse. Put a little money in your pocket if you think you will need a drink. Rest rooms are here. We have spotted some interesting birds on this trip.
Registration: Please register with Eileen Schwinn at beachmed@optonline.net to let her know you are coming. We are asking you do this for all our walks now in case there is any last minute changes.
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Feminist Bird Club

NYC - Birding with an Indigenous Perspective at Wave Hill
Sunday, October 8, 2023, 9:30am - 11:00am
Leaders: Haley
Description: Join Haley at WaveHill for Fall Migration birding with an Indigenous perspective in honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Learn some Algonquian bird names, pre-colonial oral natural histories and how colonialism affects birds today!
Registration: Event is free with Wave Hill Admission fee.
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Gateway National Parks

Great Kills Butterfly Walk
Sunday, October 8, 2023, 1:00pm — 2:30pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join a National Park Service ranger for the annual hike to view and draw butterflies. Materials will be included. Inclement weather cancels the program.
Registration: For reservations, contact Ranger Kathy at (718) 354-4500.
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Green-Wood Cemetery

Meet the Bees (Green-Wood Members-Only Beehive Tour)
Saturday, October 7, 2023, 10:30am – 12:00pm
Description: Join our beekeeper, Nick Hoefly, for an onsite exploration of Green-Wood’s beehives! Get an “in-hive” look at the incredible behaviors of honey bees, from colony workings, to gathering nectar, to producing honey.
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Birding in Peace
Sunday, October 8, 2023, 7:00am – 8:30am
Description: By September, offspring of summer’s nesting birds will be on their own. 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, we’ll be on the lookout for returning waterfowl and raptors heading south. November will bring back our overwintering feathered denizens from the north.
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Fun with Fungi: Mushroom Walk for Kids
Sunday, October 8, 2023, 10:00am – 11:30am
Description: Green-Wood is a special place for fungi of all kinds—from the deadly to the delicious! Venture into Green-Wood’s extensive woodlands to encounter all types of fascinating fungi: amanita, russula, boletes, puffballs, jellies, even tiny ascomycetes (“dots on sticks,” an often overlooked but ubiquitous fungi that, though difficult to identify, are fascinating to study). Learn how to differentiate each species and start putting names to some of the city’s more common fall fungi.
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Hudson River Audubon Society

The Big Sit and Hawk Watch
Sunday, October 8, 2023, 8:00am – 3:00pm
Leader:
Description: Meet us behind the Lenoir Mansion anytime between 8 AM and 3 PM. Threatening weather will move this back one day to October 7. The object of the Big Sit is to find as many bird species in one day from a single position. We will be at our Hawk Watch field at Lenoir, overlooking the Hudson River and Palisades. Bring a chair and refreshments. Join us to help us find birds. This is birding without effort.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
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Linnaean Society of New York

Inwood Hill Park
Saturday, October 7, 2023
Leader: Loyan Beausoleil
Description: Inwood Hill Park is the northernmost point in Manhattan. Bounded on the north by Spuyten Duyvil Creek and on the west by the Hudson River, the 196-acre park is composed of hilly forest, a tidal estuary, rock formations, and ball fields. According to eBird, close to 250 bird species have been seen there. Waterfowl, gulls, and shorebirds are often seen in the estuary, in Spuyten Duyvil Creek, and along the Hudson River, while songbirds and owls frequent the forest, with a number of species nesting there. The upper ridge trail on the western side of the park affords magnificent views of the Hudson River and the New Jersey Palisades, and raptors are often seen soaring over the cliffs. In the fall, Dyckman Fields on the west side of the park hosts migrating sparrows and other grassland species, including American Pipit, Eastern Meadowlark, and Bobolink.
Registration: Lisa Kroop - lisakroop2@gmail.com.
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Starr Saphir Memorial Fall Migration Walk, Central Park
Sunday, October 8, 2023
Leader: Lenore Swenson
Description: The fall and spring memorial walks honor Starr Saphir, a legend for her birding skills who led walks for nearly forty years in Central Park and elsewhere. She also taught courses in beginning birding at NYC Audubon, and was an inspiration to many. These walks, led by her longtime friend and mentee, will follow traditional paths and principles (“please don’t point at the birds”) of “Starr Trips” of the past. The fall walk covers many areas of Central Park’s north end in search of fall migrants, particularly warblers.
Registration: Lenore Swenson - lenoreswenson@gmail.com
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New York City Audubon

Birding at Calvert Vaux Park
Saturday, October 7, 2023, 8:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Meet at Calvert Vaux Park and explore this Brooklyn waterside site on an early morning stroll. A surprising variety of nesting birds have been found at Calvert Vaux Park in recent years, including Willow Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Brown Thrasher, and Indigo Bunting.
Registration: Register online
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Van Cortlandt Park Birding
Saturday, October 7, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Hector Cordero
Description: Join NYC Audubon on a bird tour in one of the Bronx's largest green spaces. Participants will look for various species of residents and migrants and discuss a wide range of avian topics. This event is held in partnership with Van Cortlandt Park Alliance.
Registration: Register online
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Monarch Mania: 6th Annual Pollinator Festival
Saturday, October 7, 2023, 10:00am - 2:00pm (new date)
Leader: _____
Description: Join us at Fort Tilden for a festival celebrating monarch butterflies and other pollinators! Come learn from naturalists and experts about our local pollinators, including butterflies, moths, bees, and birds. Activities and crafts for the whole family.
Registration: No registration required.
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Vulture Tour at New York Botanical Garden
Saturday, October 7, 2023, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Audubon and the New York Botanical Garden for a special bird tour series all about vultures! Check out the work of visual artist, Ebony G. Patterson, now on display at the Garden. Explore some of NYBG’s diverse landscape and learn about the vulture species we can spot around the City and how they're important for our ecosystem's health.
Registration: Register online
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Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturdays, May 6 through October 28, 2023, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Leader: _____
Description: Nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors 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 birdlife the island has to offer. Binoculars are available to borrow.
Registration: No registration required. No limit. Free.
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Intro to Birding at Van Cortlandt Park
Sunday October 8, 2023, 8:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Join NYC Audubon, Tod Winston on an Intro to Birding tour in one of the Bronx's largest green spaces. Participants will look for various species of residents and migrants and discuss a wide range of avian topics.
Registration: Register online
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Birding at Carl Schurz Park
Sunday October 8, 2023, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: EsplanadeFriends
Description: This fall, join NYC Audubon and EsplanadeFriends to discover the East River Esplanade and its adjacent green spaces. Join NYC Audubon guide, Andrew Reiter, and expect to see many water birds right off the coast.
Registration: No registration required. No limit. Free.
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North Shore Audubon Society

Humes (and Upper Francis Pond)
Saturday, October 7, 2023, 8:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Shelly - (516) 319-9661
Description: Humes Preserve, 349 Oyster Bay Road, Mill Neck, NY 11765.
Registration: Limited registration. You must register via email to nsaudubonsociety@gmail.com, and you will receive a confirmation email. If you become unable to attend, please email to allow someone on the waiting list to take your slot.
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Garvies Point Museum & Preserve
Saturday, October 7, 2023, 9:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Ralph M. - (516) 445-7846
Description: Garvies Point Museum & Preserve, 50 Barry Dr, Glen Cove, NY 11542.
Registration: Limited registration. You must register via email to nsaudubonsociety@gmail.com, and you will receive a confirmation email. If you become unable to attend, please email to allow someone on the waiting list to take your slot.
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South Shore Audubon Society

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

Sunday, October 8, 2023
Fall Migration at Rose Avenue and Oak Avenue (in Kissena Park), Queens
9:00am - 10:00am
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Kissena Park to look for fall migrants that include warblers, raptors and more!
Free
Fall Migration at Crotona Nature Center (in Crotona Park), Bronx
11:00am - 12:00pm
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Crotona Park to look for fall migrants that include warblers, raptors and more!
Free

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