Best of the Fortnight

With the official start of Spring right around the corner, I've included several photos of new blooms from the past 2 weeks:

Hellebore, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Spring crocus, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Paperbush Plant, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Turkish Hazel, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

'Okame' cherry, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Lesser Celandine & Purple Deadnettle, Marine Park, Brooklyn, NY

Hermit Thrush, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

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

American Woodcock, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Ring-necked Pheasant, Marine Park, Brooklyn, NY

Palm Warbler, Marine Park, Brooklyn, NY

Horned Lark, Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY

Swainson's Hawk, Sunset Park, Brooklyn, NY

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

American Kestrel with Meadow vole, Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY

Merlin with Song Sparrow, Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY

Upcoming Trips

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

Bedford Audubon Society

Nature Walk to Explore Vernal Pools
Sunday, March 19, 2023, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Leader: Paul Lewis
Description: Vernal pools are seasonal pools of water that provide habitat for distinctive plants and animals. Paul will guide us to these hidden treasures deep in the forest and learn about the vital importance of these seasonal wetlands as spawning grounds for salamanders and other amphibians. Family friendly for children 10 years of age and older, must be accompanied by an adult.
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


**********

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, March 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.
View Details


Springtime in Prospect Park
Sunday, March 19, 2023
Leader: Paul Keim
Description: Celebrate Spring a day early with early spring migrants; spring equinox starts Monday afternoon.
Registration: No registration required.
View Details


**********

Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

Elizabeth Morton National Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, March 18, 2023, Meet at 8:30am
Leader: Eileen Schwinn
Description: Flocks of over-wintering birds are here, just waiting for a hand out. LITERALLY – your hand out, with a few sunflower seeds and WOW! Famous for being able to feed the birds up close and personal, The Refuge is located on Noyac Road, just west of Sag Harbor. The walk is approximately 2 miles, and will take about 2 hours. Dress for the weather − some years, sunshine, and other years, deep snow! But no matter what the weather, an excellent way to kick off the beginning of Spring, the return of migrating birds, and re-visiting with long time human friends!
Registration: Contact Eileen Schwinn, beachmed@optonline.net, to register
View Details


**********

Freshkills Park Alliance

Family Nature Walk
Saturday, March 18, 2023, 10:00am
Leader: Rangers
Description: Lace up your shoes for a nature walk at Freshkills Park! Freshkills Park staff will take you behind the scenes to visit areas that are currently closed to the public. On this one-mile walk, you’ll learn about the different plants and animals found in the woods, wetlands, and grasslands at Freshkills Park. There is a […]
Registration: Register via Eventbrite.
View Details


**********

Gateway National Parks

Birding by the Bay
Saturday, March 18, 2023, 11:00 am - 12:00pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join Ranger Flor on a bird walk as we explore the birds of Jamaica Bay. Binoculars are provided.
Registration: Registration not required.
View Details


**********

Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, March 19, 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


Spring Egg Hunt: Spotted Lanternfly Edition
Sunday, March 19, 2023, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Description: This is not your familiar Eastertide activity. Join Sara Evans, senior manager and curator of living collections, on a hunt for spotted lanternfly egg masses on the trees in Green-Wood. Since 2014, the spotted lanternfly, a planthopper native to Asia, has been spreading and establishing throughout the eastern United States. Because they lack significant natural predators in the area, their population is expanding unchecked.
View Details


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

Brooklyn Coastal Birding
Saturday, March 18, 2023
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: March is a time when a few winter birds remain, while early spring migrants are beginning to arrive. The trip involves visits to multiple sites. Some of the highlights have included Black-headed Gulls, Eurasian Wigeons, Snowy Owls, Horned Larks, American Pipits, and Red-necked Grebes. Each site has its own special birds.
Registration: Matthew Fischer — Matthewwfischer@gmail.com
View Details


**********

New York City Audubon

Free: Late Winter Stroll on Governors Island
Saturday, March 18, 2023, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
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: Registration page
View Details


Free: Birding at Mount Loretto Unique Area
Sunday, March 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 wintering songbirds as we explore the diverse habitats found at the park.
Registration: Registration page
View Details


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sunday, March 19, 2023
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Southern State Parkway, travel west to the Belt Parkway. Exit at Cross Bay Boulevard (Exit 17) south. Continue south on Cross Bay Blvd. through Howard Beach and over the North Channel Bridge (also known as the Congressman Joseph P. Addabbo Bridge). The entrance to the refuge parking lot is on the right side of the road, at a traffic light approximately one and a half miles past the bridge.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


**********

Urban Park Rangers

Sunday, March 19, 2023

Birding: Beginner Birding at O'Brien Ave & Leland Ave (in Soundview Park), Bronx
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Learn a new skill and take up a new hobby as we help you identify some of the most common birds found in our parks.
Free

...Read more

Upcoming Trips

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

Bedford Audubon Society

Field Trip: Wallkill National Wildlife Refuge and Black Dirt Region
Saturday, March 11, 2023, 8:30am - 2:00pm
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Since1990, the refuge has been a haven for more than 225 species of birds, including 21 species of waterfowl. We hope Snow Geese will still be around in large numbers (there have been flocks of thousands there this winter), as well as flocks of waterfowl like Northern Pintail and Green-winged Teal, and many open country species like Rough-legged Hawk, Snow Bunting, and Lapland Longspur.
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


**********

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, March 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


Timberdoodle!: A Green-Wood Cemetery Pursuit
Sunday, March 12, 2023
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik & Bobbi Manian
Description: A search for the American Woodcock, also known as “Timberdoodle”; also early spring woodland songbirds and late winter species, raptors, perhaps eagles and vultures.
Registration: No registration required.
View Details


**********

Great South Bay Audubon Society

Bob Laskowski Memorial Duck Walk
Saturday, March 11, 2023, 8:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: Bob Grover
Description: Join us for a wonderful bird walk as we head out to Brookwood Hall Park for an early morning adventure.
Registration: info@greatsouthbayaudubon.org
View Details


**********

Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, March 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


**********

Huntington-Oyster Bay Audubon Society

Sunken Meadow State Park
Sunday, March 12, 2023 - 9:00am
Leader: _____
Description: The best birding spot on the North Shore. We may see wintering waterfowl, resident songbirds, and birds of prey. You never know what is going to turn up.
Registration: To register, call (585) 880-0915.
View Details


**********

Linnaean Society of New York

Central Park Winter Bird Walk
Saturday, March 11, 2023
Leader: Richard ZainEldeen
Description: Central Park is our bailiwick, and March is the beginning of migration for land and water birds. A Pine or Palm Warbler is always possible. A couple of years ago, we respectfully observed a Long-eared Owl. During a recent winter a Long-tailed Duck and Horned Grebe visited the Reservoir. The feeders are an attraction for birds such as Purple Finch and other seed eaters. A Red-headed Woodpecker at the north end stayed into the spring recently. It is interesting to observe the transition.
Registration: Kathleen Matthews — redkatamat@gmail.com
View Details


**********

New York City Audubon

Free: Weird Duck Spotting at Floyd Bennett Field
Saturday, March 11, 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
View Details


Free: Winter Birding at Marine Park
Sunday, March 12, 2023, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Outdoor Afro
Description: Join NYC Audubon, Outdoor Afro, and the Marine Park Alliance to 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.
Registration: Registration page
View Details


**********

Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

Crooke’s Point
Sunday, March 12, 2023, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Leader: Paul T. Lederer
Description: Maritime sand spits such as Crooke’s Point are dynamic topographical features formed and sculpted by water and wind action. Join naturalist Paul T. Lederer in a talk and walk where the geological and human history of the site, as well as the plants and animals that call this place home, will be discussed. It is suggested that walk participants dress in pants that cover the full leg and shoes appropriate for sand dune areas. It is also suggested that participants consider sun protection such as hats, sun block and water or other hydrating liquids. Insect repellent is also recommended. Walk participants will meet in Great Kills Park Beach Center Parking Lot (Parking Area “G”) near the beginning of the dirt permit road leading out to Crooke’s Point.
Registration: For more information call Paul at his cell phone (718) 354-9200.
View Details


**********

South Shore Audubon Society

Point Lookout Town Park (and Lido Preserve afterwards)
Sunday, March 12, 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


**********

Urban Park Rangers


Sunday, March 12, 2023

Spring Birding at Perkins Visitors Center (in Wave Hill), Bronx
9:30am - 11:00am
Welcome migratory birds back to Wave Hill this spring! Explore the gardens and woodlands with birders Paul Keim, Kellye Rosenheim or Gabriel Willow to look for…
Free

Birding: Hawk Watch at Entrance - East 106th Street and Fifth Avenue (in Central Park), Manhattan
12:00pm - 1:00pm
New York City is home to an amazing abundance of wildlife. Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in the urban jungle.
Free
...Read more

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


**********

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.
View Details


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
View Details


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.
View Details


**********

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


**********

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


**********

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
View Details


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
View Details


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
View Details


**********

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
View Details


**********

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
View Details


**********

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

...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
View Details


**********

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


**********

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


**********

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
View Details


**********

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
View Details


**********

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
View Details


**********

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.
View Details


**********

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.
View Details


**********

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


**********

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

...Read more

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.
View Details


“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.
View Details


**********

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
View Details


**********

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


**********

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


**********

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
View Details


**********

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.
View Details


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
View Details


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
View Details


**********

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
View Details


**********

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.
View Details


**********

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
View Details


**********

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

...Read more

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.
View Details


**********

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.
View Details


**********

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
View Details


**********

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


**********

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


**********

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
View Details


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
View Details


**********

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


**********

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


**********

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.
View Details


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


**********

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


**********

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

...Read more