Re: [nysbirds-l] No sighting - Doodletown access?
Hi Allan and all NYSBIRDS recipients, Based on conversations with PIPC staff, all Doodletown trails are closed until further notice for repairing storm damaged trails. PIPC is estimating that repairs will not be completed until at least early summer. They will notify the public when repairs are complete. Parking along Rte 202/9W was closed for a number of months. It is now open to parking for accessing the public areas of Iona Island. There is also a small hiker’s parking lot off Seven Lakes Dr, but even if open, the Doodletown trails themselves are all closed. The staff we spoke to were well aware that birders would likely try to sneak into the closed area but emphasized that area would be patrolled and anyone caught in the area would be issued a ticket. Sorry for the bad news, but hope this clarifies things. Alan Wells Sent from my iPhone > On Apr 29, 2024, at 4:08 PM, A W wrote: > > I have heard that access to the Doodletown trail from parking area on HWY > 202 is closed. Is this true? Is entire trail closed? Is there alternative > access? Any information appreciated. > > Allan Welby > > -- > > (copy & paste any URL below, then modify any text "_DOT_" to a period ".") > > NYSbirds-L List Info: > NortheastBirding_DOT_com/NYSbirdsWELCOME_DOT_htm > NortheastBirding_DOT_com/NYSbirdsRULES_DOT_htm > NortheastBirding_DOT_com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave_DOT_htm > > ARCHIVES: > 1) mail-archive_DOT_com/nysbirds-l@cornell_DOT_edu/maillist_DOT_html > 2) surfbirds_DOT_com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L > 3) birding_DOT_aba_DOT_org/maillist/NY01 > > Please submit your observations to eBird: > ebird_DOT_org/content/ebird/ > > -- > -- (copy & paste any URL below, then modify any text "_DOT_" to a period ".") NYSbirds-L List Info: NortheastBirding_DOT_com/NYSbirdsWELCOME_DOT_htm NortheastBirding_DOT_com/NYSbirdsRULES_DOT_htm NortheastBirding_DOT_com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave_DOT_htm ARCHIVES: 1) mail-archive_DOT_com/nysbirds-l@cornell_DOT_edu/maillist_DOT_html 2) surfbirds_DOT_com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) birding_DOT_aba_DOT_org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: ebird_DOT_org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Christmas Bird Count - Rockland Co., NY 2023 Results
Rockland Audubon Society conducted its 77th annual Christmas Bird Count on Sunday, December 17, 2023. Fifty-four (54) individuals participated in the field count, tallying 15,031 birds of 92 different species. Ten feeder counters added 449 birds of 26 species. Combining both field and feeder counts,15,480 individuals representing 92 species were tallied. One additional species, Red-headed Woodpecker, was added during Count Week bringing the total number of species detected to 93. Weather: During daylight birding hours on Count Day there were overcast skies during the morning giving way to mostly cloudy skies and rain in the afternoon. Average daytime temperatures ranged from 44 to 49°F. Dew Point temperatures ranged from 41 to 48°F. Sustained winds ranged from 0 to 3 mph with gusts from 2 to 12 mph from the ENE throughout the day. Weather conditions the week prior to the RAS 77th annual CBC were generally seasonable with average air temperatures ranging from 32 to 48°F and gusty WNW winds averaging 12-25 mph. Coverage: The twenty-three (23) teams spent a total of 109.7 team hours covering 79 miles by foot during their daylight birding effort. These teams also spent an additional 34.1 team hours covering 368 miles by car during daylight hours. An additional 16.6 hours were spent on nighttime birding (owling). The number of count participants, 54, is well above the 1977- 2021 median of 35 and is the highest participation number to date. Results: The number of species observed was tied for the highest species count ever recorded for the RAS CBC. The 92 count day species marks the 97th percentile of all RAS count years (1947-2023) and the 96th percentile of all modern RAS circle boundary years (1978-2023). The number of individuals is slightly below average (45th percentile) for the entire 1947-2023 count period and one of the lowest (13th percentile) for the 1978-2023 period. The ten most abundant species, in descending order, were: Canada Goose, European Starling, Common Merganser, Ring-billed Gull, Blue Jay, Dark-eyed Junco, White-throated Sparrow, American Robin, Mourning Dove and Mallard. Together, they comprised 74% of the total individuals. New high counts were established for: Merlin (6 v 3 in 2022; first seen in 1992) Red-bellied Woodpecker (131 v 124 in 2010) Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (16 v 14 in 2021) Pileated Woodpecker (17 v 15 in 2017) Blue Jay (552 v 508 in 2017) Carolina Wren (105 v 92 in 2020) Winter Wren (15 v 12 in 2022) Orange-crowned Warbler (2 v 1 in 2022) Significant Misses Missed birds are those birds typically seen but not found during the current year. A MISS is defined as any species not found on Count Day, but has been found in 50% or more of the RAS CBC counts since 1947, or 50% or more of the RAS CBC counts in the previous 10 years. Ruffed Grouse and Ring-necked Pheasant were again missed this year. Both have been seen in 40 previous counts (52%, 1947-2022). Ring-necked Pheasant has not been seen since 1995 and are now probably extirpated from the county. Any recent sightings are likely released or escaped farm-raised game birds. Ruffed Grouse has not been seen on the count since 2001. Field Sparrow Seen in 59 (79%) previous counts since 1947 and four (40%) out of the last 10 counts; last seen in 2020 when two were sighted. Rusty Blackbird Seen in 29 (38%) previous counts since 1947 and six (60%) out of the last 10 counts; last seen in 2022 when nine were found. Number of Species Seen during 2023 RAS CBC (sorted Highest to Lowest) and the Number of Years that Species has Been Seen in the Last 10 Years Species N in 2023 Years Seen in Previous 10 Years Canada Goose 3676 10 European Starling 3070 10 Common Merganser 1289 10 Ring-billed Gull 730 10 Blue Jay 552 10 Dark-eyed Junco 483 10 White-throated Sparrow 474 10 American Robin 455 10 Mourning Dove 370 10 Mallard 355 10 House Sparrow 346 10 Common Grackle 313 10 Rock Pigeon 251 10 American Crow 172 10 Black-capped Chickadee 164 10 Song Sparrow 164 10 Tufted Titmouse 158 10 Northern Cardinal 152 10 Hooded Merganser 148 10 Red-winged Blackbird 134 10 Red-bellied Woodpecker 131 10 Black Vulture 116 10 White-breasted Nuthatch 107 10 American Goldfinch 107 10 Carolina Wren 105 10 Turkey Vulture 101 10 Gadwall 94 10 Mute Swan 92 10 Downy Woodpecker 89 10 House Finch 64 10 Bufflehead 62 10 American Black Duck 61 10 Bald Eagle 47 10 Canvasback 45 10 Northern Mockingbird 44 10 Hairy Woodpecker 42 10 Northern Flicker 35 10 Red-tailed Hawk 33 10 Common Raven 31 10 American Tree Sparrow 30 10 Great Blue Heron 27 10 Eastern Screech-Owl 22 10 American Coot 21 10 Ruddy Duck 19 10 Double-crested Cormorant 19 10 Eastern Bluebird 18 10 Belted Kingfisher 17 10 Pileated Woodpecker 17 10 Winter Wren 15 10 Fish
[nysbirds-l] Hammond's Flycatcher - Rockland Lake State, Rockland Co., NY
Andrew, thanks for the reminder to post to nysbird; this sighting was well covered in the Lower Hudson region, but posting to the broader NY list slipped through the cracks. My apologies. The bird was first sighted Saturday morning, 11/25/2023 by Della Wells, Alan Wells, Carol Weiss, and Julia Warger. It was actively searching and feeding in a large, bare oak tree just north of the ramp to the handicap accessible dock at the south end of parking lot #6 (known as the Fishing Station Parking Lot) at Rockland Lake State Park (free entrance). These coordinates should get you to the exact tree where it was first seen: 41.142868, -73.927493. (Note: aerial photos show two docks at Lot #6, however, the northernmost dock was removed about two months ago and the photos do not reflect this.) After about 10-15 minutes the bird flew to a group of trees just a few yards to the southwest where we lost track of it (41.142722, -73.927745). We posted it as Empidonax sp. on an eBird checklist immediately after we lost sight of it. Later that day, after examining the photos and discussions with several other birders familiar with Empid flycatchers, the designation was changed from Empidonax sp. to Hammond's Flycatcher on the basis of the tear-drop shaped eye ring, yellow lower mandible, long primary projections, and moderately developed crest. At dawn Sunday morning a large crowd had gathered (one estimate was about 40 people) and the bird was seen well; numerous photos and several audio recordings were made and submitted to eBird. Additional sightings were reported Tuesday. Della and I returned on Wednesday morning (11/29/2023) about 9 am and easily found the bird in the same tree as the initial sighting. I obtained a number of new photos, but no audio. It made occasional forays to nearby areas throughout the morning, but would return to the original oak tree after short absences. At times it would be searching only a foot or two off the ground. Throughout the morning we ran into about a dozen birders that had obtained good looks at the bird. We left about noon. A search of eBird records suggest only four previous NY records of this species: Jones Beach 10/26-27/2001; Marshlands Conservancy 11/19-25/2006; Central Park 11/26/2017 - 12/12/2017; Bashakill State WMA 12/10/20/2022 Good luck if you go! Alan Wells -- (copy & paste any URL below, then modify any text "_DOT_" to a period ".") NYSbirds-L List Info: NortheastBirding_DOT_com/NYSbirdsWELCOME_DOT_htm NortheastBirding_DOT_com/NYSbirdsRULES_DOT_htm NortheastBirding_DOT_com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave_DOT_htm ARCHIVES: 1) mail-archive_DOT_com/nysbirds-l@cornell_DOT_edu/maillist_DOT_html 2) surfbirds_DOT_com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) birding_DOT_aba_DOT_org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: ebird_DOT_org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] ROCKLAND AUDUBON SOCIETY - CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT 2022 (PRELIMINARY RESULTS)
The 76th Rockland Audubon Christmas Bird Count was conducted on Sunday, December 18, 2022. Forty-one field counters (+ 1 fledgling counter, age 6) and eight feeder counters covered the 10 sub regions within the count circle. During daylight hours (7:15 am 4:30 pm), air temperatures ranged from 30.1 38.6°F. Wind gusts ranged from 7 to 16 mph from the WSW. No snow was present. Most small ponds were partially frozen but larger waterbodies and flowing waters, including the Hudson River, were largely ice free. During count day 17,978 individuals representing eighty-six (86) species were tallied in the field. Another 255 individuals, representing nineteen (19) species, were counted at the feeders. Together, 86 species (18,233 individuals) were tallied. No additional species were added during count week. The number of species observed was relatively high by historic standards. The 86 count day species marks the 85th percentile of all RAS count years (1947-2022) and the 75th percentile of all modern RAS CBC circle boundary years (1978-2022). The number of individuals counted is about normal (53rd percentile) for the entire 1947-2022 count period but exceptional low (23rd percentile) for the 1978-2022 period. The ten most abundant species, in descending order, were: Canada Goose, European Starling, Common Merganser, Common Grackle, Dark-eyed Junco, House Sparrow, Ring-billed Gull, American Robin, Mallard, and White-throated Sparrow. Together, they comprised nearly 78% of the total individuals. New high counts were established for: Coopers Hawk (12 vs 10), Merlin (3 vs 2), and Common Raven (34 vs 24). Two new species, Cackling Goose (1) and Orange-crowned Warbler (1) were added this year. Significant Count Day misses were: Wood Duck, Scaup spp., Common Goldeneye, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Field Sparrow, and Brown-headed Cowbird. Ring-necked Pheasant (last seen in 1995) and Ruffed Grouse (last seen in 2001) continue their long absence from the area. Thanks to all our participants and Team Leaders for their efforts. Despite the bitterly cold winds, turnout was outstanding and the count itself went smoothly. Species Counted During 2022 RAS CBC Snow Goose 2 Canada Goose 3735 Cackling Goose 1 Mute Swan 153 Gadwall 125 American Black Duck 42 Mallard 354 Northern Shoveler 6 Green-winged Teal 4 Canvasback 30 Ring-necked Duck 168 Bufflehead 70 Hooded Merganser 122 Common Merganser 2230 Ruddy Duck 65 Wild Turkey 5 Pied-billed Grebe 2 Double-crested Cormorant 7 Great Cormorant 3 Great Blue Heron 30 Black Vulture 77 Turkey Vulture 123 Bald Eagle 55 Northern Harrier 1 Sharp-shinned Hawk 2 Cooper's Hawk 12 Red-shouldered Hawk 4 Red-tailed Hawk 57 American Kestrel 2 Merlin 3 Peregrine Falcon 4 American Coot 44 Killdeer 3 Ring-billed Gull 479 Herring Gull 31 Great Black-backed Gull 13 Rock Pigeon 273 Mourning Dove 309 Eastern Screech-Owl 9 Great Horned Owl 7 Barred Owl 2 Belted Kingfisher 17 Red-bellied Woodpecker 95 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 7 Downy Woodpecker 82 Hairy Woodpecker 26 Northern Flicker 15 Pileated Woodpecker 10 Blue Jay 294 American Crow 175 Fish Crow 22 Common Raven 34 Black-capped Chickadee 138 Tufted Titmouse 124 Red-breasted Nuthatch 7 White-breasted Nuthatch 97 Brown Creeper 3 Carolina Wren 70 Winter Wren 12 Golden-crowned Kinglet 2 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 3 Eastern Bluebird 9 Hermit Thrush 2 American Robin 440 Gray Catbird 1 Northern Mockingbird 60 European Starling 3543 American Pipit 6 Cedar Waxwing 6 Orange-crowned Warbler 1 Eastern Towhee 1 American Tree Sparrow 28 Savannah Sparrow 2 Fox Sparrow 5 Song Sparrow 163 Swamp Sparrow 13 White-throated Sparrow 321 Dark-eyed Junco 716 Northern Cardinal 122 Red-winged Blackbird 209 Rusty Blackbird 9 Common Grackle 2012 Purple Finch 35 House Finch 111 American Goldfinch 63 House Sparrow 458 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] ROCKLAND AUDUBON SOCIETY - CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT 2022 (PRELIMINARY RESULTS)
The 76th Rockland Audubon Christmas Bird Count was conducted on Sunday, December 18, 2022. Forty-one field counters (+ 1 fledgling counter, age 6) and eight feeder counters covered the 10 sub regions within the count circle. During daylight hours (7:15 am 4:30 pm), air temperatures ranged from 30.1 38.6°F. Wind gusts ranged from 7 to 16 mph from the WSW. No snow was present. Most small ponds were partially frozen but larger waterbodies and flowing waters, including the Hudson River, were largely ice free. During count day 17,978 individuals representing eighty-six (86) species were tallied in the field. Another 255 individuals, representing nineteen (19) species, were counted at the feeders. Together, 86 species (18,233 individuals) were tallied. No additional species were added during count week. The number of species observed was relatively high by historic standards. The 86 count day species marks the 85th percentile of all RAS count years (1947-2022) and the 75th percentile of all modern RAS CBC circle boundary years (1978-2022). The number of individuals counted is about normal (53rd percentile) for the entire 1947-2022 count period but exceptional low (23rd percentile) for the 1978-2022 period. The ten most abundant species, in descending order, were: Canada Goose, European Starling, Common Merganser, Common Grackle, Dark-eyed Junco, House Sparrow, Ring-billed Gull, American Robin, Mallard, and White-throated Sparrow. Together, they comprised nearly 78% of the total individuals. New high counts were established for: Coopers Hawk (12 vs 10), Merlin (3 vs 2), and Common Raven (34 vs 24). Two new species, Cackling Goose (1) and Orange-crowned Warbler (1) were added this year. Significant Count Day misses were: Wood Duck, Scaup spp., Common Goldeneye, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Field Sparrow, and Brown-headed Cowbird. Ring-necked Pheasant (last seen in 1995) and Ruffed Grouse (last seen in 2001) continue their long absence from the area. Thanks to all our participants and Team Leaders for their efforts. Despite the bitterly cold winds, turnout was outstanding and the count itself went smoothly. Species Counted During 2022 RAS CBC Snow Goose 2 Canada Goose 3735 Cackling Goose 1 Mute Swan 153 Gadwall 125 American Black Duck 42 Mallard 354 Northern Shoveler 6 Green-winged Teal 4 Canvasback 30 Ring-necked Duck 168 Bufflehead 70 Hooded Merganser 122 Common Merganser 2230 Ruddy Duck 65 Wild Turkey 5 Pied-billed Grebe 2 Double-crested Cormorant 7 Great Cormorant 3 Great Blue Heron 30 Black Vulture 77 Turkey Vulture 123 Bald Eagle 55 Northern Harrier 1 Sharp-shinned Hawk 2 Cooper's Hawk 12 Red-shouldered Hawk 4 Red-tailed Hawk 57 American Kestrel 2 Merlin 3 Peregrine Falcon 4 American Coot 44 Killdeer 3 Ring-billed Gull 479 Herring Gull 31 Great Black-backed Gull 13 Rock Pigeon 273 Mourning Dove 309 Eastern Screech-Owl 9 Great Horned Owl 7 Barred Owl 2 Belted Kingfisher 17 Red-bellied Woodpecker 95 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 7 Downy Woodpecker 82 Hairy Woodpecker 26 Northern Flicker 15 Pileated Woodpecker 10 Blue Jay 294 American Crow 175 Fish Crow 22 Common Raven 34 Black-capped Chickadee 138 Tufted Titmouse 124 Red-breasted Nuthatch 7 White-breasted Nuthatch 97 Brown Creeper 3 Carolina Wren 70 Winter Wren 12 Golden-crowned Kinglet 2 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 3 Eastern Bluebird 9 Hermit Thrush 2 American Robin 440 Gray Catbird 1 Northern Mockingbird 60 European Starling 3543 American Pipit 6 Cedar Waxwing 6 Orange-crowned Warbler 1 Eastern Towhee 1 American Tree Sparrow 28 Savannah Sparrow 2 Fox Sparrow 5 Song Sparrow 163 Swamp Sparrow 13 White-throated Sparrow 321 Dark-eyed Junco 716 Northern Cardinal 122 Red-winged Blackbird 209 Rusty Blackbird 9 Common Grackle 2012 Purple Finch 35 House Finch 111 American Goldfinch 63 House Sparrow 458 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland County Region CBC Summary - December 19, 2021
ROCKLAND AUDUBON SOCIETY CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT 2021 (PRELIMINARY RESULTS) The 75th Rockland Audubon Christmas Bird Count was conducted on Sunday, December 19, 2021. Thirty-nine (39) field counters (+ one 5-year old fledgling counter) and four feeder counters covered the 10 sub regions within the count circle. During daylight hours (7:15 am 4:30 pm), air temperatures ranged from 34.0 37.2°F. Wind gusts ranged from 7 to 16 mph from the WNW. No snow was present, and all lakes, ponds, and smaller creeks were completely ice free. The Hudson River was also ice free. During count day 17,128 individual birds representing eighty-four (84) species were tallied in the field. Another 103 individuals, representing fifteen (15) species, were counted at feeders. Together, 84 species (17,238 individuals) were tallied. Six (6) additional species (see below) were added during count week. The number of species observed was relatively high by historic standards. The 84 count day species marks the 81st percentile of all RAS count years (1947-2021) and the 68th percentile of all modern RAS circle boundary years (1978-2021). The number of individuals is, however, low. It is just above the median count (52nd percentile) for 1947-2021 and only the 23rd percentile for 1978-2021. The ten most abundant species for 2021, in descending order, were: Red-winged Blackbird, European Starling, Canada Goose, Common Merganser, Ring-billed Gull, Common Grackle, Mallard, White-throated Sparrow, American Robin, and Dark-eyed Junco. Together, they comprised nearly 80% of the total individuals. New high counts were established for: Mute Swan (205 v 159 in 2020), Ring-necked Duck (193 v 60 in 1965), Double-crested Cormorant (112 v 40 in 2001), Turkey Vulture (178 v 143 in 2019), Bald Eagle (78 v 53 in 2020), and Northern Flicker (40 v 34 in 1984). Unusual finds were a single Greater White-fronted Goose at Rockland Lake (found in only two previous Counts) and a single Black-crowned Night-Heron (found in seven previous Counts). Common Count Day species missed during 2021 were: Wood Duck, Scaup spp., Ring-necked Pheasant, Ruffed Grouse, Northern Harrier, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Field Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Brown-headed Cowbird, and Pine Siskin. Scaup spp. (both Lesser and Greater Scaup), Wood Duck, Northern Harrier, and Golden-crowned Kinglet were picked up during Count Week. Northern Pintail, a species typically not seen during our Count, was also found during Count Week. A single Snowy Owl, another Count Day rarity, was found at Piermont Pier on December 16 and again on December 20, but was missing on Count Day. Ring-necked Pheasant (last seen in 1995) and Ruffed Grouse (last seen in 2001) continue their long absence from the area. Thanks to all our participants and Team Leaders for their efforts during this second trying COVID-19 CBC. Despite the COVID related restrictions the count itself went remarkably well. Hopefully we will be able to return to our traditional teams, count regimen, and compilation potluck soon. Alan W. Wells Rockland County CBC Compiler Tomkins Cove, NY 2021 NYRC CBC Summary List Greater White-fronted Goose 1 Canada Goose 2505 Mute Swan 205 Wood Duck CW Gadwall 47 American Wigeon 3 American Black Duck 41 Mallard 586 Northern Shoveler 10 Northern Pintail CW Green-winged Teal 4 Canvasback 42 Redhead 1 Ring-necked Duck 193 Scaup spp. (Lesser & Greater) CW Bufflehead 29 Common Goldeneye 1 Hooded Merganser 102 Common Merganser 1170 Red-breasted Merganser 2 Ruddy Duck 51 Pied-billed Grebe 2 Double-crested Cormorant 112 Great Cormorant 6 Great Blue Heron 44 Black-crowned Night Heron 1 Black Vulture 117 Turkey Vulture 186 Bald Eagle 78 Northern Harrier CW Sharp-shinned Hawk 2 Cooper's Hawk 9 Red-shouldered Hawk 1 Red-tailed Hawk 28 American Kestrel 1 Merlin 2 Peregrine Falcon 5 American Coot 25 Killdeer 1 Ring-billed Gull 688 Herring Gull 9 Great Black-backed Gull 11 Rock Pigeon 254 Mourning Dove 262 Eastern Screech-Owl 11 Great Horned Owl 6 Snowy Owl CW Barred Owl 1 Belted Kingfisher 15 Red-bellied Woodpecker 101 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 14 Downy Woodpecker 73 Hairy Woodpecker 23 Northern Flicker 41 Pileated Woodpecker 4 Blue Jay 175 American Crow 113 Fish Crow 29 Common Raven 15 Black-capped Chickadee 75 Tufted Titmouse 53 Red-breasted Nuthatch 2 White-breasted Nuthatch 65 Brown Creeper 5 Carolina Wren 38 Winter Wren 8 Golden-crowned Kinglet CW Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1 Eastern Bluebird 11 Hermit Thrush 3 American Robin 459 Gray Catbird 4 Northern Mockingbird 32 European Starling 2710 Cedar Waxwing 1 Yellow-rumped Warbler 78 Eastern Towhee 6 American Tree Sparrow 3 Fox Sparrow 1 Song Sparrow 93 Swamp Sparrow 6
[nysbirds-l] Rockland County Region CBC Summary - December 19, 2021
ROCKLAND AUDUBON SOCIETY CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT 2021 (PRELIMINARY RESULTS) The 75th Rockland Audubon Christmas Bird Count was conducted on Sunday, December 19, 2021. Thirty-nine (39) field counters (+ one 5-year old fledgling counter) and four feeder counters covered the 10 sub regions within the count circle. During daylight hours (7:15 am 4:30 pm), air temperatures ranged from 34.0 37.2°F. Wind gusts ranged from 7 to 16 mph from the WNW. No snow was present, and all lakes, ponds, and smaller creeks were completely ice free. The Hudson River was also ice free. During count day 17,128 individual birds representing eighty-four (84) species were tallied in the field. Another 103 individuals, representing fifteen (15) species, were counted at feeders. Together, 84 species (17,238 individuals) were tallied. Six (6) additional species (see below) were added during count week. The number of species observed was relatively high by historic standards. The 84 count day species marks the 81st percentile of all RAS count years (1947-2021) and the 68th percentile of all modern RAS circle boundary years (1978-2021). The number of individuals is, however, low. It is just above the median count (52nd percentile) for 1947-2021 and only the 23rd percentile for 1978-2021. The ten most abundant species for 2021, in descending order, were: Red-winged Blackbird, European Starling, Canada Goose, Common Merganser, Ring-billed Gull, Common Grackle, Mallard, White-throated Sparrow, American Robin, and Dark-eyed Junco. Together, they comprised nearly 80% of the total individuals. New high counts were established for: Mute Swan (205 v 159 in 2020), Ring-necked Duck (193 v 60 in 1965), Double-crested Cormorant (112 v 40 in 2001), Turkey Vulture (178 v 143 in 2019), Bald Eagle (78 v 53 in 2020), and Northern Flicker (40 v 34 in 1984). Unusual finds were a single Greater White-fronted Goose at Rockland Lake (found in only two previous Counts) and a single Black-crowned Night-Heron (found in seven previous Counts). Common Count Day species missed during 2021 were: Wood Duck, Scaup spp., Ring-necked Pheasant, Ruffed Grouse, Northern Harrier, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Field Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Brown-headed Cowbird, and Pine Siskin. Scaup spp. (both Lesser and Greater Scaup), Wood Duck, Northern Harrier, and Golden-crowned Kinglet were picked up during Count Week. Northern Pintail, a species typically not seen during our Count, was also found during Count Week. A single Snowy Owl, another Count Day rarity, was found at Piermont Pier on December 16 and again on December 20, but was missing on Count Day. Ring-necked Pheasant (last seen in 1995) and Ruffed Grouse (last seen in 2001) continue their long absence from the area. Thanks to all our participants and Team Leaders for their efforts during this second trying COVID-19 CBC. Despite the COVID related restrictions the count itself went remarkably well. Hopefully we will be able to return to our traditional teams, count regimen, and compilation potluck soon. Alan W. Wells Rockland County CBC Compiler Tomkins Cove, NY 2021 NYRC CBC Summary List Greater White-fronted Goose 1 Canada Goose 2505 Mute Swan 205 Wood Duck CW Gadwall 47 American Wigeon 3 American Black Duck 41 Mallard 586 Northern Shoveler 10 Northern Pintail CW Green-winged Teal 4 Canvasback 42 Redhead 1 Ring-necked Duck 193 Scaup spp. (Lesser & Greater) CW Bufflehead 29 Common Goldeneye 1 Hooded Merganser 102 Common Merganser 1170 Red-breasted Merganser 2 Ruddy Duck 51 Pied-billed Grebe 2 Double-crested Cormorant 112 Great Cormorant 6 Great Blue Heron 44 Black-crowned Night Heron 1 Black Vulture 117 Turkey Vulture 186 Bald Eagle 78 Northern Harrier CW Sharp-shinned Hawk 2 Cooper's Hawk 9 Red-shouldered Hawk 1 Red-tailed Hawk 28 American Kestrel 1 Merlin 2 Peregrine Falcon 5 American Coot 25 Killdeer 1 Ring-billed Gull 688 Herring Gull 9 Great Black-backed Gull 11 Rock Pigeon 254 Mourning Dove 262 Eastern Screech-Owl 11 Great Horned Owl 6 Snowy Owl CW Barred Owl 1 Belted Kingfisher 15 Red-bellied Woodpecker 101 Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 14 Downy Woodpecker 73 Hairy Woodpecker 23 Northern Flicker 41 Pileated Woodpecker 4 Blue Jay 175 American Crow 113 Fish Crow 29 Common Raven 15 Black-capped Chickadee 75 Tufted Titmouse 53 Red-breasted Nuthatch 2 White-breasted Nuthatch 65 Brown Creeper 5 Carolina Wren 38 Winter Wren 8 Golden-crowned Kinglet CW Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1 Eastern Bluebird 11 Hermit Thrush 3 American Robin 459 Gray Catbird 4 Northern Mockingbird 32 European Starling 2710 Cedar Waxwing 1 Yellow-rumped Warbler 78 Eastern Towhee 6 American Tree Sparrow 3 Fox Sparrow 1 Song Sparrow 93 Swamp Sparrow 6
[nysbirds-l] RAS Christmas Bird Count 2020 - Preliminary Results
ROCKLAND AUDUBON SOCIETY CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT 2020 (PRELIMINARY RESULTS) The 74th Rockland Audubon Christmas Bird Count was conducted on Sunday, December 20, 2020. Thirty-seven field counters (+ 1 fledgling counter) and four feeder counters covered the 10 sub regions within the count circle. During daylight hours (7:15 am 4:30 pm), air temperatures ranged from 18.0 32.6°F. Wind gusts ranged from 3 to 12 mph from the NNW. A 3-6 inch coating of snow was still present from a recent Noreaster still covered the ground. Most lakes, ponds, and smaller creeks were completely frozen over. The Hudson River was ice free. During count day 14,696 individuals representing eighty-two (82) species were tallied in the field. Another 215 individuals, representing twenty-one (21) species, were counted at the feeders. Together, 82 species (14,911 individuals) were tallied. Four additional species (see below) were added during count week. The number of species observed was relatively high by historic standards. The 82 count day species marks the 75th percentile of all RAS count years (1947-2020) and the 61st percentile of all modern RAS circle boundary years (1978-2020). The number of individuals is, however, among the lowest: the 45th percentile for 1947-2020 and 12th percentile for 1978-2020. The ten most abundant species, in descending order, were: Canada Goose, European Starling, Common Merganser, Dark-eyed Junco, Ring-billed Gull, Red-winged Blackbird, White-throated Sparrow, Rock Pigeon, House Sparrow, and Mallard. Together, they comprised nearly 80% of the total individuals. New high counts were established for: Canada Goose (4,892), Mute Swan (159), Bald Eagle (53), and Carolina Wren (92). The two Purple Sandpipers seen at Piermont Pier this year double the previous high of one seen in 2010! A new high may have also been established for Red-breasted Merganser (113), but counts require validation. Unusual finds were the two Purple Sandpipers observed at Piermont Pier and a Rough-legged Hawk found in the southern portion of Rockland County. By far, our most unusual occurrence was a single Tennessee Warbler observed by Bob Lewis at a feeder in Westchester County during Count Week. This species was new to our count. Significant Count Day misses were: Scaup spp., Common Goldeneye, Pied-billed Grebe, American Kestrel, Killdeer, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Hermit Thrush, Gray Catbird, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Eastern Towhee, Savannah Sparrow, and Brown-headed Cowbird. Lesser Scaup, Pied-billed Grebe, and Purple Finch were picked up during Count Week. Ring-necked Pheasant (last seen in 1995) and Ruffed Grouse (last seen in 2001) continue their long absence from the area. Thanks to all our participants and Team Leaders for their efforts during this trying CBC. Despite the COVID-19 restrictions and the deep snow, turnout was outstanding and the count itself went remarkably well. Hopefully we will be able to return to our traditional teams, count regimen, and compilation potluck next year. Alan Wells CBC Compiler, RAS -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] RAS Christmas Bird Count 2020 - Preliminary Results
ROCKLAND AUDUBON SOCIETY CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT 2020 (PRELIMINARY RESULTS) The 74th Rockland Audubon Christmas Bird Count was conducted on Sunday, December 20, 2020. Thirty-seven field counters (+ 1 fledgling counter) and four feeder counters covered the 10 sub regions within the count circle. During daylight hours (7:15 am 4:30 pm), air temperatures ranged from 18.0 32.6°F. Wind gusts ranged from 3 to 12 mph from the NNW. A 3-6 inch coating of snow was still present from a recent Noreaster still covered the ground. Most lakes, ponds, and smaller creeks were completely frozen over. The Hudson River was ice free. During count day 14,696 individuals representing eighty-two (82) species were tallied in the field. Another 215 individuals, representing twenty-one (21) species, were counted at the feeders. Together, 82 species (14,911 individuals) were tallied. Four additional species (see below) were added during count week. The number of species observed was relatively high by historic standards. The 82 count day species marks the 75th percentile of all RAS count years (1947-2020) and the 61st percentile of all modern RAS circle boundary years (1978-2020). The number of individuals is, however, among the lowest: the 45th percentile for 1947-2020 and 12th percentile for 1978-2020. The ten most abundant species, in descending order, were: Canada Goose, European Starling, Common Merganser, Dark-eyed Junco, Ring-billed Gull, Red-winged Blackbird, White-throated Sparrow, Rock Pigeon, House Sparrow, and Mallard. Together, they comprised nearly 80% of the total individuals. New high counts were established for: Canada Goose (4,892), Mute Swan (159), Bald Eagle (53), and Carolina Wren (92). The two Purple Sandpipers seen at Piermont Pier this year double the previous high of one seen in 2010! A new high may have also been established for Red-breasted Merganser (113), but counts require validation. Unusual finds were the two Purple Sandpipers observed at Piermont Pier and a Rough-legged Hawk found in the southern portion of Rockland County. By far, our most unusual occurrence was a single Tennessee Warbler observed by Bob Lewis at a feeder in Westchester County during Count Week. This species was new to our count. Significant Count Day misses were: Scaup spp., Common Goldeneye, Pied-billed Grebe, American Kestrel, Killdeer, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Hermit Thrush, Gray Catbird, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Eastern Towhee, Savannah Sparrow, and Brown-headed Cowbird. Lesser Scaup, Pied-billed Grebe, and Purple Finch were picked up during Count Week. Ring-necked Pheasant (last seen in 1995) and Ruffed Grouse (last seen in 2001) continue their long absence from the area. Thanks to all our participants and Team Leaders for their efforts during this trying CBC. Despite the COVID-19 restrictions and the deep snow, turnout was outstanding and the count itself went remarkably well. Hopefully we will be able to return to our traditional teams, count regimen, and compilation potluck next year. Alan Wells CBC Compiler, RAS -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
RE: [nysbirds-l] EBird eliminated "Summarize my Observations" - problem for Christmas Bird Count
Yes, the loss is bothersome! Good to know that there are plans to bring it back. I sent an email via the web to eBird on Jul 24 asking the same question. There was a response on Jul 24 stating that the tool had been removed from the new eBird release. They asked me to describe how I used the tool and that they would see what they could do to find a solution. I responded with details on my use for several research projects and for tracking our NYSBBAIII progress. The information was sent the following day but have yet to hear anything back. In the meantime, I tried an number of workarounds, e.g., life lists, the mobile app trip summary, cvs exports to Excel, etc., but nothing was remotely satisfactory. I ended up writing a standalone Excel program for data storage and summary. Alan Wells PS I also miss the illustrated bar-chart. This was an efficient way to track and verify additions to my local patches. -Original Message- From: bounce-125030165-3714...@list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-125030165-3714...@list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Nancy Tognan Sent: Monday, October 12, 2020 12:32 PM To: NYS Birds listserve Subject: [nysbirds-l] EBird eliminated "Summarize my Observations" - problem for Christmas Bird Count I contacted eBird via their website on August 23, 2020 re the following complaint. There has been no response. EBird used to have the function “Summarize My Observations”, which has now been eliminated. It was useful to produce a combined trip list of multiple locations. It was especially useful for the Christmas Bird Count. My North Nassau CBC sector includes 19 locations (each a separate spot to drive to). In years past, I could produce a combined checklist in about 2 minutes using “Summarize My Observations”. Now what? Print 19 checklists and combine the data by hand? This may take two hours instead of two minutes. I would like to have seen “Summarize My Observations” be improved to allow more flexible dates and selection of locations. Instead, the whole feature is gone - did eBird ask anyone before deleteing it? I feel that birders spend a lot of effort inputting their data - shouldn’t eBird give us a better interface to inquire on it? Does the loss of this feature bother anyone else or just me? By the way, these other features were also deleted: species All-Time First/Last Records, Arrivals and Departures, and High Counts. Nancy Tognan -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
RE: [nysbirds-l] EBird eliminated "Summarize my Observations" - problem for Christmas Bird Count
Yes, the loss is bothersome! Good to know that there are plans to bring it back. I sent an email via the web to eBird on Jul 24 asking the same question. There was a response on Jul 24 stating that the tool had been removed from the new eBird release. They asked me to describe how I used the tool and that they would see what they could do to find a solution. I responded with details on my use for several research projects and for tracking our NYSBBAIII progress. The information was sent the following day but have yet to hear anything back. In the meantime, I tried an number of workarounds, e.g., life lists, the mobile app trip summary, cvs exports to Excel, etc., but nothing was remotely satisfactory. I ended up writing a standalone Excel program for data storage and summary. Alan Wells PS I also miss the illustrated bar-chart. This was an efficient way to track and verify additions to my local patches. -Original Message- From: bounce-125030165-3714...@list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-125030165-3714...@list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Nancy Tognan Sent: Monday, October 12, 2020 12:32 PM To: NYS Birds listserve Subject: [nysbirds-l] EBird eliminated "Summarize my Observations" - problem for Christmas Bird Count I contacted eBird via their website on August 23, 2020 re the following complaint. There has been no response. EBird used to have the function “Summarize My Observations”, which has now been eliminated. It was useful to produce a combined trip list of multiple locations. It was especially useful for the Christmas Bird Count. My North Nassau CBC sector includes 19 locations (each a separate spot to drive to). In years past, I could produce a combined checklist in about 2 minutes using “Summarize My Observations”. Now what? Print 19 checklists and combine the data by hand? This may take two hours instead of two minutes. I would like to have seen “Summarize My Observations” be improved to allow more flexible dates and selection of locations. Instead, the whole feature is gone - did eBird ask anyone before deleteing it? I feel that birders spend a lot of effort inputting their data - shouldn’t eBird give us a better interface to inquire on it? Does the loss of this feature bother anyone else or just me? By the way, these other features were also deleted: species All-Time First/Last Records, Arrivals and Departures, and High Counts. Nancy Tognan -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] 2019 Christmas Bird Count - Rockland Audubon Society
On Sunday, December 15, 2019, Rockland Audubon Society (RAS) conducted its 73rd Christmas Bird Count. Forty-two individuals conducted field counts within the 10 count circle sub-regions. The field counters were joined by at least 3 feeder counter (additional counters may not have reported in as of yet). The day was mostly overcast to partly sunny with temperatures during the count ranging from 40 to 44°F. Dew Point temperatures ranged from 23 to 33°F. Sustained winds ranged from 1 to 7 mph with gusts 5 to 22 mph. Winds were from the Southwest (mean = 245°, SD = 40°). Most waterbodies were completely open and there was no snow on the ground. Preliminary results are summarized below. During count day, 87 species were detected. To date, an additional 3 species have been detected during count week (Northern Shoveler, Long-tailed Duck, and Golden-crowned Kinglet) bringing the species total to 90. In all, 20,406 individual birds were counted. The number of species is tied for the fourth highest in the history of our count. The number of individuals, however, is only slightly above the median count of 16,797. Unusual Finds: Brant and Red-headed Woodpecker, both seen on 4 previous counts, and Northern Pintail and Common Loon, both seen on 9 previous counts. An American Black Duck X Mallard hybrid was reported for only the 8th time this year, but this hybrid is easily overlooked and is likely more common than the count suggests. High Counts: 75 Brant (25 in 2002), 152 Mute Swan (137 in 1998), 237 Hooded Merganser (147 in 2013), 187 Black Vulture (122 in 2011), 143 Turkey Vulture (105 in 2015), 8 Peregrine Falcon (5 in 2016), 11 Coopers Hawk (10 in 2012), 81 Red-tailed Hawk (68 in 2008). Missed: Scaup spp.; Ring-necked Pheasant; Ruffed Grouse; American Kestrel; Killdeer; Red-breasted Nuthatch; Yellow-rumped Warbler; Field Sparrow; Purple Finch; and Pine Siskin. Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society CBC Compiler -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] 2019 Christmas Bird Count - Rockland Audubon Society
On Sunday, December 15, 2019, Rockland Audubon Society (RAS) conducted its 73rd Christmas Bird Count. Forty-two individuals conducted field counts within the 10 count circle sub-regions. The field counters were joined by at least 3 feeder counter (additional counters may not have reported in as of yet). The day was mostly overcast to partly sunny with temperatures during the count ranging from 40 to 44°F. Dew Point temperatures ranged from 23 to 33°F. Sustained winds ranged from 1 to 7 mph with gusts 5 to 22 mph. Winds were from the Southwest (mean = 245°, SD = 40°). Most waterbodies were completely open and there was no snow on the ground. Preliminary results are summarized below. During count day, 87 species were detected. To date, an additional 3 species have been detected during count week (Northern Shoveler, Long-tailed Duck, and Golden-crowned Kinglet) bringing the species total to 90. In all, 20,406 individual birds were counted. The number of species is tied for the fourth highest in the history of our count. The number of individuals, however, is only slightly above the median count of 16,797. Unusual Finds: Brant and Red-headed Woodpecker, both seen on 4 previous counts, and Northern Pintail and Common Loon, both seen on 9 previous counts. An American Black Duck X Mallard hybrid was reported for only the 8th time this year, but this hybrid is easily overlooked and is likely more common than the count suggests. High Counts: 75 Brant (25 in 2002), 152 Mute Swan (137 in 1998), 237 Hooded Merganser (147 in 2013), 187 Black Vulture (122 in 2011), 143 Turkey Vulture (105 in 2015), 8 Peregrine Falcon (5 in 2016), 11 Coopers Hawk (10 in 2012), 81 Red-tailed Hawk (68 in 2008). Missed: Scaup spp.; Ring-necked Pheasant; Ruffed Grouse; American Kestrel; Killdeer; Red-breasted Nuthatch; Yellow-rumped Warbler; Field Sparrow; Purple Finch; and Pine Siskin. Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society CBC Compiler -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] 2018 Christmas Bird Count - Rockland Audubon Society
2018 Christmas Bird Count - Rockland Audubon Society On Sunday, December 16, 2018 Rockland Audubon conducted its 72nd Christmas Bird Count. Despite the challenging weather conditions (nearly continuous rain), 29 individuals conducted field counts. They were joined by 13 feeder watchers. All but one of our 10 circle sub-regions was represented by at least one counter. Preliminary results are summarized below. During count day, 75 species were detected. To date, an additional 3 species have been detected during count week (Merlin, Osprey, and Brown-headed Cowbird) bringing the species total to 78. In all, 12,654 individual birds were counted. The number of species is near the average for the post-1977 period (the count circle was shifted slightly in 1978 so prior counts are not directly comparable). The number of individuals is the second lowest since 1978. The lowest count was 12,136 in 2016. New to Count in 2018: Black Scoter Unusual Finds: Brant, Northern Pintail, and American Bittern; all found in only 3 of the previous 71 counts. High Counts: 92 Wild Turkey (previous high 86 in 2016). Missed: Ring-necked Duck; Wood Duck; Ring-necked Pheasant; Ruffed Grouse; Northern Harrier; American Kestrel; Killdeer; Barred Owl; Great Horned Owl; Brown Creeper; Golden-crowned Kinglet; Ruby-crowned Kinglet; Hermit Thrush; Cedar Waxwing; Yellow-rumped Warbler; Eastern Towhee; and Swamp Sparrow. Alan Wells RAS CBC Compiler -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] 2018 Christmas Bird Count - Rockland Audubon Society
2018 Christmas Bird Count - Rockland Audubon Society On Sunday, December 16, 2018 Rockland Audubon conducted its 72nd Christmas Bird Count. Despite the challenging weather conditions (nearly continuous rain), 29 individuals conducted field counts. They were joined by 13 feeder watchers. All but one of our 10 circle sub-regions was represented by at least one counter. Preliminary results are summarized below. During count day, 75 species were detected. To date, an additional 3 species have been detected during count week (Merlin, Osprey, and Brown-headed Cowbird) bringing the species total to 78. In all, 12,654 individual birds were counted. The number of species is near the average for the post-1977 period (the count circle was shifted slightly in 1978 so prior counts are not directly comparable). The number of individuals is the second lowest since 1978. The lowest count was 12,136 in 2016. New to Count in 2018: Black Scoter Unusual Finds: Brant, Northern Pintail, and American Bittern; all found in only 3 of the previous 71 counts. High Counts: 92 Wild Turkey (previous high 86 in 2016). Missed: Ring-necked Duck; Wood Duck; Ring-necked Pheasant; Ruffed Grouse; Northern Harrier; American Kestrel; Killdeer; Barred Owl; Great Horned Owl; Brown Creeper; Golden-crowned Kinglet; Ruby-crowned Kinglet; Hermit Thrush; Cedar Waxwing; Yellow-rumped Warbler; Eastern Towhee; and Swamp Sparrow. Alan Wells RAS CBC Compiler -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland County Preliminary Christmas Bird Count Results
Hi All, On December 17, Rockland County conducted its 71st Annual Christmas Bird Count. Forty-two field counters (plus one fledgling counter, less than 2 years old) tallied 20,207 birds representing 87 species. The number of species is among our highest counts, ranking in the 90th percentile since 1947 and 83rd percentile since 1978 (when the count circle was shifted slightly to include Piermont marsh). The number of individual birds, however, ranks as average to below average-58th percentile since 1947 and 28th percentile since 1978. Feeder counters and their results are, as of yet, not included in these results. Highlights include: Snow Bunting, Brown Thrasher, Barred Owl, American Pipit, Peregrine Falcon, Merlin, Great Cormorant, Horned Lark, Redhead, Wild Turkey, Black Vulture, and Snow Goose (fly overs). New High Counts were established for: Snow Goose, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Pileated Woodpecker, and Common Raven. Notable Misses include: American Kestrel, Red-breasted Nuthatch, and Purple Finch. The top five most abundant species were European Starling (4232), Canada Goose (4130), Common Merganser (1208), Common Grackle (1203), and Ring-billed Gull (1184). Together, these species make up 59% of the total count number. Thanks to all that participated in our count! Complete results will be posted on the Rockland Audubon Society <http://www.rocklandaudubon.org/ras_cbc.htm> website as soon as available. Alan Wells Rockland CBC Compiler -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland County Preliminary Christmas Bird Count Results
Hi All, On December 17, Rockland County conducted its 71st Annual Christmas Bird Count. Forty-two field counters (plus one fledgling counter, less than 2 years old) tallied 20,207 birds representing 87 species. The number of species is among our highest counts, ranking in the 90th percentile since 1947 and 83rd percentile since 1978 (when the count circle was shifted slightly to include Piermont marsh). The number of individual birds, however, ranks as average to below average-58th percentile since 1947 and 28th percentile since 1978. Feeder counters and their results are, as of yet, not included in these results. Highlights include: Snow Bunting, Brown Thrasher, Barred Owl, American Pipit, Peregrine Falcon, Merlin, Great Cormorant, Horned Lark, Redhead, Wild Turkey, Black Vulture, and Snow Goose (fly overs). New High Counts were established for: Snow Goose, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Pileated Woodpecker, and Common Raven. Notable Misses include: American Kestrel, Red-breasted Nuthatch, and Purple Finch. The top five most abundant species were European Starling (4232), Canada Goose (4130), Common Merganser (1208), Common Grackle (1203), and Ring-billed Gull (1184). Together, these species make up 59% of the total count number. Thanks to all that participated in our count! Complete results will be posted on the Rockland Audubon Society <http://www.rocklandaudubon.org/ras_cbc.htm> website as soon as available. Alan Wells Rockland CBC Compiler -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Winding Waters Yellow-breasted Chat
Yellow-breasted Chat found at approximately 9:30 am 5/20/2017 at Winding Waters Trail, Wallkill River NWR, Orange Co., NY. Singing from two large trees near the Fonzin Family Bench, about 1/3 mi from parking area just off Oil City/Stateline Rd (just where the river and trail bend to the left, 41.290995,-74.529332). Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Winding Waters Yellow-breasted Chat
Yellow-breasted Chat found at approximately 9:30 am 5/20/2017 at Winding Waters Trail, Wallkill River NWR, Orange Co., NY. Singing from two large trees near the Fonzin Family Bench, about 1/3 mi from parking area just off Oil City/Stateline Rd (just where the river and trail bend to the left, 41.290995,-74.529332). Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Spring Birding at Doodletown, Bear Mountain State Park
Hi all, For anyone planning a trip to Doodletown, Bear Mountain State Park this Spring, please be aware of the following: (1) On Saturday May 13 and Sunday May 14 the North Face Endurance Challenge foot race is being held at Doodletown. The race course takes runners up and back along the main trails with numerous events taking place throughout the day. Races will start at 5 AM and continue to 5 PM on both days. Up to approximately 1600 runners may be expected. Parking during the event is restricted to the Anthony Wayne Recreation Area with shuttle bus service to Doodletown. (I am guessing that non-event participants will not be allowed to park along Route 9W). Given that Doodletown is an IBA/BCA hosting several listed species (Cerulean Warbler, Whip-poor-will, Timber Rattlesnake, among others), it certainly seems imprudent to hold this event during such a critical time period. While it appears to be too late to prevent the race this year (objections have already been raised to PIPC), hopefully we can prevent or schedule it for a less critical time period in the future. (2) On Sunday May 21 (the following weekend!), the Gran Fondo New York bike race is being held. A portion of the course follows Route 9W below Doodletown. It is likely that, as last year, Route 9w will be closed for much of the day. This closes all parking and thereby, for all practical purposes, denies access to Doodletown during the period of road closure. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Spring Birding at Doodletown, Bear Mountain State Park
Hi all, For anyone planning a trip to Doodletown, Bear Mountain State Park this Spring, please be aware of the following: (1) On Saturday May 13 and Sunday May 14 the North Face Endurance Challenge foot race is being held at Doodletown. The race course takes runners up and back along the main trails with numerous events taking place throughout the day. Races will start at 5 AM and continue to 5 PM on both days. Up to approximately 1600 runners may be expected. Parking during the event is restricted to the Anthony Wayne Recreation Area with shuttle bus service to Doodletown. (I am guessing that non-event participants will not be allowed to park along Route 9W). Given that Doodletown is an IBA/BCA hosting several listed species (Cerulean Warbler, Whip-poor-will, Timber Rattlesnake, among others), it certainly seems imprudent to hold this event during such a critical time period. While it appears to be too late to prevent the race this year (objections have already been raised to PIPC), hopefully we can prevent or schedule it for a less critical time period in the future. (2) On Sunday May 21 (the following weekend!), the Gran Fondo New York bike race is being held. A portion of the course follows Route 9W below Doodletown. It is likely that, as last year, Route 9w will be closed for much of the day. This closes all parking and thereby, for all practical purposes, denies access to Doodletown during the period of road closure. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Nyack Beach State Park Trumpeter Swan
Sorry for the late post but I wanted to finish processing the photos and to get some fresh eyes on them. Yesterday around noon I was able to get back to try for the Trumpeter Swan at Nyack Beach State Park (after dipping last week). This time it was easily located, feeding about 20-30 feet of directly off the State beach and parking area seawall. The light was decent that day and I was able to get a number of clear photos. I have posted three shots to my Flickr site (see link below). One of the photos shows what appears to be damage to the base of the right wing (not the kind of damage associated with wing clipping). I also noticed that on the occasions when the associated geese would take off and fly, the swan up raise up and start flapping, but would then settle back down. I never saw it fly. I stupidly forgot to try to get shots of the legs to look for bands. This would have been easy to do when the bird was actively feeding. I did, inadvertently, obtain two suboptimal shots while it was feeding. These clearly show no evidence of a band on the right leg. One photo does show a hint of a light area that could be a band on the left leg, but I can't rule out that this is just the feathering on the leg. Anyone going to see this bird might try to get a clear shot of the left leg/foot. Alan Wells By the way, if you go, the Beach parking lot is not open and there is no legal street parking in the immediate vicinity. I had my wife stay with the car. See the last three photos in the "Swans" album: https://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/albums/72157639248455094 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Nyack Beach State Park Trumpeter Swan
Sorry for the late post but I wanted to finish processing the photos and to get some fresh eyes on them. Yesterday around noon I was able to get back to try for the Trumpeter Swan at Nyack Beach State Park (after dipping last week). This time it was easily located, feeding about 20-30 feet of directly off the State beach and parking area seawall. The light was decent that day and I was able to get a number of clear photos. I have posted three shots to my Flickr site (see link below). One of the photos shows what appears to be damage to the base of the right wing (not the kind of damage associated with wing clipping). I also noticed that on the occasions when the associated geese would take off and fly, the swan up raise up and start flapping, but would then settle back down. I never saw it fly. I stupidly forgot to try to get shots of the legs to look for bands. This would have been easy to do when the bird was actively feeding. I did, inadvertently, obtain two suboptimal shots while it was feeding. These clearly show no evidence of a band on the right leg. One photo does show a hint of a light area that could be a band on the left leg, but I can't rule out that this is just the feathering on the leg. Anyone going to see this bird might try to get a clear shot of the left leg/foot. Alan Wells By the way, if you go, the Beach parking lot is not open and there is no legal street parking in the immediate vicinity. I had my wife stay with the car. See the last three photos in the "Swans" album: https://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/albums/72157639248455094 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Nyack Beach SP Trumpeter Swan NO
10:30am: Trumpeter Swan NOT sighted at Nyack Beach SP Sent from my iPhone -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Nyack Beach SP Trumpeter Swan NO
10:30am: Trumpeter Swan NOT sighted at Nyack Beach SP Sent from my iPhone -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Preliminary Rockland Co. CBC summary, 2016
PRELIMINARY ROCKLAND COUNTY CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT SUMMARY, 2016 The 70th annual Rockland County Christmas Bird Count was held on Sunday, December 18, 2016. A total of 35 field counters and 5 feeders counter participated. Weather conditions were poor throughout the entire day. The count was dogged by heavy fog and periodic rain/drizzle until about 1:30 PM. At that time a rapidly moving cold front brought wind gusts over 30 mph and a precipitous drop in air temperature. The field and feeder counters reported a total of 11,552 individuals representing 88 species. This is the 6th highest species count (91th percentile) for the entire count period 1947-2016 and the 6th highest (85th percentile for the period 1978-2016 (when the circle center was moved to the present location). The total number of individuals is, however, low. It is the 25th lowest count (36th percentile for the period 1947-2016 and the 2nd lowest count (3rd percentile for the period 1978-2016. The ongoing Count Week period (ongoing until 12/21/2016) has yielded 2 additional species to date, bringing the overall species count to 90. New Species: Only one new species has been added this year, a juvenile Baltimore Oriole showed up on a feeder for several days prior to count day. Unfortunately, it failed to make an appearance on count day. New High Counts: The only new high count established this year is for Horned Lark. The new high count is 56 compared to 40 established in 2007. Unusual Sightings: Two Evening Grosbeak. This species has not been seen on a Rockland County CBC since 1986. Two Merlin, one on count day and a second during count week (not counted). Merlin have occurred in only 9 years since 1947 (first sighting was not until 1992). Noteable Misses: American Kestrel reported 55 times since 1947; Hermit Thrush (although found during Count Week) reported 47 times since 1947; Yellow-rumped Warbler reported 53 times since 1947; Field Sparrow reported 56 times since 1947; and Purple Finch reported 60 times since 1947. Top 10 species: European Starling (2572), Canada Goose (2008), Ring-billed Gull (1144), Dark-eyed Junco (756), House Sparrow (716), Mallard (568), American Robin (442), Common Merganser (354), Blue Jay (339), and Mourning Dove (248). These 10 species make up a total of 76% of the total individuals counted. Alan Wells Compiler, Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Preliminary Rockland Co. CBC summary, 2016
PRELIMINARY ROCKLAND COUNTY CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT SUMMARY, 2016 The 70th annual Rockland County Christmas Bird Count was held on Sunday, December 18, 2016. A total of 35 field counters and 5 feeders counter participated. Weather conditions were poor throughout the entire day. The count was dogged by heavy fog and periodic rain/drizzle until about 1:30 PM. At that time a rapidly moving cold front brought wind gusts over 30 mph and a precipitous drop in air temperature. The field and feeder counters reported a total of 11,552 individuals representing 88 species. This is the 6th highest species count (91th percentile) for the entire count period 1947-2016 and the 6th highest (85th percentile for the period 1978-2016 (when the circle center was moved to the present location). The total number of individuals is, however, low. It is the 25th lowest count (36th percentile for the period 1947-2016 and the 2nd lowest count (3rd percentile for the period 1978-2016. The ongoing Count Week period (ongoing until 12/21/2016) has yielded 2 additional species to date, bringing the overall species count to 90. New Species: Only one new species has been added this year, a juvenile Baltimore Oriole showed up on a feeder for several days prior to count day. Unfortunately, it failed to make an appearance on count day. New High Counts: The only new high count established this year is for Horned Lark. The new high count is 56 compared to 40 established in 2007. Unusual Sightings: Two Evening Grosbeak. This species has not been seen on a Rockland County CBC since 1986. Two Merlin, one on count day and a second during count week (not counted). Merlin have occurred in only 9 years since 1947 (first sighting was not until 1992). Noteable Misses: American Kestrel reported 55 times since 1947; Hermit Thrush (although found during Count Week) reported 47 times since 1947; Yellow-rumped Warbler reported 53 times since 1947; Field Sparrow reported 56 times since 1947; and Purple Finch reported 60 times since 1947. Top 10 species: European Starling (2572), Canada Goose (2008), Ring-billed Gull (1144), Dark-eyed Junco (756), House Sparrow (716), Mallard (568), American Robin (442), Common Merganser (354), Blue Jay (339), and Mourning Dove (248). These 10 species make up a total of 76% of the total individuals counted. Alan Wells Compiler, Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] RE Doodletown/Iona Spring Migrant Trips on May 15
Anyone planning a trip to the popular Doodletown and Iona Island sites (Bear Mountain State Park) on Sunday, May 15, 2016 may want to reschedule for some other day. The Campagnolo Gran Frodo bike race is scheduled for that day. We just spoke to the Palisades Interstate Park Police and the Bear Mountain Administration staff, who confirmed that Route 9W in that area will be completely closed from Sunday morning (12 AM) to 1:00 PM Sunday afternoon, thereby blocking access to both Doodletown and Iona Island. It also appears that part of Seven Lakes Drive will also be closed thereby blocking entrance to the small parking area that allows access to Doodletown via Lemmon Road (we did not confirm this with Park staff, but is indicated by the race map). Definitely poor planning on someone's part! This race started several years ago and has been growing in popularity ever since (https://gfny.com/). It seems unlikely that birders and hikers can do little to change the closure for this year, but maybe we can lobby for input regarding future races. Alan Wells Rockland Co. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] RE Doodletown/Iona Spring Migrant Trips on May 15
Anyone planning a trip to the popular Doodletown and Iona Island sites (Bear Mountain State Park) on Sunday, May 15, 2016 may want to reschedule for some other day. The Campagnolo Gran Frodo bike race is scheduled for that day. We just spoke to the Palisades Interstate Park Police and the Bear Mountain Administration staff, who confirmed that Route 9W in that area will be completely closed from Sunday morning (12 AM) to 1:00 PM Sunday afternoon, thereby blocking access to both Doodletown and Iona Island. It also appears that part of Seven Lakes Drive will also be closed thereby blocking entrance to the small parking area that allows access to Doodletown via Lemmon Road (we did not confirm this with Park staff, but is indicated by the race map). Definitely poor planning on someone's part! This race started several years ago and has been growing in popularity ever since (https://gfny.com/). It seems unlikely that birders and hikers can do little to change the closure for this year, but maybe we can lobby for input regarding future races. Alan Wells Rockland Co. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] "Gray-bellied" Brant at Point Lookout, Nassau Co.
Hi Shane, Thanks for your input. Yes, I agree that our bird looks very much like your photo. The Point Lookout bird may well be a first winter Atlantic Brant. I had assumed that the bird we saw was a juvenile due to the lack of the collar and thought that might explain the size differential. Given that the juveniles of all the races have some degree of darkening on the flanks (likely subject to considerable overlap), I am not really sure how to distinguish among them. Any suggestions? Any thoughts on the bird reported by Michael? Possible juvenile as well? Alan Sent from my iPad > On Jan 2, 2016, at 5:53 PM, Shane Blodgett wrote: > > Alan- > > This looks more like a first winter Brant to me with the pale feather edgings > on the back and the lack of a neck sock. Here is a photo for comparison: > https://www.flickr.com/photos/puttefin/4125119866 > > Regards, > Shane Blodgett > Brooklyn NY > > Sent from my iPhone > >> On Jan 2, 2016, at 5:34 PM, Alan Wells wrote: >> >> Sorry for the late post, but I just got back to the rest of my photos from >> yesterday’s Jones Beach/Point Lookout trip. Based on the photos, it appears >> that we may have found the possible “Gray-bellied” (or Black?) Brant >> reported by Michael McBrien. It was swimming with typical Atlantic Brant in >> the Jones Inlet on the Point Lookout side of the channel. I have posted a >> photo in my eBird Album on Flickr (at >> https://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/albums). Sorry for the poor quality, >> but the bird was distance and the sky was very overcast. >> >> What caught our attention first was the much smaller size of this bird when >> compared to the Atlantic Brant with which it was keeping company. The >> difference was so apparent that members of our group jokingly referred to >> this bird as a Cackling Brant! >> >> Alan Wells >> >> -- >> NYSbirds-L List Info: >> Welcome and Basics >> Rules and Information >> Subscribe, Configuration and Leave >> Archives: >> The Mail Archive >> Surfbirds >> BirdingOnThe.Net >> Please submit your observations to eBird! >> -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] "Gray-bellied" Brant at Point Lookout, Nassau Co.
Sorry for the late post, but I just got back to the rest of my photos from yesterday's Jones Beach/Point Lookout trip. Based on the photos, it appears that we may have found the possible "Gray-bellied" (or Black?) Brant reported by Michael McBrien. It was swimming with typical Atlantic Brant in the Jones Inlet on the Point Lookout side of the channel. I have posted a photo in my eBird Album on Flickr (at https://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/albums). Sorry for the poor quality, but the bird was distance and the sky was very overcast. What caught our attention first was the much smaller size of this bird when compared to the Atlantic Brant with which it was keeping company. The difference was so apparent that members of our group jokingly referred to this bird as a Cackling Brant! Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Croton Point Lark Sparrow - Yes
Found this morning in the pines trees where the path to the Nature Center meets the main parking lot. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Croton Point Lark Sparrow - Yes
Found this morning in the pines trees where the path to the Nature Center meets the main parking lot. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] "Gray-bellied" Brant at Point Lookout, Nassau Co.
Hi Shane, Thanks for your input. Yes, I agree that our bird looks very much like your photo. The Point Lookout bird may well be a first winter Atlantic Brant. I had assumed that the bird we saw was a juvenile due to the lack of the collar and thought that might explain the size differential. Given that the juveniles of all the races have some degree of darkening on the flanks (likely subject to considerable overlap), I am not really sure how to distinguish among them. Any suggestions? Any thoughts on the bird reported by Michael? Possible juvenile as well? Alan Sent from my iPad > On Jan 2, 2016, at 5:53 PM, Shane Blodgett <shaneblodg...@yahoo.com> wrote: > > Alan- > > This looks more like a first winter Brant to me with the pale feather edgings > on the back and the lack of a neck sock. Here is a photo for comparison: > https://www.flickr.com/photos/puttefin/4125119866 > > Regards, > Shane Blodgett > Brooklyn NY > > Sent from my iPhone > >> On Jan 2, 2016, at 5:34 PM, Alan Wells <awe...@bestweb.net> wrote: >> >> Sorry for the late post, but I just got back to the rest of my photos from >> yesterday’s Jones Beach/Point Lookout trip. Based on the photos, it appears >> that we may have found the possible “Gray-bellied” (or Black?) Brant >> reported by Michael McBrien. It was swimming with typical Atlantic Brant in >> the Jones Inlet on the Point Lookout side of the channel. I have posted a >> photo in my eBird Album on Flickr (at >> https://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/albums). Sorry for the poor quality, >> but the bird was distance and the sky was very overcast. >> >> What caught our attention first was the much smaller size of this bird when >> compared to the Atlantic Brant with which it was keeping company. The >> difference was so apparent that members of our group jokingly referred to >> this bird as a Cackling Brant! >> >> Alan Wells >> >> -- >> NYSbirds-L List Info: >> Welcome and Basics >> Rules and Information >> Subscribe, Configuration and Leave >> Archives: >> The Mail Archive >> Surfbirds >> BirdingOnThe.Net >> Please submit your observations to eBird! >> -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] "Gray-bellied" Brant at Point Lookout, Nassau Co.
Sorry for the late post, but I just got back to the rest of my photos from yesterday's Jones Beach/Point Lookout trip. Based on the photos, it appears that we may have found the possible "Gray-bellied" (or Black?) Brant reported by Michael McBrien. It was swimming with typical Atlantic Brant in the Jones Inlet on the Point Lookout side of the channel. I have posted a photo in my eBird Album on Flickr (at https://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/albums). Sorry for the poor quality, but the bird was distance and the sky was very overcast. What caught our attention first was the much smaller size of this bird when compared to the Atlantic Brant with which it was keeping company. The difference was so apparent that members of our group jokingly referred to this bird as a Cackling Brant! Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Pt Lookout Lark Sparrow - Directions and Photo
Hi all, Sorry for my poor initial directions, but I was trying to get the word out quickly and am not very familiar with the landmarks at the Point. Here are the more detailed directions: At the end of Lido Blvd, Point Lookout, Nassau Co., enter the gate to Fireman's Park. About 125 yards toward the water there is a small dirt path on the right paralleling the Jones Inlet Channel. Follow this path. The bird was first encountered about 75 yards along this path in a somewhat sandy area. It was feeding in the path, but flew to a small bare tree (fallen over a black pipe) about 10 feet off the right side of the path as I approached. It remained there for a full 5 to 10 minutes while my entire group obtained excellent views (bins not necessary!). GPS Lat/Lon coordinates are 40.59144, -73.57622. When we decided to move on, it continued feeding along the path a few yards in front of us. Finally, after about 100 yards of this, it jumped to another small bare shrub about 3 yards of the right side of the path. GPS Lat/Lon coordinates are 40.59068, -73.57659. It remained there as we continued to walk by. It is a very sharp looking bird (see photo at https://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/albums, under eBird Photos ) and is very cooperative. Alan Wells Rockland Co. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Pt lookout lark sparrow now
Lark sparrow at Pt Lookout, Firemans Park, just as path heads out along canal. Details and photo later. Alan Wells Sent from my iPhone -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Pt lookout lark sparrow now
Lark sparrow at Pt Lookout, Firemans Park, just as path heads out along canal. Details and photo later. Alan Wells Sent from my iPhone -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland County CBC - Preliminary Results
Preliminary results for Rockland County CBC, December 20, 2015 (excluding Feeder Counts) Rockland Audubon Society conducted its 69th annual Christmas Bird Count today, Sunday, December 20. Forty-one individuals participated in the field count, tallying 20,870 birds representing 78 species. Two additional species, Red-shouldered Hawk and Eastern Towhee, were observed during the first three days of count week. New maximum counts were established for Turkey Vulture (105 vs 78 in 2014), Common Raven (16 vs 15 in 2014), and American Robin (3701 vs 1115 in 2009). There were five notable misses: Scaup spp. (seen in 49 years), American Kestrel (seen in 55 years), Brown Creeper (seen in 66 years), Yellow-rumped Warbler (seen in 53 years), and Brown-headed Cowbird (seen in 49 years). Overall, both the number of species seen and the total number counted is typical for the period 1947 through 2014. The number of species ranks in the 60th percentile while the number of individuals ranks in the 59th percentile. However, when compared to our more modern count period (1975-2014), the numbers of species (40th percentile) and the number of individuals (30th percentile) is lower than normal. Thanks to all that participated! Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society CBC Compiler -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland County CBC - Preliminary Results
Preliminary results for Rockland County CBC, December 20, 2015 (excluding Feeder Counts) Rockland Audubon Society conducted its 69th annual Christmas Bird Count today, Sunday, December 20. Forty-one individuals participated in the field count, tallying 20,870 birds representing 78 species. Two additional species, Red-shouldered Hawk and Eastern Towhee, were observed during the first three days of count week. New maximum counts were established for Turkey Vulture (105 vs 78 in 2014), Common Raven (16 vs 15 in 2014), and American Robin (3701 vs 1115 in 2009). There were five notable misses: Scaup spp. (seen in 49 years), American Kestrel (seen in 55 years), Brown Creeper (seen in 66 years), Yellow-rumped Warbler (seen in 53 years), and Brown-headed Cowbird (seen in 49 years). Overall, both the number of species seen and the total number counted is typical for the period 1947 through 2014. The number of species ranks in the 60th percentile while the number of individuals ranks in the 59th percentile. However, when compared to our more modern count period (1975-2014), the numbers of species (40th percentile) and the number of individuals (30th percentile) is lower than normal. Thanks to all that participated! Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society CBC Compiler -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Stony Point Battlefield, Rockland Co., Birds
Rockland Audubon held a walk this morning at the Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site, Rockland Co., NY (listed as Stony Point SP on ebird). Highlights of the trip included: Yellow Warbler - at least 8, but significantly under counted Blue Jay - large flights of migrants, over 85 seen Fish Crow - Flight of 11 seen headed NE (total of 13 seen for the morning) Gray Catbird, at least 6 individuals Great Horned Owl - brief glimpse as one passed through the trees Brown Thrasher - three individuals singing Common Yellowthroat - one Baltimore Oriole - at least three brightly colored males singing Orchard Oriole - one 1st year male singing Warbling Vireo - one Bald Eagle - adult seen soaring over Haverstraw Bay In all, 48 species were seen during the trip, plus one Common Raven heard about an hour afterward. The complete trip list and photos can be seen at: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S23179601 Alan Wells Rockland, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Stony Point Battlefield, Rockland Co., Birds
Rockland Audubon held a walk this morning at the Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site, Rockland Co., NY (listed as Stony Point SP on ebird). Highlights of the trip included: Yellow Warbler - at least 8, but significantly under counted Blue Jay - large flights of migrants, over 85 seen Fish Crow - Flight of 11 seen headed NE (total of 13 seen for the morning) Gray Catbird, at least 6 individuals Great Horned Owl - brief glimpse as one passed through the trees Brown Thrasher - three individuals singing Common Yellowthroat - one Baltimore Oriole - at least three brightly colored males singing Orchard Oriole - one 1st year male singing Warbling Vireo - one Bald Eagle - adult seen soaring over Haverstraw Bay In all, 48 species were seen during the trip, plus one Common Raven heard about an hour afterward. The complete trip list and photos can be seen at: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S23179601 Alan Wells Rockland, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Doodletown, Rockland Co., - Warblers
Warblers are beginning to arrive at Doodletown, Bear Mountain State Park, Rockland Co. On Wednesday (4/29/2015) morning my wife and I found: Yellow-rumped Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Palm Warbler Cerulean Warbler, FOS male singing half-heartedly, early arrival Black-and-white Warbler Louisiana Waterthrush Hooded Warbler FOS, male singing For the full Doodletown list: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S23129160 Later that day, at the Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Park, we observed a group of approximately 40 Bonaparte's Gull loafing on the Hudson River just off the point. Most were in breeding plumage. It is unusual to see them this far upriver. Alan Wells Rockland Co. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Doodletown, Rockland Co., - Warblers
Warblers are beginning to arrive at Doodletown, Bear Mountain State Park, Rockland Co. On Wednesday (4/29/2015) morning my wife and I found: Yellow-rumped Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Palm Warbler Cerulean Warbler, FOS male singing half-heartedly, early arrival Black-and-white Warbler Louisiana Waterthrush Hooded Warbler FOS, male singing For the full Doodletown list: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S23129160 Later that day, at the Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Park, we observed a group of approximately 40 Bonaparte's Gull loafing on the Hudson River just off the point. Most were in breeding plumage. It is unusual to see them this far upriver. Alan Wells Rockland Co. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Montgomery [Orange Co.] Crested Caracara
Hi all, Yesterday, while viewing and photographing the Crested Caracara in Montgomery, NY, I met a young man that had driven down from Ithaca to see the bird (I took him to be a Cornell ornithology student). After examining the bird through his scope, he mentioned that he thought the bird's left eye was either missing or damaged. My photographs aren't clear enough to say definitively, but do suggest that something is different about the left eye. Anyone else notice this? Alan Wells Rockland Co. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Montgomery [Orange Co.] Crested Caracara
Hi all, Yesterday, while viewing and photographing the Crested Caracara in Montgomery, NY, I met a young man that had driven down from Ithaca to see the bird (I took him to be a Cornell ornithology student). After examining the bird through his scope, he mentioned that he thought the bird's left eye was either missing or damaged. My photographs aren't clear enough to say definitively, but do suggest that something is different about the left eye. Anyone else notice this? Alan Wells Rockland Co. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Caracara update
Caracara has moved back to golf course at approx 2 pm. Sent from my iPhone -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Jones Beach Black-headed Gull photos
Photographs of the 1st Winter Black-headed Gull reported on January 1, 2015 from Jones Beach State Park (Nassau Co.) Field #10 fisherman's pier, may be viewed at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/. Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Jones Beach Black-headed Gull photos
Photographs of the 1st Winter Black-headed Gull reported on January 1, 2015 from Jones Beach State Park (Nassau Co.) Field #10 fisherman's pier, may be viewed at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/. Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland 68th CBC Summary
The 68th Rockland County Christmas Bird Count was held Sunday, December 14, 2014. Temperatures ranged from 34 to 44 °F with Dew Point temperatures ranging from approximately 29 to 32.7 °F. Peak wind gusts ranged from approximately 3 to 10 mph from the N/NW throughout the day. No snow on the ground and ponds and rivers were ice free. Forty-one field counters and eight feeder counters tallied 16,115 individuals representing 88 species (plus American Black Duck X Mallard hybrid). One additional speciesa single Snow Goose was found during Count Week. The number of species is about average for the post-1978 period (when count areas were standardized). The number of individuals counted is below the median count for both periods (post-1978 = 25,062; post-2003 = 20,149). The top five speciesCanada Goose (4,238), European Starling (2,323), Ring-billed Gull (1,446), Common Merganser (985), and House Sparrow (797)made up 61% of the total number counted. Highlights: Red-necked Grebe New to the count in 2014. Two seen at Piermont Pier headed downriver. Searched for the following day but not found. Glaucous Gull Juvenile seen at Piermont Pier. Only 4th occurrence on count. Not found the following day. Short-eared Owl 5th occurrence on count. Common Loon 9th occurrence on count. Seen in Hudson River at entrance to Bowline Pond. Headed upriver after a small boat passed nearby. Wilsons Snipe 16th occurrence on count. Misses: Swamp Sparrow seen in 59 previous years. Common Goldeneye - seen in 58 previous years. Eastern Towhee - seen in 48 previous years. Killdeer - seen in 34 previous years. Ruffed Grouse and Ring-necked Pheasant were again missed this year. Both have been seen in 40 past years, but are now are likely extirpated from the county. Ruffed Grouse have not been counted since 2001 and Pheasant not since 1995. Thanks to all of the Rockland field and feeder counters! Complete count details will be posted to www.rocklandaudubon.org within a few days. Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society, Compiler -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland 68th CBC Summary
The 68th Rockland County Christmas Bird Count was held Sunday, December 14, 2014. Temperatures ranged from 34 to 44 °F with Dew Point temperatures ranging from approximately 29 to 32.7 °F. Peak wind gusts ranged from approximately 3 to 10 mph from the N/NW throughout the day. No snow on the ground and ponds and rivers were ice free. Forty-one field counters and eight feeder counters tallied 16,115 individuals representing 88 species (plus American Black Duck X Mallard hybrid). One additional speciesa single Snow Goose was found during Count Week. The number of species is about average for the post-1978 period (when count areas were standardized). The number of individuals counted is below the median count for both periods (post-1978 = 25,062; post-2003 = 20,149). The top five speciesCanada Goose (4,238), European Starling (2,323), Ring-billed Gull (1,446), Common Merganser (985), and House Sparrow (797)made up 61% of the total number counted. Highlights: Red-necked Grebe New to the count in 2014. Two seen at Piermont Pier headed downriver. Searched for the following day but not found. Glaucous Gull Juvenile seen at Piermont Pier. Only 4th occurrence on count. Not found the following day. Short-eared Owl 5th occurrence on count. Common Loon 9th occurrence on count. Seen in Hudson River at entrance to Bowline Pond. Headed upriver after a small boat passed nearby. Wilsons Snipe 16th occurrence on count. Misses: Swamp Sparrow seen in 59 previous years. Common Goldeneye - seen in 58 previous years. Eastern Towhee - seen in 48 previous years. Killdeer - seen in 34 previous years. Ruffed Grouse and Ring-necked Pheasant were again missed this year. Both have been seen in 40 past years, but are now are likely extirpated from the county. Ruffed Grouse have not been counted since 2001 and Pheasant not since 1995. Thanks to all of the Rockland field and feeder counters! Complete count details will be posted to www.rocklandaudubon.org within a few days. Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society, Compiler -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Red-necked Grebe from Piermont Pier, Rockland Co.
The Red-necked grebe reported by Evan Mark at Piermont Pier, Rockland Co., was seen at approximately 2:00 PM (1/27/2014) well out into the main channel of the Hudson River just slightly upriver from the end of the pier. The bird was in the scope for about a minute, but was frequently obscured by whitecaps. I left for about 2 minutes to retrieve my camera but could not relocate the bird when I returned. Probably still around but the high winds and chop on the river made viewing difficult. Alan Wells Tomkins Cove, Rockland Co. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Red-necked Grebe from Piermont Pier, Rockland Co.
The Red-necked grebe reported by Evan Mark at Piermont Pier, Rockland Co., was seen at approximately 2:00 PM (1/27/2014) well out into the main channel of the Hudson River just slightly upriver from the end of the pier. The bird was in the scope for about a minute, but was frequently obscured by whitecaps. I left for about 2 minutes to retrieve my camera but could not relocate the bird when I returned. Probably still around but the high winds and chop on the river made viewing difficult. Alan Wells Tomkins Cove, Rockland Co. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] "White-winged" American Crow at Bear Mountain State Park
On the morning of December 28, my wife and I were heading north on Route 9W in Bear Mountain State Park. As we passed a small pullout for the Jones Point Path (41.296018,-73.984651) just south of Iona Island, a medium-sized bird flew up from the ground. The bird was all black except for very prominent, symmetrical, white wing patches on the dorsal and ventral surface of the wings. My first thought was a Black Vulture, common along this stretch of road. However, the white was too extensive. Additionally, the bird was somewhat smaller than a vulture. Other than the wing patches, the bird appeared to resemble a crow. After a short discussion, we decided to go back and look for the bird. When we got to the pullout it was nowhere to be seen, but after a few minutes we heard an American Crow calling off in the distance. The crow was downhill on the other side of a band of trees, but seemed to be working closer. When we were finally able to locate it, we could clearly see the white patches when it flew. A small white patch could be seen even when the bird was at rest. I tried for a few photographs, but the dim light and thick vegetation prevented any clear shots. After a minute or two, the bird took off toward Doodletown (to the northwest). Anyone in the Doodletown/Iona Island area may want to look out for this unusual looking bird. My poor (extremely!) photos of the bird are posted at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/sets/72157639163371745/. A Google search for "White-Winged Crow" reveals several photos of a few similarly patterned crows. Alan and Della Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] White-winged American Crow at Bear Mountain State Park
On the morning of December 28, my wife and I were heading north on Route 9W in Bear Mountain State Park. As we passed a small pullout for the Jones Point Path (41.296018,-73.984651) just south of Iona Island, a medium-sized bird flew up from the ground. The bird was all black except for very prominent, symmetrical, white wing patches on the dorsal and ventral surface of the wings. My first thought was a Black Vulture, common along this stretch of road. However, the white was too extensive. Additionally, the bird was somewhat smaller than a vulture. Other than the wing patches, the bird appeared to resemble a crow. After a short discussion, we decided to go back and look for the bird. When we got to the pullout it was nowhere to be seen, but after a few minutes we heard an American Crow calling off in the distance. The crow was downhill on the other side of a band of trees, but seemed to be working closer. When we were finally able to locate it, we could clearly see the white patches when it flew. A small white patch could be seen even when the bird was at rest. I tried for a few photographs, but the dim light and thick vegetation prevented any clear shots. After a minute or two, the bird took off toward Doodletown (to the northwest). Anyone in the Doodletown/Iona Island area may want to look out for this unusual looking bird. My poor (extremely!) photos of the bird are posted at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/sets/72157639163371745/. A Google search for White-Winged Crow reveals several photos of a few similarly patterned crows. Alan and Della Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Preliminary 2013 CBC Results Summary, NYRC (Rockland Co.)
The 67th Rockland County Christmas Bird Count was held Sunday, December 15. Thirty-two field counters and eight feeder counters tallied 14,501 individuals representing 84 species (81 Count Day + 3 Count Week). The number of species is about average for the post-1978 period (when count areas were standardized), but slightly below average for the past 10 years. The number of individuals counted is well below the median count for both periods (post-1978 = 25,820; post-2003 = 20,367). Snowy and icy roads from the previous days snow storm resulted in a delayed start time for most count teams. Weather: Temperatures ranged from 28 to 38 °F; peak wind gusts ranged from 10 mph in the morning to 22 mph in the afternoon. Approximately 4 to 6 inches of snow covered the ground and most ponds were 90-95% ice covered. The Hudson River was nearly ice free. Count Highlights: Rockland 2013 CBC Rarities Red-headed Woodpecker and American Pipit appeared on three previous counts; Northern Pintail appeared on six previous counts. In 2013 Black Vulture was once again reported. The species first occurred on the 1995 count but was not seen consistently until 2005. The 53 individuals counted this year was typical of post 2005 counts The Common Raven count of 12 was the second highest Rockland count since the species first made its appearance in 1998. It has been seen every year since that date. New Maximum Canada Goose (4,398 vs 4,359 in 1998), Hooded Merganser (147 vs 130 in 2001). Declines (based on percentage decline from 1947-2012 median) - American Crow (95% decline), European Starling (72% decline), Canvasback (57% decline), Common Grackle (55% decline), Mourning Dove (54% decline), and Rock Pigeon 53% decline). Misses (typically seen in about three out of four years) American Kestrel (rare in recent years), Purple Finch, Field Sparrow, and Fox Sparrow were not reported. Alan Wells Compiler -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] White-winged Junco in Rockland Co.
Hi All, Carol Weiss, Rockland Audubon Society's recorder of rare and unusual birds in Rockland Co., received the following report from Doris Metraux. "On Friday afternoon I was puzzled by something bright white in one of my shrubs. A White-winged Junco (Junco hyemalis aikeni) was giving me a frontal view. The bird clearly wanted to come for my seed which I throw on the ground. When he changed his location and briefly perched on a flowerbox I got a good look until one of my ordinary juncos became very belligerent and chased him away. Since I have no picture my description will have to do: He was quite a bit larger than his wintering cousins, had a snow-white belly, a bone-colored big bill, black lores and was otherwise pale gray with a light brown wash on his back. He also had two very distinct wingbars on each side. " Doris is longtime RAS member and a very experienced, reliable observer. She lives in the Stony Point area of Rockland Co., NY. As I was not familiar with this subspecies in southern New York, I checked a few sources for previous County records. The Oregon and Pink-sided forms have been recorded sporadically from Rockland Co., but I could find no previous records of the White-wing form. According to Bull's Birds of New York State (1998 edition, ed. Levine), there were no know records of the White-winged form from NY State. The winter range of this form appears to be restricted to the Great Plains and adjacent mountain states. Levine does mention that approximately 2-3% of the Slate-colored Juncos have white on the wings, but still can be separated by size (aikeni is larger). My question: are there any list members familiar with this form? If so, are you aware of any previous records in our area? I guess I now need to start checking all of those juncos a little more closely! Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] White-winged Junco in Rockland Co.
Hi All, Carol Weiss, Rockland Audubon Society's recorder of rare and unusual birds in Rockland Co., received the following report from Doris Metraux. On Friday afternoon I was puzzled by something bright white in one of my shrubs. A White-winged Junco (Junco hyemalis aikeni) was giving me a frontal view. The bird clearly wanted to come for my seed which I throw on the ground. When he changed his location and briefly perched on a flowerbox I got a good look until one of my ordinary juncos became very belligerent and chased him away. Since I have no picture my description will have to do: He was quite a bit larger than his wintering cousins, had a snow-white belly, a bone-colored big bill, black lores and was otherwise pale gray with a light brown wash on his back. He also had two very distinct wingbars on each side. Doris is longtime RAS member and a very experienced, reliable observer. She lives in the Stony Point area of Rockland Co., NY. As I was not familiar with this subspecies in southern New York, I checked a few sources for previous County records. The Oregon and Pink-sided forms have been recorded sporadically from Rockland Co., but I could find no previous records of the White-wing form. According to Bull's Birds of New York State (1998 edition, ed. Levine), there were no know records of the White-winged form from NY State. The winter range of this form appears to be restricted to the Great Plains and adjacent mountain states. Levine does mention that approximately 2-3% of the Slate-colored Juncos have white on the wings, but still can be separated by size (aikeni is larger). My question: are there any list members familiar with this form? If so, are you aware of any previous records in our area? I guess I now need to start checking all of those juncos a little more closely! Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] 2012 Rockland County CBC Results - Preliminary
Preliminary 2012 Preliminary CBC Results The 66th Annual Rockland County CBC was conducted on December 16, 2012. Thirty-nine field counters covered eight of the nine sub-regions within the Rockland count circle. (On average, the missing sub-region adds approximately 1,470 individuals to the total count.) Air temperatures remained near 40°F with a light to moderate rain persisting throughout much of the day. All water bodies were open and ice-free. A total of 13,826 individual birds representing 87 species was counted. The count includes one count week species and one feeder count report. The number of species observed in 2012 is fairly typical. The range for 1947 through 2011 is 47 to 92 species with an average of 74. The number of individuals counted, however, is somewhat on the low side. For 1947-2011, counts range from 2,275 to 59,622 with an average of 18,975. For 2012, the top three most abundant species were: European Starling (3,568), Canada Goose (3,015), and Ring-billed Gull (1,403). Together, these three species make up nearly 58% of the total count. The full count will be posted, along with past years, on www.rocklandaudubon.org, when the results have been finalized. (Still awaiting addition feeder counts and count week reports.) The highlights are given below. Increases Northern Shoveler 2012 was the highest recorded count, 133 compared to the previous high of 94 in 2011. Great Blue Heron the 2012 count of 53 surpassed the previous high of 42 in 1999. Bald Eagle the 2012 count of 44 individuals (18 juveniles and 26 adults) topped the old record of 29 established in 2007. Decreases Canvasback continues to decline; only 16 seen in 2012 compared to the average 181 (1947-2011). Herring Gull seven seen in 2012 compared to the average 914 from 1947 through 2011. Numbers have declined substantially since about 2000, likely the result of capping and other waste management practices at the Clarkstown and Haverstraw landfills. American Crow 260 seen in 2012. This was the 12th lowest count since 1947 and the lowest count since 1970. Red-winged Blackbird 26 seen in 2012. The average for the entire 1947-2011 period is 678. Common Grackle 40 seen in 2012 compared to the 1947-2011 average of 360. The large roosting flocks typically found in Piermont Marsh were not evident this year. Misses Yellow-rumped Warbler seen in 51 of 65 years; none in 2012. Field Sparrow - seen in 55 of 65 years; none in 2012. Swamp Sparrow - seen in 58 of 65 years; none in 2012. Purple Finch - seen in 58 of 65 years; none in 2012. Other counts of note Brant four seen at Haverstraw Bay County Park. This is only the third time since 1947 that Brant have found their way onto the Rockland count. Red-throated Loon the three seen in 2012 (one in Haverstraw Bay and two near Piermont) equal the total number seen in the previous 65 years ( one in 1952, one in 1970, and one count week bird in 2006). Wilsons Warbler single individual seen on count day as well as on the two days preceding the count. Present in the backyard of a private residence near Piermont. Photographs of the individual are available upon request. This species is rare in Rockland even in the Spring and Summer, but there is at least one record from Rockland County as late as December 19 dating back to 1961. Most Disappointing Find Barred Owl a freshly killed individual found on the road near Haverstraw Bay County Park. This species was previously unknown from this area of the County. Alan Wells, CBC Compiler Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] 2012 Rockland County CBC Results - Preliminary
Preliminary 2012 Preliminary CBC Results The 66th Annual Rockland County CBC was conducted on December 16, 2012. Thirty-nine field counters covered eight of the nine sub-regions within the Rockland count circle. (On average, the missing sub-region adds approximately 1,470 individuals to the total count.) Air temperatures remained near 40°F with a light to moderate rain persisting throughout much of the day. All water bodies were open and ice-free. A total of 13,826 individual birds representing 87 species was counted. The count includes one count week species and one feeder count report. The number of species observed in 2012 is fairly typical. The range for 1947 through 2011 is 47 to 92 species with an average of 74. The number of individuals counted, however, is somewhat on the low side. For 1947-2011, counts range from 2,275 to 59,622 with an average of 18,975. For 2012, the top three most abundant species were: European Starling (3,568), Canada Goose (3,015), and Ring-billed Gull (1,403). Together, these three species make up nearly 58% of the total count. The full count will be posted, along with past years, on www.rocklandaudubon.org, when the results have been finalized. (Still awaiting addition feeder counts and count week reports.) The highlights are given below. Increases Northern Shoveler 2012 was the highest recorded count, 133 compared to the previous high of 94 in 2011. Great Blue Heron the 2012 count of 53 surpassed the previous high of 42 in 1999. Bald Eagle the 2012 count of 44 individuals (18 juveniles and 26 adults) topped the old record of 29 established in 2007. Decreases Canvasback continues to decline; only 16 seen in 2012 compared to the average 181 (1947-2011). Herring Gull seven seen in 2012 compared to the average 914 from 1947 through 2011. Numbers have declined substantially since about 2000, likely the result of capping and other waste management practices at the Clarkstown and Haverstraw landfills. American Crow 260 seen in 2012. This was the 12th lowest count since 1947 and the lowest count since 1970. Red-winged Blackbird 26 seen in 2012. The average for the entire 1947-2011 period is 678. Common Grackle 40 seen in 2012 compared to the 1947-2011 average of 360. The large roosting flocks typically found in Piermont Marsh were not evident this year. Misses Yellow-rumped Warbler seen in 51 of 65 years; none in 2012. Field Sparrow - seen in 55 of 65 years; none in 2012. Swamp Sparrow - seen in 58 of 65 years; none in 2012. Purple Finch - seen in 58 of 65 years; none in 2012. Other counts of note Brant four seen at Haverstraw Bay County Park. This is only the third time since 1947 that Brant have found their way onto the Rockland count. Red-throated Loon the three seen in 2012 (one in Haverstraw Bay and two near Piermont) equal the total number seen in the previous 65 years ( one in 1952, one in 1970, and one count week bird in 2006). Wilsons Warbler single individual seen on count day as well as on the two days preceding the count. Present in the backyard of a private residence near Piermont. Photographs of the individual are available upon request. This species is rare in Rockland even in the Spring and Summer, but there is at least one record from Rockland County as late as December 19 dating back to 1961. Most Disappointing Find Barred Owl a freshly killed individual found on the road near Haverstraw Bay County Park. This species was previously unknown from this area of the County. Alan Wells, CBC Compiler Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Sterling Forest Mississippi Kites and Ironwood Dr.
Finally with some clear blue skies (6/14/2012), I decided to try for a few more photos of the Sterling Forest Mississippi Kites. On my previous visit the pair had been extremely cooperative, perching and interacting for prolonged periods on the bare trees across the street from the Hudson Environmental Research Institute (HEnRI) building. This time was very different. From about 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM, the pair continuously brought sticks into the presumptive nest tree. Both birds would quickly disappear into the dense foliage. Flights in and out of the nest tree were usually quick and low, generally obscured by greenery. At no time were they seen on their usual bare perches, so photographic opportunities were limited. The kites were frequently harassed by Blue Jays until finally, both kites took off in hot pursuit after a jay and drove it off. Several friends and acquaintances from the HEnRI location and I then stopped by Ironwood Drive where we were rewarded with: Green Heron, Indigo Bunting, Cerulean Warbler, American Redstart, Golden-winged Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Common Raven, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Prairie Warbler, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Red-tailed Hawk, Great Blue Heron, and lots of ticks! A previously reported Yellow-breasted Chat was not found. Alan Wells Rockland, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Sterling Forest Mississippi Kites and Ironwood Dr.
Finally with some clear blue skies (6/14/2012), I decided to try for a few more photos of the Sterling Forest Mississippi Kites. On my previous visit the pair had been extremely cooperative, perching and interacting for prolonged periods on the bare trees across the street from the Hudson Environmental Research Institute (HEnRI) building. This time was very different. From about 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM, the pair continuously brought sticks into the presumptive nest tree. Both birds would quickly disappear into the dense foliage. Flights in and out of the nest tree were usually quick and low, generally obscured by greenery. At no time were they seen on their usual bare perches, so photographic opportunities were limited. The kites were frequently harassed by Blue Jays until finally, both kites took off in hot pursuit after a jay and drove it off. Several friends and acquaintances from the HEnRI location and I then stopped by Ironwood Drive where we were rewarded with: Green Heron, Indigo Bunting, Cerulean Warbler, American Redstart, Golden-winged Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Common Raven, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Prairie Warbler, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Red-tailed Hawk, Great Blue Heron, and lots of ticks! A previously reported Yellow-breasted Chat was not found. Alan Wells Rockland, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Bates Lane, Ulster Co., Upland Sandpiper
This morning (6/2/2012), Della and I led the annual Rockland Audubon trip to Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge (Ulster Co.) and vicinity. The early morning rain discouraged all but four birders. But despite the poor turnout and soggy start, it turned out to be a productive day. The trip highlight was the five Upland Sandpipers in view at one time. All were located along the fence line at the back of the second paddock east of the Bates Ln and Hoagerburgh intersection (near the first barn on the right). We felt bad for the young woman who had been searching for Uplands all morning. She left about 5 minutes prior and our search to find her was unsuccessful. Overall, 64 species were seen. In addition to the Upland Sandpiper, highlights include: Eastern Meadowlark, Bobolink, American Kestrel, Northern Harrier, Greater Yellowlegs, Brown Thrasher, and a colony of Bank Swallows. Most of the birds seen were along Bates Lane and the Wallkill River. The Shawangunk Refuge itself is now open, at least partially, after the restoration work but we found limited access and few birds. Currently, access is only to the point along the refuge entrance road just past the pond, and at the Galeville town park. According to a local birder we met at the town park, the new 3-mile walking trail around the perimeter should be open soon. Alan & Della Wells Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Bates Lane, Ulster Co., Upland Sandpiper
This morning (6/2/2012), Della and I led the annual Rockland Audubon trip to Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge (Ulster Co.) and vicinity. The early morning rain discouraged all but four birders. But despite the poor turnout and soggy start, it turned out to be a productive day. The trip highlight was the five Upland Sandpipers in view at one time. All were located along the fence line at the back of the second paddock east of the Bates Ln and Hoagerburgh intersection (near the first barn on the right). We felt bad for the young woman who had been searching for Uplands all morning. She left about 5 minutes prior and our search to find her was unsuccessful. Overall, 64 species were seen. In addition to the Upland Sandpiper, highlights include: Eastern Meadowlark, Bobolink, American Kestrel, Northern Harrier, Greater Yellowlegs, Brown Thrasher, and a colony of Bank Swallows. Most of the birds seen were along Bates Lane and the Wallkill River. The Shawangunk Refuge itself is now open, at least partially, after the restoration work but we found limited access and few birds. Currently, access is only to the point along the refuge entrance road just past the pond, and at the Galeville town park. According to a local birder we met at the town park, the new 3-mile walking trail around the perimeter should be open soon. Alan Della Wells Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Middletown Pink-footed Goose???
Hi All, My wife and I spent Saturday afternoon looking for the Pink-footed Goose reported from the Middletown area of Orange Co. Lots of Canada Geese (+ 1 Cackling Goose) near the previous Carmelite Rd location, but no sign of the PFGO. Around 4 PM we drove to Maple Hill Park (41.443963 -74.439604), near the corner of California Ave. and Maple Ave, in Wallkill. This location is about 0.7 mi from Carmelite Rd. Almost immediately we spotted what we initially thought was the PFGO. Continued inspection of the geese in the area revealed a second individual of similar appearance. Our general impression was PFGO, but neither looked quite right. Both individuals had a dark brown head and general overall PFGO appearance. The bill of the first individual was pinkish-orange with a dark tip while that of the second was more extensively dark with limited pale pinkish-orange. The second individual had flesh colored feet while those of the first had yellowish-orange feet. The bill of both individuals appeared longer than expected for a PFGO (Bean Goose like?) and both showed a faint light ear patch (Canada Goose like?). Comparing our photographs of the two individuals to the photographs posted by Richard Fried indicates that the two Maple Hill individual are not the same as previously reported. Photographs of the Maple Hill Park birds may be found at : http://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/ We are not sure what to call these two birds. Juvenile PFGO? Hybrid Canada x Greylag? Something else? Any insight would be appreciated!! Thanks! Alan & Della Wells Tomkins Cove, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Middletown Pink-footed Goose???
Hi All, My wife and I spent Saturday afternoon looking for the Pink-footed Goose reported from the Middletown area of Orange Co. Lots of Canada Geese (+ 1 Cackling Goose) near the previous Carmelite Rd location, but no sign of the PFGO. Around 4 PM we drove to Maple Hill Park (41.443963 -74.439604), near the corner of California Ave. and Maple Ave, in Wallkill. This location is about 0.7 mi from Carmelite Rd. Almost immediately we spotted what we initially thought was the PFGO. Continued inspection of the geese in the area revealed a second individual of similar appearance. Our general impression was PFGO, but neither looked quite right. Both individuals had a dark brown head and general overall PFGO appearance. The bill of the first individual was pinkish-orange with a dark tip while that of the second was more extensively dark with limited pale pinkish-orange. The second individual had flesh colored feet while those of the first had yellowish-orange feet. The bill of both individuals appeared longer than expected for a PFGO (Bean Goose like?) and both showed a faint light ear patch (Canada Goose like?). Comparing our photographs of the two individuals to the photographs posted by Richard Fried indicates that the two Maple Hill individual are not the same as previously reported. Photographs of the Maple Hill Park birds may be found at : http://www.flickr.com/photos/awells48/ We are not sure what to call these two birds. Juvenile PFGO? Hybrid Canada x Greylag? Something else? Any insight would be appreciated!! Thanks! Alan Della Wells Tomkins Cove, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Canada Warbler in Harriman State Park
Regarding Canada Warbler breeding in Harriman State Park, the following is from R.F. Deed's "Birds of Rockland County and the Hudson Highlands" (1978 with 1983 addendum). In it, he states that "In portions of the Bear Mountain-Harriman Park above 1,000 feet, two to four pairs may be found in appropriate habitat during the nesting season." Deed also cites the following references for the region: 1940 Carr summer resident, breeds; Island Pond, Pine Swamp, Surebridge Swamp 1942 Cruickshank common transient visitant, "nests locally in the highlands of Rockland County" 1960 Orth regular fairly common spring and fall transient, irregular rare summer resident; nests 1976 Current status fairly common to common migrant, uncommon breeder in highest portions of Harriman Park The locations given by Carr are within Harriman SP. So historically, Canada Warbler has nested in the park. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Canada Warbler in Harriman State Park
Regarding Canada Warbler breeding in Harriman State Park, the following is from R.F. Deed's Birds of Rockland County and the Hudson Highlands (1978 with 1983 addendum). In it, he states that In portions of the Bear Mountain-Harriman Park above 1,000 feet, two to four pairs may be found in appropriate habitat during the nesting season. Deed also cites the following references for the region: 1940 Carr summer resident, breeds; Island Pond, Pine Swamp, Surebridge Swamp 1942 Cruickshank common transient visitant, nests locally in the highlands of Rockland County 1960 Orth regular fairly common spring and fall transient, irregular rare summer resident; nests 1976 Current status fairly common to common migrant, uncommon breeder in highest portions of Harriman Park The locations given by Carr are within Harriman SP. So historically, Canada Warbler has nested in the park. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Yes - Barrow's Goldeneye at Noyack Bay, Suffolk Co., Long Island
The previously reported drake Barrow's Goldeneye was seen today at approximately 4 PM at the west end of Foster Memorial Town Beach, Noyack (40.995929 -72.332336). The park is accessible from Noyack-Long Beach Road. The bird was in the company of several Common Goldeneye approximately 500 ft offshore. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Yes - Barrow's Goldeneye at Noyack Bay, Suffolk Co., Long Island
The previously reported drake Barrow's Goldeneye was seen today at approximately 4 PM at the west end of Foster Memorial Town Beach, Noyack (40.995929 -72.332336). The park is accessible from Noyack-Long Beach Road. The bird was in the company of several Common Goldeneye approximately 500 ft offshore. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] No Orchard Beach Barnacle Goose
Della, Carol Weiss, and I searched for the Orchard Beach Barnacle Goose from about 9:45 AM to 1 PM today (11/28/2010) without success. Did find two Monk Parakeets in the crab apple trees along the grassy area south of the main parking lot (40.866842, -73.795802). Alan Wells Rockland, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] No Orchard Beach Barnacle Goose
Della, Carol Weiss, and I searched for the Orchard Beach Barnacle Goose from about 9:45 AM to 1 PM today (11/28/2010) without success. Did find two Monk Parakeets in the crab apple trees along the grassy area south of the main parking lot (40.866842, -73.795802). Alan Wells Rockland, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland Lake SP, Rockland Co., Eurasian Wigeon persists
The Eurasian Wigeon at Rockland Lake SP is still present. Seen this morning (19 Nov. 2010) near shore along the southwest portion of the lake in the company of Gadwall and American Wigeon. Alan Wells Rockland, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland Lake State Park (Rockland Co.) Eurasian Widgeon persists.
The drake Eurasian Wigeon, first seen 16-Oct-2010, persists at Rockland Lake State Park in the small pond just across the road from the north parking lot (41.1499 N -73.9223 W). It is with a mixed group of Mallard, Black Duck, Gadwall, and a few American Wigeon. Photos posted at www.rocklandaudubon.org Alan Wells Rockland Audubon So -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland Lake State Park (Rockland Co.) Eurasian Widgeon persists.
The drake Eurasian Wigeon, first seen 16-Oct-2010, persists at Rockland Lake State Park in the small pond just across the road from the north parking lot (41.1499 N -73.9223 W). It is with a mixed group of Mallard, Black Duck, Gadwall, and a few American Wigeon. Photos posted at www.rocklandaudubon.org Alan Wells Rockland Audubon So -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland Lake State Park, Rockland Co. NY, Eurasian Wigeon
Late this morning I got a report from Rockland Audubon Society members Lindsey Konkel and Scott Neabore that they had seen a presumed drake Eurasian Wigeon at Rockland Lake State Park the previous morning (16-Oct-2010). They had seen and photographed the bird in a small pond just across the road from the north parking lot (41.1499 N -73.9223 W). The Eurasian Wigeon was in the company of a mixed group of Mallard, Gadwall, and a few American Wigeon. Five RAS members, including myself, confirmed the sighting this afternoon (17-Oct-2010) around 1 PM. At that time the bird was in the same pond as reported by Lindsey and Scott. We watched and photographed the bird for about 10 minutes. As we were leaving it took flight and appeared to be heading for the NW corner of Rockland Lake (near the fishing station, 41.1434 N -73.9261 W). A drake Eurasian Wigeon was found in almost exactly the same location on 6-Nov-2007. That bird (or the same bird?) stayed until at least 25-Dec-2007. I'll post photos on the RAS website shortly: www.rocklandaudubon.org Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Rockland Lake State Park, Rockland Co. NY, Eurasian Wigeon
Late this morning I got a report from Rockland Audubon Society members Lindsey Konkel and Scott Neabore that they had seen a presumed drake Eurasian Wigeon at Rockland Lake State Park the previous morning (16-Oct-2010). They had seen and photographed the bird in a small pond just across the road from the north parking lot (41.1499 N -73.9223 W). The Eurasian Wigeon was in the company of a mixed group of Mallard, Gadwall, and a few American Wigeon. Five RAS members, including myself, confirmed the sighting this afternoon (17-Oct-2010) around 1 PM. At that time the bird was in the same pond as reported by Lindsey and Scott. We watched and photographed the bird for about 10 minutes. As we were leaving it took flight and appeared to be heading for the NW corner of Rockland Lake (near the fishing station, 41.1434 N -73.9261 W). A drake Eurasian Wigeon was found in almost exactly the same location on 6-Nov-2007. That bird (or the same bird?) stayed until at least 25-Dec-2007. I'll post photos on the RAS website shortly: www.rocklandaudubon.org Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Brooklyn Common/Mew Gull - Yes
After an approximately 45 minute search, Della Wells, Zenon Bachir, and I were able to locate the Common/Mew Gull around 4 PM today (1/16/2010). It was found about 100 yards SE of the pedestrian overpass bridge (over the Belt Parkway near Bay 16th St.) The tide was moderately low at the time. The Common/Mew Gull was in the company of 15-20 Ring-billed Gulls and was searching among the exposed rocks in the intertidal zone. Photos will be posted on www.rocklandaudubon.org soon. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Correction - Northern Gannet in Rockland Co.
Correction: the subject should have read Northern Gannet ! Sorry. Alan -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Archives: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Correction - Northern Gannet in Rockland Co.
Correction: the subject should have read Northern Gannet ! Sorry. Alan -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Archives: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Western Grebe - No?
Hi all, After several reports of the Western Grebe early this morning, I began receiving reports of a Horned Grebe, but no Western Grebe. My wife and I stopped by the Pier this afternoon (about 1-2 PM) and indeed all that we could find was the Horned Grebe. The HOGR remained tucked most of the time we were there and, with only a casual inspection, could easily be mistaken for a Western. (The HOGR is much smaller, the size of the Ruddies, and the black on the back of the neck is much narrower than on the WEGR). The HOGR was with what appeared to be the same raft of Ruddies and in the same location as the initial sightings of the Western. If anyone has photos confirming the Western from this morning, please post them or let me know. We now have the proper people willing help the bird, but we need to confirm that the Western is still in the area before sending anyone out. Thanks. By the way, Horned Grebe is very unusual for Piermont Pier and photos will be posted later. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Archives: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Piermont Western Grebe - Yes?
Hi all, I have received several messages that the Western Grebe was seen at Piermont early this morning. However, the road is flooded and people have been using the sidewalk through the condos to by-pass most of the water. Around 8 AM the fog and rain decreased visibility to a point that the bird was no longer visible. On a better note, we have a volunteer with a boat willing to take a rehabber out to the bird. Now if we can find a rehabber willing to go out. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Archives: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Western Grebe - No?
Hi all, After several reports of the Western Grebe early this morning, I began receiving reports of a Horned Grebe, but no Western Grebe. My wife and I stopped by the Pier this afternoon (about 1-2 PM) and indeed all that we could find was the Horned Grebe. The HOGR remained tucked most of the time we were there and, with only a casual inspection, could easily be mistaken for a Western. (The HOGR is much smaller, the size of the Ruddies, and the black on the back of the neck is much narrower than on the WEGR). The HOGR was with what appeared to be the same raft of Ruddies and in the same location as the initial sightings of the Western. If anyone has photos confirming the Western from this morning, please post them or let me know. We now have the proper people willing help the bird, but we need to confirm that the Western is still in the area before sending anyone out. Thanks. By the way, Horned Grebe is very unusual for Piermont Pier and photos will be posted later. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Archives: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Piermont Pier Western Grebe
Hi all, The loon discussion is also relevant to the situation with the entangled Western Grebe at Piermont Pier. We have a rehabilitator lined up to help this bird, provided the bird can be captured. We need someone with the equipment and necessary permits to capture it. Several locals could possibly catch the bird, but none has the appropriate permits. Anyone know of someone that can helpout? Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Archives: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Piermont Pier Western Grebe
I just received a phone call (11 AM) from Carol Weiss, she and others have relocated the Western Grebe reported from Piermont Pier. It has moved further down river to a point near Sneden's Landing, but is still visible from the Pier. She noted that the bird spent much of the time preening its breast feathers. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Archives: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Piermont Pier Western Grebe
Hi all, The loon discussion is also relevant to the situation with the entangled Western Grebe at Piermont Pier. We have a rehabilitator lined up to help this bird, provided the bird can be captured. We need someone with the equipment and necessary permits to capture it. Several locals could possibly catch the bird, but none has the appropriate permits. Anyone know of someone that can helpout? Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Archives: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Piermont Pier, Rockland Co., Western Grebe
Hi all, The Western Grebe reported yesterday from Piermont Pier, Rockland Co. was still present and observed by numerous people throughout the day. I observed and photographed the bird from about 1 to 2 PM. It was seen mid-pier on the south (downriver) side, approximately 150 to 200 ft offshore. It kept close company with a small raft of Bufflehead and Ruddy Duck. During the hour I watched the bird, it loafed and preened but never dove (contrary to Westerns I've observed on the west coast). Close examination of several of my photographs show that the bird is entangled in fishing line and terminal-tackle (at least a leader, swivel, and red bead). I cannot tell if the bird is hooked or simply wrapped in the line. There is the possibility that the bird is injured. Photographs of the bird are available on the Rockland Audubon website (see below). Photographs: http://www.rocklandaudubon.org/ Directions: http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8 <http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8=en=0=1120968367446066028 96.00043980ef10f73dd8dcb=41.043077,-73.901811=0.021977,0.038495=k =15> =en=0=112096836744606602896.00043980ef10f73dd8dcb=41.043077,- 73.901811=0.021977,0.038495=k=15 Alan Wells Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Archives: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Western Grebe at Piermont Pier
Based on an account and photographs from Carol Weiss, there was a WESTERN GREBE at Piermont Pier, Rockland Co. this afternoon (11/11/2009). It was with a small raft of Bufflehead on the south side of the Pier, in the cove near the marsh. Carol is returning tomorrow to look for it. This appears to be a new record for Rockland Co. I'll post additional details as I receive them. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Archives: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Western Grebe at Piermont Pier
Based on an account and photographs from Carol Weiss, there was a WESTERN GREBE at Piermont Pier, Rockland Co. this afternoon (11/11/2009). It was with a small raft of Bufflehead on the south side of the Pier, in the cove near the marsh. Carol is returning tomorrow to look for it. This appears to be a new record for Rockland Co. I'll post additional details as I receive them. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Archives: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Not countable, but interesting! Yellow-fronted Canary at Piermont Pier
My wife and I were birding Piermont Pier, Rockland Co. around 4 PM this afternoon. Shortly after we arrived, we ran into Drew Ciganek and Carol Weiss. Drew asked if we were there to see the Yellow-fronted Canary, to which I replied "What". The bird was easily located by following its clear, unique song, somewhat reminiscent of an Indigo Bunting. It sang almost continuously over the hour or so we observed the bird. It favored the trees and grasses along the north side of the Pier near the emergency rescue boat launch and small cinderblock building. Drew and Carol had seen the bird at this same location for at least the past week. There was no evidence of a band, but this exotic is undoubtedly an escapee. Photographs of the bird are posted on www.rocklandaudubon.org <http://www.rocklandaudubon.org/> . Follow the hyperlink on the homepage. Alan Wells -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
