Re: [nysbirds-l] Calverton and Dune Rd, Suffolk Co.
Pine Warblers and Eastern Phoebes were singing this morning in the Calverton- Manorville area, and Bluebirds were bringing nesting material to boxes near the Epcal south entrance. Two Great Egrets were on the Grumman Pond, and several more were in the marshes on the north side of Dune Rd. Also along Dune Rd, Boat-tailed Grackles were loud and showy from Tiana Beach to Shinnecock Inlet, and at the Osprey nest near the Ponquogue Bridge two birds were defending the homestead against two 'interlopers'. A few Am. Oystercatchers were feeding on the bay islands. Also seen at EPCAL: Ring-necked Pheasant Wild Turkey Red-tailed Hawk Kestrel a small flock of Juncos singing Horned Larks singing Eastern Meadowlarks Mike Cooper Ridge, LI, 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] Dune Rd. birds
This afternoon I visited Dune Rd. and saw an Osprey feeding just east of the Ponquogue Bridge. This Osprey is likely to be the same male that has bred successfully at the nearby nest for many years now and was waiting the arrival of his partner. Great Egrets were also in decent numbers along Dune Rd. with a count of 5 on a quick pass from Quogue to Hampton Bays. Nothing else of note but that should change soon. Photos of these birds can be seen here: http://birdsoflongisland.blogspot.com/2011/04/early-arrivals-are-fueling-up.html -- - Luke Ormand, Flanders www.birdsoflongisland.blogspot.com www.wildlongisland.blogspot.com -- 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/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report
Here is a photo taken around February 2010, in Broad Channel Queens. In this image, 15 birds were photographed, but it was believed the flock held 17 birds. The folks that had these birds in their backyard have not reported seeing them since. http://www.flickr.com/photos/birdingdude/5586809841/ Andrew Baksh Queens NY www.birdingdude.blogspot.com On Sun, Apr 3, 2011 at 7:17 PM, Andrew Block wrote: > Hi Seth, > > It's nice to know the probable history of those birds in Queens. It is > surprising that they are here b/c no other temperate city in the U.S. has > them. While you are correct in your discussion of Mitred Parakeet's habitat > requirements, I disagree with you're opinion they were not the same flock. > You even mention the same number of idividuals I saw. It is very > likely they were since there are not many of them in NYC and parrots are > known for their long travels in search of food. They will travel even > further in this country where they are living since food is harder to find > than in their native haunts. Even with microclimates that doesn't mean a > parrot can survive and breed. Just look at the Rose-ringed Parakeet. A > flock of 50+ lived in my area for many years but never bred and eventually > died out in the mid 80's where in many cities around the world they > survive. I don't know where you get that there are more than 13 or so birds > since nobody has reported that many in a flock. The numbers from your > reports always seem to be about the same and if there were more than that > you'd think it would be known since they are not exactly > quiet birds. People would definately see and hear them. Also, if they were > breeding I'm sure it would have been known by now with all the birders > around here. If there were that many around they would have to be seen on > some Xmas count. I mean Black-hooded Parakeets were seen for a few years in > Brooklyn on counts and there were only a few of them. Either way it's easy > to tell if young are around, they will have very little if any red on the > head. Anyway I hope to see them again someday. It's quite nice that they > are surviving but where are they during the breeding season, that's the big > question. Parrots don't just disappear. > > Andrew > > *Andrew v. F. Block* > *Consulting Naturalist/Wildlife Biologist* > 37 Tanglewylde Avenue > Bronxville, Westchester Co., New York 10708-3131 > Phone: 914-337-1229; Fax: 914-771-8036 > > > > -- > *From:* Seth Ausubel > *To:* NYSBirds-L@cornell.edu > *Sent:* Sun, April 3, 2011 4:58:30 PM > *Subject:* RE: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report > > This is an interesting report, and I’ll try to address Andrew’s > questions. > > > > Mitred Parakeets (Aratinga mitrata – known in aviculture as Mitred Conures) > are a temperate zone species, naturally ranging from southern Peru and > western Bolivia to northern Argentina . The species is typically found at > 1000-3500 meters elevation, and has been recorded to 4000 meters. With the > variety of warm microhabitats available in any urbanized area, and the > relative abundance of foods such as ornamental fruits, it is not too > surprising that they can survive our winters. In fact it is winter when > many sightings have occurred as the birds wander widely to forage, often on > extremely cold days. > > > > There is no reason to believe that Andrew’s birds are the same as those > currently present in Queens . The origin of the local population of Mitred > Parakeets is reliably established between 1979 and 1984. This coincides > with the period when large numbers of birds were imported, JFK Airport being > a major hub. It appears that both the total number of birds, and the range > of areas from which they have been reported, have decreased over time. > Historically, most reports have been from southwestern Nassau County . > During the 1990s it appears the birds ranged at least as far east as > Massapequa ( Nassau ), and as far west as Central Park . Andrew’s is the > first report I know of from the Bronx . The most recent reports I know of > from southwestern Nassau were in 2009, but there have been many recent > reports from Queens . There are only 13-15 birds in the Queens flock. > Assuming birds still persist in Nassau , there may be as many as 50 Mitred > Parakeets around the NYC metro area. Having said all this, I’ll also say > that reporting is quite unreliable and there could well be some birds > missed. For example, to this day, Mitred Parakeets have not been recorded > on any NY Christmas Bird Count and reports from June through November are > virtually unknown. So the biggest question is whether Mitred Parakeets are > breeding in the NY area, and if so, where. > > > > Those interested can read my article in The Kingbird, September 2009; > 59(3). By the way, the cherry trees in Hillcrest, Queens are about to > blossom, and the birds should be there within a couple
[nysbirds-l] Jones Beach area Sunday, April 3, 2011
Barb Saunders and I (Ardith Bondi) started at Nickerson Beach (Nick) this morning, where we found 4 pairs of Oystercatchers, one actively mating and at least 2 pairs of Piping Plovers with one extra alone (at least when we saw it). When we reached the jetty at West End 2 (WE2), there was another mating pair of Oystercatchers and, along the beach, another pair of Piping Plovers. Birds seen today: Common Loon (WE2 jetty) Horned Grebe (Nick) Northern Gannet (offshore, both places) Great Cormorant Double-crested Cormorant Canada Goose Brant (still many around) Mute Swan (pond seen from Meadowbrook Parkway on the way up from the beach) Common Eider (1 female by WE2 jetty) Black Scoter (8, WE2) Red-breasted Merganser (widespread) Osprey (near Point Lookout exit from Meadowbrook) Red-tailed Hawk Peregrine Falcon (eating prey on Jones Beach water tower) Piping Plover (Nick & WE2) American Oystercatcher (Nick & WE2) Dunlin (1 individual near WE2 jetty) Ring-billed Gull Herring Gull Great Black-backed Gull Rock Pigeon Mourning Dove Northern Flicker (WE) American Crow Horned Lark (1 bird, Nick) Tree Swallow (WE) American Robin Northern Mockingbird (Nick & Jones Beach) European Starling American Tree Sparrow (median near Coast Guard Station) Song Sparrow (WE, Coast Guard Station) Red-winged Blackbird (mixed flocks of blackbirds at WE median) Common Grackle Brown-headed Cowbird House Sparrow one seal sp. seen from the WE2 jetty -- 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/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report
Hi Seth, It's nice to know the probable history of those birds in Queens. It is surprising that they are here b/c no other temperate city in the U.S. has them. While you are correct in your discussion of Mitred Parakeet's habitat requirements, I disagree with you're opinion they were not the same flock. You even mention the same number of idividuals I saw. It is very likely they were since there are not many of them in NYC and parrots are known for their long travels in search of food. They will travel even further in this country where they are living since food is harder to find than in their native haunts. Even with microclimates that doesn't mean a parrot can survive and breed. Just look at the Rose-ringed Parakeet. A flock of 50+ lived in my area for many years but never bred and eventually died out in the mid 80's where in many cities around the world they survive. I don't know where you get that there are more than 13 or so birds since nobody has reported that many in a flock. The numbers from your reports always seem to be about the same and if there were more than that you'd think it would be known since they are not exactly quiet birds. People would definately see and hear them. Also, if they were breeding I'm sure it would have been known by now with all the birders around here. If there were that many around they would have to be seen on some Xmas count. I mean Black-hooded Parakeets were seen for a few years in Brooklyn on counts and there were only a few of them. Either way it's easy to tell if young are around, they will have very little if any red on the head. Anyway I hope to see them again someday. It's quite nice that they are surviving but where are they during the breeding season, that's the big question. Parrots don't just disappear. Andrew Andrew v. F. Block Consulting Naturalist/Wildlife Biologist 37 Tanglewylde Avenue Bronxville, Westchester Co., New York 10708-3131 Phone: 914-337-1229; Fax: 914-771-8036 From: Seth Ausubel To: NYSBirds-L@cornell.edu Sent: Sun, April 3, 2011 4:58:30 PM Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report This is an interesting report, and I’ll try to address Andrew’s questions. Mitred Parakeets (Aratinga mitrata – known in aviculture as Mitred Conures) are a temperate zone species, naturally ranging from southern Peru and western Bolivia to northern Argentina . The species is typically found at 1000-3500 meters elevation, and has been recorded to 4000 meters. With the variety of warm microhabitats available in any urbanized area, and the relative abundance of foods such as ornamental fruits, it is not too surprising that they can survive our winters. In fact it is winter when many sightings have occurred as the birds wander widely to forage, often on extremely cold days. There is no reason to believe that Andrew’s birds are the same as those currently present in Queens . The origin of the local population of Mitred Parakeets is reliably established between 1979 and 1984. This coincides with the period when large numbers of birds were imported, JFK Airport being a major hub. It appears that both the total number of birds, and the range of areas from which they have been reported, have decreased over time. Historically, most reports have been from southwestern Nassau County . During the 1990s it appears the birds ranged at least as far east as Massapequa ( Nassau ), and as far west as Central Park . Andrew’s is the first report I know of from the Bronx . The most recent reports I know of from southwestern Nassau were in 2009, but there have been many recent reports from Queens . There are only 13-15 birds in the Queens flock. Assuming birds still persist in Nassau , there may be as many as 50 Mitred Parakeets around the NYC metro area. Having said all this, I’ll also say that reporting is quite unreliable and there could well be some birds missed. For example, to this day, Mitred Parakeets have not been recorded on any NY Christmas Bird Count and reports from June through November are virtually unknown. So the biggest question is whether Mitred Parakeets are breeding in the NY area, and if so, where. Those interested can read my article in The Kingbird, September 2009; 59(3). By the way, the cherry trees in Hillcrest, Queens are about to blossom, and the birds should be there within a couple of days! Seth Ausubel Forest Hills, NY From:bounce-13647422-3714...@list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-13647422-3714...@list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Andrew Block Sent: Sunday, April 03, 2011 11:56 AM To: NYS Birds Subject: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report For all you parrot people out there following the saga of the Mitred Parakeets in NYC I was going thru my notes last night and came across a sighting I had on 4/4/96 at the NY Botanical Garden. I had
[nysbirds-l] Osprey love at Wertheim
I observed two osprey preparing their nest today at Wertheim in Shirley. It was fascinating to watch, and just as I was about to leave, they mated. I assume that's what happened at least. Is there any other reason an osprey would sit on another? Rough landing? Other than that, the peepers were in full chorus and everyone's favorite...the muskrat, made a nice showing. Good birding! -- 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/ --
RE: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report
This is an interesting report, and I'll try to address Andrew's questions. Mitred Parakeets (Aratinga mitrata - known in aviculture as Mitred Conures) are a temperate zone species, naturally ranging from southern Peru and western Bolivia to northern Argentina. The species is typically found at 1000-3500 meters elevation, and has been recorded to 4000 meters. With the variety of warm microhabitats available in any urbanized area, and the relative abundance of foods such as ornamental fruits, it is not too surprising that they can survive our winters. In fact it is winter when many sightings have occurred as the birds wander widely to forage, often on extremely cold days. There is no reason to believe that Andrew's birds are the same as those currently present in Queens. The origin of the local population of Mitred Parakeets is reliably established between 1979 and 1984. This coincides with the period when large numbers of birds were imported, JFK Airport being a major hub. It appears that both the total number of birds, and the range of areas from which they have been reported, have decreased over time. Historically, most reports have been from southwestern Nassau County. During the 1990s it appears the birds ranged at least as far east as Massapequa (Nassau), and as far west as Central Park. Andrew's is the first report I know of from the Bronx. The most recent reports I know of from southwestern Nassau were in 2009, but there have been many recent reports from Queens. There are only 13-15 birds in the Queens flock. Assuming birds still persist in Nassau, there may be as many as 50 Mitred Parakeets around the NYC metro area. Having said all this, I'll also say that reporting is quite unreliable and there could well be some birds missed. For example, to this day, Mitred Parakeets have not been recorded on any NY Christmas Bird Count and reports from June through November are virtually unknown. So the biggest question is whether Mitred Parakeets are breeding in the NY area, and if so, where. Those interested can read my article in The Kingbird, September 2009; 59(3). By the way, the cherry trees in Hillcrest, Queens are about to blossom, and the birds should be there within a couple of days! Seth Ausubel Forest Hills, NY _ From: bounce-13647422-3714...@list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-13647422-3714...@list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Andrew Block Sent: Sunday, April 03, 2011 11:56 AM To: NYS Birds Subject: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report For all you parrot people out there following the saga of the Mitred Parakeets in NYC I was going thru my notes last night and came across a sighting I had on 4/4/96 at the NY Botanical Garden. I had forgotten I had a flock of 13 Mitred Parakeets fly over the Rose Garden heading south towards the zoo. It just occured to me these must be the same flock that is being see sporadically in Queens. I really would love to know how they survive the winters here b/c they are not supposed to be hardy around here. It's one of the many mysteries of NYC I guess. Andrew Andrew v. F. Block Consulting Naturalist/Wildlife Biologist 37 Tanglewylde Avenue Bronxville, Westchester Co., New York 10708-3131 Phone: 914-337-1229; Fax: 914-771-8036 -- 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] Buffalo - 3 King Eiders, 13 Great Egret, 110 D-c Cormorants, 2 Blue-winged Teal
April 3 - At Motor Island there were 13 Great Egrets, 14 Black-cr. Night-Herons and 18 Double-crested Cormorants. On Strawberry Island there was a Bald Eagle and 6 more Black-cr. Night Herons. At Rich Marine there were 135 Bonaparte's Gulls and a Little Gull. In Buffalo Harbor there were: 3 KING EIDERS - a little more than half way to the break wall and a little to the right of Bell Slip. 7 Green-winged Teals 186 Redhead 3 White-winged Scoters 200 Lesser Scaup and about 1500 Scaup Sp. 2 Ruddy Duck 36 Long-tailed Ducks mostly in the small boat Harbor 4 Am. Wigeon 40 Canvasback Iceland Gull At Tifft Nature Preserve there were 2 Blue-winged Teals, 3 Northern Shoveler, 11 Cedar Waxwings (one with an orange tail band, 10 with yellow) American Coot, Eastern Phoebe, Swamp Sparrow etc. At the Reef Lighthouse - 92 Double-crested Cormorant Best Wishes for Great Birding, Bill Watson -- 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] Central Park, 4/3 incl Palm Warbler and Redpolls
Spring migration has been quite evident in Central Park the last two days, particularly today. Most noteworthy was a single PALM WARBLER first found near Triplets Bridge (West 77th st. Entrance) and seen later by many in the Upper Lobe, with the overwintering YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER. Also of note, yesterday 2 COMMON REDPOLLS were found in the park, and they continued today, showing up at the feeders rather consistently. BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERONS have been in the park the last two days, as are GREAT-BLUE HERONS flying over. NORTHERN HARRIER and FISH CROW were other notable flyovers this morning. The Reservoir still holds RUDDY DUCKS, BUFFLEHEAD and NORTHERN SHOVELERS. Though I didn't personally see them yesterday, the VARIED THRUSH and RED-HEADED WOODPECKER both continue in their respective areas. The woodpecker apparently is gaining color in its head. Good Birding, Jacob Drucker Manhattan -- 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] Leucistic Red-tailed Hawk - Center Berlin - 4/2/11
I saw the leucistic red-tailed hawk twice on 4/2/11 in the same location I observed it in on 3/26/11. Last week I noticed two dark lines at the center of the tail feathers that I thought were the legs showing through while the bird was in flight. This time I could clearly see that two central tail feathers are red on an otherwise completely white bird with yellow legs. One tail feather seems to be completely red, while the second appears to be only partially red, unless perhaps it's a shorter feather. I've heard from others that this bird has been seen in this location on other dates as well. Jesse Jaycox >>> -- 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] Leucistic Red-tailed Hawk - Center Berlin - 4/2/11
I saw the leucistic red-tailed hawk twice on 4/2/11 in the same location I observed it in on 3/26/11. Last week I noticed two dark lines at the center of the tail feathers that I thought were the legs showing through while the bird was in flight. This time I could clearly see that two central tail feathers are red on an otherwise completely white bird with yellow legs. One tail feather seems to be completely red, while the second appears to be only partially red, unless perhaps it's a shorter feather. I've heard from others that this bird has been seen in this location on other dates as well. Jesse Jaycox -- 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] Central Park, 4/3 incl Palm Warbler and Redpolls
Spring migration has been quite evident in Central Park the last two days, particularly today. Most noteworthy was a single PALM WARBLER first found near Triplets Bridge (West 77th st. Entrance) and seen later by many in the Upper Lobe, with the overwintering YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER. Also of note, yesterday 2 COMMON REDPOLLS were found in the park, and they continued today, showing up at the feeders rather consistently. BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERONS have been in the park the last two days, as are GREAT-BLUE HERONS flying over. NORTHERN HARRIER and FISH CROW were other notable flyovers this morning. The Reservoir still holds RUDDY DUCKS, BUFFLEHEAD and NORTHERN SHOVELERS. Though I didn't personally see them yesterday, the VARIED THRUSH and RED-HEADED WOODPECKER both continue in their respective areas. The woodpecker apparently is gaining color in its head. Good Birding, Jacob Drucker Manhattan -- 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] Buffalo - 3 King Eiders, 13 Great Egret, 110 D-c Cormorants, 2 Blue-winged Teal
April 3 - At Motor Island there were 13 Great Egrets, 14 Black-cr. Night-Herons and 18 Double-crested Cormorants. On Strawberry Island there was a Bald Eagle and 6 more Black-cr. Night Herons. At Rich Marine there were 135 Bonaparte's Gulls and a Little Gull. In Buffalo Harbor there were: 3 KING EIDERS - a little more than half way to the break wall and a little to the right of Bell Slip. 7 Green-winged Teals 186 Redhead 3 White-winged Scoters 200 Lesser Scaup and about 1500 Scaup Sp. 2 Ruddy Duck 36 Long-tailed Ducks mostly in the small boat Harbor 4 Am. Wigeon 40 Canvasback Iceland Gull At Tifft Nature Preserve there were 2 Blue-winged Teals, 3 Northern Shoveler, 11 Cedar Waxwings (one with an orange tail band, 10 with yellow) American Coot, Eastern Phoebe, Swamp Sparrow etc. At the Reef Lighthouse - 92 Double-crested Cormorant Best Wishes for Great Birding, Bill Watson -- 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/ --
RE: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report
This is an interesting report, and I'll try to address Andrew's questions. Mitred Parakeets (Aratinga mitrata - known in aviculture as Mitred Conures) are a temperate zone species, naturally ranging from southern Peru and western Bolivia to northern Argentina. The species is typically found at 1000-3500 meters elevation, and has been recorded to 4000 meters. With the variety of warm microhabitats available in any urbanized area, and the relative abundance of foods such as ornamental fruits, it is not too surprising that they can survive our winters. In fact it is winter when many sightings have occurred as the birds wander widely to forage, often on extremely cold days. There is no reason to believe that Andrew's birds are the same as those currently present in Queens. The origin of the local population of Mitred Parakeets is reliably established between 1979 and 1984. This coincides with the period when large numbers of birds were imported, JFK Airport being a major hub. It appears that both the total number of birds, and the range of areas from which they have been reported, have decreased over time. Historically, most reports have been from southwestern Nassau County. During the 1990s it appears the birds ranged at least as far east as Massapequa (Nassau), and as far west as Central Park. Andrew's is the first report I know of from the Bronx. The most recent reports I know of from southwestern Nassau were in 2009, but there have been many recent reports from Queens. There are only 13-15 birds in the Queens flock. Assuming birds still persist in Nassau, there may be as many as 50 Mitred Parakeets around the NYC metro area. Having said all this, I'll also say that reporting is quite unreliable and there could well be some birds missed. For example, to this day, Mitred Parakeets have not been recorded on any NY Christmas Bird Count and reports from June through November are virtually unknown. So the biggest question is whether Mitred Parakeets are breeding in the NY area, and if so, where. Those interested can read my article in The Kingbird, September 2009; 59(3). By the way, the cherry trees in Hillcrest, Queens are about to blossom, and the birds should be there within a couple of days! Seth Ausubel Forest Hills, NY _ From: bounce-13647422-3714...@list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-13647422-3714...@list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Andrew Block Sent: Sunday, April 03, 2011 11:56 AM To: NYS Birds Subject: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report For all you parrot people out there following the saga of the Mitred Parakeets in NYC I was going thru my notes last night and came across a sighting I had on 4/4/96 at the NY Botanical Garden. I had forgotten I had a flock of 13 Mitred Parakeets fly over the Rose Garden heading south towards the zoo. It just occured to me these must be the same flock that is being see sporadically in Queens. I really would love to know how they survive the winters here b/c they are not supposed to be hardy around here. It's one of the many mysteries of NYC I guess. Andrew Andrew v. F. Block Consulting Naturalist/Wildlife Biologist 37 Tanglewylde Avenue Bronxville, Westchester Co., New York 10708-3131 Phone: 914-337-1229; Fax: 914-771-8036 -- 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] Osprey love at Wertheim
I observed two osprey preparing their nest today at Wertheim in Shirley. It was fascinating to watch, and just as I was about to leave, they mated. I assume that's what happened at least. Is there any other reason an osprey would sit on another? Rough landing? Other than that, the peepers were in full chorus and everyone's favorite...the muskrat, made a nice showing. Good birding! -- 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/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report
Hi Seth, It's nice to know the probable history of those birds in Queens. It is surprising that they are here b/c no other temperate city in the U.S. has them. While you are correct in your discussion of Mitred Parakeet's habitat requirements, I disagree with you're opinion they were not the same flock. You even mention the same number of idividuals I saw. It is very likely they were since there are not many of them in NYC and parrots are known for their long travels in search of food. They will travel even further in this country where they are living since food is harder to find than in their native haunts. Even with microclimates that doesn't mean a parrot can survive and breed. Just look at the Rose-ringed Parakeet. A flock of 50+ lived in my area for many years but never bred and eventually died out in the mid 80's where in many cities around the world they survive. I don't know where you get that there are more than 13 or so birds since nobody has reported that many in a flock. The numbers from your reports always seem to be about the same and if there were more than that you'd think it would be known since they are not exactly quiet birds. People would definately see and hear them. Also, if they were breeding I'm sure it would have been known by now with all the birders around here. If there were that many around they would have to be seen on some Xmas count. I mean Black-hooded Parakeets were seen for a few years in Brooklyn on counts and there were only a few of them. Either way it's easy to tell if young are around, they will have very little if any red on the head. Anyway I hope to see them again someday. It's quite nice that they are surviving but where are they during the breeding season, that's the big question. Parrots don't just disappear. Andrew Andrew v. F. Block Consulting Naturalist/Wildlife Biologist 37 Tanglewylde Avenue Bronxville, Westchester Co., New York 10708-3131 Phone: 914-337-1229; Fax: 914-771-8036 From: Seth Ausubel sausu...@nyc.rr.com To: NYSBirds-L@cornell.edu Sent: Sun, April 3, 2011 4:58:30 PM Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report This is an interesting report, and I’ll try to address Andrew’s questions. Mitred Parakeets (Aratinga mitrata – known in aviculture as Mitred Conures) are a temperate zone species, naturally ranging from southern Peru and western Bolivia to northern Argentina . The species is typically found at 1000-3500 meters elevation, and has been recorded to 4000 meters. With the variety of warm microhabitats available in any urbanized area, and the relative abundance of foods such as ornamental fruits, it is not too surprising that they can survive our winters. In fact it is winter when many sightings have occurred as the birds wander widely to forage, often on extremely cold days. There is no reason to believe that Andrew’s birds are the same as those currently present in Queens . The origin of the local population of Mitred Parakeets is reliably established between 1979 and 1984. This coincides with the period when large numbers of birds were imported, JFK Airport being a major hub. It appears that both the total number of birds, and the range of areas from which they have been reported, have decreased over time. Historically, most reports have been from southwestern Nassau County . During the 1990s it appears the birds ranged at least as far east as Massapequa ( Nassau ), and as far west as Central Park . Andrew’s is the first report I know of from the Bronx . The most recent reports I know of from southwestern Nassau were in 2009, but there have been many recent reports from Queens . There are only 13-15 birds in the Queens flock. Assuming birds still persist in Nassau , there may be as many as 50 Mitred Parakeets around the NYC metro area. Having said all this, I’ll also say that reporting is quite unreliable and there could well be some birds missed. For example, to this day, Mitred Parakeets have not been recorded on any NY Christmas Bird Count and reports from June through November are virtually unknown. So the biggest question is whether Mitred Parakeets are breeding in the NY area, and if so, where. Those interested can read my article in The Kingbird, September 2009; 59(3). By the way, the cherry trees in Hillcrest, Queens are about to blossom, and the birds should be there within a couple of days! Seth Ausubel Forest Hills, NY From:bounce-13647422-3714...@list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-13647422-3714...@list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Andrew Block Sent: Sunday, April 03, 2011 11:56 AM To: NYS Birds Subject: [nysbirds-l] long belated Mitred Parakeet report For all you parrot people out there following the saga of the Mitred Parakeets in NYC I was going thru my notes last night and came across a sighting I had on 4/4/96 at the NY Botanical
[nysbirds-l] Jones Beach area Sunday, April 3, 2011
Barb Saunders and I (Ardith Bondi) started at Nickerson Beach (Nick) this morning, where we found 4 pairs of Oystercatchers, one actively mating and at least 2 pairs of Piping Plovers with one extra alone (at least when we saw it). When we reached the jetty at West End 2 (WE2), there was another mating pair of Oystercatchers and, along the beach, another pair of Piping Plovers. Birds seen today: Common Loon (WE2 jetty) Horned Grebe (Nick) Northern Gannet (offshore, both places) Great Cormorant Double-crested Cormorant Canada Goose Brant (still many around) Mute Swan (pond seen from Meadowbrook Parkway on the way up from the beach) Common Eider (1 female by WE2 jetty) Black Scoter (8, WE2) Red-breasted Merganser (widespread) Osprey (near Point Lookout exit from Meadowbrook) Red-tailed Hawk Peregrine Falcon (eating prey on Jones Beach water tower) Piping Plover (Nick WE2) American Oystercatcher (Nick WE2) Dunlin (1 individual near WE2 jetty) Ring-billed Gull Herring Gull Great Black-backed Gull Rock Pigeon Mourning Dove Northern Flicker (WE) American Crow Horned Lark (1 bird, Nick) Tree Swallow (WE) American Robin Northern Mockingbird (Nick Jones Beach) European Starling American Tree Sparrow (median near Coast Guard Station) Song Sparrow (WE, Coast Guard Station) Red-winged Blackbird (mixed flocks of blackbirds at WE median) Common Grackle Brown-headed Cowbird House Sparrow one seal sp. seen from the WE2 jetty -- 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/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] Calverton and Dune Rd, Suffolk Co.
Pine Warblers and Eastern Phoebes were singing this morning in the Calverton- Manorville area, and Bluebirds were bringing nesting material to boxes near the Epcal south entrance. Two Great Egrets were on the Grumman Pond, and several more were in the marshes on the north side of Dune Rd. Also along Dune Rd, Boat-tailed Grackles were loud and showy from Tiana Beach to Shinnecock Inlet, and at the Osprey nest near the Ponquogue Bridge two birds were defending the homestead against two 'interlopers'. A few Am. Oystercatchers were feeding on the bay islands. Also seen at EPCAL: Ring-necked Pheasant Wild Turkey Red-tailed Hawk Kestrel a small flock of Juncos singing Horned Larks singing Eastern Meadowlarks Mike Cooper Ridge, LI, 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/ --
