December 27, 2025 marked the 71st Central Suffolk Christmas Bird Count. Extending from Smith Point and Cupsogue County Parks north to Lake Panamoka, and from Gabreski Airport in Westhampton to the Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, this count includes ocean, bay, marshland, pond, farm field, wooded area, and a massive residential habitat.
The second snowstorm of the season dumped 6 inches of snow across the circle, beginning the evening before and ending mid morning on count day. Plowed in driveways and messy roads made it impossible or too dangerous for many participants to venture out into the field, but many were able to stay indoors and conduct feeder watches instead. Those that were able to drive were greatly rewarded by many species! Notable highlights of the day in the field included Iceland Gull, Virginia Rail, Baltimore Oriole, Rusty Blackbird, Common Yellowthroat, Saltmarsh Sparrow, Lapland Longspur, Northern Saw-whet and Long-eared Owl. All together tallied were 115 species on count day, with an additional 3 species noted during count week of Cackling Goose, Redhead, and Pine Warbler, bringing the total to 118. Our compilation dinner was held in Eastport and hosted with many thanks to the Eastern Long Island Audubon Society who has sponsored the count since 1967. Participants warmed up with hot drinks and delicious food catered by Mary’s in Speonk and shared their stories from the day. Thank you so much to all of our participants that made this year a great success despite the snow. They are truly as hardy as the birds that overwinter on Long Island! Next year’s count is planned for Sunday, December 27, 2026 and we hope you can join us! Email me if you’d like to be included on our mailing list. Good Birding and Happy New Year, Katie Kleinpeter Central Suffolk CBC Compiler [email protected]
