[nysbirds-l] A disappointment and a surprise !
This afternoon I tried for the Nelson's Sparrows reported by Jody Lenin from Cedar Beach in Southold recently...without success. I did, however, have success in picking up some neat shells for grandson #4 to sketch while attending his art class. I also enjoyed an additional success while enroute to Cedar Beach, on Main Bayview Rd., just s/o Water Terrace, when a fairly late Baltimore Oriole decided to fly across the road right in front of me. A single Turkey Vulture (possibly Lonesome George) was airborne in the same area. Cheers, Bob -- 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] After 2 nights of favorable winds.....
In spite of a late start, I headed for the West End of JBSP, with a few planned stops enroute. RMSP, as with all my "ports of call" today, had, as their most numerous species, the ubiquitous E.Phoebe. I must have seen between 125 to 150 all told ! Prior to reaching the F.I.Hawkwatch, I had picked up an adult Merlin. In addition to the warm camaraderie that one always finds at the watcher's platform, good birds are found there almost always ! Although I was there for just a short-while today, the highlight for me was having an interaction between a raven and a crow pointed out by one of the regulars. An adult Peregrine Falcon was at rest on the water tower as I left the barrier beach. A stop at Gilgo, produced a Palm Warbler and 2 White-crowned Sparrows, among the many Yellow-rumped Warblers and common sparrows found there. A Lesser Yellowlegs was feeding in the marsh. The water tower at JBSP produced its own adult Peregrine Falcon. At the West End I had both adult and immature Merlin, in addition to a Kestrel. The area near the Coast Guard fence was loaded with sparrows and warblers. Swamp was my only new sparrow species for the season, with all but one warbler (again a Palm) being Yellow-rumped. The last stop of the day held the bird of the day ! In the grassy area in front of the fishing boats at Captree SP, a Dickcissel was found feeding with a flock of ~ 10 House Sparrows.They moved around quite a bit, at times venturing into the grassy area's of the eastern-most parking lot. Cheers, Bob -- 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] After 2 nights of favorable winds.....
In spite of a late start, I headed for the West End of JBSP, with a few planned stops enroute. RMSP, as with all my "ports of call" today, had, as their most numerous species, the ubiquitous E.Phoebe. I must have seen between 125 to 150 all told ! Prior to reaching the F.I.Hawkwatch, I had picked up an adult Merlin. In addition to the warm camaraderie that one always finds at the watcher's platform, good birds are found there almost always ! Although I was there for just a short-while today, the highlight for me was having an interaction between a raven and a crow pointed out by one of the regulars. An adult Peregrine Falcon was at rest on the water tower as I left the barrier beach. A stop at Gilgo, produced a Palm Warbler and 2 White-crowned Sparrows, among the many Yellow-rumped Warblers and common sparrows found there. A Lesser Yellowlegs was feeding in the marsh. The water tower at JBSP produced its own adult Peregrine Falcon. At the West End I had both adult and immature Merlin, in addition to a Kestrel. The area near the Coast Guard fence was loaded with sparrows and warblers. Swamp was my only new sparrow species for the season, with all but one warbler (again a Palm) being Yellow-rumped. The last stop of the day held the bird of the day ! In the grassy area in front of the fishing boats at Captree SP, a Dickcissel was found feeding with a flock of ~ 10 House Sparrows.They moved around quite a bit, at times venturing into the grassy area's of the eastern-most parking lot. Cheers, Bob -- 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] 2 unusual sightings
Spurred on by Derrick Rogers' Brown Booby (BRBO) reports, I got on my horse, and took part in the undesirable motor trip from Riverhead to Montauk during the "construction/service vehicle convoy" that dominates the road between 0600 & 1000 on any given work day ! Not finding the BRBO at the Star Island Dr. location, I decided to try for the bird from the south end of Lake Montauk, where I did get my first sighting of it...but it wasn't down there. While working north, as I checked out the entire lake, I found it now perched on top of the sailboat, I had checked from S.I.D., which was birdless 15 minutes earlier. This behavior of leaving and then returning to the ship's mast was repeated at least 5 times during the ~ 2 hours I spent viewing the booby.* Back at the S.I.D. location, and after seeing a juvenile Bald Eagle being harassed by some crows, I was joined by Bob Wilson, a birder from Sag Harbor, who, after getting the bird, suggested we try for a better spot along West Lake Dr., which would be closer, and have better lighting. When I caught up with him, he had found one ! Even though he was standing on the shoulder of the road, he was looking down the driveway of house # 278, straight out to where the sailboat (Maui) was anchored, and enjoying great views ! After Bob left, Gary Strauss arrived and had the same good fortune. Next, for me, was "The Point", where I experienced my 2nd unusual sighting of the day. Upon arrival, I found 6 Herring Gulls, 2 A.Crows and 1 N.Mockingbird in the parking lot. As I was setting my scope up at the rear of the restaurant, it dawned on me there wasn't any birds around. For the first time that I can remember, I did not see or hear a single bird on the land, sea or in the sky from that specific spot...and I did make a slow, and thorough, 2nd pass ! To put this in perspective, It is fairly accurate to say I've been birding this spot at least 2-3 times a year, since 1976. Could the prolonged rough seas, due to the series of hurricanes, be the reason ? On the way home I stopped at both Sag Pond and Mecox Bay, and found nothing unusual, with the number of our 4 common gulls down. On the up side, at both beaches the number of Monarch Butterflies moving to the west was inspiring...maybe they are recovering ! Cheers, Bob * My thanks to Ed Becher and Brendan Fogarty for their help in getting the word out ! -- 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] 2 unusual sightings
Spurred on by Derrick Rogers' Brown Booby (BRBO) reports, I got on my horse, and took part in the undesirable motor trip from Riverhead to Montauk during the "construction/service vehicle convoy" that dominates the road between 0600 & 1000 on any given work day ! Not finding the BRBO at the Star Island Dr. location, I decided to try for the bird from the south end of Lake Montauk, where I did get my first sighting of it...but it wasn't down there. While working north, as I checked out the entire lake, I found it now perched on top of the sailboat, I had checked from S.I.D., which was birdless 15 minutes earlier. This behavior of leaving and then returning to the ship's mast was repeated at least 5 times during the ~ 2 hours I spent viewing the booby.* Back at the S.I.D. location, and after seeing a juvenile Bald Eagle being harassed by some crows, I was joined by Bob Wilson, a birder from Sag Harbor, who, after getting the bird, suggested we try for a better spot along West Lake Dr., which would be closer, and have better lighting. When I caught up with him, he had found one ! Even though he was standing on the shoulder of the road, he was looking down the driveway of house # 278, straight out to where the sailboat (Maui) was anchored, and enjoying great views ! After Bob left, Gary Strauss arrived and had the same good fortune. Next, for me, was "The Point", where I experienced my 2nd unusual sighting of the day. Upon arrival, I found 6 Herring Gulls, 2 A.Crows and 1 N.Mockingbird in the parking lot. As I was setting my scope up at the rear of the restaurant, it dawned on me there wasn't any birds around. For the first time that I can remember, I did not see or hear a single bird on the land, sea or in the sky from that specific spot...and I did make a slow, and thorough, 2nd pass ! To put this in perspective, It is fairly accurate to say I've been birding this spot at least 2-3 times a year, since 1976. Could the prolonged rough seas, due to the series of hurricanes, be the reason ? On the way home I stopped at both Sag Pond and Mecox Bay, and found nothing unusual, with the number of our 4 common gulls down. On the up side, at both beaches the number of Monarch Butterflies moving to the west was inspiring...maybe they are recovering ! Cheers, Bob * My thanks to Ed Becher and Brendan Fogarty for their help in getting the word out ! -- 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] Good Gulls Almighty !
After a late start yesterday (like this post - sorry !) my "gut" opted for doing Smith Point Co. Pk., Mastic first, followed by a ride down Dune Rd. from the Post La. Bridge, Quogue, to Shinnicock Inlet, Hampton Bays. I, of course, was hoping for some windblown vagrants, which had decided to linger awhile ! SPCP's ocean and picnic areas were almost birdless, but it's huge parking lot, with its history of producing good birds, was not to be denied ! All our 4 common gulls were in attendance, along with 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, and a Iceland/Kumlien's Gull ! The LBBGs consisted of 1 juvenile, 1 adult non-breeding and another adult in full breeding plumage. The Iceland/Kumlien's Gull is, I believe, closest to a 3rd winter bird, and proved to be the highlight of the day ! The trip along Dune Rd. did not provide anything memorable...oh well, I can't get too greedy now ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Good Gulls Almighty !
After a late start yesterday (like this post - sorry !) my "gut" opted for doing Smith Point Co. Pk., Mastic first, followed by a ride down Dune Rd. from the Post La. Bridge, Quogue, to Shinnicock Inlet, Hampton Bays. I, of course, was hoping for some windblown vagrants, which had decided to linger awhile ! SPCP's ocean and picnic areas were almost birdless, but it's huge parking lot, with its history of producing good birds, was not to be denied ! All our 4 common gulls were in attendance, along with 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, and a Iceland/Kumlien's Gull ! The LBBGs consisted of 1 juvenile, 1 adult non-breeding and another adult in full breeding plumage. The Iceland/Kumlien's Gull is, I believe, closest to a 3rd winter bird, and proved to be the highlight of the day ! The trip along Dune Rd. did not provide anything memorable...oh well, I can't get too greedy now ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Having to head west...again !
At 0805 on 9/15, I received a distress call asking if I could deliver a much needed piece of clothing (youngest grandson Brady's church choir over-garment) to my daughter's home in Rockville Centre. After "doing my duty", I headed to Hempstead Lake State Park, only to find many Robins, and 1 Carolina Wren. Rather than head straight home, I decided to take the Ocean Parkway back, with, naturally, a stop at Jones Beach State Park's West End. Arriving at the Coast Guard area, I found Ed Becher busily counting A. Oystercatchers. He settled on ~ 400, after losing his exact count of 300 - which, of course, was fine with me ! There were many larger plovers on the bar, but neither Ed, nor I, could pick out a Golden. I got to see my first Red Knots (2) of the season, while Ed had seen 4 earlier. Other shorebirds present were: Semipalmated Sandpiper; Ruddy Turnstone; Sanderling; Dunlin and Short-billed Dowitcher. After going our separate ways, I found an A.Kestrel hovering near the West End/Ocean Parkway interchange - also saw 2 Ospreys while driving the length of the the parkway. My last stop was at Heckscher State Park, where all the puddles, but one, in Fields 7 & 8, had dried up, with only our common gull species in attendance. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Having to head west...again !
At 0805 on 9/15, I received a distress call asking if I could deliver a much needed piece of clothing (youngest grandson Brady's church choir over-garment) to my daughter's home in Rockville Centre. After "doing my duty", I headed to Hempstead Lake State Park, only to find many Robins, and 1 Carolina Wren. Rather than head straight home, I decided to take the Ocean Parkway back, with, naturally, a stop at Jones Beach State Park's West End. Arriving at the Coast Guard area, I found Ed Becher busily counting A. Oystercatchers. He settled on ~ 400, after losing his exact count of 300 - which, of course, was fine with me ! There were many larger plovers on the bar, but neither Ed, nor I, could pick out a Golden. I got to see my first Red Knots (2) of the season, while Ed had seen 4 earlier. Other shorebirds present were: Semipalmated Sandpiper; Ruddy Turnstone; Sanderling; Dunlin and Short-billed Dowitcher. After going our separate ways, I found an A.Kestrel hovering near the West End/Ocean Parkway interchange - also saw 2 Ospreys while driving the length of the the parkway. My last stop was at Heckscher State Park, where all the puddles, but one, in Fields 7 & 8, had dried up, with only our common gull species in attendance. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Go east, young man, go east !
Having not seen a Buff-breasted Sandpiper this season on the sod fields, I decided to try yesteryear's best bet for finding migrating,fall "grass-pipers"...before the advent of sod farms ! If you were looking for Black-bellied or A.Golden Plovers, Whimbrel and Pectoral or Buff-breasted Sandpipers you visited the Sagaponack potato fields. Granted, the birds were harder to find as they moved along the ~ 6-8" rows that remained after the potatoes were dug...but they were there, for the finding ! Likewise, if you were after Hudsonian or Marbled Godwits, White-rumped, Baird's, Western and Stilt Sandpipers, you visited both Mecox Bay and Sagg Pond. Today, I did all 3 locations with nice results, albeit, I'm still without a BBSA ! I started at a closed Mecox Bay, finding: 1 Black-bellied, 2 A.Golden, 1 Piping & 5 Semipalmated Plovers; 2 Greater & 2 Lesser Yellowlegs; 1 Willet; 5 Sanderling; 3 Semipalmated & 1 Least Sandpipers; a few of the 3 common gull species; 61 Foster's & 2 Black Terns - one of which, had some kind of huge growth/object attached to one of its toes, although the bird can still fly. While enroute to Sagg Pond, I next approached Mecox from its eastern side, with the only new species being a very entertaining Belted Kingfisher. Similar to Mecox, Sagg has not been opened to the ocean recently, however, the beach and limited sandbars held a good variety of birds: 2 A.Golden, 2 Piping and 3 Semipalmated Plovers; 7 Killdeers; 8 Sanderling; 1 Pectoral Sandpiper; 2 Laughing, ~ 10 Ring-billed, ~ 35 Herring, 4 Lesser Black-backed,* ~ 40 Great Black-backed Gulls; 2 Royal & 1 Foster's Tern and another B.Kingfisher. * 3 adults, still in full breeding plumage, the 4th, a 2nd winter bird. On the whole, I enjoyed the day's outing, but it came at a price. As I was driving around Sagaponack, on familiar lanes with the names of Daniels, Hedges and Parsonage, I found only one potato field in the condition described above. Rather, most of the potato fields that haven't been turned into massive homes, have been switched into corn ! While this conversion might equate into more geese to peruse later in the year, it certainly short-circuits the shorebird season. The last notable bird of the day (seen as I headed home) was a Cooper's Hawk, in flight, over Bridgehampton. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Go east, young man, go east !
Having not seen a Buff-breasted Sandpiper this season on the sod fields, I decided to try yesteryear's best bet for finding migrating,fall "grass-pipers"...before the advent of sod farms ! If you were looking for Black-bellied or A.Golden Plovers, Whimbrel and Pectoral or Buff-breasted Sandpipers you visited the Sagaponack potato fields. Granted, the birds were harder to find as they moved along the ~ 6-8" rows that remained after the potatoes were dug...but they were there, for the finding ! Likewise, if you were after Hudsonian or Marbled Godwits, White-rumped, Baird's, Western and Stilt Sandpipers, you visited both Mecox Bay and Sagg Pond. Today, I did all 3 locations with nice results, albeit, I'm still without a BBSA ! I started at a closed Mecox Bay, finding: 1 Black-bellied, 2 A.Golden, 1 Piping & 5 Semipalmated Plovers; 2 Greater & 2 Lesser Yellowlegs; 1 Willet; 5 Sanderling; 3 Semipalmated & 1 Least Sandpipers; a few of the 3 common gull species; 61 Foster's & 2 Black Terns - one of which, had some kind of huge growth/object attached to one of its toes, although the bird can still fly. While enroute to Sagg Pond, I next approached Mecox from its eastern side, with the only new species being a very entertaining Belted Kingfisher. Similar to Mecox, Sagg has not been opened to the ocean recently, however, the beach and limited sandbars held a good variety of birds: 2 A.Golden, 2 Piping and 3 Semipalmated Plovers; 7 Killdeers; 8 Sanderling; 1 Pectoral Sandpiper; 2 Laughing, ~ 10 Ring-billed, ~ 35 Herring, 4 Lesser Black-backed,* ~ 40 Great Black-backed Gulls; 2 Royal & 1 Foster's Tern and another B.Kingfisher. * 3 adults, still in full breeding plumage, the 4th, a 2nd winter bird. On the whole, I enjoyed the day's outing, but it came at a price. As I was driving around Sagaponack, on familiar lanes with the names of Daniels, Hedges and Parsonage, I found only one potato field in the condition described above. Rather, most of the potato fields that haven't been turned into massive homes, have been switched into corn ! While this conversion might equate into more geese to peruse later in the year, it certainly short-circuits the shorebird season. The last notable bird of the day (seen as I headed home) was a Cooper's Hawk, in flight, over Bridgehampton. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Go west young man, go west !
In spite of a not so favorable wind direction, and a late start, I still decided to try the RMSP Hawkwatch, and possibly, beyond ! Arriving at the p/lot of Field 5 at ~ 1030, the stroll along the boardwalk to the viewing platform was very quiet, with only one Merlin seen.Once there, I had the pleasure of saying hello & good-bye to old acquaintances Corey Finger, Mary Normandia and Seth Ausubel, who were in the process of leaving. The remaining crew, regulars Trudy Battaly, Drew Panko and Anthony deLuca told me of their earlier sightings. I stayed ~ 1 & 1/2 hours, during which we had Sharp-shinned Hawk, Osprey, Merlin, A.Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon and at least 6 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds ! The trip west on Ocean Pkwy (and then back east) totaled 4 Ospreys, in addition to a Winter Wren, Palm Warbler and a close-up, juvenile Yellow-crowned Night-Heron* on the western half of the Gilgo Community. At the Gilgo Marina there were 6 lingering Foster's Terns, and a brilliant, male Boat-tailed Grackle. Jones Beach proved to be a real challenge for me today, not being able to come up with even a "small highlight" ! Cheers, Bob *A very cooperative bird, allowing for some neat photos ! -- 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] Go west young man, go west !
In spite of a not so favorable wind direction, and a late start, I still decided to try the RMSP Hawkwatch, and possibly, beyond ! Arriving at the p/lot of Field 5 at ~ 1030, the stroll along the boardwalk to the viewing platform was very quiet, with only one Merlin seen.Once there, I had the pleasure of saying hello & good-bye to old acquaintances Corey Finger, Mary Normandia and Seth Ausubel, who were in the process of leaving. The remaining crew, regulars Trudy Battaly, Drew Panko and Anthony deLuca told me of their earlier sightings. I stayed ~ 1 & 1/2 hours, during which we had Sharp-shinned Hawk, Osprey, Merlin, A.Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon and at least 6 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds ! The trip west on Ocean Pkwy (and then back east) totaled 4 Ospreys, in addition to a Winter Wren, Palm Warbler and a close-up, juvenile Yellow-crowned Night-Heron* on the western half of the Gilgo Community. At the Gilgo Marina there were 6 lingering Foster's Terns, and a brilliant, male Boat-tailed Grackle. Jones Beach proved to be a real challenge for me today, not being able to come up with even a "small highlight" ! Cheers, Bob *A very cooperative bird, allowing for some neat photos ! -- 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] 2 successful walks, each done by 2 different people with different styles...and goals !
My wife RuthAnn and I arrived at Parking Field 5, RMSP at ~ 1520. We started walking toward the lighthouse together, but soon parted. She has a fast pace, and wanted a good workout, while I walk slower than she does, even when there isn't many birds to admire ! When I finally reached the "Light", I found Ruth relaxing on one of the commemorative benches that have been placed around the base of it. After a short stay, we headed back toward the car, with Ruth resuming her power walk, while I headed west in my comfortable gait...but not before reading all the dedication plaques on each of the ~ dozen benches - all having wonderful sentiments expressed ! I, of course, was last getting back, finding a contented spouse, matching my feelings exactly ! Although there weren't many birds, I did see 2 Peregrine Falcons, an immature in flight, as I approached the "Light", along with a perched adult, busily eating its prey, and providing some neat photos, on my return leg. Cheers, Bob -- 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] 2 successful walks, each done by 2 different people with different styles...and goals !
My wife RuthAnn and I arrived at Parking Field 5, RMSP at ~ 1520. We started walking toward the lighthouse together, but soon parted. She has a fast pace, and wanted a good workout, while I walk slower than she does, even when there isn't many birds to admire ! When I finally reached the "Light", I found Ruth relaxing on one of the commemorative benches that have been placed around the base of it. After a short stay, we headed back toward the car, with Ruth resuming her power walk, while I headed west in my comfortable gait...but not before reading all the dedication plaques on each of the ~ dozen benches - all having wonderful sentiments expressed ! I, of course, was last getting back, finding a contented spouse, matching my feelings exactly ! Although there weren't many birds, I did see 2 Peregrine Falcons, an immature in flight, as I approached the "Light", along with a perched adult, busily eating its prey, and providing some neat photos, on my return leg. Cheers, Bob -- 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] 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Smith Point Park, Mastic, Suffolk Co.
This afternoon (9/7), after taking care of business in Patchouge, I routed myself back home by way of the above ocean location. Lounging in its parking lot, were ~ 100 gulls, made up of our area's 4 regular species. One of the lessers appeared to be in 1st winter plumage, with the 2nd bird, an adult, still in full breeding plumage. Cheers, Bob -- 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] 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls at Smith Point Park, Mastic, Suffolk Co.
This afternoon (9/7), after taking care of business in Patchouge, I routed myself back home by way of the above ocean location. Lounging in its parking lot, were ~ 100 gulls, made up of our area's 4 regular species. One of the lessers appeared to be in 1st winter plumage, with the 2nd bird, an adult, still in full breeding plumage. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Struck-out on shorebirds, but scored on raptors !
Finished "to do" list by 1550, arriving at the Doctors Path, Riverhead sod field by 1600. Did not find a single shorebird here, or at any other sod field, ranging as far to the west as Hulse Landing Rd., Wading River. Starting with the adult Peregrine found coursing over the D.P. field (possibly one of the two birds seen at this location on 9/3), by the time I finished at 1815, I had tallied 3 other raptor species, totaling 11 individuals. In the order they were sighted: 2 single Turkey Vultures, 1 each in Riverhead and Wading River; a flock of 7 in Wading River; a Kestrel and a Red-tailed Hawk, both in Calverton. I also got some dynamite shots of a large Snapping Turtle sunning itself out on the grass along the entrance to the Swan Lake Golf Club o/o River Rd., Manorville ! A very late start for sure...but surely rewarding ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Struck-out on shorebirds, but scored on raptors !
Finished "to do" list by 1550, arriving at the Doctors Path, Riverhead sod field by 1600. Did not find a single shorebird here, or at any other sod field, ranging as far to the west as Hulse Landing Rd., Wading River. Starting with the adult Peregrine found coursing over the D.P. field (possibly one of the two birds seen at this location on 9/3), by the time I finished at 1815, I had tallied 3 other raptor species, totaling 11 individuals. In the order they were sighted: 2 single Turkey Vultures, 1 each in Riverhead and Wading River; a flock of 7 in Wading River; a Kestrel and a Red-tailed Hawk, both in Calverton. I also got some dynamite shots of a large Snapping Turtle sunning itself out on the grass along the entrance to the Swan Lake Golf Club o/o River Rd., Manorville ! A very late start for sure...but surely rewarding ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Day late news - my bad ! No shorebirds, with Peregrines, Turkey Vultures and good company instead...even had 2 "lifers" !
On 9/3, responding to Tim Healy's current post re: Buff-breasted & Baird's Sandpipers at the Doctor's Path sod fields, I hustled out, only to find a group of 6 birders, with their optics fully engaged - not with the birds they had just seen, but rather trying to locate them again ! It seems that the 2 Peregrines, which had arrived a tad earlier than myself, decided to land rather than blow on bye, much to my chagrin ! The falcons, while giving good views, stayed much too long, probably causing the shorebirds to stay away. We also had a flock of 15, or more, T.V's provide some action, while we waited in vain. A trip around the "Golden Trapezium" didn't help either ! And now for the best part of the day, greeting old friends and making new ones ! The former group was made up of Sue & Ken Feustel, Menachem Goldstein & his Mom, Karen* and Tom Moran, a fellow ELIAS member. It was gratifying to finally meet the last 2 birders, namely Tim Healy and then Lee Stocker, who arrived later. In the past, I had exchanged emails with both of them, so it was nice to put faces on their electronic signatures ! Cheers, Bob * I first had the pleasure of making Karen's acquaintance when she was chauffeuring her NYSYBC son around to all the "good finds", but now that Menachem is doing the driving, she just comes along for all the "good action" ! -- 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] Day late news - my bad ! No shorebirds, with Peregrines, Turkey Vultures and good company instead...even had 2 "lifers" !
On 9/3, responding to Tim Healy's current post re: Buff-breasted & Baird's Sandpipers at the Doctor's Path sod fields, I hustled out, only to find a group of 6 birders, with their optics fully engaged - not with the birds they had just seen, but rather trying to locate them again ! It seems that the 2 Peregrines, which had arrived a tad earlier than myself, decided to land rather than blow on bye, much to my chagrin ! The falcons, while giving good views, stayed much too long, probably causing the shorebirds to stay away. We also had a flock of 15, or more, T.V's provide some action, while we waited in vain. A trip around the "Golden Trapezium" didn't help either ! And now for the best part of the day, greeting old friends and making new ones ! The former group was made up of Sue & Ken Feustel, Menachem Goldstein & his Mom, Karen* and Tom Moran, a fellow ELIAS member. It was gratifying to finally meet the last 2 birders, namely Tim Healy and then Lee Stocker, who arrived later. In the past, I had exchanged emails with both of them, so it was nice to put faces on their electronic signatures ! Cheers, Bob * I first had the pleasure of making Karen's acquaintance when she was chauffeuring her NYSYBC son around to all the "good finds", but now that Menachem is doing the driving, she just comes along for all the "good action" ! -- 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] 1st and 10 in Riverhead
Heading home after a short and very quiet shorebird outing in the "Golden Trapezium" area (Doctor's Path, Sound Ave, Route 105 and Northville Tpke) I did find a FOS Merlin perched in a snag overlooking the horse pasture on the s/s of Middle Rd., between Northville Tpke and Ostrander Ave. As I was pulling into my driveway, the roof of a neighbor's house held 10, vocal Fish Crows - the highest count of that species for our Condo property during the 16 years we have lived here. Cheers, Bob -- 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] 1st and 10 in Riverhead
Heading home after a short and very quiet shorebird outing in the "Golden Trapezium" area (Doctor's Path, Sound Ave, Route 105 and Northville Tpke) I did find a FOS Merlin perched in a snag overlooking the horse pasture on the s/s of Middle Rd., between Northville Tpke and Ostrander Ave. As I was pulling into my driveway, the roof of a neighbor's house held 10, vocal Fish Crows - the highest count of that species for our Condo property during the 16 years we have lived here. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Trolling for Shorebirds
Following up on yesterday's post by Sue Feustel , I arrived at Doctor's Path ~ 1230. After making my first pass of the "Golden Trapezium" (D's P, Sound Ave. Route 105 and Northville Tpke, I was only able to come up with 2 Black-bellied Plovers. Deciding to try D's P again, I came upon a young birding couple, Robin Elman & Paul Stiel, from Queens, who earlier had found a large plover way out in the field, but had not been able to I.D. with just their binoculars. Driving back to where they had seen it, with the aid of a scope, we found a single Golden Plover, 3 Black-bellies, and a Semipalmated Plover. This spot was just a hair n/o of where Sue had her birds - with today's bird feeding in the bare earth beyond the first strip of sod still remaining. Robin & Paul were delighted to get definitive photos of their 1st Golden ! We then headed w/on Sound Ave, checking out all the sod fields up to Osborne Ave, without success. Next, we headed s/on Edwards Ave, where we came upon a fair sized rain puddle, on a partially dug sod field on the w/s, a short distance n/o Riley Ave. We tallied 7 species of shorebirds here: 1 Semipalmated Plover; many Killdeer; 1 Lesser Yellowlegs; 3 Pectoral Sandpipers; 1 Baird's Sandpiper; 3 Semipalmated Sandpipers and 1 Least Sandpiper. After this fruitful stop, we came up short on the Edwards Ave sod fields s/o Route 25, as well as all those located along Route 25 west to Route 25 A. Traveling w/on Route 25A, our good fortune was stoked again as we turned onto Hulse Landing Rd., Wading River. The sod field on the w/s had been dug out already, but still held 1 Semipalmated Sandpiper, a few Killdeer, and 2 Golden Plovers. Our last Sod Farm stop, on the s/s/o Sound Ave, e/o H/L/Rd. was void of any birdlife. We finished the day at the Calverton Grasslands, where the only birds seen were 2 Red-tailed Hawks. Although this part of the afternoon is not usually conducive to finding birds, it seems that many of this area's breeding birds have moved on. It was a pleasure birding with Robin & Paul ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Trolling for Shorebirds
Following up on yesterday's post by Sue Feustel , I arrived at Doctor's Path ~ 1230. After making my first pass of the "Golden Trapezium" (D's P, Sound Ave. Route 105 and Northville Tpke, I was only able to come up with 2 Black-bellied Plovers. Deciding to try D's P again, I came upon a young birding couple, Robin Elman & Paul Stiel, from Queens, who earlier had found a large plover way out in the field, but had not been able to I.D. with just their binoculars. Driving back to where they had seen it, with the aid of a scope, we found a single Golden Plover, 3 Black-bellies, and a Semipalmated Plover. This spot was just a hair n/o of where Sue had her birds - with today's bird feeding in the bare earth beyond the first strip of sod still remaining. Robin & Paul were delighted to get definitive photos of their 1st Golden ! We then headed w/on Sound Ave, checking out all the sod fields up to Osborne Ave, without success. Next, we headed s/on Edwards Ave, where we came upon a fair sized rain puddle, on a partially dug sod field on the w/s, a short distance n/o Riley Ave. We tallied 7 species of shorebirds here: 1 Semipalmated Plover; many Killdeer; 1 Lesser Yellowlegs; 3 Pectoral Sandpipers; 1 Baird's Sandpiper; 3 Semipalmated Sandpipers and 1 Least Sandpiper. After this fruitful stop, we came up short on the Edwards Ave sod fields s/o Route 25, as well as all those located along Route 25 west to Route 25 A. Traveling w/on Route 25A, our good fortune was stoked again as we turned onto Hulse Landing Rd., Wading River. The sod field on the w/s had been dug out already, but still held 1 Semipalmated Sandpiper, a few Killdeer, and 2 Golden Plovers. Our last Sod Farm stop, on the s/s/o Sound Ave, e/o H/L/Rd. was void of any birdlife. We finished the day at the Calverton Grasslands, where the only birds seen were 2 Red-tailed Hawks. Although this part of the afternoon is not usually conducive to finding birds, it seems that many of this area's breeding birds have moved on. It was a pleasure birding with Robin & Paul ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Giving it a shot...and ending on a high !
Because of a doctor's appointment in Garden City, I took my wife's car, a Prius, in order to use the HOV lane as a single occupant, but without switching-out my birding gear...grrr ! By the time I arrived back home in Riverhead, my wife and binocs/ scope were somewhere on the South Shore. So, buoyed up by my earlier medical experience, I headed toward Doctor's Path & Reeves Ave, in the hope of finding at least one birder, carrying the tools of the trade ! Upon arrival my cup overflowed, in finding 5 bodies, 5 binoculars and 2 spotting scopes ! Using same, were Ed Becher, Bob Proniewych, Frank ? from Southampton, NYSYBC member Ryan Zucker, and his mother, Karen. They had seen at least one Buff-breasted Sandpiper prior to my making the scene. Shortly afterward, this group went its separate ways, with the Zuckers and myself heading toward the sod fields on Route 105. While we didn't find any shorebirds there, I believe we had at least 2 Bobolinks feeding among the higher grass and flowering weeds, located between the road and the sod grass. I happened to see these birds first, albeit without binocs, but had a full frontal view of one, as it hovered just above the grass/weeds. It appeared to be a juvenile, plumage almost all yellowish buffy. The spread out, pointed tail feathers were very prominent, and along with its pointed wings (which I only realized later) added up to a good call. Meeting a "young birder" in the field (along with his "wheels" - his Mom) however, was the highlight of today's outing ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Giving it a shot...and ending on a high !
Because of a doctor's appointment in Garden City, I took my wife's car, a Prius, in order to use the HOV lane as a single occupant, but without switching-out my birding gear...grrr ! By the time I arrived back home in Riverhead, my wife and binocs/ scope were somewhere on the South Shore. So, buoyed up by my earlier medical experience, I headed toward Doctor's Path & Reeves Ave, in the hope of finding at least one birder, carrying the tools of the trade ! Upon arrival my cup overflowed, in finding 5 bodies, 5 binoculars and 2 spotting scopes ! Using same, were Ed Becher, Bob Proniewych, Frank ? from Southampton, NYSYBC member Ryan Zucker, and his mother, Karen. They had seen at least one Buff-breasted Sandpiper prior to my making the scene. Shortly afterward, this group went its separate ways, with the Zuckers and myself heading toward the sod fields on Route 105. While we didn't find any shorebirds there, I believe we had at least 2 Bobolinks feeding among the higher grass and flowering weeds, located between the road and the sod grass. I happened to see these birds first, albeit without binocs, but had a full frontal view of one, as it hovered just above the grass/weeds. It appeared to be a juvenile, plumage almost all yellowish buffy. The spread out, pointed tail feathers were very prominent, and along with its pointed wings (which I only realized later) added up to a good call. Meeting a "young birder" in the field (along with his "wheels" - his Mom) however, was the highlight of today's outing ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] BBQ at neighbors, with Nighthawk for dessert !
I haven't been out birding for a while, and therefore was wondering what species sighting would get me to sit down and post to this listserve once again ? In this case, I actually did guess correctly, with "form" carrying the day...north shore of L.I., mid-August , C.Nighthawk - yes ! At ~ 7:30 PM, while Pia & Ralph Miele were serving dessert, I happened to look up and saw a single C.Nighthawk feeding while heading east to west. The bird flew out of sight fairly quickly, but not before 5 "non-birders" saw the nighthawk's outline and graceful flight. A quick trip home produced a field guide which enabled them to see what their newest "life-species" really looked like ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] BBQ at neighbors, with Nighthawk for dessert !
I haven't been out birding for a while, and therefore was wondering what species sighting would get me to sit down and post to this listserve once again ? In this case, I actually did guess correctly, with "form" carrying the day...north shore of L.I., mid-August , C.Nighthawk - yes ! At ~ 7:30 PM, while Pia & Ralph Miele were serving dessert, I happened to look up and saw a single C.Nighthawk feeding while heading east to west. The bird flew out of sight fairly quickly, but not before 5 "non-birders" saw the nighthawk's outline and graceful flight. A quick trip home produced a field guide which enabled them to see what their newest "life-species" really looked like ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Correction of my last post from very early this A.M.
With thanks to John Gluth , who, in a gentle and humorous fashion, asked if I really heard a Chihuahuan Raven in Riverhead yesterday ? Of course, the correct scientific name should have been *Corvus corax...*probably should have started writing post earlier in the evening ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Correction of my last post from very early this A.M.
With thanks to John Gluth , who, in a gentle and humorous fashion, asked if I really heard a Chihuahuan Raven in Riverhead yesterday ? Of course, the correct scientific name should have been *Corvus corax...*probably should have started writing post earlier in the evening ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Important to a happy life: personal hygiene, continue to read, and don't forget to "taste the grape" !
Today, my first task was to keep a dental appointment in Jamesport. My 2nd scheduled stop was at the Riverhead Library, to return 4 books I had finished, and extend a 5th, that was due today. While enroute to the library, as I was passing Michael's Liquor Store, I remembered we were low on "whites", so I stopped and shopped ! Returning to the car with my bottle bargains, I heard the distinct croak of a C.Raven coming from behind the houses and trees on the other side of E.Main St. The bird(s) called 4 times, with each croak sounding like *Corvus cryptoleucus* and not that of a young of either species of crow. Although I didn't see the bird(s), I feel confidant with the call. This is the first of this species for me in Riverhead...I guess I should check all of the town's water towers ! And of course, the moral of this story is "a bottle of wine in the hand, is worth two on the vine" ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Important to a happy life: personal hygiene, continue to read, and don't forget to "taste the grape" !
Today, my first task was to keep a dental appointment in Jamesport. My 2nd scheduled stop was at the Riverhead Library, to return 4 books I had finished, and extend a 5th, that was due today. While enroute to the library, as I was passing Michael's Liquor Store, I remembered we were low on "whites", so I stopped and shopped ! Returning to the car with my bottle bargains, I heard the distinct croak of a C.Raven coming from behind the houses and trees on the other side of E.Main St. The bird(s) called 4 times, with each croak sounding like *Corvus cryptoleucus* and not that of a young of either species of crow. Although I didn't see the bird(s), I feel confidant with the call. This is the first of this species for me in Riverhead...I guess I should check all of the town's water towers ! And of course, the moral of this story is "a bottle of wine in the hand, is worth two on the vine" ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Jaeger species - no__ Gull species - yes (5)
Excited by today's earlier posts, and aided by an 1 & 1/2 hour break between setting tables up and serving dinner at a Riverhead Soup Kitchen, I bolted down to the Tiana Beach Area along Dune Rd., Hampton Bays in pursuit of a pelagic or two ! While striking out on that hunt, I did have a single, 3rd winter, Lesser Black-backed Gull in the Tiana Beach Parking Lot, and an adult, Peregrine Falcon feeding on a small bird, while atop a pole less than 1/4 mile e/o that same parking lot. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Jaeger species - no__ Gull species - yes (5)
Excited by today's earlier posts, and aided by an 1 & 1/2 hour break between setting tables up and serving dinner at a Riverhead Soup Kitchen, I bolted down to the Tiana Beach Area along Dune Rd., Hampton Bays in pursuit of a pelagic or two ! While striking out on that hunt, I did have a single, 3rd winter, Lesser Black-backed Gull in the Tiana Beach Parking Lot, and an adult, Peregrine Falcon feeding on a small bird, while atop a pole less than 1/4 mile e/o that same parking lot. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Correction to today's earlier post of 12:41 AM
With thanks to Paul Sweet for bringing me "up to speed" re: the scientific name of Clapper Rail (per the 2014 AOU checklist supplement) which should read *Rallus crepitans.* Cheers, Bob -- 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] Correction to today's earlier post of 12:41 AM
With thanks to Paul Sweet for bringing me "up to speed" re: the scientific name of Clapper Rail (per the 2014 AOU checklist supplement) which should read *Rallus crepitans.* Cheers, Bob -- 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] Clapping for "Rallus longirostris" Clapping for
I spent the early afternoon (1200-1445 hours) patrolling Dune Rd., between the Post Lane Bridge, Quogue and Shinnicock Inlet, Hampton Bays. During this time I was able to pick up 4 common species as FOY birds, the highlight being 2 Clapper Rails, taking their time while crossing Dune Rd. (south to north) e/o Tiana Beach Marina. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Clapping for "Rallus longirostris" Clapping for
I spent the early afternoon (1200-1445 hours) patrolling Dune Rd., between the Post Lane Bridge, Quogue and Shinnicock Inlet, Hampton Bays. During this time I was able to pick up 4 common species as FOY birds, the highlight being 2 Clapper Rails, taking their time while crossing Dune Rd. (south to north) e/o Tiana Beach Marina. Cheers, Bob -- 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] "The wrong one"
Birding was secondary to me today, but by 1530 I was on Sound Ave heading toward the Paul Stoutenburgh Preserve in Southold, where John Sep had found both male & female Summer Tanager, in the last couple of days. My spirit was encouraged by encountering a total of 5 Turkey Vultures while on that tripled-named (aka North Rd. and/or Route 48) east/west thoroughfare - 2 in Aquebogue, 1 in Laurel, and 2 in Mattituck. This was my first visit to the P.S.P, and while I missed the Summer Tanagers, I did get my first of the season White-eyed Vireo. What makes this such a joy for me is the memory it evokes. Namely, I think of Dennis Puleston and his description of the bird's song..."sweet manure pit" ! As I was leaving, I ran into John Sep, who was just getting started, so "I took another walk around the block" with him. We did get a Tanager, but the wrong one - which raises the question of how can you describe the the gorgeous Scarlet as "the wrong one" Cheers, Bob ! -- 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] "The wrong one"
Birding was secondary to me today, but by 1530 I was on Sound Ave heading toward the Paul Stoutenburgh Preserve in Southold, where John Sep had found both male & female Summer Tanager, in the last couple of days. My spirit was encouraged by encountering a total of 5 Turkey Vultures while on that tripled-named (aka North Rd. and/or Route 48) east/west thoroughfare - 2 in Aquebogue, 1 in Laurel, and 2 in Mattituck. This was my first visit to the P.S.P, and while I missed the Summer Tanagers, I did get my first of the season White-eyed Vireo. What makes this such a joy for me is the memory it evokes. Namely, I think of Dennis Puleston and his description of the bird's song..."sweet manure pit" ! As I was leaving, I ran into John Sep, who was just getting started, so "I took another walk around the block" with him. We did get a Tanager, but the wrong one - which raises the question of how can you describe the the gorgeous Scarlet as "the wrong one" Cheers, Bob ! -- 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] " Return of the TEV - i "
At 1700 hours, while motoring up from downtown Riverhead, I observed two sets of two Turkey Vultures roosting on two chimneys, located on two separate buildings ! The Roanoke Ave Elementary School chimney has been a favorite of up to 8-9 T.V's. at the same time throughout this past fall and winter...especially when the school's boilers were spewing warm flue products. The 2nd set of birds were roosting on the close-by Court House chimney - the first time I have seen this species on any part of that building. Could today's sightings* have anything to do with the cooler weather we have experienced lately ? Cheers, Bob *Prior to today, it has been weeks since the last vulture was seen in this area. -- 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] " Return of the TEV - i "
At 1700 hours, while motoring up from downtown Riverhead, I observed two sets of two Turkey Vultures roosting on two chimneys, located on two separate buildings ! The Roanoke Ave Elementary School chimney has been a favorite of up to 8-9 T.V's. at the same time throughout this past fall and winter...especially when the school's boilers were spewing warm flue products. The 2nd set of birds were roosting on the close-by Court House chimney - the first time I have seen this species on any part of that building. Could today's sightings* have anything to do with the cooler weather we have experienced lately ? Cheers, Bob *Prior to today, it has been weeks since the last vulture was seen in this area. -- 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] ELIAS Bird Walk at the Rocky Point DEC Property, followed by The Calverton Grasslands.
Starting with 8 birders, and ending with 2, we were blessed with a fine day to walk the woods and fields that make up the above locations. Our total for the day is at present, a tentative 52, with only 2, of the 4 promised tallies, received by the author. We had a somewhat disappointing 10 warbler species, including Black-throated Green & Chestnut-sided, with Blue-winged being the most numerous. The fast flying C.Raven under attack from 5 crows was a neat sighting, but the bird of the day had to be the very low (6') and close (15') Black-billed Cuckoo, which stayed in the same area for ~ a 15 minute "photo-shoot", in addition to thrilling us with it's vocalizations ! We did not see a Yellow-billed, missing the one I had yesterday while scouting the area. We were surprised by this, given the huge amount of Tent Caterpillar Nests (many of them open and spewing out their black payloads) at the DEC site. The Calverton Grasslands did produce some of its specialties ie, Horned Larks, E.Blue Bird, and Grasshopper Sparrow, but held back on N.Harrier, Kestrel and E. Meadowlark, Afterward, Sue Benson and I met by chance at the Herb Farm, on River Rd., Calverton. Sue to buy some flowers, and I to do more birding ! As in passed Springs, it was quite active, with 5 warbler species seen, including the Chestnut-sided mentioned above. Cheers, Bob -- 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] ELIAS Bird Walk at the Rocky Point DEC Property, followed by The Calverton Grasslands.
Starting with 8 birders, and ending with 2, we were blessed with a fine day to walk the woods and fields that make up the above locations. Our total for the day is at present, a tentative 52, with only 2, of the 4 promised tallies, received by the author. We had a somewhat disappointing 10 warbler species, including Black-throated Green & Chestnut-sided, with Blue-winged being the most numerous. The fast flying C.Raven under attack from 5 crows was a neat sighting, but the bird of the day had to be the very low (6') and close (15') Black-billed Cuckoo, which stayed in the same area for ~ a 15 minute "photo-shoot", in addition to thrilling us with it's vocalizations ! We did not see a Yellow-billed, missing the one I had yesterday while scouting the area. We were surprised by this, given the huge amount of Tent Caterpillar Nests (many of them open and spewing out their black payloads) at the DEC site. The Calverton Grasslands did produce some of its specialties ie, Horned Larks, E.Blue Bird, and Grasshopper Sparrow, but held back on N.Harrier, Kestrel and E. Meadowlark, Afterward, Sue Benson and I met by chance at the Herb Farm, on River Rd., Calverton. Sue to buy some flowers, and I to do more birding ! As in passed Springs, it was quite active, with 5 warbler species seen, including the Chestnut-sided mentioned above. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Late start - moderate middle - terrific finish !
Today, between 1130 & 1340, I was scouting out Area # 26, of the DEC Property in Rocky Point, in preparation to leading an ELIAS Bird Walk there tomorrow, starting at 0800. The non-optimal time certainly helped achieve the meager total of 18 bird species, but managed to pick up a few highlights. The best bird was a Red-shouldered Hawk, that took it's time, slowly flying over an open trail, at a fairly low height. The Yellow billed Cuckoo took 2nd Place because it stood almost still for ~ 10 minutes before hauling off - I used "almost" to cover 2 very short hops (~ 1 & 1/2 ' each). The Black-billed Cuckoo was placed 3rd due to being airborne during all of it's sighting. An adult male Scarlet Tanager took the 4th spot, when on another day might have been the B.O.D. ! Sun-lit and singing, with flowering Dogwoods in the background, made for an unforgettable spring day ! The remaining 14 species were all common and expected in these woods, at this time of year, however, due to my limited field time so far, they included 6 firsts of the year ! A 1st of the year Barn Swallow was seen coursing over what is left of the Shoreham Sod Farm. While ~ 2/3 of the acreage has been converted to Solar Collectors, the south & southwest end of the property is still in turf. Upon arriving at The Calverton Grasslands, a pair of Grasshopper Sparrows had me running all around before nailing their I.D...getting some neat photos at the end ! I didn't get any meadowlarks, but picked up a Kestrel while trying. The next set of connecting sightings proved to be the best ! >From the last spot you can look over the longer westmost runway (from inside the property) I saw a lone Turkey Vulture flying over it. I then noticed a 2nd vulture above the T.V., which turned out to have white wing tips & a short tail...yesss! As I started taking photos of the Black, a smaller, lighter colored bird came into view, which turned out to be the 2nd Red-shouldered Hawk of the day - how cool is that ? The Grasshoppers and Black were my firsts of the year. After taking care of personal business in E.Quogue, I routed myself home by way of the Quogue Wildlife Refuge, where I added N.Rough-winged Swallow to my FOY list. Cheers, Bob P.S. Any questions - contact me offline, or call my (C) 631-905-7360 after 0600. -- 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] Late start - moderate middle - terrific finish !
Today, between 1130 & 1340, I was scouting out Area # 26, of the DEC Property in Rocky Point, in preparation to leading an ELIAS Bird Walk there tomorrow, starting at 0800. The non-optimal time certainly helped achieve the meager total of 18 bird species, but managed to pick up a few highlights. The best bird was a Red-shouldered Hawk, that took it's time, slowly flying over an open trail, at a fairly low height. The Yellow billed Cuckoo took 2nd Place because it stood almost still for ~ 10 minutes before hauling off - I used "almost" to cover 2 very short hops (~ 1 & 1/2 ' each). The Black-billed Cuckoo was placed 3rd due to being airborne during all of it's sighting. An adult male Scarlet Tanager took the 4th spot, when on another day might have been the B.O.D. ! Sun-lit and singing, with flowering Dogwoods in the background, made for an unforgettable spring day ! The remaining 14 species were all common and expected in these woods, at this time of year, however, due to my limited field time so far, they included 6 firsts of the year ! A 1st of the year Barn Swallow was seen coursing over what is left of the Shoreham Sod Farm. While ~ 2/3 of the acreage has been converted to Solar Collectors, the south & southwest end of the property is still in turf. Upon arriving at The Calverton Grasslands, a pair of Grasshopper Sparrows had me running all around before nailing their I.D...getting some neat photos at the end ! I didn't get any meadowlarks, but picked up a Kestrel while trying. The next set of connecting sightings proved to be the best ! >From the last spot you can look over the longer westmost runway (from inside the property) I saw a lone Turkey Vulture flying over it. I then noticed a 2nd vulture above the T.V., which turned out to have white wing tips & a short tail...yesss! As I started taking photos of the Black, a smaller, lighter colored bird came into view, which turned out to be the 2nd Red-shouldered Hawk of the day - how cool is that ? The Grasshoppers and Black were my firsts of the year. After taking care of personal business in E.Quogue, I routed myself home by way of the Quogue Wildlife Refuge, where I added N.Rough-winged Swallow to my FOY list. Cheers, Bob P.S. Any questions - contact me offline, or call my (C) 631-905-7360 after 0600. -- 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] When in doubt, take the water route !
My main job this weekend was to help my wife (she, who was at the midpoint of a 9 day tour of duty babysitting our grandkids in Rockville Center. Before leaving for Riverhead at ~ 1530, I had my first migrant warbler of the season - a gorgeous N.Parula ! By taking the Ocean Parkway East, I was able to add 4 other seasonal firsts: 1) Brown Thrasher - JBSP West End median. 2) 2 Red Foxes - 1 to the west of the RMSP Water Tower, and 1 to the east of same. 3) 3 Foster's Terns - Captree Island. 4) Single, spectacular plumaged, male Boat-tailed Grackle at same location. While none of the above are unusual (not getting out much makes them all so special) can you imagine to what degree my verbiage would have reached if I had blundered upon yesterday's Albatross...which I didn't know about until I got home ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] When in doubt, take the water route !
My main job this weekend was to help my wife (she, who was at the midpoint of a 9 day tour of duty babysitting our grandkids in Rockville Center. Before leaving for Riverhead at ~ 1530, I had my first migrant warbler of the season - a gorgeous N.Parula ! By taking the Ocean Parkway East, I was able to add 4 other seasonal firsts: 1) Brown Thrasher - JBSP West End median. 2) 2 Red Foxes - 1 to the west of the RMSP Water Tower, and 1 to the east of same. 3) 3 Foster's Terns - Captree Island. 4) Single, spectacular plumaged, male Boat-tailed Grackle at same location. While none of the above are unusual (not getting out much makes them all so special) can you imagine to what degree my verbiage would have reached if I had blundered upon yesterday's Albatross...which I didn't know about until I got home ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Report of a single Evening Grosbeak
I received a call on Friday afternoon from a friend in Quogue re: a specie of bird she had never seen before. Pat Reindl is more a gardener than she is a birder, but through the years she has encountered a number of unfamiliar birds, which she has called me on...to our mutual benefit. Today's exercise continued our record of success ! Starting with the details that caught her eye, ie, colors, size and posture, combined with my comments, she then moved on to Peterson's Field Guide (via the internet), which gave her the confidence, and satisfaction, to be able to call (with certainty) an adult, male EVGR ! The bird was seen on Thursday at ~ 1030, didn't stay long and hasn't been seen since. Pat has promised to call if the grosbeak returns, but it is now probably way north of L.I. Coincidently, my last sighting of an Evening Grosbeak on L.I. was in E.Quogue on 4/21/07 - also a singleton ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Report of a single Evening Grosbeak
I received a call on Friday afternoon from a friend in Quogue re: a specie of bird she had never seen before. Pat Reindl is more a gardener than she is a birder, but through the years she has encountered a number of unfamiliar birds, which she has called me on...to our mutual benefit. Today's exercise continued our record of success ! Starting with the details that caught her eye, ie, colors, size and posture, combined with my comments, she then moved on to Peterson's Field Guide (via the internet), which gave her the confidence, and satisfaction, to be able to call (with certainty) an adult, male EVGR ! The bird was seen on Thursday at ~ 1030, didn't stay long and hasn't been seen since. Pat has promised to call if the grosbeak returns, but it is now probably way north of L.I. Coincidently, my last sighting of an Evening Grosbeak on L.I. was in E.Quogue on 4/21/07 - also a singleton ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] "Bonnie rides", to and from Bohemia: Tax Day, 2017
Heading west, I had 2 Turkey Vultures circling over the LIE in Manorville. After finding out I had to give half of what I get from Uncle Sam to Cousin Mario, I decided to perk up by driving through the Calverton Grasslands on the way home. As I entered the property from Grumman Blvd, a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher flew by my windshield, and landed in a close tree - what a nice way for nature to say "happy spring" ! I also saw two other species for the first time this season, singles of Kestrel and E.Meadowlark. After dinner, ~ 7:30 P.M., I meandered down to the "Roanoke Roosts" to see if any of the T.V. population were still lingering...and, happy to report, they are ! The main group of 17 birds were still roosting in the 3 Spruce Trees, on the w/s of Griffing Ave, just s/o Lincoln Ave, Riverhead. There were also 2 birds lounging on the Roanoke Ave Elementary School's chimney. Cheers, Bob -- 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] "Bonnie rides", to and from Bohemia: Tax Day, 2017
Heading west, I had 2 Turkey Vultures circling over the LIE in Manorville. After finding out I had to give half of what I get from Uncle Sam to Cousin Mario, I decided to perk up by driving through the Calverton Grasslands on the way home. As I entered the property from Grumman Blvd, a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher flew by my windshield, and landed in a close tree - what a nice way for nature to say "happy spring" ! I also saw two other species for the first time this season, singles of Kestrel and E.Meadowlark. After dinner, ~ 7:30 P.M., I meandered down to the "Roanoke Roosts" to see if any of the T.V. population were still lingering...and, happy to report, they are ! The main group of 17 birds were still roosting in the 3 Spruce Trees, on the w/s of Griffing Ave, just s/o Lincoln Ave, Riverhead. There were also 2 birds lounging on the Roanoke Ave Elementary School's chimney. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Gray day makes for vulture play !
Today was gray & overcast. I attended Mass* at noon (Ash Wednesday) and when leaving afterward, was greeted by ~ 20 Turkey Vultures (all but 5 in flight) gliding, turning, trying to stay in place, banking, wheeling - along with some interacting quite closely with their brethren..breaking off at the last minute before colliding ! This wind dance was a delight to behold...a bunch of black marks moving in the sky, while I watched in place, with a black mark on my forehead ! I returned at ~ 5:30 PM and found their number had risen to ~ 31, all in the school & firehouse area. By ~ 6 PM, the full had flock relocated to it's Night Roost, in the 3 large spruce trees on the w/s of Roanoke Ave, at the intersection of Elton St., Riverhead. Cheers, Bob *Church complex situated right behind firehouse. -- 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] Roanoke Roosts Report # 6
Today, between ~ 1700 & 1740, there was a total of 49 Turkey Vultures resting at 2 of their regular haunts - the large spruce trees located at the north end of the Riverhead Firehouse on the e/s of Roanoke Ave, and the large pine tree in the rear of # 542 Roanoke Ave (1st house n/o the firehouse). During this time, all, but 5, of these birds, lifted off (1 or 2 at a time) and flew to the large spruce trees on the w/s of Roanoke Ave, at the intersection of Elton Ave. This seems to be the T.V's. favorite night-time roost. While 49 represents the largest number of this specie that I have encounted on L.I., it is still less than the total seen by Brian Carr on 1/30/17 (pers. comm.), when he counted 45 in one tree*, with 20-30 in other surrounding trees in the area. An interesting and rewarding aspect of the Roanoke Roosts came, for me, in the request by Tom Payton, Principal of the Roanoke Ave Elementary School (its roof and chimney are heavily used by the T.V's.) to speak to one of their after-school clubs, The 3rd Grade Garden & Environmental Club has been studying/researching the large, black, odd-looking, flying creatures that they see every day, and would like to learn more ! I accepted the invite and on February 6th gave a Power Point Presentation to ~ 25 enthusiastic young students, along with their 2 teachers. We all had a good time, and learned quite a bit...including me ! Cheers, Bob *Between 1st & 2nd houses on the w/s of Griffing Ave, s/o Lincoln St. This location is 2 blocks w/o Roanoke Ave. -- 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] Roanoke Roosts Report # 6
Today, between ~ 1700 & 1740, there was a total of 49 Turkey Vultures resting at 2 of their regular haunts - the large spruce trees located at the north end of the Riverhead Firehouse on the e/s of Roanoke Ave, and the large pine tree in the rear of # 542 Roanoke Ave (1st house n/o the firehouse). During this time, all, but 5, of these birds, lifted off (1 or 2 at a time) and flew to the large spruce trees on the w/s of Roanoke Ave, at the intersection of Elton Ave. This seems to be the T.V's. favorite night-time roost. While 49 represents the largest number of this specie that I have encounted on L.I., it is still less than the total seen by Brian Carr on 1/30/17 (pers. comm.), when he counted 45 in one tree*, with 20-30 in other surrounding trees in the area. An interesting and rewarding aspect of the Roanoke Roosts came, for me, in the request by Tom Payton, Principal of the Roanoke Ave Elementary School (its roof and chimney are heavily used by the T.V's.) to speak to one of their after-school clubs, The 3rd Grade Garden & Environmental Club has been studying/researching the large, black, odd-looking, flying creatures that they see every day, and would like to learn more ! I accepted the invite and on February 6th gave a Power Point Presentation to ~ 25 enthusiastic young students, along with their 2 teachers. We all had a good time, and learned quite a bit...including me ! Cheers, Bob *Between 1st & 2nd houses on the w/s of Griffing Ave, s/o Lincoln St. This location is 2 blocks w/o Roanoke Ave. -- 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] Roanoke Roosts Report # 5
Today, arriving at the Roanoke Ave Elementary School's parking lot at ~ 1700, I found many Turkey Vultures in the spruces on the firehouse property, as well as 1 on the school's chimney, and a single bird in the Pine tree behind house # 542 Roanoke. As I started to count the birds (without going across the street and causing them to leave "en masse" like yesterday) I was joined by one of the school's custodians. After a short while, without any noticeable reason, all the T.Vs. took flight. This time, unlike yesterday, they first flew away from us to the east, then turned and headed north. Their dispersal today was easier to keep up with and count, with the extra set of eyes helping greatly ! We came up with a firm 40 birds, which at that time I thought to be outstanding* ! Once again, en-route home while going through the intersection of Roanoke & Elton, I was able to confirm where most of the birds landed. Cheers, Bob *Before writing the above I looked through today's mail, and was astounded by the following paraphrased message from a fellow named Brian ?. It seems that on 1/30/17, he counted 45 T.V's. in the tree I described yesterday, plus 20-30 more in the surrounding trees in the same area off Roanoke Ave. I will try to contact Brian and learn more. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Roanoke Roosts Report # 5
Today, arriving at the Roanoke Ave Elementary School's parking lot at ~ 1700, I found many Turkey Vultures in the spruces on the firehouse property, as well as 1 on the school's chimney, and a single bird in the Pine tree behind house # 542 Roanoke. As I started to count the birds (without going across the street and causing them to leave "en masse" like yesterday) I was joined by one of the school's custodians. After a short while, without any noticeable reason, all the T.Vs. took flight. This time, unlike yesterday, they first flew away from us to the east, then turned and headed north. Their dispersal today was easier to keep up with and count, with the extra set of eyes helping greatly ! We came up with a firm 40 birds, which at that time I thought to be outstanding* ! Once again, en-route home while going through the intersection of Roanoke & Elton, I was able to confirm where most of the birds landed. Cheers, Bob *Before writing the above I looked through today's mail, and was astounded by the following paraphrased message from a fellow named Brian ?. It seems that on 1/30/17, he counted 45 T.V's. in the tree I described yesterday, plus 20-30 more in the surrounding trees in the same area off Roanoke Ave. I will try to contact Brian and learn more. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Roanoke Roosts Report # 4
Upon arrival at ~ 1700, only 1 of the 4 spots the Turkey Vultures have been frequenting recently, held any birds (the large spruce trees located at the north end of the firehouse property). Viewing from the parking lot of the school, I found the lighting to be adequate, but as I started to count the birds I realized that the dense foliage would keep me from getting an exact amount. So I crossed Roanoke Ave, and as I looked up (with my mouth shut, of course) and with the count up to 9, all the birds exploded out of the trees and began to swarm like a flock of swallows. I was quite surprised by this outcome, due to the their positioning high up in the trees. At first, I was just looking at this spectacle (now with my mouth wide open) until the birder inside me screamed to "get with the program", and start counting ! I did just that until the birds dispersed to the point of disappearing. Following liftoff, the flock crossed Roanoke, and before drifting to the north and out of sight, I came up with a count of 38 T.V's., give or take 1, or 2. Although I didn't see any of the birds come down in the vicinity of the roost at the intersection of Roanoke & Elton, when I passed that location on my way home, I was not surprised to find a good # of T.V's settled in there. By then, the lighting and the density of the foliage was a problem, so a loose count came to ~ 20 birds. Further proof of their ongoing presence (possibly since last September, or before) was the amount of "guano" on the sidewalk under the spruces ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Roanoke Roosts Report # 4
Upon arrival at ~ 1700, only 1 of the 4 spots the Turkey Vultures have been frequenting recently, held any birds (the large spruce trees located at the north end of the firehouse property). Viewing from the parking lot of the school, I found the lighting to be adequate, but as I started to count the birds I realized that the dense foliage would keep me from getting an exact amount. So I crossed Roanoke Ave, and as I looked up (with my mouth shut, of course) and with the count up to 9, all the birds exploded out of the trees and began to swarm like a flock of swallows. I was quite surprised by this outcome, due to the their positioning high up in the trees. At first, I was just looking at this spectacle (now with my mouth wide open) until the birder inside me screamed to "get with the program", and start counting ! I did just that until the birds dispersed to the point of disappearing. Following liftoff, the flock crossed Roanoke, and before drifting to the north and out of sight, I came up with a count of 38 T.V's., give or take 1, or 2. Although I didn't see any of the birds come down in the vicinity of the roost at the intersection of Roanoke & Elton, when I passed that location on my way home, I was not surprised to find a good # of T.V's settled in there. By then, the lighting and the density of the foliage was a problem, so a loose count came to ~ 20 birds. Further proof of their ongoing presence (possibly since last September, or before) was the amount of "guano" on the sidewalk under the spruces ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Beginning & ending on Roanoke in Riverhead !
This afternoon, at ~ 1300, it was only natural (after finishing with a doctor's appointment, whose office is on Roanoke Ave) to check on the Turkey Vultures seen the last few days, a short distance down the road. Today, the only T.V's. seen were 11 birds roosting in a tall Pine tree located at the rear of # 542, the first house n/o the firehouse. Heading south, I had a pair of Red-tails circling over Route 51 in Eastport. The only birds of note seen along Dune Rd. (Jessup La. Bridge to Shinnicock Inlet) were a single N.Harrier and a single Sharp-shinned Hawk. A stop at the Hampton Bays Water Tower, just s/o the railroad station, produced 2 C.Ravens. After first hearing them, I picked them up in flight, only to see them quickly land on the s/e section of the tower, and out of sight. This specie has breeded at this location for quite a number of years. Arriving back in Riverhead at ~ 1645, there were 2 T.V's on the school's chimney, a number ? of them in the spruces on the firehouse property, and none at any of the other previously reported locations. Due to the rain, the darkness, and the thickness of the spruces' foliage, the final count remained at around 20. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Beginning & ending on Roanoke in Riverhead !
This afternoon, at ~ 1300, it was only natural (after finishing with a doctor's appointment, whose office is on Roanoke Ave) to check on the Turkey Vultures seen the last few days, a short distance down the road. Today, the only T.V's. seen were 11 birds roosting in a tall Pine tree located at the rear of # 542, the first house n/o the firehouse. Heading south, I had a pair of Red-tails circling over Route 51 in Eastport. The only birds of note seen along Dune Rd. (Jessup La. Bridge to Shinnicock Inlet) were a single N.Harrier and a single Sharp-shinned Hawk. A stop at the Hampton Bays Water Tower, just s/o the railroad station, produced 2 C.Ravens. After first hearing them, I picked them up in flight, only to see them quickly land on the s/e section of the tower, and out of sight. This specie has breeded at this location for quite a number of years. Arriving back in Riverhead at ~ 1645, there were 2 T.V's on the school's chimney, a number ? of them in the spruces on the firehouse property, and none at any of the other previously reported locations. Due to the rain, the darkness, and the thickness of the spruces' foliage, the final count remained at around 20. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Addendum to last post
Sorry, in my haste I forgot to mention the Red-shouldered Hawk seen flying over Elton St., one block e/o Roanoke Ave. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Addendum to last post
Sorry, in my haste I forgot to mention the Red-shouldered Hawk seen flying over Elton St., one block e/o Roanoke Ave. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Turkey Vulture roost , same spot 3 days running...and possibly since last September !
This past Sunday Margaret Brace (oh she of Rufous Hummer fame) let me know of a T.V. roost she had just discovered in Riverhead. As she approached the intersection of Roanoke Ave & Elton St, she couldn't help but notice the birds in a large Spruce tree on the w/s of Roanoke. It was getting toward dusk, but she was able to spot about 20 of them. On Monday, at ~ 0800, not a bird was to be seen, but when I returned at ~ 1645, I found about 25 birds, most being in the tree, with some still flying around. This morning at ~ 0700, hoping to get all the birds still at roost, I, once again, found nary a bird...but this is when happenstance reared its wondrous head ! While scanning for the birds in all the other tall trees in the area, I came across a large, dark "blob" sitting on the high antenna of the Riverhead Firehouse, located ~ 1/10 of a mile south on Roanoke ! As I neared the firehouse my attention was drawn to the Roanoke Ave Elementary School, which is just across the street. There, sitting on its chimney, engulfed in the warm, rising flue products, were 9 more T.V's. I was able to count 4 additional birds sitting on the edges of the roof , but could not tell if there were any other birds on the roof, out of sight from the road. Checking the large spruces on the north end of the firehouse property yielded another 7 vultures, and combining these with the 4 or 5 T.V's. flying around, in addition to the birds on the school, brought the approximate total to 25. As I was counting birds from the school's parking lot, a security guard came over and asked what I was doing. After telling her I was a "bird-watcher", I didn't have to say anymore. She knew of the birds, knew they were Turkey Vultures, and finished with the "nugget", saying " and they have been around since school started" ! It is of interest to note that this location is less than 1/2 mile from the previous T.V. roost of a few years back, that held as many as 30 birds, before a new owner cut the trees down. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Turkey Vulture roost , same spot 3 days running...and possibly since last September !
This past Sunday Margaret Brace (oh she of Rufous Hummer fame) let me know of a T.V. roost she had just discovered in Riverhead. As she approached the intersection of Roanoke Ave & Elton St, she couldn't help but notice the birds in a large Spruce tree on the w/s of Roanoke. It was getting toward dusk, but she was able to spot about 20 of them. On Monday, at ~ 0800, not a bird was to be seen, but when I returned at ~ 1645, I found about 25 birds, most being in the tree, with some still flying around. This morning at ~ 0700, hoping to get all the birds still at roost, I, once again, found nary a bird...but this is when happenstance reared its wondrous head ! While scanning for the birds in all the other tall trees in the area, I came across a large, dark "blob" sitting on the high antenna of the Riverhead Firehouse, located ~ 1/10 of a mile south on Roanoke ! As I neared the firehouse my attention was drawn to the Roanoke Ave Elementary School, which is just across the street. There, sitting on its chimney, engulfed in the warm, rising flue products, were 9 more T.V's. I was able to count 4 additional birds sitting on the edges of the roof , but could not tell if there were any other birds on the roof, out of sight from the road. Checking the large spruces on the north end of the firehouse property yielded another 7 vultures, and combining these with the 4 or 5 T.V's. flying around, in addition to the birds on the school, brought the approximate total to 25. As I was counting birds from the school's parking lot, a security guard came over and asked what I was doing. After telling her I was a "bird-watcher", I didn't have to say anymore. She knew of the birds, knew they were Turkey Vultures, and finished with the "nugget", saying " and they have been around since school started" ! It is of interest to note that this location is less than 1/2 mile from the previous T.V. roost of a few years back, that held as many as 30 birds, before a new owner cut the trees down. Cheers, Bob -- 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] No fun in getting just a "funny goose" !
Today, between church time and game time, I cruised the "Golden Trapezium", bordered by Doctors Path, Sound Ave, Route 105, and Northville Turnpike, Riverhead, Suffolk Co. From ~ 12:45 & 3 PM, this parcel, made up mostly of sod farms, held about 1400 to 1500 Canada Geese, with the majority of birds seen best from Northville Tpke. I probably was able to view close to 90% of the scattered birds, with the only bird of note being a type of goose, best described by John Sep, as a "funny goose". In this case, the bird had the size and body plumage of a Canada Goose, but with a mostly white head...oh well, at least my team won ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] No fun in getting just a "funny goose" !
Today, between church time and game time, I cruised the "Golden Trapezium", bordered by Doctors Path, Sound Ave, Route 105, and Northville Turnpike, Riverhead, Suffolk Co. From ~ 12:45 & 3 PM, this parcel, made up mostly of sod farms, held about 1400 to 1500 Canada Geese, with the majority of birds seen best from Northville Tpke. I probably was able to view close to 90% of the scattered birds, with the only bird of note being a type of goose, best described by John Sep, as a "funny goose". In this case, the bird had the size and body plumage of a Canada Goose, but with a mostly white head...oh well, at least my team won ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Thank heavens for a reliable end-game !
Once again I had free time to bird this afternoon, and found myself on the North Fork of L.I., heading east on Sound Ave, with thoughts of a Townsend's Solitaire repeat, a Black Vulture and some "good geese", flying around in my head ! After "striking out" on all 3 counts, I needed a boost, so I made tracks for Aquebogue...and wasn't disappointed by Rufous # 1 ! Just prior to getting the hummer, at the intersection of Northville Turnpike & Route 105, Riverhead, I was able to get some nice photos of a perched, juvenile Merlin. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Thank heavens for a reliable end-game !
Once again I had free time to bird this afternoon, and found myself on the North Fork of L.I., heading east on Sound Ave, with thoughts of a Townsend's Solitaire repeat, a Black Vulture and some "good geese", flying around in my head ! After "striking out" on all 3 counts, I needed a boost, so I made tracks for Aquebogue...and wasn't disappointed by Rufous # 1 ! Just prior to getting the hummer, at the intersection of Northville Turnpike & Route 105, Riverhead, I was able to get some nice photos of a perched, juvenile Merlin. Cheers, Bob -- 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] With thanks for the "buddy system" - once again, a "win-win" !
Finding myself with a bit of free time early this afternoon, I headed down toward Dune Rd. where I birded between the Post La. Bridge, Quogue and Shinnicock Inlet, Hampton Bays, Suffolk, Co. The only birds of note were 5 separate, female-plumaged N.Harriers (3 hunting, while the other 2 were on the marsh, though not actively feeding) as well as, a bird that was probably a Peregrine Falcon. This raptor had the specie's size and shape, but was facing away from me, plus the lighting was very poor. The bird was perched on the osprey nest (but not on the platform) just east of the entrance road to the old Ponquogue Bridge. It was resting below the platform, on one of the supports which secure it to it's vertical "pole". After a short while, the bird dropped down and out of sight. I tried viewing it from a couple of spots to the east, without success. Arriving at the inlet, I met Gary Straus, and learned of his seeing a Snowy Owl earlier at a location I had just visited...without finding it ! He graciously escorted me back, and sure enough, *Nyctea scandiaca* awaited us ! How I missed it, I can't say - what I can say, however, is at least I was able to help Gary get one of his target birds for his "Year List" ! As we were talking at the inlet (he looking west, while I was looking at the inlet) he also mentioned his "misses" of the day, with Common Eider leading the parade. Just then, as if on cue, 2 male eiders ( an adult & a sub )went by, which I alerted him to, in time for him to get ! On my way home, I took the same way back, without seeing a single N.Harrier. Cheers, Bob -- 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] With thanks for the "buddy system" - once again, a "win-win" !
Finding myself with a bit of free time early this afternoon, I headed down toward Dune Rd. where I birded between the Post La. Bridge, Quogue and Shinnicock Inlet, Hampton Bays, Suffolk, Co. The only birds of note were 5 separate, female-plumaged N.Harriers (3 hunting, while the other 2 were on the marsh, though not actively feeding) as well as, a bird that was probably a Peregrine Falcon. This raptor had the specie's size and shape, but was facing away from me, plus the lighting was very poor. The bird was perched on the osprey nest (but not on the platform) just east of the entrance road to the old Ponquogue Bridge. It was resting below the platform, on one of the supports which secure it to it's vertical "pole". After a short while, the bird dropped down and out of sight. I tried viewing it from a couple of spots to the east, without success. Arriving at the inlet, I met Gary Straus, and learned of his seeing a Snowy Owl earlier at a location I had just visited...without finding it ! He graciously escorted me back, and sure enough, *Nyctea scandiaca* awaited us ! How I missed it, I can't say - what I can say, however, is at least I was able to help Gary get one of his target birds for his "Year List" ! As we were talking at the inlet (he looking west, while I was looking at the inlet) he also mentioned his "misses" of the day, with Common Eider leading the parade. Just then, as if on cue, 2 male eiders ( an adult & a sub )went by, which I alerted him to, in time for him to get ! On my way home, I took the same way back, without seeing a single N.Harrier. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Don't see it on the west coast - go east, young man, go east !
Today I finally got a chance to try for the Townsend's Solitaire. Arriving at North Sea Rd., Southold at 1145, I found Kathleen Coyle parked at # 1525. When I asked if she had seen the bird, she just pointed and said "there it is"...3 very, sweet words ! The bird was resting mid-span on the power line between pole & house, where it remained for at least 5 minutes. During which, Tom Reichert pulled up and asked me the same question, to which I was able to give what I just had been given...a wonderful win-win ! Tom is basically a PHOTOGRAPHER/birder, whom I had met at some good sighting many moons ago, and he does comes packing ! I'm sure he obtained many outstanding shots with his mega camera/lens ! The bird was a good subject for the hour I was was able to stay, by remaining still for a bit for pictures, before disappearing and then re-appearing a short while afterward. While waiting on the bird during one of it's absences, Tom related his frustration with a single aspect of the trip taken with his wife very recently, starting in Vancouver, and ending in Banff, Canada. The target bird he missed out there, was none other than the species he found today...go figure ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Don't see it on the west coast - go east, young man, go east !
Today I finally got a chance to try for the Townsend's Solitaire. Arriving at North Sea Rd., Southold at 1145, I found Kathleen Coyle parked at # 1525. When I asked if she had seen the bird, she just pointed and said "there it is"...3 very, sweet words ! The bird was resting mid-span on the power line between pole & house, where it remained for at least 5 minutes. During which, Tom Reichert pulled up and asked me the same question, to which I was able to give what I just had been given...a wonderful win-win ! Tom is basically a PHOTOGRAPHER/birder, whom I had met at some good sighting many moons ago, and he does comes packing ! I'm sure he obtained many outstanding shots with his mega camera/lens ! The bird was a good subject for the hour I was was able to stay, by remaining still for a bit for pictures, before disappearing and then re-appearing a short while afterward. While waiting on the bird during one of it's absences, Tom related his frustration with a single aspect of the trip taken with his wife very recently, starting in Vancouver, and ending in Banff, Canada. The target bird he missed out there, was none other than the species he found today...go figure ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] 5 Turkey Vultures/ Downtown Riverhead
On Thursday morning I saw the above birds flying over St.John the Evangelist R.C. Church's Cemetery. Now I know this specie has a very keen sense of smell, but, I ask you. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Rufous Hummingbird at Aquebogue
I had single bird at feeder between ~ 1215 & 1320. Per owner, both hummers seen earlier in AM, but not sure if she and/or another birder saw both birds. Of note, as I was leaving, a lone Turkey Vulture drifted over this most productive of properties ! Could this, once again, be the elusive "Lonesome George" ? Whenever I see a single T.V. on the North Fork (for at least the last few years) I start to hum and then paraphrase a line from the "3 Penny Opera"...'could it be old Georgie's back in town ? ' Oh well Cheers, Bob -- 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] Rufous Hummingbird at Aquebogue
I had single bird at feeder between ~ 1215 & 1320. Per owner, both hummers seen earlier in AM, but not sure if she and/or another birder saw both birds. Of note, as I was leaving, a lone Turkey Vulture drifted over this most productive of properties ! Could this, once again, be the elusive "Lonesome George" ? Whenever I see a single T.V. on the North Fork (for at least the last few years) I start to hum and then paraphrase a line from the "3 Penny Opera"...'could it be old Georgie's back in town ? ' Oh well Cheers, Bob -- 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] Addendum to previous post
I neglected to include that anyone wanting further information re: today's birds, can contact me off line - and also for homeowner's protocol for getting to see birds. Bob -- 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] Addendum to previous post
I neglected to include that anyone wanting further information re: today's birds, can contact me off line - and also for homeowner's protocol for getting to see birds. Bob -- 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] 2nd Hummingbird at Aquebogue feeder
This afternoon at ~ 4 PM, while looking at the now confirmed Rufous Hummingbird (per Margaret B., homeowner, re: John S's confirming photo of tail feathers) with her, she had a very quick snatch of a fleeting bird whose "jizz" made her think "hummer". We now were on high alert, and it didn't take very long for both birds to appear again, albeit a short, but confirming view as to both being members of the family, *Trochildae *! We were not able to confirm the newcomer's ID, during the approximately 10 times they came together near the feeder, or at the nearby wild flowers. Almost all of these quick forays ended with one chasing the other away. There was one instance however, that both birds seemed to land on the feeder simultaneously, on opposite sides (and possibly out of sight of each other) and remained at the feeder for at least 30 seconds. During this time, Margaret observed that the back of the newcomer was a lighter green than the Rufous, and I, with a straight-on dorsal view of it was not able to see any orange on back, rump or tail. Darkness ended our stake-out, and one can only wonder what the 'morrow will bring ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] 2nd Hummingbird at Aquebogue feeder
This afternoon at ~ 4 PM, while looking at the now confirmed Rufous Hummingbird (per Margaret B., homeowner, re: John S's confirming photo of tail feathers) with her, she had a very quick snatch of a fleeting bird whose "jizz" made her think "hummer". We now were on high alert, and it didn't take very long for both birds to appear again, albeit a short, but confirming view as to both being members of the family, *Trochildae *! We were not able to confirm the newcomer's ID, during the approximately 10 times they came together near the feeder, or at the nearby wild flowers. Almost all of these quick forays ended with one chasing the other away. There was one instance however, that both birds seemed to land on the feeder simultaneously, on opposite sides (and possibly out of sight of each other) and remained at the feeder for at least 30 seconds. During this time, Margaret observed that the back of the newcomer was a lighter green than the Rufous, and I, with a straight-on dorsal view of it was not able to see any orange on back, rump or tail. Darkness ended our stake-out, and one can only wonder what the 'morrow will bring ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Chores can convert to contentment !
This morning my drive to the supermarket in Riverhead was made more palatable by spotting a single Turkey Vulture circling overhead...could it have been "Lonesome George", the solitary T.V. that has been reported from this area of eastern L.I. for the past couple of years ? This afternoon. I headed up to Calverton for my annual (last 30 years at least) cutting of our Christmas Tree. Near the intersection of Route 25 & Fresh Pond Rd., I noticed a large hawk hovering, and after avoiding causing an accident as I stopped/pulled over, I not only brought my binoculars up to see a light-morph Rough-legged Hawk, but a Red-tailed Hawk, which entered my binocular field, as well ! After those sightings, I knew I was not going to have any problem picking out a tree which would make my wife happy ! On the way home I had another Red-tail, and also made a stop at the Buffalo Farm, at the intersection of Reeves Ave & Roanoke Ave, Riverhead...where I had a "life sighting" for the fenced-off, feeding corral proper ! It goes without saying that I have seen Canada Geese in every field surrounding the corral (approximately 125' x 250') but I can't remember ever seeing a single *Branta canadensis* inside it, no less the ~ 70 there today. While only 1 buffalo was within the fencing at the time, there have been numerous prior visits when either none, or just a few of the animals were there, but still no geese...albeit, ducks have been common occurrence.. Cheers, Bob Cheers, Bob -- 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] Chores can convert to contentment !
This morning my drive to the supermarket in Riverhead was made more palatable by spotting a single Turkey Vulture circling overhead...could it have been "Lonesome George", the solitary T.V. that has been reported from this area of eastern L.I. for the past couple of years ? This afternoon. I headed up to Calverton for my annual (last 30 years at least) cutting of our Christmas Tree. Near the intersection of Route 25 & Fresh Pond Rd., I noticed a large hawk hovering, and after avoiding causing an accident as I stopped/pulled over, I not only brought my binoculars up to see a light-morph Rough-legged Hawk, but a Red-tailed Hawk, which entered my binocular field, as well ! After those sightings, I knew I was not going to have any problem picking out a tree which would make my wife happy ! On the way home I had another Red-tail, and also made a stop at the Buffalo Farm, at the intersection of Reeves Ave & Roanoke Ave, Riverhead...where I had a "life sighting" for the fenced-off, feeding corral proper ! It goes without saying that I have seen Canada Geese in every field surrounding the corral (approximately 125' x 250') but I can't remember ever seeing a single *Branta canadensis* inside it, no less the ~ 70 there today. While only 1 buffalo was within the fencing at the time, there have been numerous prior visits when either none, or just a few of the animals were there, but still no geese...albeit, ducks have been common occurrence.. Cheers, Bob Cheers, Bob -- 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] ? selasphorus sp. hummingbird (Rufous or Allen's)
Hi Paul, No, I can not ! To hopefully "legitimize" this post, I'd like to share with the listserve the following information re: the slight differences in bill length between Rufous and Allen's Hummingbirds, which I gleaned from *The Hummingbirds of North America*, Paul A. Johnsgard, 1983/Smithsonian Institution: *Selasphorus rufus *_ Exposed culmen males 15-17.5 mm (ave. of 18, 16.5 mm), females 17-19 mm (ave. of 11, 18 mm). *Selasphorus sasin *_ Exposed culmen males 15-16.5 mm (ave. of 10, 15.9 mm), females 17-18.5 mm (ave. of 9, 17.8 mm). Cheers, Bob , On Sun, Nov 27, 2016 at 2:51 PM, Paul R Sweet <sw...@amnh.org> wrote: > Bob > > Can you point me to a reference that says bill length is a diagnostic > character for this species pair? > > Thanks, Paul > > > Paul Sweet > > Collection Manager > > Department of Ornithology > > American Museum of Natural History > > Central Park West at 79th Street > > New York, NY 10024 > > > > Tel: 212 769 5780 <(212)%20769-5780> > > Cell: 718 757 5941 <(718)%20757-5941> > > From: <bounce-121031393-11471...@list.cornell.edu> on behalf of robert > adamo <radamo4...@gmail.com> > Reply-To: robert adamo <radamo4...@gmail.com> > Date: Sunday, November 27, 2016 at 2:07 PM > To: "nysbirds-l@cornell.edu" <nysbirds-l@cornell.edu> > Subject: [nysbirds-l] ? selasphorus sp. hummingbird (Rufous or Allen's) > > Without again obtaining a discernible "tell-tale tail" photo, and in the > full knowledge of the extremely low odds of the Aquebogue bird being an > Allen's, after further perusing yesterday's, as well as today's, shots, it > seems the bill is too long for a Rufous, plus it appears to be slightly > de-curved. So...I'm led to ask the following question: has hybridization > ever been documented between these 2 species of the same genus ? > > Cheers > Bob > -- > *NYSbirds-L List Info:* > Welcome and Basics > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.northeastbirding.com%2FNYSbirdsWELCOME=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=G5ijALkf9XFO%2FBxOJJGQsReutgPWBkyKXLiRmrOyJMI%3D=0> > Rules and Information > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.northeastbirding.com%2FNYSbirdsRULES=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=yvEnm3HhWR6Cw6EWy8nKbd2xIiO9KQVKv8XXxDTS%2FZE%3D=0> > Subscribe, Configuration and Leave > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.northeastbirding.com%2FNYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=k5Hw9Uat7%2BN7ms2QLiZI7pgLwL9oqq6ye%2FfM9Rt%2BDto%3D=0> > *Archives:* > The Mail Archive > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mail-archive.com%2Fnysbirds-l%40cornell.edu%2Fmaillist.html=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=HSfVm%2BuhVB3ZMCrB6LnEKzdeBy2IO2qZDWn4ZECuF%2FY%3D=0> > Surfbirds > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.surfbirds.com%2Fbirdingmail%2FGroup%2FNYSBirds-L=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=pwktBFxTmuNEDZMlIXxIjx68OFDDu%2FoOPYjHYkCdXq4%3D=0> > BirdingOnThe.Net > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fbirdingonthe.net%2Fmailinglists%2FNYSB.html=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=X05nMw6uXjtz5Ye%2F20QMrLpc6qNZf3Z%2B675bSocrtaM%3D=0> > *Please submit your observations to **eBird* > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Febird.org%2Fcontent%2Febird%2F=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=9IjllnYJYwaHLU32Tq2J9yAbjiti2m6wXgYrVdLEDio%3D=0> > *!* > -- > -- 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] ? selasphorus sp. hummingbird (Rufous or Allen's)
Hi Paul, No, I can not ! To hopefully "legitimize" this post, I'd like to share with the listserve the following information re: the slight differences in bill length between Rufous and Allen's Hummingbirds, which I gleaned from *The Hummingbirds of North America*, Paul A. Johnsgard, 1983/Smithsonian Institution: *Selasphorus rufus *_ Exposed culmen males 15-17.5 mm (ave. of 18, 16.5 mm), females 17-19 mm (ave. of 11, 18 mm). *Selasphorus sasin *_ Exposed culmen males 15-16.5 mm (ave. of 10, 15.9 mm), females 17-18.5 mm (ave. of 9, 17.8 mm). Cheers, Bob , On Sun, Nov 27, 2016 at 2:51 PM, Paul R Sweet wrote: > Bob > > Can you point me to a reference that says bill length is a diagnostic > character for this species pair? > > Thanks, Paul > > > Paul Sweet > > Collection Manager > > Department of Ornithology > > American Museum of Natural History > > Central Park West at 79th Street > > New York, NY 10024 > > > > Tel: 212 769 5780 <(212)%20769-5780> > > Cell: 718 757 5941 <(718)%20757-5941> > > From: on behalf of robert > adamo > Reply-To: robert adamo > Date: Sunday, November 27, 2016 at 2:07 PM > To: "nysbirds-l@cornell.edu" > Subject: [nysbirds-l] ? selasphorus sp. hummingbird (Rufous or Allen's) > > Without again obtaining a discernible "tell-tale tail" photo, and in the > full knowledge of the extremely low odds of the Aquebogue bird being an > Allen's, after further perusing yesterday's, as well as today's, shots, it > seems the bill is too long for a Rufous, plus it appears to be slightly > de-curved. So...I'm led to ask the following question: has hybridization > ever been documented between these 2 species of the same genus ? > > Cheers > Bob > -- > *NYSbirds-L List Info:* > Welcome and Basics > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.northeastbirding.com%2FNYSbirdsWELCOME=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=G5ijALkf9XFO%2FBxOJJGQsReutgPWBkyKXLiRmrOyJMI%3D=0> > Rules and Information > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.northeastbirding.com%2FNYSbirdsRULES=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=yvEnm3HhWR6Cw6EWy8nKbd2xIiO9KQVKv8XXxDTS%2FZE%3D=0> > Subscribe, Configuration and Leave > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.northeastbirding.com%2FNYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=k5Hw9Uat7%2BN7ms2QLiZI7pgLwL9oqq6ye%2FfM9Rt%2BDto%3D=0> > *Archives:* > The Mail Archive > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mail-archive.com%2Fnysbirds-l%40cornell.edu%2Fmaillist.html=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=HSfVm%2BuhVB3ZMCrB6LnEKzdeBy2IO2qZDWn4ZECuF%2FY%3D=0> > Surfbirds > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.surfbirds.com%2Fbirdingmail%2FGroup%2FNYSBirds-L=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=pwktBFxTmuNEDZMlIXxIjx68OFDDu%2FoOPYjHYkCdXq4%3D=0> > BirdingOnThe.Net > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fbirdingonthe.net%2Fmailinglists%2FNYSB.html=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=X05nMw6uXjtz5Ye%2F20QMrLpc6qNZf3Z%2B675bSocrtaM%3D=0> > *Please submit your observations to **eBird* > <https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Febird.org%2Fcontent%2Febird%2F=01%7C01%7Csweet%40amnh.org%7C3ea2839c89b24ad7619f08d416f8b4e7%7Cbe0003e8c6b9496883aeb34586974b76%7C1=9IjllnYJYwaHLU32Tq2J9yAbjiti2m6wXgYrVdLEDio%3D=0> > *!* > -- > -- 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] ? selasphorus sp. hummingbird (Rufous or Allen's)
Without again obtaining a discernible "tell-tale tail" photo, and in the full knowledge of the extremely low odds of the Aquebogue bird being an Allen's, after further perusing yesterday's, as well as today's, shots, it seems the bill is too long for a Rufous, plus it appears to be slightly de-curved. So...I'm led to ask the following question: has hybridization ever been documented between these 2 species of the same genus ? Cheers Bob -- 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] ? selasphorus sp. hummingbird (Rufous or Allen's)
Without again obtaining a discernible "tell-tale tail" photo, and in the full knowledge of the extremely low odds of the Aquebogue bird being an Allen's, after further perusing yesterday's, as well as today's, shots, it seems the bill is too long for a Rufous, plus it appears to be slightly de-curved. So...I'm led to ask the following question: has hybridization ever been documented between these 2 species of the same genus ? Cheers Bob -- 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] "Bracing for a possible disappointment...."
In spite of my recent "under-whelming" birding fortunes, due to the hospitality of Margaret & Keith B. of Aquebogue, I was able to see and photograph the ?rufous/allen's selasphorus sp. hummingbird that, since the middle of this past October, has been fortifying itself at their sugar-feeder, as well as at their wild flower plantings and, as had been reported to them, on flowing tree sap. Unfortunately, none of my photos captured the spread "tell-tale tail" ! Waiting between the hummingbird's comings and goings, 12 other (more common) species kept me busy, highlighted by my first of the season, Brown Creeper ! You can also contact me (off-line) re: the bird. Cheers, Bob -- 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] "Bracing for a possible disappointment...."
In spite of my recent "under-whelming" birding fortunes, due to the hospitality of Margaret & Keith B. of Aquebogue, I was able to see and photograph the ?rufous/allen's selasphorus sp. hummingbird that, since the middle of this past October, has been fortifying itself at their sugar-feeder, as well as at their wild flower plantings and, as had been reported to them, on flowing tree sap. Unfortunately, none of my photos captured the spread "tell-tale tail" ! Waiting between the hummingbird's comings and goings, 12 other (more common) species kept me busy, highlighted by my first of the season, Brown Creeper ! You can also contact me (off-line) re: the bird. Cheers, Bob -- 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] A belated report
Forgetting to do this yesterday, combined with no reports by others on them today, I now (do I hear a drum-roll) submit the 4 Snow Geese found in a flock of ~ 600 Canadas in the triangular field formed by the confluence of Sound Ave, Northville Tpke and Route 105, in n/e Riverhead. The Snow Geese consisted of 2 adults and 2 immatures. Cheers, Bob -- 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] A belated report
Forgetting to do this yesterday, combined with no reports by others on them today, I now (do I hear a drum-roll) submit the 4 Snow Geese found in a flock of ~ 600 Canadas in the triangular field formed by the confluence of Sound Ave, Northville Tpke and Route 105, in n/e Riverhead. The Snow Geese consisted of 2 adults and 2 immatures. Cheers, Bob -- 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] I ask you...where is the justice ?
This afternoon at ~ 1545, circling over the Supreme Court Complex on Griffing Ave in downtown Riverhead, were 26 Turkey Vultures slowly making their way south to north...without even a lone "Black" tagging along ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] I ask you...where is the justice ?
This afternoon at ~ 1545, circling over the Supreme Court Complex on Griffing Ave in downtown Riverhead, were 26 Turkey Vultures slowly making their way south to north...without even a lone "Black" tagging along ! Cheers, Bob -- 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] Peregrine Falcon near Goldsmith's Inlet, Cutchogue
Today, at ~ 1 P.M., Bev Prentice Robertson watched as the above dove at, and scattered, a mixed flock of ~ 200 gulls (mostly laughing & ring billed) which had been loafing on the beach. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Peregrine Falcon near Goldsmith's Inlet, Cutchogue
Today, at ~ 1 P.M., Bev Prentice Robertson watched as the above dove at, and scattered, a mixed flock of ~ 200 gulls (mostly laughing & ring billed) which had been loafing on the beach. Cheers, Bob -- 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] The day after....
The combination of an A.M. dental appointment and chores kept me from birding until after 1:00 PM. today ! Dune Rd, from the Quogue Bridge to Shinnicock Inlet seemed to be the most efficient choice, considering the time left in the day.The only addition for me to this season's species was the White-crowned Sparrow found just east of the Ponquogue Bridge, Hampton Bays. Cheers, Bob -- 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] The day after....
The combination of an A.M. dental appointment and chores kept me from birding until after 1:00 PM. today ! Dune Rd, from the Quogue Bridge to Shinnicock Inlet seemed to be the most efficient choice, considering the time left in the day.The only addition for me to this season's species was the White-crowned Sparrow found just east of the Ponquogue Bridge, Hampton Bays. Cheers, Bob -- 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] Being late, at times, can turn out great !
Extending my recent trend of getting a late start on the day's birding (Monday's destination being the Robert Moses Hawkwatch) I found myself heading south on the R. M. Parkway, just a hair north of the first bridge, when I saw a Rough-legged Hawk.This was a light morph * bird, and the earliest I have ever recorded this species in the fall ! Not being able to stop the car because of traffic, once over the bridge, I turned around and re-crossed the bridge in hope of getting a photo, but the bird was gone. Once on the barrier beach, I had a single Lesser Black-backed Gull (a 3rd winter bird) at Parking Field # 2, and while at the park (except for at the hawk-watch proper) had 9 Merlins, 2 Kestrels, 1 Peregrine, 1 Red-tailed Hawk and an Osprey. The activity level at the watching grandstand was high, with Bobby Kurtz (the day's official score-keeper) stating (at around 1:15 PM) that today was the busiest day of the season ! While I was there, the following species of raptors were observed: Bald Eagle (probable 3rd year bird); N. Harrier; Sharp-shinned Hawk; Osprey; Kestrel; Merlin and Peregrine Falcon. After keeping a car appointment back in Riverhead, I headed up to the sod farms on, and around, Sound Ave. At the field on the s/e/c/o Sound & Osborne Aves there were 11 Golden Plovers, 1 Black-bellied Plover and 22 Killdeers. * Upon arrival at the hawk-watch, in my excited haste, I'm pretty sure I announced (in error) this individual to be a dark morph. Cheers, Bob. -- 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] Being late, at times, can turn out great !
Extending my recent trend of getting a late start on the day's birding (Monday's destination being the Robert Moses Hawkwatch) I found myself heading south on the R. M. Parkway, just a hair north of the first bridge, when I saw a Rough-legged Hawk.This was a light morph * bird, and the earliest I have ever recorded this species in the fall ! Not being able to stop the car because of traffic, once over the bridge, I turned around and re-crossed the bridge in hope of getting a photo, but the bird was gone. Once on the barrier beach, I had a single Lesser Black-backed Gull (a 3rd winter bird) at Parking Field # 2, and while at the park (except for at the hawk-watch proper) had 9 Merlins, 2 Kestrels, 1 Peregrine, 1 Red-tailed Hawk and an Osprey. The activity level at the watching grandstand was high, with Bobby Kurtz (the day's official score-keeper) stating (at around 1:15 PM) that today was the busiest day of the season ! While I was there, the following species of raptors were observed: Bald Eagle (probable 3rd year bird); N. Harrier; Sharp-shinned Hawk; Osprey; Kestrel; Merlin and Peregrine Falcon. After keeping a car appointment back in Riverhead, I headed up to the sod farms on, and around, Sound Ave. At the field on the s/e/c/o Sound & Osborne Aves there were 11 Golden Plovers, 1 Black-bellied Plover and 22 Killdeers. * Upon arrival at the hawk-watch, in my excited haste, I'm pretty sure I announced (in error) this individual to be a dark morph. Cheers, Bob. -- 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] Subject-line of my post dated 10/6/16
Should have ended with the words...towels in your car. Bob -- 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/ --
