Birdingonthe.Net Recent Postings from The New York Birding List > Home > Mail > Alerts Updated on Thursday, March 18 at 06:32 PM ET The most recently received Mail is at the top.	Marvelous Spatule-tail,©BirdQuest

18 Mar Hempstead Lake SP [Sy Schiff ] 18 Mar Linnaean Society Meeting ["John Cairns" ] 18 Mar NYC - Color Wing Tagged Gulls [Ben Cacace ] 18 Mar Corrections on my previous post of 40 minutes ago, at 12:36AM ["ROBERT ADAMO" ] 18 Mar Osprey, in Riverhead, Suffolk Co., back at tradiitional sight...hope it stays there! ["ROBERT ADAMO" ] 17 Mar West End/Jones Inlet (Nassau Co.) [Ken Feustel ] 17 Mar Re:Ring-billed Gull A318 ["Catherine Barron" ] 16 Mar RE: off topic/ AviSys ["John J. Collins" ] 16 Mar Re: off topic/ avisys [Brien Hindman ] 16 Mar FOS Great Egret [Sy Schiff ] 16 Mar Re: off topic/ avisys [Arie Gilbert ] 16 Mar off topic/ avisys [John Askildsen ] 16 Mar Re:[nysbirds-l] Western Grebe - Wayne County ["Jerry Lazarczyk" ] 16 Mar Re: Western Grebe - Wayne County ["Jerry Lazarczyk" ] 15 Mar FOY Osprey [Hugh McGuinness ] 15 Mar Red Shouldered Hawk at Southaven Park, Brookhaven Hamlet, Long Island,and an additional bird of note, March, 15th [Carl Starace ] 15 Mar Syracuse RBA [Joseph Brin ] 15 Mar From NY Times: Climate Change Threatens Migratory Birds, Report Says [Ann Marie Pozzini ] 15 Mar NNYBirds: From NY Times: Climate Change Threatens Migratory Birds, Report Says [Ann Marie Pozzini ] 15 Mar Mew Gull at Playlands, Rye (Westchester Co) [Angus Wilson ] 15 Mar RE: RE: Robert Moses power plant fishing platform ["Richard Guthrie" ] 15 Mar Re: RE: Robert Moses power plant fishing platform [] 15 Mar RE: Robert Moses power plant fishing platform ["Willie D'Anna and Betsy Potter" ] 15 Mar Re:Robert Moses power plant fishing platform [] 15 Mar Niagara B-h Gull, plus Cackling Geese [] 15 Mar Black-headed Gull and many Little Gulls - Niagara County [Tom Johnson ] 15 Mar Common Loons - Westchester County [Brien Hindman ] 14 Mar Western Grebe - Wayne County [Tom Johnson ] 14 Mar South Fork LI: Dovekie off Montauk Point [Angus Wilson ] 14 Mar North Fork LI: Parasitic Jaeger at Orient Pt ferry dock [Angus Wilson ] 13 Mar South Fork LI: Glaucous and Iceland Gulls [Angus Wilson ] 13 Mar NYC Area RBA: 12 March 2010 [Karen Fung ] 12 Mar Stony Brook RSHA Photos [Peter Scully ] 12 Mar First Marked Bahamas Piping Plover Re-sighted. [Peter Doherty ] 12 Mar First Marked Bahamas Piping Plover Re-sighted. [Peter Doherty ] 12 Mar Re: Picture Hawk [Brien Hindman ] 12 Mar Re:Picture Hawk [] 12 Mar Advice from L.I. birders? [Brien Hindman ] 11 Mar E. Phoebe, Am. Woodcock, Central Park, NYC 3/11 [Thomas Fiore ] 11 Mar Bashakill rarities NO [] 11 Mar SW Suffolk Gr Egret ["Grover, Bob" ] 11 Mar Re: Shu Swamp (a.k.a. Mill Neck Preserve) Birds - Nassau Co. [Susan Herbst ] 10 Mar very recent Manhattan birds [Thomas Fiore ] 10 Mar W. Meadow Raptors - Correction (No BW) [Peter Scully ] 10 Mar American Woodcocks ["Robert Grosek" ] 11 Mar Sullivan County Bashakill - patagonia road side rest effect [] 10 Mar Queens County Bird Club Inc. - Upcoming Meeting Info- [Arie Gilbert ] 10 Mar Prospect Park, Brooklyn 3/10/10 Eastern Phoebe [Alex Wilson ] 10 Mar Shu Swamp (a.k.a. Mill Neck Preserve) Birds - Nassau Co. [Ken Feustel ] 10 Mar Raven nest in Queens [Corey Finger ] 10 Mar Golden Eagle remains at Bashakill ["Valerie Freer" ] 10 Mar West Meadow, LI: Red-Shouldered Hawks, et al. [Peter Scully ] 10 Mar Re: Raven nest in Queens [Susan Herbst ] 9 Mar Rockland Co., 3/9 [Thomas Fiore ] 9 Mar Raven nest in Queens [Corey Finger ] 09 Mar Smith's Point, L.I .Some" FOS" BIRDS, March 9th [Carl Starace ] 9 Mar Sullivan County - Bashakill - GOLDEN EAGLE [] 09 Mar New Paltz Hawks [Sy Schiff ] 9 Mar Caumsett State Park birds [Andrew Block ] 9 Mar Re: gyr- NO new paltz ["Arthur W. Green" ] 9 Mar Gyrfalcon = Leucistic Red-tailed Hawk [vincent N ] 9 Mar gyr- NO new paltz [Chrissy G ] 8 Mar South Fork LI: Flyby Thick-billed Murre off Montauk Point [Angus Wilson ] 8 Mar Shawangunk Grasslands [] 8 Mar Fwd: Gyrfalcon - near New Paltz, NY [christine guarino ] 8 Mar Gyrfalcon - near New Paltz, NY [christine guarino ] 8 Mar Syracuse RBA [Joseph Brin ] 8 Mar Gyrfalcon [Peter Schoenberger ] 08 Mar Common Ravens in Queens ["Steve Walter" ] 7 Mar SGNWR 3/7/10 [christine guarino ] 07 Mar Bayville Barrow's Goldeneye, Shu Swamp Rusty Blackbirds, & 1000+ Dunlin at Jones Beach [John Gluth ] 7 Mar NYC: East River Park, Sun. 7-Mar-2010 [Ben Cacace ] 7 Mar "Common" Green-winged Teal (Suffolk Co.) [Douglas Futuyma ] 7 Mar Eastern Adirondacks-white adult GYRFALCON [J Nadler ] 7 Mar East River, Sat. 6-Mar-2010 incl. Gt Cormorant & RT [Ben Cacace ] 06 Mar Re: Continuing MA Barnacle Goose [Jim Osterlund ] Subject: Hempstead Lake SP From: Sy Schiff <icterus AT optonline.net> Date: Thu, 18 Mar 2010 19:21:57 -0400 Hempstead Lake SP; 18 Mar. Joe Giunta and I (Sy Schiff) went looking for early migrants. Till now, things have been lackluster. Even the vegetation is late with red maples just stating to bud. There was some migrant movement into the park in the last day or so with 4 Wood Ducks, Tree Swallows, single members of both Kinglets, a dozen Yellow-rumped Warblers (not usually found here in winter) and a pair of Eastern Towhees. It's a start. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Linnaean Society Meeting From: "John Cairns" <jcairns AT nyc.rr.com> Date: Thu, 18 Mar 2010 18:40:13 -0400 THE LINNAEAN SOCIETY OF NEW YORK SPEAKERS PROGRAM Tuesday, March 23, 2010, 7:30 p.m. The American Museum of Natural History, Linder Theater Speaker: Shaibal Mitra, Assistant Professor of Biology, College of Staten Island of the City University of New York Subject: Recent Changes in Status and Distribution of New York State Birds: Detection vs. Population Expansion and Contraction The natural communities of the New York Metro area have been studied longer and more intensively than all but a few on the planet, and this area's avifauna has received a disproportionate share of this prolonged and expert attention. Even so, considerable uncertainty remains concerning the distribution and abundance of many bird species in this area. A series of case studies will be used to illustrate these gaps in our understanding of New York's avifauna, especially the difficulties involved in distinguishing between historical trends in detection and identification vs. shifts in actual distribution and abundance, arising from population expansion or contraction. Methods for distinguishing detection issues from actual changes in status will be described and the value of data collected via citizen science initiatives in this regard will be emphasized. Finally, the lessons drawn from this well known faunal group in this closely studied geographical region will be discussed in relation to the urgent challenges of monitoring and conserving biodiversity in more general contexts. From 1996 to 2000 Shaibal Mitra operated a major bird- banding station at the Fire Island Lighthouse. He is probably best known to us as a birder and the Editor of The Kingbird. His research focuses on avian ecology, evolution, and conservation. The meeting is open to the public, without charge. Please join us for what promises to be a very exciting talk. Enter the Museum at West 77th Street. If you would like to meet Dr. Mitra prior to the talk, join us at Pappardella's Restaurant, 75th Street and Columbus Avenue at 6 p.m. The reservation will be in the name of Alice. Alice Deutsch, Vice President -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: NYC - Color Wing Tagged Gulls From: Ben Cacace <bcacace AT gmail.com> Date: Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:15:10 -0400 A recent sighting of color wing tagged Ring-billed Gull (A99 - orange) prompted me to send a report of this bird and a group of wing tagged gulls seen by Angus Wilson at Gravesend Bay, Brooklyn on February 7th, 2010. Here's Angus' report < http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/msg01352.html >. Angus' A99 RBGU was seen again on a trip to Staten Island's Silver Lake Park on Feb. 28th, 2010. This gull is displaying an interesting pattern based on the limited sightings. In the month of November for both 2008 (the month it was tagged) and 2009 it was spotted in Massachsetts. The rest of the sightings are for the months of Dec. - Feb. and all of these sightings are from New York City. Angus' A375 sighting is a first report to the group that tracks these gulls. It was tagged less than 2 months before his sighting. Which happened in Massachusetts. Here's the email I received from Ken MacKenzie on the movement of these gulls and the email addresses to report sightings of any color wing tagged gulls you see: Ken.Mackenzie AT state.ma.us Dan.Clark AT state.ma.us /----- begin quote -----\ Ben, Thanks for reporting the sightings to us. Here is some specific information on the gulls you saw: *A99:* · Captured 11/5/08 at Upper Blackstone Water Treatment Facility, Millbury, MA · Capture location (GPS): 42.21231, - 71.78614 · Captured using a rocket net baited with crackers · Adult ring-billed gull · Florescent orange wing-tags: A99 · Red leg band: SU · Federal leg band: 0974-05321 · Released on site Sightings: · 11/29/08: Wachusett Reservoir, West Boylston, MA · 01/09/09: Gravesend Bay, Brooklyn, NY · 02/13/09: Belt Parkway, Brooklyn, Kings County, NY · 11/16/09: South Plaza, Worcester, MA · 11/24/09: Wachusett Reservoir, West Boylston, MA · 12/05/09: Belt Parkway, Brooklyn, Kings County, NY · 01/05/10: Belt Parkway, Brooklyn, Kings County, NY · 01/10/10: Gravesend Bay, Brooklyn, NY Additional sightings to original message · 02/07/10: Gravesend Bay, Brooklyn, NY [A. Wilson] · 02/28/10: Silver Lake Park reservoir, Staten Island, NY [B. Cacace] *A366:* · Captured 12/15/08 at Worcester Hotel & Conference Center, MA · Capture location (GPS): 42.295643, - 71.774175 · Captured using a rocket net baited with crackers · Adult female ring-billed gull · Florescent orange wing-tags: A366 · Federal leg band: 0994-03497 · Released on site Sightings: · 12/27/09: Gravesend Bay, Belt Parkway, Brooklyn, NY · 12/28/09: Benshonhurst Park, Brooklyn, NY · 01/05/10: Belt Parkway, Brooklyn, Kings County, NY *A375:* · Captured 12/15/09 at Vinny T's Restaurant, Rt. 9, Shrewsbury, MA · Capture location (GPS): 42.27549, - 71.75374 · Captured using a rocket net baited with bread and crackers · Adult female ring-billed gull · Florescent orange wing-tags: A375 · Federal leg band: 0994-03507 · Released on site Sightings: · This is the first sighting of this gull. Thank you! Thanks again for the sighting, and please let me know if you see it (or others) again. Ken MacKenzie Senior Wildlife Biologist DCR- Division of Water Supply Protection 180 Beaman Street West Boylston, MA 01583 508-792-7423 x313 \----- end -----/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Corrections on my previous post of 40 minutes ago, at 12:36AM From: "ROBERT ADAMO" <radamo2 AT msn.com> Date: Thu, 18 Mar 2010 01:16:30 -0400 There should only be one (i) between (d & t) in "traditional", and I guess my brain, as well as my "sight", were not "up to speed", when I used "sight" instead of "site". Cheers, Bob -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Osprey, in Riverhead, Suffolk Co., back at tradiitional sight...hope it stays there! From: "ROBERT ADAMO" <radamo2 AT msn.com> Date: Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:36:23 -0400 I saw my FOS Osprey yesterday, 3/18, sitting in the platform nest, located on the small island in the Peconic River, just east of the Route 105 bridge that crosses it. Prior to last year, this nest was occupied for many years running, with slow boat traffic its ony hindrance. While it remained empty for all of 2009, the reason was soon apparent. Less than an 1/8th mile s/o this fairly choice location, some "entity" erected a platform right on the n/w/c/o Route 105 & Route 24 (Flanders Rd.) This intersection is one of the busiest, noisiest, and mega-fume-making spots on eastern Long Island...but don't you know, it didn't matter! A pair of Pandion haliaetus called it home, and proved it by fledging at least 1, and possibly 2, young. Were these the 2008 birds, who yearned, for whatever # of reasons, to want new over old, cars over canoes, blacktop over bluewaves...or were they a different pair, new to this area, setting up house for the 1st time, and just plain lucky? I continued down to Dune Rd. and had 3 N.Harriers between the Quogue Bridge and Shinnicock Inlet. Didn't see a shorebird, but there were good #'s of RWBL's & COGR's. Cheers, Bob -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: West End/Jones Inlet (Nassau Co.) From: Ken Feustel <feustel AT optonline.net> Date: Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:49:43 -0400 After four days without heat or power (our power lines were finally repaired by a power company from Augusta, Maine!), we were more than ready to get out in the sun and do some birding. Despite the date, our birding at West End had a distinctly winterish flavor to it. Common and Red-throated Loons and Horned Grebes were easily observed in the Inlet, along with Black Scoter (28), Long-tailed Duck (1,000) Common Eider (93) and Harlequin Duck (6). We did observe three American Oystercatchers and a few Killdeer - birds we have been seeing for the last few weeks. The string fencing for the colonial waterbirds was being erected, but no Piping Plovers were seen. Also, no Phoebe, Osprey, or Great Egret were observed. Ken Feustel -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re:Ring-billed Gull A318 From: "Catherine Barron" <cbarron AT si.rr.com> Date: Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:01:46 -0400 Saw the immature Ring-billed Gull tagged A 318 this afternoon around 2 PM on the jetty in front of gazebo at South Beach, Staten Island. Catherine Barron Staten Island 3/16/2010 ----- Original Message ----- From: fresha2411 AT aol.com To: NYSBirds-L AT cornell.edu Sent: Friday, February 05, 2010 5:19 PM Subject: Re: [nysbirds-l] Brooklyn LBBG and thoughts on the Common Gull I meant to post about this earlier in the week, but Rob's find today presents as fitting an opportunity as any, so here goes. On Tuesday while sorting through the 2400 Ring-billed Gulls (accompanied by ~100 Herring and only 2-3 GBBG) I came across 3 wing-tagged Ring-billed Gulls. They included two immature birds A318, and A306 (A306 was present on the lake along with the adult LBBG this afternoon), and an adult bird A366. I have seen this adult at least 3 other times this winter, although not on Prospect Lake. It was present at Gravesend Bay on December 27, at Coney Island beach January 26 and back at Gravesend Bay again January 31. Also looking back at my photos just now I realize I also saw A318 at Gravesend Bay on December 28. Since the Common (Mew) Gull is absent from its Gravesend Bay roosting/resting area for large chunks of time it makes sense that Prospect Lake would be a good spot to check for it. A318 was actually hanging out with the Common Gull back on December 28th, so specific birds that it has been directly associating with at Gravesend are spending at least some time on Prospect Lake. So anybody looking for Gulls on Prospect Lake shouldn't just pass over the Ring-billeds there (not that they should anyway, but I know I certainly do a lot of the time, especially when looking for something specific and not similar like Lesser Black-backed or Black-headed) too quickly. As for the Common Gull's whereabouts, I believe Shane said he had it (for his 10th or so time) on the rocks at Gravesend today, so it's certainly still around. Good Birding -Doug Gochfeld. Brooklyn, NY. -----Original Message----- From: Rob Jett To: NYSBirds Sent: Fri, Feb 5, 2010 3:57 pm Subject: [nysbirds-l] Brooklyn LBBG At 2:15pm today I spotted a Lesser Black-backed Gull on Prospect Lake in Prospect Park. Nearly the entire lake is frozen with only a small opening along the western edge of the lake by West Lake Drive and Wellhouse Drive. When I first observed the bird it was on the ice at the edge of the water only about 30 feet from the shore. At one point it flew into the water and bathed within a group of mostly Ring-billed Gulls and several Herring Gulls. It was still present when I left at around 3:15pm and being viewed by Doug Gochfeld, Rob Bate and Shane Blodgett. I'll post some photos and a video on my blog later this evening. The frozen lake is a favored roosting spot for gulls with numbers sometimes approaching a few thousand individuals. On rare occasions it pays off to scan the mostly ring-billed population for something different. If you go by car, the closest entrance to the lake is Prospect Park Southwest and Vanderbilt Street. Good birding, Rob The City Birder Weblog http://citybirder.blogspot.com -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RE: off topic/ AviSys From: "John J. Collins" <jjcbird AT verizon.net> Date: Tue, 16 Mar 2010 19:44:58 -0400 I completely disagree. AviSys is the easiest, most intuitive and powerful software going. I’ve been using it for years and have only had a problem once which AviSys technical support cleared up in a jiffy! I can’t imagine why John is having a problem downloading from the AviSys web site? I’ve also never had a problem with that. John J. Collins Raritan, NJ jjcbird AT verizon.net "God desires that all the world be pure in his sight. The earth should not be injured. The earth should not be destroyed." (Hildegard von Bingen) From: bounce-5438794-3714854 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-5438794-3714854 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of John Askildsen Sent: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 4:05 PM To: nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu Subject: [nysbirds-l] off topic/ avisys to the list- wondering if there is anyone out there on the list who has avisys birding software and is familiar with it enough to assist me in doing a download ? it sounds like a pretty straightforward operation, but OMG, it is not ! so if anyone out there can assist me, it would be greatly appreciated. please contact me off list. if any average computer user, is looking for birding software, to manage birding checklists and so forth, i highly reccomend that you stay away from Avisys. it's a nightmare to use, in my opinion. if you are a computer programmer or IT person, i reccomend it highly. regards, john John Askildsen Millbrook, New York -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: off topic/ avisys From: Brien Hindman <discordian37 AT gmail.com> Date: Tue, 16 Mar 2010 19:39:02 -0400 I have been considering for some time about inquiring on this list about checklist software, and what people's favorites are. However, I've been hesitant to, because I don't want to create any noise that is not directly related to the list. I will take this opportunity to do so. 22 years and a couple continents later, keeping track of my sightings has become a messy affair. I would like some sort of automated data management that includes a world list. I've been considering Avisys, but it bugs me that I have to pay extra for the world list. I am also considering Swift, since the world list is included, making it half the price. I don't need bells and whistles. Just simple data base management and maybe the ability to generate reports, etc. I am also aware of birdlist.org for free, "analog" checklists. I work at a 3d feature film animation studio by trade, so I am pretty comfortable in front of a computer. Any suggestions would most certainly be welcome off list. Thanks a lot! On Tue, Mar 16, 2010 at 4:44 PM, Arie Gilbert wrote: > John, > > I am no "computer programmer" and have been happily using Avisys for many > many years. > I have also recommended it to some on this list. To my knowledge, all those > who have taken that advice are happy with it. > > Compared to other software out there it is far more flexible, powerful, and > yes - easy to use. > > Having said so, it always pays to read the instructions. Of course, > following them is recommended as well. > The manual that accompanies the software gives simple, clear, step by step > directions on getting started, and various strategies for entering data for > those new to the program. > > It is worth mentioning, it pays to have an understanding of basic computer > skills. In my experience, some folks may use a computer at work, > but have little idea how  to do much else such as routine file operations: > copy, move, burn to disc, print, print to, etc.  This is a source of > frustration, but NO software out there will work without it, so it is > unreasonable for you to not understand them, and then blame the software. > > Also, there are no complex computer procedures in Avisys,  and I don't know > what you mean by "average computer user" but AFAIK, the average computer > user would find Avisys a pleasure, and wish that other software was as well > written and easy to use. > > Remember too, that the creator of the software provides free tech support. I > presume that you have a legitimate copy. > > If you want , I would be happy to assist you. Once you are up to speed, you > will be very happy that you have this program. > > Arie Gilbert > No. Babylon, NY > > > > John Askildsen wrote: > > to the list- > > wondering if there is anyone out there on the list who has avisys birding > software and is familiar with it enough to assist me in doing a download ? > it sounds like a pretty straightforward operation, but OMG, it is not ! so > if anyone out there can assist me, it would be greatly appreciated. please > contact me off list. > > if any average computer user, is looking for birding software, to manage > birding checklists and so forth, i highly reccomend that you stay away from > Avisys. it's a nightmare to use, in my opinion. if you are a computer > programmer or IT person, i reccomend it highly. > > regards, > > john > > John Askildsen > Millbrook, New York -- "The test of us as a society is not necessarily how we treat the best among us but how we treat the most questionable." - Ben Loeterman -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: FOS Great Egret From: Sy Schiff <icterus AT optonline.net> Date: Tue, 16 Mar 2010 17:16:28 -0400 Marine Nature Study Area, Oceanside 16 March The first of the season Great Egret made an appearance this morning. The Ring-necked Pheasant continues. The extreme high tide storm surge was 2-3 feet deep on the the paths and water covered the entire marsh. Things appeared to be back to normal today. Damage was mainly to vegetation with loss of power over the weekend. In addition, many Oceanside roads were still blocked today by work crews repairing damage. It required detours to get to the Park Ave access on Waukena. Sy -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: off topic/ avisys From: Arie Gilbert <ariegilbert AT optonline.net> Date: Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:44:49 -0400 Subject: off topic/ avisys From: John Askildsen <askildsen AT verizon.net> Date: Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:05:25 -0500 (CDT) Subject: Re:[nysbirds-l] Western Grebe - Wayne County From: "Jerry Lazarczyk" <lazarcg1 AT netzero.net> Date: Tue, 16 Mar 2010 07:22:01 GMT I dipped on the Western Grebe late on Sunday afternoon despite going to both the east and west Lake Ontario accesses to Chimney Bluffs State Park.. The only birds seen were less than ten C. Mergs and some RB Gulls. I returned Monday and found that the east access is where the Western Grebe was seen. I was not able to see much from the road level so I climbed the stairway to near the top of the cliff and had a much better but less safe view. Not much was around but the WESTERN GREBE eventually was found. A few Red-necked Grebes were seen plus some Long-tailed Ducks and C. Mergs. The birds were beyond the mud line in the blue water and a scope is needed. The water was roily and the added height is very helpful. A gal showed after I was there and she told me that the W. Grebe was seen from the east access where we were. She had just seen a pheasant off the road and I looked for it and dipped. She said the she raised pheasants with her husband for years for release by the DEC. I am drawing a complete blank for her name and location and I apologize to her. I should have written that info down. Jerry Lazarczyk Grand Island NY NYSbirders, Chuck Gibson reported a Western Grebe at Chimney Bluffs State Park (Wayne Co.) on 11 March using eBird (report visible on the eBird Google Gadget). Tim Lenz and Chris Wiley relocated it this morning, and many people were able to see it throughout the day (though others struck out). The bird seems to range widely along the shoreline and spent a good deal of the day diving/ feeding, often at considerable distance. There are also many (easily >60) Red-necked Grebes and a few Horned Grebes in the area. Cheers, Tom -- Thomas Brodie Johnson Ithaca, NY tbj4 AT cornell.edu mobile: 717.991.5727 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- ____________________________________________________________ Diet Help Reach your goals of being healthier and happier. Click here for diet tips and solutions. http://thirdpartyoffers.netzero.net/TGL2241/c?cp=np9PM6lek2VkAIc0bhcdHQAAJ1G1RmBYriwnjtqv26gxJqDOAAYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADNAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYQAAAAAA= -- Cayugabirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/CayugabirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/CayugabirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/cayugabirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/CAYU.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/Cayugabirds Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: Western Grebe - Wayne County From: "Jerry Lazarczyk" <lazarcg1 AT netzero.net> Date: Tue, 16 Mar 2010 07:22:01 GMT I dipped on the Western Grebe late on Sunday afternoon despite going to both the east and west Lake Ontario accesses to Chimney Bluffs State Park.. The only birds seen were less than ten C. Mergs and some RB Gulls. I returned Monday and found that the east access is where the Western Grebe was seen. I was not able to see much from the road level so I climbed the stairway to near the top of the cliff and had a much better but less safe view. Not much was around but the WESTERN GREBE eventually was found. A few Red-necked Grebes were seen plus some Long-tailed Ducks and C. Mergs. The birds were beyond the mud line in the blue water and a scope is needed. The water was roily and the added height is very helpful. A gal showed after I was there and she told me that the W. Grebe was seen from the east access where we were. She had just seen a pheasant off the road and I looked for it and dipped. She said the she raised pheasants with her husband for years for release by the DEC. I am drawing a complete blank for her name and location and I apologize to her. I should have written that info down. Jerry Lazarczyk Grand Island NY NYSbirders, Chuck Gibson reported a Western Grebe at Chimney Bluffs State Park (Wayne Co.) on 11 March using eBird (report visible on the eBird Google Gadget). Tim Lenz and Chris Wiley relocated it this morning, and many people were able to see it throughout the day (though others struck out). The bird seems to range widely along the shoreline and spent a good deal of the day diving/ feeding, often at considerable distance. There are also many (easily >60) Red-necked Grebes and a few Horned Grebes in the area. Cheers, Tom -- Thomas Brodie Johnson Ithaca, NY tbj4 AT cornell.edu mobile: 717.991.5727 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- ____________________________________________________________ Nutrition Improve your career health. Click now to study nutrition! http://thirdpartyoffers.netzero.net/TGL2241/c?cp=l0hqYtuYDNCdP8A1eciJ-gAAJ1Huz9iSZvtuEnZrPya7cU_rAAYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADNAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASQwAAAAA= -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: FOY Osprey From: Hugh McGuinness <hmcguinness AT ross.org> Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 22:31:49 -0400 I haven't seen many reports of OSPREY yet. I had my first of the year today behind my house on Long Pond, Sag Harbor (Suffolk Co.) I imagine with the warmth predicted for the rest of the week some more arrivals will be around. Hugh Hugh McGuinness The Ross School 18 Goodfriend Drive East Hampton, NY 11937 hmcguinness AT ross.org -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Red Shouldered Hawk at Southaven Park, Brookhaven Hamlet, Long Island,and an additional bird of note, March, 15th From: Carl Starace <castarace AT optonline.net> Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 17:53:21 -0500 Hello All, I sighted a Red Shouldered Hawk this morning.It was passing over Sunrise Highway into the Southaven County Park grounds.I also must mention the superb photo I saw this morning on the web of a nearly all white,[ Leucistic], Atlantic Puffin. This stunning specimen was spotted off the Isles of Scilly ,Britain. This is an extremely rare occurrence indeed and I believe this photo will have a very long run on the web.The story/photo can be found at,[ littlebirdiehome.com ] Good March Birding, Carl Starace -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Syracuse RBA From: Joseph Brin <brinjoseph AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:42:14 -0700 (PDT) RBA * New York * Syracuse * March 15, 2010 * NYSY 1503.10 Hotline: Syracuse Rare bird Alert Dates(s): March 08, 2009 - March 15, 2010 to report by e-mail: brinjoseph AT yahoo.com covering upstate NY counties: Cayuga, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and Montezuma Wetlands Complex (MWC) (just outside Cayuga County), Onondaga, Oswego, Lewis, Jefferson, Oneida, Herkimer, Madison & Cortland compiled:March 15 AT 6:00 p.m. (EST) compiler: Joseph Brin Onondaga Audubon Homepage: www.onondagaaudubon.org #196 -Monday March 15, 2010 Greetings! This is the Syracuse Area Rare Bird Alert for the week of March 01 , 2009 Highlights: ----------- WESTERN GREBE (Extralimital) ROSS’S GOOSE SNOW GOOSE EURASIAN WIGEON GOLDEN EAGLE AMERICAN WOODCOCK ICELAND GULL LONG-EARED OWL NORTHERN SHRIKE Migrants this week: -------------- AMERICAN WOODCOCK - 3/8 GREEN-WING TEAL - 3/10 TREE SWALLOW - 3/10 RED-SHOULDERED HAWK - 3/10 GOLDEN EAGLE - 3/12 CHIPPING SPARROW - 3/13 (possible overwinterer but not reported previously) Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (MNWR) and Montezuma Wetlands Complex (MWC) ------------ 3/11: An estimated 100,000 SNOW GEESE were reported in the mucklands on Rt.31. In ensuing days the numbers have dropped to “mere thousands”. 3/12: A ROSS’S GOOSE was seen alont Rt.89 between East Road and Rt.31. 3/13: An EURASIAN WIGEON was seen at the end (drivable) of VanDyne Spoor Road. Onondaga County ------------ 3/8: AMERICAN WOODCOCK were heard and seen along Kellog Road in the Three Rivers WMA north of Baldwinsville. 5 PURPLE FINCHES were seen in the Tully Valley area. 3/14: A NORTHERN SHRIKE continues to hang around the Split Rock area west of Syracuse. An ICELAND GULL was seen feeding in the Seneca River in Baldwinsville. Oswego County ------------ 3/13: A LONG-EARED OWL was found at Noyes Sanctuary along Lake Ontario. Derby Hill ------------ A slow week due to indifferent weather. The first GOLDEN EAGLE 3/12 and RED-SHOULDERED HAWK 3/10 were recorded. The count so far is 11 species of raptor and 312 individuals. Most impressive was the Goose flight on 3/14. An estimated 55,000 CANADA GEESE and 77,500 SNOW GEESE were recorded flying over. Extralimital ------------ 3/11: A WESTERN GREBE was initially reported on ebird at Chimney Bluffs State Park on Lake Ontario in Wayne County. It was relocated on 3/14 but there have been no updates today. --end transcript -- Joseph Brin Region 5 Baldwinsville, N.Y. 13027 U.S.A. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: From NY Times: Climate Change Threatens Migratory Birds, Report Says From: Ann Marie Pozzini <li_birder AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:27:17 -0700 (PDT) http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/13/science/earth/13birds.html?emc=tnt&tntemail1=y   -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: NNYBirds: From NY Times: Climate Change Threatens Migratory Birds, Report Says From: Ann Marie Pozzini <li_birder AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:27:17 -0700 (PDT) http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/13/science/earth/13birds.html?emc=tnt&tntemail1=y   [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Mew Gull at Playlands, Rye (Westchester Co) From: Angus Wilson <oceanwanderers AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 15:45:55 -0400 An adult *MEW GULL* (likely a nominate Common Gull, _canus_) was found by Tom Burke and Gail Benson yesterday afternoon at Playlands Park in Rye (Westchester Co.). A few local birders were able to reach the spot in time to see it before it was flushed and disappeared. It was searched for this morning without success but I understand there has been a re-sighting this afternoon. From the photos I've seen, the bird seems to be coming into alternate plumage with only faint hints of head streaking, a hint of dark band on the bill and a noticeably red orbital ring. More details to follow. -- Angus Wilson New York City & The Springs, NY, USA http://birdingtotheend.blogspot.com/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RE: RE: Robert Moses power plant fishing platform From: "Richard Guthrie" <gaeltic AT capital.net> Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:06:31 -0400 There are at least THREE Robert Moses State Parks. The one on Long Island, another at Niagara Falls, and yet another at Massena. Each one offers great birding opportunities. There are also several Robert Moses Parkways. The "Power Broker" sure had a way to spread his influence (and name) around NYS.. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greene County New York gaeltic AT capital.net http://blog.timesunion.com/birding _____ From: bounce-5433432-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-5433432-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of susieq60 AT optonline.net Sent: Monday, March 15, 2010 1:49 PM To: Willie D'Anna and Betsy Potter Cc: NYSBirds Subject: Re: RE: [nysbirds-l] Robert Moses power plant fishing platform I'm assuming this is the Upstate RM & not the one on Long Island...or I am very confused. :-) ----- Original Message ----- From: Willie D'Anna and Betsy Potter Date: Monday, March 15, 2010 1:26 pm Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Robert Moses power plant fishing platform To: NYSBirds > Everyone, > > > > There was parking there until 911 and after that they only allowed > handicapped people to use it. Everyone else had to park in the > lot above > and walk down which was a pretty long walk. When Dean and I saw the > black-headed I suggest that I drive him down and drop him off > and go back up > and park. When we got there, I could see that they were again > allowingparking at the bottom. So at some point they changed it > back to the way it > was before 911. Lucky for us. > > > > As you say, It's a great spot for getting close looks but it is very > limited. You have to hope the bird of interest flies near the > corner of the > power plant. > > > > Betsy > > > > From: bounce-5432776-3714443 AT list.cornell.edu > [mailto:bounce-5432776-3714443 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of > Tigger64 AT aol.com > Sent: Monday, March 15, 2010 12:13 PM > To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu > Subject: Re:[nysbirds-l] Robert Moses power plant fishing platform > > > > The fishing platform referred to by Tom has been closed this > winter due to > ice build up. I'm not sure when it is scheduled to re-open, > some time soon > I would imagine. > > > > Back in November I found a Black-headed Gull on the upriver > roosting rocks. > It stood there for hours, but in the next few days spent most of > its time > flying around that fishing platform. Dean DiTomasso got awesome > point-blank > photos of it while standing on the platform. > > > > Jim Pawlicki and I subsequently spent some time viewing from the spot. > Looks at close birds are epic, but the spot comes with its own > set of > viewing vagaries and is probably best used in conjunction with other > overlooks. > > > > It's not well known because there was previously no real parking > at the > bottom of the hill, thus effectively limiting access. The > parking area has > recently been enlarged. > > > > Dave Wheeler. > > > -- > > NYSbirds-L List Info: > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES > > ARCHIVES: > 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html > 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html > 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L > > Please submit your observations to eBird: > http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ > > -- > -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: RE: Robert Moses power plant fishing platform From: susieq60 AT optonline.net Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 17:49:24 +0000 (GMT) I'm assuming this is the Upstate RM & not the one on  Long Island...or I am very confused.:-)----- Original Message -----From: Willie D'Anna and Betsy Potter Date: Monday, March 15, 2010 1:26 pmSubject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Robert Moses power plant fishing platformTo: NYSBirds > Everyone,> > > > There was parking there until 911 and after that they only allowed> handicapped people to use it. Everyone else had to park in the > lot above> and walk down which was a pretty long walk. When Dean and I saw the> black-headed I suggest that I drive him down and drop him off > and go back up> and park. When we got there, I could see that they were again > allowingparking at the bottom. So at some point they changed it > back to the way it> was before 911. Lucky for us.> > > > As you say, It's a great spot for getting close looks but it is very> limited. You have to hope the bird of interest flies near the > corner of the> power plant.> > > > Betsy> > > > From: bounce-5432776-3714443 AT list.cornell.edu> [mailto:bounce-5432776-3714443 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of> Tigger64 AT aol.com> Sent: Monday, March 15, 2010 12:13 PM> To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu> Subject: Re:[nysbirds-l] Robert Moses power plant fishing platform> > > > The fishing platform referred to by Tom has been closed this > winter due to> ice build up. I'm not sure when it is scheduled to re-open, > some time soon> I would imagine. > > > > Back in November I found a Black-headed Gull on the upriver > roosting rocks.> It stood there for hours, but in the next few days spent most of > its time> flying around that fishing platform. Dean DiTomasso got awesome > point-blank> photos of it while standing on the platform.> > > > Jim Pawlicki and I subsequently spent some time viewing from the spot.> Looks at close birds are epic, but the spot comes with its own > set of> viewing vagaries and is probably best used in conjunction with other> overlooks.> > > > It's not well known because there was previously no real parking > at the> bottom of the hill, thus effectively limiting access. The > parking area has> recently been enlarged.> > > > Dave Wheeler.> > > --> > NYSbirds-L List Info:> http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME> http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES> > ARCHIVES:> 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html> 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html> 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L> > Please submit your observations to eBird:> http://ebird.org/content/ebird/> > --> -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RE: Robert Moses power plant fishing platform From: "Willie D'Anna and Betsy Potter" <dannapotter AT roadrunner.com> Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:26:08 -0400 Everyone, There was parking there until 911 and after that they only allowed handicapped people to use it. Everyone else had to park in the lot above and walk down which was a pretty long walk. When Dean and I saw the black-headed I suggest that I drive him down and drop him off and go back up and park. When we got there, I could see that they were again allowing parking at the bottom. So at some point they changed it back to the way it was before 911. Lucky for us. As you say, It's a great spot for getting close looks but it is very limited. You have to hope the bird of interest flies near the corner of the power plant. Betsy From: bounce-5432776-3714443 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-5432776-3714443 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Tigger64 AT aol.com Sent: Monday, March 15, 2010 12:13 PM To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: Re:[nysbirds-l] Robert Moses power plant fishing platform The fishing platform referred to by Tom has been closed this winter due to ice build up. I'm not sure when it is scheduled to re-open, some time soon I would imagine. Back in November I found a Black-headed Gull on the upriver roosting rocks. It stood there for hours, but in the next few days spent most of its time flying around that fishing platform. Dean DiTomasso got awesome point-blank photos of it while standing on the platform. Jim Pawlicki and I subsequently spent some time viewing from the spot. Looks at close birds are epic, but the spot comes with its own set of viewing vagaries and is probably best used in conjunction with other overlooks. It's not well known because there was previously no real parking at the bottom of the hill, thus effectively limiting access. The parking area has recently been enlarged. Dave Wheeler. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re:Robert Moses power plant fishing platform From: Tigger64 AT aol.com Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:13:25 EDT The fishing platform referred to by Tom has been closed this winter due to ice build up. I'm not sure when it is scheduled to re-open, some time soon I would imagine. Back in November I found a Black-headed Gull on the upriver roosting rocks. It stood there for hours, but in the next few days spent most of its time flying around that fishing platform. Dean DiTomasso got awesome point-blank photos of it while standing on the platform. Jim Pawlicki and I subsequently spent some time viewing from the spot. Looks at close birds are epic, but the spot comes with its own set of viewing vagaries and is probably best used in conjunction with other overlooks. It's not well known because there was previously no real parking at the bottom of the hill, thus effectively limiting access. The parking area has recently been enlarged. Dave Wheeler. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Niagara B-h Gull, plus Cackling Geese From: Tigger64 AT aol.com Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 11:52:26 EDT Jim Pawlicki and I saw the Black-headed Gull from the Lewiston boat launch at around 3pm. It was rafting with Bonaparte's Gulls somewhat downstream but staying within scope range. We then tried for the Black Vulture found by Willie D'Anna, but struck out on it. Geese near the intersection of Johnson Creek Rd. and Somerset-Hartland Townline Rd were the evening highlight. Lots of Cackling Geese were seen, many with white neck band below the black "neck sock". Jim kept a tally and got to 79 Cackling Geese. A Greater White-fronted Goose eventually flew in and dropped out of site behind the 3000+ geese in the field. Dave Wheeler. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Black-headed Gull and many Little Gulls - Niagara County From: Tom Johnson <tbj4 AT cornell.edu> Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:43:14 -0400 NYSbirders, Chris Wood, Marshall Iliff, and I birded north to south on the Niagara River in New York yesterday with the following highlights: 1 Cackling Goose - flyover with Canadas coming into NY from Ontario at Lewiston docks 1 Black-headed Gull - at the Lewiston docks, an adult about halfway done molting in hood (most Bonaparte's appear to still be in basic plumage, nice for picking this one out in addition to wing pattern, size, etc) 20-26 Little Gulls - in Lewiston from a few vantages (including the docks); we observed 13 Little Gulls twice at different locations, and feel that while there might have been some overlap, most of the birds were different and that there were at least 20 birds present. We also saw 6 "Kumlien's" Gulls and 1 Glaucous Gull on the river from various points, though large gull numbers are way down and Ring-billed and Bonaparte's Gulls are dominating the river at the moment. We did drive down to the fishing access on the NY side at the Robert Moses/ Adam Beck power plant (just outside of the security entrance to the plant)- it seems that if the gate to the fishing access elevator is ever opened (it is "temporarily closed" now), the views from river-level on the New York side of the river could be spectacular, and identifications of tricky gulls could be more easily verified and supported than they can be from on high at the Sir Adam Beck overlook on the Ontario side of the river (where viewing is frustrating at best). Has anyone explored this access option further? Cheers, Tom -- Thomas Brodie Johnson Ithaca, NY tbj4 AT cornell.edu mobile: 717.991.5727 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Common Loons - Westchester County From: Brien Hindman <discordian37 AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:15:26 -0400 I spotted 2 adult common loons on the drive in to work this morning from Rt. 120 on the northern end of Kenisco Lake near Nanny Hagen Rd. Not earth shattering news, but I thought people who frequent the Armonk area might like to keep an eye out for them. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Western Grebe - Wayne County From: Tom Johnson <tbj4 AT cornell.edu> Date: Sun, 14 Mar 2010 22:05:51 -0400 NYSbirders, Chuck Gibson reported a Western Grebe at Chimney Bluffs State Park (Wayne Co.) on 11 March using eBird (report visible on the eBird Google Gadget). Tim Lenz and Chris Wiley relocated it this morning, and many people were able to see it throughout the day (though others struck out). The bird seems to range widely along the shoreline and spent a good deal of the day diving/ feeding, often at considerable distance. There are also many (easily >60) Red-necked Grebes and a few Horned Grebes in the area. Cheers, Tom -- Thomas Brodie Johnson Ithaca, NY tbj4 AT cornell.edu mobile: 717.991.5727 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: South Fork LI: Dovekie off Montauk Point From: Angus Wilson <oceanwanderers AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 14 Mar 2010 17:40:23 -0400 The passing storm left the South Fork of Long Island (Suffolk Co.) bruised and battered, with flooded roads, lots of damaged or felled trees and a few downed telephone lines. The ocean swell was majestic as viewed from the Montauk Point restaurant overlook, with 20-30 ft rollers passing over the reef in front of the lighthouse. Viewing conditions were OK at first but as the wind dropped a light fog settled in over the entire area. Surfers found good waves off Culloden Point on the north side of the peninsula. The highlight of my morning was a *DOVEKIE* that flew right into Turtle Cove (south side of Point), made a wide circle and flew out again! It was close enough to see the tiny bill and dusky underwings. I scanned the area for a further hour but did not relocate it. Other birds of note off the Point were 3 *RAZORBILL*, 2 different adult *KUMLEIN'S ICELAND GULLS* and a 4th-winter type *LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL*. Many large gulls were cruising up and down the shoreline making quick work of edibles that had been ripped up off the bottom. Three Bonaparte's Gulls off Camp Hero were only ones I saw today. Of local interest, thirty-three *RING-NECK DUCK* were on Tuthill's Pond (almost connected to the ocean by flooding) and four *CANVASBACK* were on Fort Pond. The 2nd basic-type *GLAUCOUS GULL *that I saw yesterday was back on Further Lane in East Hampton and 4 *TUNDRA SWAN* were with 3 Mute Swan in fields between Highland Terrace and Sag Main Street in Sagaponack. -- Angus Wilson New York City & The Springs, NY, USA http://birdingtotheend.blogspot.com/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: North Fork LI: Parasitic Jaeger at Orient Pt ferry dock From: Angus Wilson <oceanwanderers AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 14 Mar 2010 14:59:12 -0400 Nick Bonomo sent word of an adult PARASITIC JAEGER at the Orient Point ferry dock at 1 pm today. He's confident it is not a Pomarine, the more likely species during the winter months. I am not aware of any records of this species before April but will need to check on that. -- Angus Wilson New York City & The Springs, NY, USA http://birdingtotheend.blogspot.com/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: South Fork LI: Glaucous and Iceland Gulls From: Angus Wilson <oceanwanderers AT gmail.com> Date: Sat, 13 Mar 2010 23:02:11 -0500 Todays Nor'easter pounded the eastern tip of Long Island and birds were few and far between. The storm still rages as I type. The high winds, heavy rain and volume of spray/sand in the air made seawatching a challenge to say the least. When I could see beyond the crashing surf, there seemed to be little activity. On the ponds, waterfowl numbers seem low and I could not find anything of note among the lingering flocks of Canada Geese. Not too surprisingly, most of the Great Black-backed Gulls had moved inland off the beaches to wait out the weather and flocks stood huddled in fields and other open areas. Looking through these, I found an adult *GLAUCOUS GULL * on Bridge Lane in Sagaponack, and just before dusk a 2nd basic-type *GLAUCOUS GULL* on Further Lane in East Hampton. This latter bird, a predominantly white individual, flew in as I was watching an adult *KUMLEIN'S ICELAND GULL *bathing in a rain water pool. A couple of Bonparte's Gulls were on Shorts Pond in Bridgehampton, the first time I've seen the species there. Ironically, we've reached a point where I find the absence of any Lesser Black-backed Gulls among these storm displaced gulls more surprising than if one or two were present. -- Angus Wilson New York City & The Springs, NY, USA http://birdingtotheend.blogspot.com/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: NYC Area RBA: 12 March 2010 From: Karen Fung <easternbluebird AT gmail.com> Date: Sat, 13 Mar 2010 03:12:15 -0500 - RBA * New York * New York City, Long Island, Westchester County * March 12, 2010 * NYNY1003.12 Birds Mentioned: THICK-BILLED MURRE+ (+ Details requested by NYSARC) GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE (Sullivan County) CACKLING GOOSE Wood Duck Green-winged Teal ('Eurasian' type) Common Eider Harlequin Duck BARROW'S GOLDENEYE Northern Bobwhite American Bittern Great Egret Turkey Vulture Bald Eagle (Sullivan County) Red-shouldered Hawk Golden Eagle (Sullivan County) Killdeer American Oystercatcher American Woodcock Iceland Gull Lesser Black-backed Gull Black-legged Kittiwake Razorbill SNOWY OWL Eastern Phoebe Common Raven Winter Wren Eastern Bluebird Hermit Thrush Red-winged Blackbird Rusty Blackbird Common Grackle If followed by (+) please submit documentation of your report electronically and use the NYSARC online submission form found at http://www.nybirds.org/NYSARC/goodreport.htm You can also send reports and digital image files via email to nysarc1 AT nybirds.org . If electronic submission is not possible, hardcopy reports and photos or sketches are welcome. Hardcopy documentation should be mailed to: Jeanne Skelly - Secretary NYS Avian Records Committee (NYSARC) 420 Chili-Scottsville Rd. Churchville, NY 14428 ~ Transcript ~ Hotline: New York City Area Rare Bird Alert Weekly Recording: (212) 979-3070 To report sightings call: Tom Burke (212) 372-1483 (days except Sunday) Tony Lauro (631) 734-4126 (Long Island) Compilers: Tom Burke, Tony Lauro Coverage: New York City, Long Island, Westchester County Transcriber: Karen Fung [~BEGIN RBA TAPE~] Greetings. This is the New York Rare Bird Alert for Friday, March 12th, at 9:00 pm. The highlights of today's tape are THICK-BILLED MURRE, SNOWY OWLS, BARROW'S GOLDENEYE, EURASIAN GREEN-WINGED TEAL, GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE, and CACKLING GOOSE. With Spring finally showing some signs of actually arriving, northbound movement of migrants has also been noted. A sea watch off Montauk Point Sunday produced the most unusual of this week's birds when a THICK-BILLED MURRE was spotted moving east, joining 46 RAZORBILLS also flying by. An immature BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE also appeared, and at Montauk Harbor Inlet, an ICELAND GULL was still present, and five more RAZORBILLS were noted. At Fort Pond Bay a LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL continued, and a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK flew past. Rather unexpected, due to their notable absence this winter, were two SNOWY OWLS spotted recently. The first, a dark immature, was found last Saturday in the dunes near Tiana Beach, off Dune Road west of Shinnecock Inlet, a typical location, whereas the second, a lighter bird, appeared Tuesday in a farm field along Manor Lane in Southport on the North Fork. Both owls were searched for on subsequent days and not relocated. Lingering waterfowl included two BARROW'S GOLDENEYES. The drake in Bayville was noted Sunday, still off the entrance to Centre Island, which is east of Bayville along Bayville Avenue, while the drake at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge continues in the Bay west of the West Pond or, especially in the later afternoon, on the West Pond. The numbers of GREEN-WINGED TEAL on the West Pond seem to be dropping, with the 'Common' type Teal pulling out, but another 'Eurasian' type GREEN-WINGED TEAL was found Sunday at Nissequogue River State Park, which is southeast of Sunken Meadow State Park, off Sunken Meadow Road. A CACKLING GOOSE was found at Caumsett State Park, north of Lloyd Harbor, on Monday. In conjunction with the continued sightings of COMMON RAVENS in Roslyn and occasional occurrences in New York City, it is quite interesting that a pair has been found nesting in Kew Gardens, Queens, at a site they apparently also used last year. Various spring migrants now appearing in Central, Prospect and other city parks lately have included WOOD DUCK and other waterfowl on the move; TURKEY VULTURES and some hawks, including a few RED-SHOULDERED HAWKS; KILLDEER and some AMERICAN WOODCOCK; EASTERN PHOEBE as of Wednesday; and some RUSTY BLACKBIRDS, along with many flocks of RED-WINGED BLACKBIRDS and COMMON GRACKLES. AMERICAN WOODCOCK are now displaying in most appropriate locations. Along the coast, GREAT EGRET and AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER have also been noted, so a decent variety is now available. For example, the collection of birds at Shu Swamp in Mill Neck on Wednesday featured WOOD DUCK, AMERICAN WOODCOCK, WINTER WREN, HERMIT THRUSH and RUSTY BLACKBIRD. Out east at Shinnecock, two immature male HARLEQUIN DUCKS were still present along the inlet jetty Sunday, and Sunday afternoon several hundred COMMON EIDER flew out of Shinnecock Inlet to feed on the ocean. Birds along Dune Road west of the inlet included an AMERICAN BITTERN Saturday and EASTERN BLUEBIRD Sunday. A flock of NORTHERN BOBWHITE appeared Saturday near the old Grumman Airport in Calverton, where WOODCOCK were displaying on Sunday. Two nice birds up at the Bashakill Wildlife Management Area in upstate New York (Sullivan County) recently were a GOLDEN EAGLE joining up with some BALD EAGLES on the ice from about the 6th up to Wednesday, and a GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE visited Bashakill on Thursday. To phone in reports on Long Island, call Tony Lauro at (631) 734-4126, or days except Sunday call Tom Burke at (212) 372-1483. This service is sponsored by the Linnaean Society of New York and the National Audubon Society. Thank you for calling. [~END TAPE~] ~ End Transcript ~ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Stony Brook RSHA Photos From: Peter Scully <peterandrewscullyii AT yahoo.com> Date: Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:17:59 -0800 (PST) Here are a few photos of the Red-shouldered Hawks that were over the W. Meadow Creek this week. http://www.flickr.com/photos/scullybirds/ Cheers. Peter -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: First Marked Bahamas Piping Plover Re-sighted. From: Peter Doherty <leasttern AT hotmail.com> Date: Fri, 12 Mar 2010 18:37:28 -0500 Greetings, all: They are coming. And soon. The initial resighting of a Piping Plover marked on February 17, 2010 on Andros Island, The Bahamas was made (and photographed) in Duval County, FL today by Pat Leary. It is ~440 air miles between those points. A picture and additional information will be posted on the First Landing blog at www.cvwo.org. Peter Doherty leasttern AT hotmail.com Subject: First Marked Bahamas Piping Plover Re-sighted. From: Peter Doherty <leasttern AT hotmail.com> Date: Fri, 12 Mar 2010 18:37:28 -0500 Greetings, all: They are coming. And soon. The initial resighting of a Piping Plover marked on February 17, 2010 on Andros Island, The Bahamas was made (and photographed) in Duval County, FL today by Pat Leary. It is ~440 air miles between those points. A picture and additional information will be posted on the First Landing blog at www.cvwo.org. Peter Doherty leasttern AT hotmail.com -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: Picture Hawk From: Brien Hindman <discordian37 AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:10:59 -0500 That kind most certainly does. In fact, they prefer to. ;-) On Fri, Mar 12, 2010 at 1:07 PM, wrote: > ** > > > ------------------------------ > From: Bootyrules111 AT aol.com > Subj: Re: Picture Hawk > > > > > ------------------------------ > From: Bootyrules111 AT aol.com > > Sent: 3/11/2010 10:17:07 P.M. Eastern Standard Time > Subj: Re: Picture Hawk > > *I have alot of hawks around here.I live in Wappingers Falls,New York.They > usually fly by everday,but never do they sit on top of my bird feeder > yikes!!! I know that they eat rodents and squirrels and rabbits.Do they eat > little birds too??? What kind of hawk is this? Thank you.* > > ** > *Diane* > > -- "The test of us as a society is not necessarily how we treat the best among us but how we treat the most questionable." - Ben Loeterman -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re:Picture Hawk From: Bootyrules111 AT aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:07:37 EST ____________________________________ From: Bootyrules111 AT aol.com Subj: Re: Picture Hawk ____________________________________ From: Bootyrules111 AT aol.com Sent: 3/11/2010 10:17:07 P.M. Eastern Standard Time Subj: Re: Picture Hawk I have alot of hawks around here.I live in Wappingers Falls,New York.They usually fly by everday,but never do they sit on top of my bird feeder yikes!!! I know that they eat rodents and squirrels and rabbits.Do they eat little birds too??? What kind of hawk is this? Thank you. Diane -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Advice from L.I. birders? From: Brien Hindman <discordian37 AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:04:52 -0500 Hi all, I am curious if it is too late in the season to observe razorbills, seeing as spring is right around the corner. Living up in Westchester, I have only found the time to make the trip out to Montauk once, where I got some good views of c. eiders and scoters. I'd like to make a second attempt, but am concerned it will be a "no" trip. Thank you for any insight/advice. Feel free to email me directly if you don't want to create any unnecessary noise on this list. Much appreciated. -- "The test of us as a society is not necessarily how we treat the best among us but how we treat the most questionable." - Ben Loeterman -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: E. Phoebe, Am. Woodcock, Central Park, NYC 3/11 From: Thomas Fiore <tomfi2 AT earthlink.net> Date: Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:59:00 -0500 Thursday, 11 March 2010 - Central Park, Manhattan, N.Y. City An Eastern Phoebe was at the south side of the Great Hill this afternoon, well above the path north of the Pool, near W. 103 Street - well up in a tall bare tree, calling & at least a few times, also singing. At Strawberry Fields late in the day, near W. 72 Street there was some bird activity including a Woodcock near the n. side of the lawn, with a fairly large mixed flock all around the area including American Robins, Common Grackles & a number of common overwintering species plus (uncommon, if overwintered there) Hermit Thrush, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, N. Flicker, one Fox Sparrow among the White-throateds, & a ruckus of Blue Jays. (cause of ruckus, not clear to me....) Other areas I was in today seemed to be less active... Some birds had seemingly moved on with waterfowl in particular in lower numbers than the day before. It didn't help that at the Meer some guy was rowing a small boat around the whole area... but the reservoir (boat-less) was also much less "ducky" other than modest gull numbers, again of the 3 usual winter species: Ring-billed, Herring, Great Black-backed... Good rain-birding, Tom Fiore, Manhattan -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Bashakill rarities NO From: vanhaas AT citlink.net Date: Thu, 11 Mar 2010 21:54:15 +0000 (UTC) In spite of extensive searching by a number of individuals today, neither the Golden Eagle nor the Greater White-fronted Goose were seen. I did hear that a Greater White-front was found in Pine Island this morning and thats only 30 miles as the goose flies. John Haas -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: SW Suffolk Gr Egret From: "Grover, Bob" <rgrover AT gpinet.com> Date: Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:29:39 -0500 Today at noon, there was a Great Egret at the north end of Argyle Lake in Babylon Village. I'm sure that by now there are numbers of them around, but I haven't been out much since January. I guess it's time to get back in the game. Bob Grover ________________________________ This e-mail message and any attachments are intended only for the named recipient(s) above. It may contain confidential information due to its nature as trade secret, security sensitive, pursuant to contract or other regards. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination or copying of this e-mail and/or any attachment(s) is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sender by replying to this e-mail and delete the message and any attachment(s) from your system. Email transmission cannot be guaranteed to be secure or error-free, as information could be intercepted, corrupted, lost, destroyed, arrive late or incomplete, or contain viruses. The recipient should check this email and any attachments for the presence of viruses. GPI accepts no liability for any damage caused by errors, omissions or delays arising from the transmission process or any virus contained in this email. Please note that any views or opinions presented in this email are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of GPI and/or any of its affiliates. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: Shu Swamp (a.k.a. Mill Neck Preserve) Birds - Nassau Co. From: Susan Herbst <susieq60 AT optonline.net> Date: Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:17:10 -0500 The Orange collared Canada Goose note reminds me - Yesterday there were some collared geese at Bar Beach/North Hempstead Beach Park (Port Washington/Roslyn, NY). I saw them as I drove by, but didn't have time to stop. If any one is in the area... There are always geese there, but this is the first time i noticed collars. On Mar 10, 2010, at 2:15 PM, Ken Feustel wrote: > We decided to take advantage today of what might be the last day of > sunlight until next week by visiting Shu Swamp in northeastern > Nassau Co. There was a nice mix of early Spring migrants and winter > residents, including Wood Duck(4) American Woodcock (1), Winter > Wren (2), Hermit Thrush (1), Yellow-rumped Warbler (2) and Rusty > Blackbird (8). > > Bird Banding Data: Birders may remember observing the orange- > collared Canada Geese this past fall and winter at Sunken Meadow > State Park (Suffolk Co.) while searching for the elusive Pink- > footed Goose and Barnacle Goose. Sue and I forwarded the collar > numbers for three Canada Geese to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service > and recently received the results. The three birds were banded by > the Canadian Wildlife Service and Quebec University near Varennes, > east of Montreal, Quebec in 2007. > > Ken Feustel > > -- > > NYSbirds-L List Info: > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES > > ARCHIVES: > 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html > 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html > 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L > > Please submit your observations to eBird: > http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ > > -- Susan Herbst graphic design/illustration/photography 516-633-7730 susieq60 AT optonline.net www.susieart60.etsy.com www.facebook.com/MermaidSuesStudio -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: very recent Manhattan birds From: Thomas Fiore <tomfi2 AT earthlink.net> Date: Wed, 10 Mar 2010 23:58:51 -0500 Wednesday, 10 March, 2010 - Central Park & Manhattan, N.Y. City At Central Park in Manhattan, not too much in the way of arrivals, although migrants have passed by & thru over the last 10 days or so... and just today, at the park's far north end (specifically on the "ridge" a bit south of the Blockhouse, and on the path a short way uphill / north of the Loch) were two separate Eastern Phoebes: each singing a bit - the first one (seen) could be heard at the same time after the second was in view. These still fairly early- most can be expected in the last week of March well into April... yet there have almost always been a few moving up well ahead, and in some years early phoebes reported in NY state are fairly far inland. On the regional bird-lists, one eager eastern phoebe was noted at a Rhode Island site today. Of other apparently recent arrivals, a couple of Golden-crowned Kinglets, one reported Tuesday, and 3 in one area today (Wed.) along the Great Hill. Also today as in many recent days, a smallish stream of blackbirds, that is icterids, seemingly made up primarily of Common Grackle flocks, with far lesser numbers of Red-winged Blackbird and a very few Rusty Blackbirds, plus (just today) 2 Brown-headed Cowbirds - which more typically come along a bit later than the first grackles or red-winged blackbirds, arriving before spring is fully sprung. The other signs of spring have included a fairly good movement of waterbirds, but most of that (thru Central Park, that is) have been quick stopovers with not that many lingerers so far - and there also has been very stubborn skim-ice on waterbodies, even as of today the reservoir was more covered than not by a slushy layer in the earliest daylight hours - this after 100 hours of temperatures above freezing and 4 days of sunny, 55-60 high temp's. in N.Y.C. American Woodcock have seemingly been very scarce so far in Central, despite more & more being seen & heard in many locations north of NYC over the past week or more. At least 3 had been flushed (accidentally) off woods paths some days ago in the park; perhaps others have moved thru but not been well-reported or widely seen. Another species that has passed thru but barely seems to have stopped in so far at Central Park - 2 Killdeer were at the Sheep Meadow in early morning of Sat. March 6th, but could not be found there or anywhere else in Central later that day or since - the species is certainly much harder to come by as a passage migrant in this park that it once was, for a variety of reasons (likewise for a number of "field" birds such as horned larks etc.) There have also been some very modest flights of American Robins, with up to several hundred noted a few different mornings, but even with these a majority so far have not lingered. A few small flocks of Cedar Waxwings have been seen, these not expected in large numbers until much later spring anyhow. The sparrow numbers have changed, but almost imperceptibly so far, with also more singing by the few Fox, greater numbers of Song and especially White-throated Sparrows. One modest surprise today was a single Chipping Sparrow, seen singing near Cedar Hill, while a couple of (uncommon in Central) American Tree Sparrows linger on at the Ramble feeding area & nearby. A modest flock of Dark-eyed Juncos have continued in the north end & small numbers continued elsewhere. A Brown Thrasher remains in the areas including both sides of the W. Drive at Tanner's Spring, the Winterdale Arch and to the east & north of those sites as well; a couple of Hermit Thrushes have been seen, probably still representing ones that overwintered in the park or very near, but in the month of March that thrush species will increase greatly, mostly towards month's end... Among the waterbirds so far noted - Great Blue Heron, Black-crowned Night-Heron (1, Meer), Double-crested Cormorant (occasional at reservoir in past 10 days), Wood Duck (pair at the Pond today, but have been moving about), Bufflehead (up to 30, with at least 20 on the reservoir this morning), Gadwall (in varying numbers generally fewer than 10, park-wide), N. Shoveler (down to under 30 after a brief appearance of about 60 last week), Hooded Merganser (up to 10 or more, and at least 5 today), plus small numbers of Ruddy Ducks at the Meer (so far) - and the usual 3 gull species in varying numbers, fewer lingering just now at the reservoir with diminished ice - maximum about 900+, & some days less than 100 at a time. There have been a few Turkey Vulture flyovers mostly later in recent days and also a few Snow Goose flyovers in early mornings, along with a few notable flights of Canada Geese that appeared to be moving beyond very local (ie, manhattan waters) sites. Raptors seen lately at Central include the local Red-tailed Hawks, American Kestrels and occasional Peregrine sorties in or over the park, as well as a couple of Cooper's Hawks - with some other raptors (species) migrations gearing up quite fully this month on into April... not so much commented on lately, American Crows were in numbers a few times, with a high count of 48 at one time (38 of these playing around at Sheep Meadow) on Friday, March 5th... the nasal calls of Fish Crow also should be listened for, as some could be on the move right about now. I haven't been able to come up with lingering Rusty Blackbirds in Central so far; they're less common in recent years here than before, but have many weeks now to put in some appearances and perhaps stay for a bit. If the weather forecasts go as predicted (yeah, right!), there may be a bit of spring migration by the vernal equinox this year. On Wednesday, March 10th: at least 52 species in Central Park. <> A pair of Monk Parakeets is hanging in at a nest site in a Manhattan park. Also being seen in that neighborhood, although not as regularly (?) have been ravens, which do seem to be more regular lately in the Bronx. This species might soon become a real NYC resident as they continue their southward & coastal movements which have been ongoing for many years - Poe's ghost may yet find them at his once-upon-a-time big city haunts... <> Good end-of-winter birding, <> Tom Fiore, Manhattan -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: W. Meadow Raptors - Correction (No BW) From: Peter Scully <peterandrewscullyii AT yahoo.com> Date: Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:50:47 -0800 (PST) My report from West Meadow today included a Broad-winged Hawk, which I have learned would be improbably early. Luckily I was able to grab photos of all the birds today and the one previously ID'd as BW was in fact a RS...so, 4 RSHAs on the day. No BWs. Still plenty of sunshine. Cheers! -Peter -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: American Woodcocks From: "Robert Grosek" <bluewing AT stny.rr.com> Date: Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:35:12 -0500 I heard American Woodcock tonight in Broome County. - Robert Grosek Binghamton, New York -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Sullivan County Bashakill - patagonia road side rest effect From: vanhaas AT citlink.net Date: Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:10:10 +0000 (UTC) This afternoon I returned to the Bashakill at 3pm to see if the Golden Eagle was still around and what else might be among the abundant waterfowl. When I arrived, no one else was there. I scanned the marsh on both sides of the road. On my second scan of the north side, I looked to the extreme left and found a GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE standing on an iceberg! This is the first county record for Sullivan County! I snapped a few distant pics and then started the phone calls. Arlene Borko arrived first, followed by Tony and Sue Russo. Ken McDermott and Lance Verderame soon followed. We had great views of the bird. I was able to sneak through the woods, the last hundred feet on my belly, to get many decent shots of this bird. We remained with the bird until dark, at which time it began cackling and took flight. It flew well down the Bash then eventually turned around and landed in a large flock of Canada Geese. It was now to dark to discern the bird. Hopefully it will remain and be seen in the morning. As we watched this bird hundreds of ducks and geese began flying around the kill with many others flying high overhead. Thirteen species of waterfowl were present. The blackbird flocks were immense with thousands passing overhead. The numbers of birds was staggering. Great Birding! John Haas -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Queens County Bird Club Inc. - Upcoming Meeting Info- From: Arie Gilbert <ariegilbert AT optonline.net> Date: Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:06:21 -0500 The Queens County Bird Club Inc. will be meeting at the Alley Pond Environmental Center on Wednesday March 17 at 8pm Our Speaker will be: Dr. Angus Wilson. Chair of the New York State Avian Records Committee (NYSARC) and Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, New York University Medical Center and Member of the NYU Cancer Institute. Doing a presentation on "A NEW YORKER'S GUIDE TO WATCHING SEABIRDS AND CETACEANS: WHERE, WHEN AND HOW" Non members and guests are invited to join us for our meetings featuring noted guest speakers, and to join us on our renowned field trips. QCBC is a tax exempt, charitable organization {501c3}. Trips and Meetings are free! :-) Please consider joining or making a contribution when you attend or participate. Please check our website for more information - {N.B. The website is down, but will be up again shortly } Arie Gilbert President: *Queens County Bird Club Inc*. http://queenscountybirdclub.org/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Prospect Park, Brooklyn 3/10/10 Eastern Phoebe From: Alex Wilson <alex AT digitalmediatree.com> Date: Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:50:57 -0500 Saw my first-of-year EASTERN PHOEBE today in Prospect, a sure sign that spring migration is on. A fair number of birds were moving, with increased numbers of Blackbirds, Juncos and Song Sparrows on hand, as well as a flyover flock of 16 WOOD DUCKS. The blackbirds were mostly Red-winged, but at least 2 RUSTY BLACKBIRDS were seen within the park; Rustys have been present in Prospect for most of the winter but these singing males were probably migrants. Good birding, Alex Wilson Brooklyn -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Shu Swamp (a.k.a. Mill Neck Preserve) Birds - Nassau Co. From: Ken Feustel <feustel AT optonline.net> Date: Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:15:19 -0500 We decided to take advantage today of what might be the last day of sunlight until next week by visiting Shu Swamp in northeastern Nassau Co. There was a nice mix of early Spring migrants and winter residents, including Wood Duck(4) American Woodcock (1), Winter Wren (2), Hermit Thrush (1), Yellow-rumped Warbler (2) and Rusty Blackbird (8). Bird Banding Data: Birders may remember observing the orange-collared Canada Geese this past fall and winter at Sunken Meadow State Park (Suffolk Co.) while searching for the elusive Pink-footed Goose and Barnacle Goose. Sue and I forwarded the collar numbers for three Canada Geese to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and recently received the results. The three birds were banded by the Canadian Wildlife Service and Quebec University near Varennes, east of Montreal, Quebec in 2007. Ken Feustel -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Raven nest in Queens From: Corey Finger <here471 AT yahoo.com> Date: Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:00:08 -0800 (PST) I returned to the nest site today and witnessed one bird sitting on the nest until the second flew in making an interesting croaking noise. The bird on the nest took off before the second bird landed. The second bird landed next to the nest, hopped up on the edge of the nest, and dipped its head into the nest and moved it around a bit. If I had to guess I would say it was turning eggs but I couldn't see for sure what it was doing. It then settled down on the nest and didn't budge for the fifteen minutes I remained. Pics on the blog: http://10000birds.com/common-raven-nest-in-queens-ny.htm Good Birding, Corey Finger http://10000birds.com -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Golden Eagle remains at Bashakill From: "Valerie Freer" <vfreer AT hvc.rr.com> Date: Wed, 10 Mar 2010 13:55:07 -0500 The immature Golden Eagle reported yesterday by John Haas was seen at the DEC Bashakill WMA in Sullivan County again late this morning, when Ed Morse and others found it perched in a large grove of trees just south of Haven Road. It remained for about a half hour until it was disturbed by an immature Bald Eagle. This bird was photographed at the Bashakill on Saturday March 6 by Gary Van Houten, so today was at least the fifth day it spent at the Bashakill. We have records of a single Golden Eagle remaining for extended periods at the Rio/Mongaup area of southwestern Sullivan County (last in 2001), but not previously at the Bashakill. Should you plan to also check out the Bald Eagles regularly seen at the Bashakill from the Main Boat Launch off South Road, be aware that 4-wheel drive is required to enter (and more important, to exit) that parking lot. A map and more information about the Bashakill is available at http://www.sullivanaudubon.org/ResourcesWhere.htm#Bash Valerie Freer -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: West Meadow, LI: Red-Shouldered Hawks, et al. From: Peter Scully <peterandrewscullyii AT yahoo.com> Date: Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:25:16 -0800 (PST) A small kettle of raptors over the Weast Meadow Creek in Stony Brook held 3 RED-SHOULDERED, 1 BROAD-WINGED, and 2 COOPER'S HAWKS this morning at 10:30. Also along the beach was 1 SNOW BUNTING and 2 KILDEER. Enjoy the sunshine. -Peter -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: Raven nest in Queens From: Susan Herbst <susieq60 AT optonline.net> Date: Wed, 10 Mar 2010 09:37:35 -0500 This talk of Ravens is very interesting - After the last snowstorm I went out to shovel snow (here in Bayville) and heard a very unusual crow (diff from any other crow I've heard 'round here). I did think to myself - that it was really odd & sort of raven-y. I wasn't able to really persue it - 10" of snow...shoveling... stuff like that, but now you have me thinking... Now I'll have to pay more attention. On Mar 9, 2010, at 5:02 PM, Corey Finger wrote: > Johnny Lawrenson, a Kew Gardens naturalist, mentioned that Common > Ravens were regular in his neighborhood and had nested last year. > He provided the exact location and I went and checked it out today, > and, sure enough, within seconds of arrival, a Common Raven flew > over vocalizing and a second raven flew in to and sat on a nest. > The first bird disappeared but the second bird stayed on the nest > for the ten minutes that me, my partner Daisy, and our infant son > Desmond stuck around. > > So far as I know this is a first breeding record for Long Island/ > New York City/Kingbird Region 10 (the BBA shows none south of > Westchester). I don't think it would be wise to give the exact > location of a nest, especially of such a rare breeder for the > region. I was so skeptical of the initial report (sorry Johnny!) > that I did not bring my camera and digiscoping rig with me today > but I will certainly be heading back over tomorrow to get pictures > (and I will be monitoring the nest to see if it succeeds). > > Good Birding, > Corey Finger > http://10000birds.com > > > __________________________________________________ > Do You Yahoo!? > Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around > http://mail.yahoo.com Susan Herbst graphic design/illustration/photography 516-633-7730 susieq60 AT optonline.net www.susieart60.etsy.com www.facebook.com/MermaidSuesStudio -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Rockland Co., 3/9 From: Thomas Fiore <tomfi2 AT earthlink.net> Date: Tue, 9 Mar 2010 21:19:27 -0500 Tuesday, 9 March 2010 Over Hook Mountain, near Nyack, Rockland County this afternoon, fly-by Tree Swallow ... and some vulture movements including 5 Black & at least a dozen Turkey Vultures. The latter have also been moving past NYC, or at least Manhattan in recent days along with some other expected early-movers, mainly red-winged blackbirds, grackles, and waterfowl. A further report from Manhattan in a few days if / when there's more to mention. Tom Fiore, Manhattan -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Raven nest in Queens From: Corey Finger <here471 AT yahoo.com> Date: Tue, 9 Mar 2010 14:02:44 -0800 (PST) Johnny Lawrenson, a Kew Gardens naturalist, mentioned that Common Ravens were regular in his neighborhood and had nested last year. He provided the exact location and I went and checked it out today, and, sure enough, within seconds of arrival, a Common Raven flew over vocalizing and a second raven flew in to and sat on a nest. The first bird disappeared but the second bird stayed on the nest for the ten minutes that me, my partner Daisy, and our infant son Desmond stuck around. So far as I know this is a first breeding record for Long Island/New York City/Kingbird Region 10 (the BBA shows none south of Westchester). I don't think it would be wise to give the exact location of a nest, especially of such a rare breeder for the region. I was so skeptical of the initial report (sorry Johnny!) that I did not bring my camera and digiscoping rig with me today but I will certainly be heading back over tomorrow to get pictures (and I will be monitoring the nest to see if it succeeds). Good Birding, Corey Finger http://10000birds.com __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Smith's Point, L.I .Some" FOS" BIRDS, March 9th From: Carl Starace <castarace AT optonline.net> Date: Tue, 09 Mar 2010 16:54:00 -0500 Hello All, Ah,the warmer winds do blow. Along the median I had a FOS Killdeer. On the hike towards Moriches Inlet I found these birds on the ocean- 4 Northern Gannet, 5 Horned Grebe, 7 Redthroated Loon, 1 Common Loon, several Longtailed Duck, 2 Whitewinged Scoter and 65 Sanderling.On the bay side of "Burma Road", I had a FOS pair of Ringnecked Pheasant, 250+ Brant, 32 Bufflehead, 6 Black Duck, 25 Redbreasted Merganser, 2 Northern Harrier, 5 Yellowrumped Warbler,many Song Sparrow,4 Slatecolored Junco, 5 American Robin, 10 Boat Tailed Grackle, 15 Common Grackle, and 21 Redwinged Blackbirds.Over on the mainland side at Smith Point Marina I found a Cooper's Hawk, and 2 FOS American Oystercatchers.Good March Birding, Carl Starace -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Sullivan County - Bashakill - GOLDEN EAGLE From: vanhaas AT citlink.net Date: Tue, 9 Mar 2010 21:30:07 +0000 (UTC) Yesterday at 3 pm I discovered an immature GOLDEN EAGLE off Haven Road at the Bashakill. It swooped in from the pines near the Pine Boat Launch and joined several immature Bald Eagles on the ice. I was able to reach a number of birders and about a dozen came to see this cooperative bird. It put on a great show over the next hour and a half. At 4:30pm the bird soared high and seemed to disappear over the ridge to the north west. This morning I returned to the Bash early, hoping for more great birds. There is an abundance of waterfowl (12 species) and the morning passerine flight was impressive. As I watched half a dozen immature Bald Eagles on the ice just off Haven Road, I was very surprised to see the immature GOLDEN EAGLE join them. I watched the bird for half an hour, calling several people to let them know it was still present. Many people came through the course of the day. The Golden was seen off and on all day, with good looks by all who were present. Late this afternoon, it suddenly appeared again just before 3:30. It flew all around the Bash for about 10 minutes when we suddenly lost sight of it. Many photos were obtained both yesterday and today. It was seen by at least twenty people today. I would suggest that anyone interested in trying for this bird come early in the morning. It may repeat its performance on the ice again at that time. Good luck if you try. John Haas -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: New Paltz Hawks From: Sy Schiff <icterus AT optonline.net> Date: Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:41:48 -0500 New Paltz, NY 9 Mar Joe Giunta, Pat Jones and I (Sy Schiff) went to New Paltz this morning. We easily found the tree, but no hawk was to be seen. We continued east and located a RED-SHOULDER HAWK in a tree on the north side; returning west we found a very, very pale RED-TAIL HAWK perched on on a high voltage transmission line structure to the west of the target tree, also on the north side. Based on earlier posts today, I would think we found the bird and it ain't what we hoped it would be. Returning home, we stopped by the Yellow-headed Blackbird site.The bird was last reported there on Saturday 6 Mar.. Sy -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Caumsett State Park birds From: Andrew Block <troubleinshangrila1 AT yahoo.com> Date: Tue, 9 Mar 2010 09:38:47 -0800 (PST) 3/8/10 - Caumsett State Park, Lloyd Harbor, Suffolk Co., NY Time:  1pm to 4pm Observers:  Andrew Block, Mark Schwartz, Zachary Schwartz 4 Brants several Canvasback several Greater Scaup several Buffleheads many American Black Ducks several Mallards 3 American Wigeons several American Goldeneyes several Red-breasted Mergs 60+ Canada Geese 2 Great Cormorants 1 Red-tailed Hawk 5 Eastern Bluebirds several American Robins 4 White-breasted Nuthatches 5 Tufted Titmice 4 Black-capped Chickadees 2 Downy Woodepckers 1 Hairy Woodpecker 1 Northern Flicker 2 Red-bellied Woodpecker 20 Red-winged Blackbirds 3 American Goldfinches 7 Dark-eyed Juncos several White-throated Sparrows Andrew   Andrew v. F. Block Consulting Field Biologist & Eco-tour Leader 37 Tanglewylde Avenue Bronxville, Westchester Co., New York 10708-3131 Phone: (914) 337-1229; Cell: (914) 886-5124; Fax: (914) 771-8036 "When the last individual of a race of living things breathes no more, another heaven and another earth must pass before such a one can be again..." - William Beebe, first Curator of Birds, Bronx Zoo "Crikey! Have a look at that!" - Steve Irwin, The Crocodile Hunter "Just like the white winged dove sings a song, sounds like she's singing whoo, baby...whoo...said whoo" - Stephanie L. Nicks, Edge of 17, Bella Donna -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: gyr- NO new paltz From: "Arthur W. Green" <awgreen AT bedfordaudubon.org> Date: Tue, 9 Mar 2010 08:37:13 -0500 On Tue, Mar 9, 2010 at 7:14 AM, Chrissy G wrote: > I apologize a million times > Peter schoenberger called to tell me the gyr is a leucistic red tail!! Which, actually, I think is nearly as interesting as a Gyrfalcon, but maybe I'm alone in holding that sentiment? > excuse me as I wipe the egg off my face... Thank you kindly for your follow-up, right or wrong! \\ Arthur -- Arthur W. Green Chestnut Ridge Hawkwatch, Bedford, NY http://www.bedfordaudubon.org/hawkwatch.html http://www.hawkcount.org/siteinfo.php?rsite=534 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Gyrfalcon = Leucistic Red-tailed Hawk From: vincent N <vfn7 AT hotmail.com> Date: Tue, 9 Mar 2010 13:26:41 +0000 Arrived in New Paltz at dawn and began scanning the areas mentioned by Christine. We located a possible candidate perched on the nearby hillside. Shortly we were joined by several other birders as the bird took to the air and gave us a flyover---unfortunately it was a leucistic Red-tailed Hawk with a pronounced reddish tail! Oh well it is a nice day to go exploring. Vincent Nichnadowicz Robert Horton Princeton Jct., NJ _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail: Trusted email with Microsoft’s powerful SPAM protection. http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/201469226/direct/01/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: gyr- NO new paltz From: Chrissy G <chrissy.guarino AT gmail.com> Date: Tue, 9 Mar 2010 07:14:09 -0500 I apologize a million times Peter schoenberger called to tell me the gyr is a leucistic red tail!! excuse me as I wipe the egg off my face... I'll try not to be so hasty next time... Christine Guarino On Tuesday, March 9, 2010, wrote: > Thanks! Work really puts a cramp on our hobby! I have a conference call at 10- don't know if I can make it. > Thanks for the great sighting! > Best, > Larry > Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerryFrom: christine guarino > Date: Tue, 09 Mar 2010 06:11:04 -0500To: LARRY FEDERMANSubject: Re: [nysbirds-l] Gyrfalcon - near New Paltz, NY > Hi Larry > I can't even get there at all today - I have to work and I have a class right after work today....lots of others are planning to go for it so keep your eye on the internet! > Christine > On Mar 8, 2010, at 10:44 PM, LARRY FEDERMAN wrote: > Hi Christine,Will you be looking for the bird first thing in the morn? I'm thinking of taking a run down there.... If so, will you be able to post about sighting or not sighting it?  Or would you be able to phone me - home # 518-678-3248.  I could post the info for you if you're on the road to school. Thanks! Hope to see you soon,Larry Larry Federman > Education Coordinator > Audubon New York > Rheinstrom Hill, Buttercup Farm, RamsHorn-Livingston Audubon Centers and Sanctuaries >  ----- Original Message -----From: christine guarino To: midhudsonbirds  ; mearnsbirdclub AT yahoogroups.com ; nysbirds-lSent: Monday, March 08, 2010 7:27 PMSubject: [nysbirds-l] Gyrfalcon - near New Paltz, NY > This afternoon (3/8/10) around 5:00 I saw a white morph Gyrfalcon on > Route 299 just east of New Paltz.  It flew into a wetland area with > many dead trees at the intersection of South Elting Corners road and > Route 200 near Lowe's and across the street from a big Central Hudson > facility. > > The bird is very obvious and should be there in the morning.  It > appeared to be actively hunting and changing perches frequently.  Keep > scanning the wetland area and the large dead tree where it originally > perched on Route 299 may be a habitual perch.  The tree is right near > the Rodeway Inn and there is a Potter Bros billboard (if you're facing > west) and a Lotus billboard (if you're facing east) at the base of the > tree. > > > Map here: http://tinyurl.com/yaqx6vp > > Good luck!! > > Christine Guarino > New Paltz, NY > > -- > > NYSbirds-L List Info: > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES > > ARCHIVES: > 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html > 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html > 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L > > Please submit your observations to eBird: > http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ > > -- > > -- Chrissy -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: South Fork LI: Flyby Thick-billed Murre off Montauk Point From: Angus Wilson <oceanwanderers AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 8 Mar 2010 23:06:10 -0500 Yesterday, I seawatched from Montauk Point (Suffolk Co.) for a couple of hours (Sun 7 March, 7:11-9:15 am). Numbers were low but the diversity was good. Strong sunshine made the viewing to the south difficult. The highlight was a *THICK-BILLED MURRE* that came round the point from the south and headed out over Block Island Sound. This was at 7:22 am. The solid dark hood was immediately apparent but it was only until the bird was directly east of me that I could see its short bill, seemingly unmarked underwings/flanks and dumpy profile. The upperparts looked similar in color to the Razorbills but truthfully, the light was probably not good enough to distinguish black from dark brown. One thing I noticed was the slightly slower cadence of the wing beats compared to a Razorbill that followed essentially the same track a few minutes later. Altogether, I counted 46 * RAZORBILLS*, with a maximum of 20 together in a flock that plopped down on the water over the reef. There were 11 additional 'large alcids' that were too distant and poorly lit to identify safely. Other birds of note were a 1st-year *BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE*, growing numbers of *LONG-TAILED DUCK* (otherwise scarce from this spot) and several flights of *CANADA GEESE* (>600) and A*TLANTIC BRANT* (74 total in six flocks) headed NE towards RI and MA. Several flocks of Red-winged Blackbirds took flight from the point and headed out over the sound. One exception in this migration pattern was an American Crow that I watched for a while as it made a beeline from Block Island west toward the Point. Once it made land fall, the crow turned north and followed the coastline with what seemed like genuine purpose (a messenger crow perhaps?). At Montauk Inlet, 6 *GREAT CORMORANT* (5 ad., 1 juv.) were on the jetty towers, 5 *RAZORBILL* passed offshore and a 1st-basic *KUMLEIN'S GULL* was roosting with other gulls on the spit just inside the harbor. An immature *RED-SHOULDERED HAWK* was soaring low over the trees on the west side of Fort Pond and 2 * REDHEAD* were with Ring-necked Ducks on Tuthill's Pond. The adult *LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL* continues the rocks on the west side of Fort Pond Bay. Eleven *PURPLE SANDPIPERS* were on the rocks east of Ditch Plains. Common Eider were present at every stop but I could not find a King among them. Overall, numbers of Red-throated and Common Loons were down compared to the past few weeks but *HORNED GREBES* (total 155) made a good showing, typical of early March. A couple of weeks ago there were Bonaparte's Gulls all along the ocean front but these seem to have moved on. -- Angus Wilson New York City & The Springs, NY, USA http://birdingtotheend.blogspot.com/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Shawangunk Grasslands From: robsbate AT gmail.com Date: Mon, 8 Mar 2010 21:38:11 -0500 This late afternoon at Shawangunk Grasslands NWR I saw one Rough- legged Hawk; 6+ Northern Harriers including 3 gray ghosts flying and hunting together; and 5+ Short-eared Owls. I heard Barred Owls and caught sight of one flying close to the parking area off Hogerburgh Road. Also heard a Woodcock (I think). I got Christine's post about the Gyrfalcon and almost ran over to New Paltz from the Grasslands but I figured to be just too late as night was falling. Hopefully tomorrow. It was my first visit and a great one, evidently a welcome habitat for SEO. Rob Bate Brooklyn -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Fwd: Gyrfalcon - near New Paltz, NY From: christine guarino <chrissy.guarino AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 8 Mar 2010 20:31:24 -0500 Apoligies for multiple posts... See correction below - 299 was accidentally typed as 200. Apologies! Also, I observed the bird from a distance of about 15 yards at one point and here are the reasons it isn't a leucistic Red-tail: Wings were pointier and had bright white undersides with dark tips; no trace of a slightly golden belly band which I have see on the leucistic Red- tail in Rosendale; the plumage is reminiscent of a Snowy Owl in that it is white with dark feather tips; the tail looked a bit longer than a RTH; its behavior was different from a RTH; it had a trace of a dark, smudgy eyeline...that's all I can think of off the top of my head. My passenger's (who is not a birder) first words upon seeing it were, "It looks like an owl" meaning a Snowy Owl. Thanks! Christine Guarino Begin forwarded message: > From: christine guarino > Date: March 8, 2010 7:27:27 PM EST > To: midhudsonbirds , mearnsbirdclub AT yahoogroups.com > , nysbirds-l > Subject: Gyrfalcon - near New Paltz, NY > > This afternoon (3/8/10) around 5:00 I saw a white morph Gyrfalcon on > Route 299 just east of New Paltz. It flew into a wetland area with > many dead trees at the intersection of South Elting Corners road and > Route 299 near Lowe's and across the street from a big Central > Hudson facility. > > The bird is very obvious and should be there in the morning. It > appeared to be actively hunting and changing perches frequently. > Keep scanning the wetland area and the large dead tree where it > originally perched on Route 299 may be a habitual perch. The tree > is right near the Rodeway Inn and there is a Potter Bros billboard > (if you're facing west) and a Lotus billboard (if you're facing > east) at the base of the tree. > > > Map here: http://tinyurl.com/yaqx6vp > > Good luck!! > > Christine Guarino > New Paltz, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Gyrfalcon - near New Paltz, NY From: christine guarino <chrissy.guarino AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 8 Mar 2010 19:27:27 -0500 This afternoon (3/8/10) around 5:00 I saw a white morph Gyrfalcon on Route 299 just east of New Paltz. It flew into a wetland area with many dead trees at the intersection of South Elting Corners road and Route 200 near Lowe's and across the street from a big Central Hudson facility. The bird is very obvious and should be there in the morning. It appeared to be actively hunting and changing perches frequently. Keep scanning the wetland area and the large dead tree where it originally perched on Route 299 may be a habitual perch. The tree is right near the Rodeway Inn and there is a Potter Bros billboard (if you're facing west) and a Lotus billboard (if you're facing east) at the base of the tree. Map here: http://tinyurl.com/yaqx6vp Good luck!! Christine Guarino New Paltz, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Syracuse RBA From: Joseph Brin <brinjoseph AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 8 Mar 2010 15:44:51 -0800 (PST) RBA * New York * Syracuse * March 08, 2010 * NYSY 0803.10 Hotline: Syracuse Rare bird Alert Dates(s): March 01, 2009 - March 08, 2010 to report by e-mail: brinjoseph AT yahoo.com covering upstate NY counties: Cayuga, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and Montezuma Wetlands Complex (MWC) (just outside Cayuga County), Onondaga, Oswego, Lewis, Jefferson, Oneida, Herkimer, Madison & Cortland compiled:March 08 AT 6:00 p.m. (EST) compiler: Joseph Brin Onondaga Audubon Homepage: www.onondagaaudubon.org #195 -Monday March 08, 2010 Greetings! This is the Syracuse Area Rare Bird Alert for the week of March 01 , 2009 Highlights: ----------- NORTHERN SHOVELER CANVASBACK NORTHERN GOSHAWK PEREGRINE FALCON KILLDEER ICELAND GULL LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL GLAUCOUS GULL NORTHERN HAWK OWL (Extralimital) NORTHERN SHRIKE COMMON RAVEN CAROLINA WREN FOX SPARROW Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (MNWR) and Montezuma Wetlands Complex (MWC) ------------ No reports this week. Migrants seen this week ------------------- TURKEY VULTURE NORTHERN GOSHAWK RED-TAILED HAWK NORTHERN SHOVELER RUSTY BLACKBIRD COMMON GRACKLE KILLDEER Onondaga County ------------ At Baldwinsville on the Seneca River GLAUCOUS GULL, ICELAND GULL, and LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL were seen up to 3/7. None of these species were found today 3/1: A NORTHERN SHRIKE was seen on Rt.80 east of Fabius. 3/2: The Beaver Lake Nature Center was seen this day and on 3/5. 3/3: 2 NORTHERN SHOVELERS were seen alon the Erie Canal Trail On Shapp Road near the Peru Bridge. PEREGRINE FALCON activity was seen on the webcam. 3/5: A RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen along the Erie anal Trail near the Peru bridge. 3/7: 12 species of waterfowl were seen on Onondaga Lake from the Nine Mile Creek inlet. Highlights were CANVASBACK, REDHEAD, both SCAUP species and SWAN species. Oswego County ------------ 3/3: A CANVASBACK and an ICELAND GULL were seen on Oneida Lake in Brewerton. A COMMON RAVEN was seen at Selkirk Shores State Park. A NORTHERN SHRIKE Awas seen on Halsey Road in Mexico. Madison County ------------ 3/3: A PINE SISKIN continues to come to a feeder in Erieville. Herkimer County ------------ 3/8: A FOX SPARROW is still frequenting a feeder near Cedar Lake. Derby Hill ------------ This is the first week of official Hawk counting at Derby Hill. Only three species, TURKEY VULTURE, NORTHERN GOSHAWK, and RED-TAILED HAWK were deemed to be true migrants. The new Hawk counter is Seth Cutright. Stop up and say hi. Extralimital ------------- The IVORY GULL discovered at Rouse’s Point on Lake Champlain in Clinton County has not been seen since 3/2. The NORTHERN HAWK OWL being seen in Champlain, also Clinton County, was last reported on 3/6. --end transcript -- Joseph Brin Region 5 Baldwinsville, N.Y. 13027 U.S.A. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Gyrfalcon From: Peter Schoenberger <pds AT netstep.net> Date: Mon, 8 Mar 2010 17:23:09 -0500 Chrissy Guarino just called me to say she is seeing a white Gyrfalcon in New Paltz along Rt 299 near Lowes. The bird seems to be staying in the area. She will post later to give specific details. Peter Schoenberger, Woodstock -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Common Ravens in Queens From: "Steve Walter" <swalter15 AT verizon.net> Date: Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:11:48 -0500 I went out for a lunch hour walk at Oakland Lake today (Bayside area of Queens). As I got out of the car, I heard a distinctive call. I looked up and saw a pair of Common Ravens -- my first for Queens -- and photographed one. The two split up and the one I watched seemed to drift off to the north. I then spoke to Eric Miller and was informed of his recent sightings within a couple of miles of this site. To me, it's an indication that ravens are now calling this area home. I would dismiss suggestions of the Roslyn / northern Nassau birds wandering over here repeatedly. The challenge for northern Queens birders will be to pin down a home base -- and possibly a nest site in the spring. Steve Walter Bayside, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: SGNWR 3/7/10 From: christine guarino <chrissy.guarino AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 7 Mar 2010 21:05:40 -0500 This afternoon at Shawangunk Grasslands a small group of birders saw about 5 Short-eared Owls, about the same number or a few more Northern Harriers and a few Red-tailed Hawks. A distant Barred Owl was heard and though we did not stay late enough for Am. Woodcocks I have heard reports of a few at the refuge already. Christine Guarino New Paltz -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Bayville Barrow's Goldeneye, Shu Swamp Rusty Blackbirds, & 1000+ Dunlin at Jones Beach From: John Gluth <jgluth AT optonline.net> Date: Sun, 07 Mar 2010 20:40:17 -0500 Having struck out on the Jamaica Bay Barrow's Goldeneye 2 weekends ago, I decided to venture a little less far from home, and instead took a chance on the annual visitor up in Bayville, despite a total lack of reports over the last several weeks regarding its whereabouts. The trip up to the north shore paid off with nice scope views of the drake Barrow's within 100 yards of shore off Centre Island. It took some patience and effort to spot though. It was not among the Common Goldeneyes visible from the sandy beach west of the entrance to Centre Island. But luckily the tide was dropping, allowing me to walk east along the rocky beach at the base of the seawall. This vantage point offered views farther east on the Sound which is where the Barrow's was swimming, accompanied by a single female COGO. The pair, initially farther offshore than the rafts of COGOs, eventually joined up with them. I spent at least 45 minutes watching the BAGO dive for food, preen for an extended period, and just swim about. There was little else of note on the Sound other than scattered small flocks of Greater Scaup. A short visit to nearby Shu Swamp Preserve yielded 2 Rusty Blackbirds perched high in a Tulip poplar, a Winter Wren, and a Sharp-shinned Hawk. Jones Beach west end was generally quiet, with no Lapland Longspurs or extraordinary gulls found. But I was treated to the spectacle of a flock containing over 1000 Dunlin (and several Sanderling) as it alternatively carpeted the beach and jetty near Jones Inlet, or wheeled in unison through the sky whenever the birds were spooked by people walking the beach. I captured some video I'll be uploading later here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jgluth_brb/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: NYC: East River Park, Sun. 7-Mar-2010 From: Ben Cacace <bcacace AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 7 Mar 2010 19:28:39 -0500 Date: Sunday, 7 March 2010 (10:00a-12:30p) Location: East River Park & Stuyvesant Cove Reported by: Ben Cacace Tried to bird along the East River from the Lower East Side in East River Park to Stuyvesant Cove around 23rd St. Very little activity along the river. The most active birding was round the cove where there were RUDDY DUCKS, RED-BREASTED MERGANSERS & BRANT. The southern half of East River Park is under construction. Access to the water can be had well north of the Williamsburg Bridge around the latitude of 6th St. For those interested in seeing images of the One Fifth Ave. nesting RED-TAILED HAWKS mentioned in a recent post from Alex Wilson here's a link to Lincoln's shots from Saturday: http://palemale.com/ma620wasq.html All photos taken by LINCOLN KARIM. Weather for 7-Mar for Central Park (9:51a-12:51p) < http://tinyurl.com/yc4g4ge >: - Conditions: Clear - Temperature: 45.0 to 52.0 F (+7.2 to +11.1 C) - Wind direction: West - WNW - Wind speed: 9 - 10 mph (gusts to 20 mph) ** Total species - 17 ** 'Fairly Common' usually seen; 3-12 per day in habitat [3 spp]: - Red-breasted Merganser - Pair (m/f) in Stuyvesant Cove - Downy Woodpecker - 1 heard near Amphitheatre in East River Park - Northern Mockingbird - Pair in East River Park with one singing 'Common' seen easily; more than 12 per day in habitat [14 spp]: - Brant - 15+ along the East River in 2 groups of 4 & 11 - Canada Goose - 2+ - Mallard - 2+ - Ruddy Duck - 16+ incl. 6 in Stuyvesant Cove & 10 across river - Double-crested Cormorant - 2+ - Ring-billed Gull - 36+ - Herring Gull - 6+ - Great Black-backed Gull - 12+ - Rock Pigeon - 50+ - Mourning Dove - 2+ - American Crow - 1 heading S from Stuyvesant Cove - American Robin - 2 in East River Park - European Starling - 12+ - House Sparrow - 12+ Abundance categories from 'The New York City Audubon Society Guide to Finding Birds in the Metropolitan Area' published 2001. Abundance season is 'Spring', March - May, and applies to all of New York City. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: "Common" Green-winged Teal (Suffolk Co.) From: Douglas Futuyma <futuyma AT life.bio.sunysb.edu> Date: Sun, 7 Mar 2010 18:27:49 -0500 This afternoon I found a male "Common" Green-winged Teal (the Eurasian race, Anas crecca crecca) in the section of Nissequogue River State Park in King's Park, shortly southeast of Sunken Meadow State Park. The park entrance is on Sunken Meadow Road at the intersection of King's Park Blvd. The pond is on the left, along the main drive as it approaches the administration building. Also there were 3 "American Green-winged Teal (A. crecca carolinensis),, as well as 2 Wood Duck and ca. 10 FOS Painted Turtles. A Turkey Vulture flew over, nearby. Earlier today, a male Boat-tailed Grackle along the main street in Point Lookout (Nassau Co.) may have been a spring arrival. Douglas Futuyma Stony Brook, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Eastern Adirondacks-white adult GYRFALCON From: J Nadler <jnphotonet AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 7 Mar 2010 07:43:37 -0800 (PST) A white adult GYRFALCON vocalized and soared reasonably close over me and then flew off directly north just before I reached the summit of Cascade Mountain.  Being cautious on the ID but after study and review of web videos and images, I am positive this was that falcon species.  There is no other raptor of the same size, body shape, and vocals with white wings and gray-black wing tips that meets the description of what I saw at reasonably close range. (The adult male northern harrier of course has a similar wing pattern but I have photographed that species for 5 years and know the difference-especially the head color and shape.)  On the summit of Porter Mountain in the eastern Adirondacks, I could easily see the ribbon of Lake Champlain in the distance so the location is apparently fine for migrating gyrfalcons.  No photo was possible with my packed-away small point and shoot.  I hope that additional sightings may occur to the north in Lake Placid or the Champlain Valley, if the bird lands. Jeff Nadler Burnt Hills, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: East River, Sat. 6-Mar-2010 incl. Gt Cormorant & RT From: Ben Cacace <bcacace AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 7 Mar 2010 06:41:24 -0500 Date: Saturday, 6 March 2010 (2:20p-4:50p) Location: East River from 70th - 99th St. & Carl Schurz Park Reported by: Ben Cacace Checklist by abundance by season date: 2001. Details below incl. taxonomic order list. The highlight on the East River was a decent view of a GREAT CORMORANT resting on a man-made rock formation with a small structure on it. It eventually flew onto the river near the Triborough Bridge. In Carl Schurz Park from 4:30p-4:45p I watched a juvenile RED-TAILED HAWK perched in a tree above the playground. The few who asked were delighted to know such a big bird was in their park. Otherwise the hawk remained unnoticed. It eventually flew 1 block north but remained in the park. This was a little over 1 hour before sunset. Weather for 6-Mar for Central Park (1:51p-4:51p) < http://tinyurl.com/ybgs65x >: - Conditions: Clear - Temperature: 52.0 to 54.0 F (+11.1 to +12.2 C) - Wind direction: Variable - WNW - Wind speed: 3 - 9 mph (no gusts reported) ** Total species - 19 ** 'Scarce' seen in habitat, but not daily [1 spp]: - Great Cormorant - 1 perched on rocks S of Ward's Island 'Fairly Common' usually seen; 3-12 per day in habitat [4 spp]: - Gadwall - 5 with group of birds S of Ward's Island - Red-breasted Merganser - 4 incl. 2m/2f S of Ward's Island - Red-tailed Hawk - 1 juvenile perched above playground in Carl Schurz Park - Northern Mockingbird - 1 singing constantly in Carl Schurz Park 'Common' seen easily; more than 12 per day in habitat [14 spp]: - Brant - 150+ along the East River from 70th to 100th St. - Canada Goose - 4 on the East River around Ward's Island - Mallard - 4+ on the East River - Bufflehead - 3 males around Ward's Island - Ruddy Duck - 3 incl. 2m/1f on the Manhattan side of the East River in the 90s - Double-crested Cormorant - 4+ along the East River around Ward's Island - Ring-billed Gull - 24+ - Herring Gull - 24+ - Great Black-backed Gull - 24+ - Rock Pigeon - 24+ - Mourning Dove - 2+ - American Crow - 5 over Carl Schurz Park heading W - European Starling - 12+ - House Sparrow - 24+ Abundance categories from 'The New York City Audubon Society Guide to Finding Birds in the Metropolitan Area' published 2001. Abundance season is 'Spring', March - May, and applies to all of New York City. Taxonomic order: - Brant - 150+ along the East River from 70th to 100th St. - Canada Goose - 4 on the East River around Ward's Island - Gadwall - 5 with group of birds S of Ward's Island - Mallard - 4+ on the East River - Bufflehead - 3 males around Ward's Island - Red-breasted Merganser - 4 incl. 2m/2f S of Ward's Island - Ruddy Duck - 3 incl. 2m/1f on the Manhattan side of the East River in the 90s - Double-crested Cormorant - 4+ along the East River around Ward's Island - Great Cormorant - 1 perched on rocks S of Ward's Island - Red-tailed Hawk - 1 juvenile perched above playground in Carl Schurz Park - Ring-billed Gull - 24+ - Herring Gull - 24+ - Great Black-backed Gull - 24+ - Rock Pigeon - 24+ - Mourning Dove - 2+ - American Crow - 5 over Carl Schurz Park heading W - Northern Mockingbird - 1 singing constantly in Carl Schurz Park - European Starling - 12+ - House Sparrow - 24+ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: Continuing MA Barnacle Goose From: Jim Osterlund <jamesost AT optonline.net> Date: Sat, 06 Mar 2010 23:37:51 -0500 The pond specified; 42.160536,-73.411422 - Google Maps -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l AT cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --