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3 Jul Robert Moses Seabirds, 7/3 [jacob drucker ] 3 Jul Cicero Cerulean? [alex krofta ] 3 Jul Cupsogue Beach (Suffolk County) seabirds [Richard Kaskan ] 3 Jul Yellow-bellied Flycatcher - No ["Lance Verderame" ] 3 Jul Kite-Yes [Curt McDermott ] 02 Jul 7/2 Queens: Wilson's Storm-Petrels [] 1 Jul Fwd: "...shorebirds & Arctic breeding conditions" {from Ontario Birds list-serve] [Tom Fiore ] 1 Jul White-rumped Sandpipers, Roseate terns, Eastern Bluebirds- Cupsogue CP, Pike's Beach, Sunken Meadow, Suffolk County [Vinny Pellegrino ] 1 Jul Robt. Moses State Park - Suffolk County - Wilson's SP [David Klauber ] 01 Jul Nominations sought for NYSOA awards [Andrew Mason ] 1 Jul Upland Sandpipers & more ["ROBERT ADAMO" ] 30 Jun RE: [nysbirds-l] Mississippi Kite - YES ["Richard Guthrie" ] 30 Jun RE: Mississippi Kite - YES ["Richard Guthrie" ] 30 Jun Mississippi Kite - no ["Robert Grosek" ] 30 Jun Orange and Ulster Co. Grasslands, 6/30 (Sedge Wren YES, 2 birds) [jacob drucker ] 30 Jun Of interest to Kite searchers: Weather warning for the Ames, NY area today (June 30) ["Richard Guthrie" ] 30 Jun Of interest to Kite searchers: Weather warning for the Ames, NY area today (June 30) ["Richard Guthrie" ] 29 Jun RE: Miss Kite yet more info [Will Raup ] 29 Jun RE: [nysbirds-l] Miss Kite yet more info [Will Raup ] 29 Jun Re: Heard/Seen Ratio [Hugh McGuinness ] 29 Jun Heard/Seen Ratio [Paul Dubuc ] 29 Jun Miss Kite yet more info ["Richard Guthrie" ] 29 Jun Miss Kite yet more info ["Richard Guthrie" ] 29 Jun City Island birds [Andrew Block ] 29 Jun RE: Syracuse RBA Miss Kite info ["Richard Guthrie" ] 29 Jun Syracuse RBA [Joseph Brin ] 29 Jun Upland Sandpiper, Whip-poor-wills, West Hampton, Long Island [Vinny Pellegrino ] 29 Jun RE:[osbirds] mississippi kite ["grosbeak AT clarityconnect.com" ] 28 Jun Benedict Farm Park Sedge Wren‹YES; park slated for development‹unfortunately also yes [John Gluth ] 28 Jun RE: [nysbirds-l] MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions [Will Raup ] 28 Jun RE: MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions [Will Raup ] 28 Jun Re: MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions [Jim Osterlund ] 28 Jun MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions ["Richard Guthrie" ] 28 Jun MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions ["Richard Guthrie" ] 28 Jun Re: 6/28/09 - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County [Jim Osterlund ] 28 Jun 6/28/09 - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County [Christine Guarino ] 28 Jun Whimbrel at Shinnecock ["Seth Ausubel" ] 28 Jun Pike's Beach/Cupsogue Co. Park Today (Suffolk Co.) [Ken Feustel ] 28 Jun Sullivan County Yellow-bellied Flycatcher ["Lance Verderame" ] 28 Jun Fw: your email message ["Lance Verderame" ] 27 Jun Fwd: [osbirds] Mississippi Kite [Andrew Mason ] 27 Jun Salt marsh birds [Sy Schiff ] 26 Jun NYC Area RBA: 26 June 2009 [Ben Cacace ] 26 Jun RFI: Franklin Co., esp. Seven Carrys [Paul Dubuc ] 25 Jun Continuing breeding bird hunt, Eastern Long Island [Sy Schiff ] 24 Jun QCBC Field Trip to Ward Pound Ridge, Sunday June 28th [Donna Schulman ] 24 Jun Fwd: [Manitoba Birds] Churchill, 22 June; (+Fwd. from MaineBirds) [Tom Fiore ] 24 Jun RFI: SEPTEMBER BIRDING ADVICE - LONG ISLAND [Gruff Dodd ] 24 Jun Fw: email address ["ROBERT ADAMO" ] 23 Jun Re: Hunt for the Sedge Wren. Successful [Paul Dubuc ] 23 Jun Hunt for the Sedge Wren. Successful [Sy Schiff ] 23 Jun West End/Jones Beach and Oceanside Marine Nature Study Area Today (Nassau Co.) [Ken Feustel ] 23 Jun Re: S.-t. Flycatcher [in CONN.] 6/22-23 [Jim Osterlund ] 23 Jun S.-t. Flycatcher [in CONN.] 6/22-23 [Tom Fiore ] 22 Jun Cattle Egret [Shane Blodgett ] 22 Jun Canadian/Arctic weather, & possible effects on birds [Tom Fiore ] 22 Jun Syracuse RBA [Joseph Brin ] 22 Jun Re:Arctic: winter hasn't gone away [] 22 Jun Arctic: winter hasn't gone away [Hugh McGuinness ] 22 Jun RE:Unexpected in Alley Pond, Queens [Rob Jett ] 21 Jun Two Cooper's Hawk nestlings at SSNC (update); Bobwhites at Heckscher State Park [John Gluth ] 21 Jun lingering songbirds in NYC [Tom Fiore ] 22 Jun LI Birds: Arctic Tern, Western Sandpiper++ ["Shaibal Mitra" ] 21 Jun Unexpected in Alley Pond, Queens ["Steve Walter" ] 21 Jun South Fork LI: Storm-petrels, jaegers and lingering loons [Angus Wilson ] 20 Jun South Fork LI: Manx Shearwaters, Wilson's SPs, Amagansett [Angus Wilson ] 20 Jun [out of state] Roseate Spoonbill movement, etc. [Tom Fiore ] 19 Jun NYC Area RBA: 19 June 2009 [Ben Cacace ] 20 Jun Arctic Tern at Democrat Pt, Suffolk County, LI ["Shaibal Mitra" ] 19 Jun Pine Siskin in Dutchess County [susan joseph ] 19 Jun Fw: Red-headed Woodpeckers nesting in Manorville, Suffolk Co. ["ROBERT ADAMO" ] 19 Jun 6/19 Riis Park- Storm-Petrels & Sooty Shearwater [] 19 Jun Re: Friday Morning Sea Watch at Robert Moses State Park (Suffolk Co.) ["Shaibal Mitra" ] 19 Jun Friday Morning Sea Watch at Robert Moses State Park (Suffolk Co.) [Ken Feustel ] 19 Jun Major Seabird Flight on Long Island ["Shaibal Mitra" ] 18 Jun Correction to Recent RMSP Sea Watch Post [Ken Feustel ] Subject: Robert Moses Seabirds, 7/3 From: jacob drucker <jacobdrucker AT msn.com> Date: Fri, 3 Jul 2009 23:21:58 +0000 After sleeping in, a sea-watch from the beaches by parking field 2 from 1:30-5:20 was successful, yielding: CORY'S SHEARWATER- approximately 18 total. Just past 3:00 a loose group passed relatively close to shore, with around 10 birds. A smaller group passed further out, plust a few other individuals, making for about 19 in total for the day. Perhaps those noted were part of groups that were past my visibiltiy. GREATER SHEARWATER-one in first group of Corys' to pass. GREATER/SOOTY SHEARWATER-shearwater noted smaller than Cory's, with faster wingbeats than both cory's and the greater shearwater observed earlier. Some white noted under wings, but no confirming view. If anybody has any more information to offer on distant shearwater ID I would be very grateful. WILSON'S STORM PETREL-found almost immediately upon arrival in a small group, and others seen later, totalling at least 8 birds for the day. NORTHERN GANNET-many young birds passing offshore. DOUBLE CRESTED CORMARANT-1 female. COMMON, FORSTERS, LEAST and ROSEATE TERNS--many Common and Forsters, 1 Least close to shore, and several Roseates offshore. Almost all shearwaters moving east, and almost all other seabirds moving west. Also moving west were three unidentified medium/large brownish shorebirds. Good Birding, Jacob Drucker -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Cicero Cerulean? From: alex krofta <alex.krofta AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 3 Jul 2009 14:06:54 -0700 I am 95% sure I saw my first cerulean warbler this morning at Cicero Swamp WMA. At first glance it resembled a black-throated gray -I lived in San Francisco this winter- but I quickly realized that the gray was actually blue. It was foraging fairly low and I clearly saw the blue top color, thin neck-band, and bright wing bars. I think I may have seen this same bird quite near the same spot a few days ago... it was making a call I didn't recognize and it seemed dark in color with that same neck-band. It was much too shady for a good look, though. Other cool birds from the Swamp: American redstarts, yellow warblers, northern waterthrush, ruffed grouse, veery (suspected), wood thrush (also suspected). Alex Krofta Syracuse NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Cupsogue Beach (Suffolk County) seabirds From: Richard Kaskan <rkaskan AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 3 Jul 2009 12:56:53 -0400 This morning from about 7:10 to 7:40 I watched several Cory's Shearwaters from the boardwalk at Cupsogue Beach County Park in Suffolk County. There were a minimum of 8 often fairly close in, but I'm certain there were more out there that I barely glimpsed through the fog. At least 4 Wilson's Storm-Petrels were in the area as well as a handful of Northern Gannets. Earlier (5:45am or so) a single singing Blue Grosbeak joined the Grasshopper Sparrow chorus at Gabreski Airport. Richard Kaskan Shoreham, NY kaskan AT ieee.org -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Yellow-bellied Flycatcher - No From: "Lance Verderame" <flybynight9 AT hvc.rr.com> Date: Fri, 3 Jul 2009 12:41:49 -0400 I spent almost 3 hours (5:50 - 8:40) this morning at the bog on Cooley Road in Parksville watching and listening unsucessfully for the Yellow-bellied Flycatcher that was seen and heard at this location last week. Many birds were active however. A partial list of these birds are as follows: Ruffed Grouse Ruby-throated Hummingbird Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Blue-headed Vireo Common Raven Red-breasted Nuthatch Golden-crowned Kinglet Hermit Thrush Cedar Waxwing Chestnut-sided Warbler Magnolia Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Blackburian Warbler Ovenbird Common Yellowthroat Canada Warbler White-throated Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco Purple Finch -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Kite-Yes From: Curt McDermott <tele-tek AT hotmail.com> Date: Fri, 3 Jul 2009 10:15:50 -0400 10:05 am. Just received a call from Tom Burke and Gail Benson, who along with Steve Schuyler and others (missed the names-sorry), are being treated to extended views of the Kite from Donato Rd. The bird has been circling for minutes, between Donato and Mapletown Rd. Hope this helps someone. Curt McDermott _________________________________________________________________ Lauren found her dream laptop. Find the PC that’s right for you. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/choosepc/?ocid=ftp_val_wl_290 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: 7/2 Queens: Wilson's Storm-Petrels From: fresha2411 AT aol.com Date: Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:40:01 -0400 Today between 11:15 and 11:25 AM I observed 4 Wilson's Storm-Petrels (all flying east) from the boardwalk at Jacob Riis Park in Queens. Good Birding -Doug Gochfeld. Brooklyn, NY. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Fwd: "...shorebirds & Arctic breeding conditions" {from Ontario Birds list-serve] From: Tom Fiore <tomfi2 AT earthlink.net> Date: Wed, 1 Jul 2009 21:09:03 -0400 From J. Irons & R. Pittaway, posted to Ontario Birds (Canada) on June 26, 2009 - http://mailman.hwcn.org/pipermail/ontbirds/Week-of- Mon-20090622/021857.html http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/ONTB.html#1246018263 (short-term archives) Tom Fiore, Manhattan - - - - [forwarded message begins below] [Ontbirds] First Migrant Shorebirds & Arctic Breeding Conditions Jean Irons {and Ron Pittaway) Fri Jun 26 08:09:21 EDT 2009 Yesterday we saw an adult Lesser Yellowlegs at Reesor Pond in Markham near Toronto and on Wednesday there was an adult Least Sandpiper in Hamilton. These are the first "fall migrant" shorebirds and they are right on schedule. Directions: Reesor Pond is on the west side of Reesor Road just south of Highway 7. Arctic Breeding Conditions: Several people asked us to comment about recent reports of a "Disastrous breeding season in the Arctic". The Arctic is huge; it is 3500 km from southern James Bay (subarctic) to northern Ellesmere Island. Most shorebirds have large breeding ranges and even in late years many birds breed successfully and rarely does the entire Arctic experience the same climatic conditions. We checked with northern researchers and summarized their comments below. Shorebird nesting in 2009 is poor in some regions but normal to good elsewhere. Ontario: Ken Abraham reports that conditions in the Hudson Bay Lowlands were about 10 days late from Attawapiskat south on James Bay, including Akimiski Island, with Canada Geese and Snow Geese hatching in mid June, more like the 1990s average than the 2000s average and within the overall norms. Other species on Akimiski Island were correspondingly late. His guess is that for those species that require shorter time there will be some reduction but not huge. Perhaps the predation effect will be somewhat greater if alternate species are less available. Because coastal snow, ice and water inundation conditions were similar from Cape Henrietta Maria to the Manitoba border, Ken expects that for Canada Geese nesting within 40 - 60 km from the coast, a much reduced effort and productivity will be the norm. Snow Geese at Cape Henrietta Maria were greatly down and the suggestion of a 90% reduction seems to fit what they saw on their survey. However, beyond 40 - 60 km inland, he thinks conditions will be different. Mark Peck said that species nesting away from the Hudson Bay Coast in boreal bogs and fens such as yellowlegs should not be severely impacted because much of the freeze took place near the coast. Manitoba: The situation is worse in northern Manitoba at Churchill where temperatures were well below normal until recently and the snow cover melted late. However, Erica Nol reports that birds have started to nest, just very late, and it won't be a complete bust for shorebirds if there are enough bare spots. Whimbrels and Hudsonian Godwits are nesting, but overall nesting success should be below average for most shorebirds in northern Manitoba. Nunavut: Snow melt was up to three weeks late in mainland Nunavut north of Manitoba. Recent temperatures have been close to normal. Much of Baffin Island is now snow free and conditions there and on Bylot Island are about normal. High Arctic breeders should have a good breeding year. Northwest Territories: Vicky Johnston suspects it will be a poor breeding year in parts of the Western Arctic. Spring was roughly three weeks late in Yellowknife on Great Slave Lake based on leaf- out. The Mackenzie Valley and Delta warmed early but then cooled off again. The Delta flooded slowly and the water receded slowly, so some prime shorebird breeding areas were subject to heavy predation. Yukon: Cameron Eckert reports a late spring, but once the heat came, everything shifted into high gear. Alaska: Declan Troy reports from the North Slope that the snow on the tundra is long gone. It was much warmer earlier in the month and his guess is that the breeding season has been early there. We will be recording the arrivals and numbers of adult and juvenile shorebirds in southern Ontario and may post updates. Acknowledgements: We thank Ken Abraham, Bruce Di Labio, Cameron Eckert, Michel Gosselin, Vicky Johnston, Erica Nol, Mark Peck, Ken Ross, Don Sutherland, and Declan Troy. Ron Pittaway and Jean Iron Toronto ON[TARIO CANADA] ... ... ... [- end of forwarded message -] ________________________ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: White-rumped Sandpipers, Roseate terns, Eastern Bluebirds- Cupsogue CP, Pike's Beach, Sunken Meadow, Suffolk County From: Vinny Pellegrino <pellegrinov AT ymail.com> Date: Wed, 1 Jul 2009 14:57:37 -0700 (PDT) I journeyed out East this morning from 8:35am to 11:00am to Cupsogue County Park and Pike's Beach in West Hampton.  Out on the extensive mud flats were Little Blue Heron, Black-bellied Plovers, Piping Plovers, American Oystercatchers, Willet, Ruddy turnstones, Semipalmated sandpipers, Short-billed Dowitchers, and Boat-tailed Grackles.  Also present were numerous Common and Least terns, a few Roseate terns, and several Black Skimmers.  At nearby Pike's Beach, the only two new birds added included two White-rumped sandpipers and someSanderlings. At Sunken Meadow State Park yesterday afternoon, a pair of Eastern Bluebirds were occupying one of the many nest boxes provided by the state.  Orchard Oriole, Cedar waxwing- copious, feeding in the mulberry trees, and Brown thrasher were evident in the Eastern section of the park.   Vinny Pellegrino www.flickr.com/pellegrinov East Northport, NY   "It just doesn't get any better than this" -Jeff Corwin -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Robt. Moses State Park - Suffolk County - Wilson's SP From: David Klauber <davehawkowl AT msn.com> Date: Wed, 1 Jul 2009 11:42:57 -0400 Seawatch from 8:30 to 9:45 at Robt. Moses Field 2, sw corner No shearwaters, but good numbers of Wilson's Storm-Petrels. At first a small flock of about 10-12 birds were circling well offshore. Over the next hour more birds seemed to be circling or feeding, approaching from the west. A conservative estimate is well over 50 - it's hard to count distant black specks that keep circling. Otherwise just some terns and gulls and only a few Gannets - the first time that Wilson's greatly outnumbered gannets from one of my seawatches. A tailless Brown Thrasher in the northwest corner cut a very odd profile in flight _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live™ SkyDrive™: Get 25 GB of free online storage. http://windowslive.com/online/skydrive?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_SD_25GB_062009 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Nominations sought for NYSOA awards From: Andrew Mason <AndyMason AT earthling.net> Date: Wed, 01 Jul 2009 08:41:41 -0400 Among the activities of the NY State Ornithological Association are a number of awards given in recognition of service, accomplishment and assistance in furthering the goals of NYSOA and ornithology in NY State. Nominations and suggestions of recipients of these awards are sought from organizations and individuals. Deadline for all nominations to be given at the 2009 Annual Meeting is August 1, 2009. Information on awards is also available on the NYSOA web site, www.nybirds.org. * Member Organization Grants--NYSOA is committed to facilitating the work of its member organizations and offers modest grants (usually less than $100) to help defray the costs associated with projects sponsored by a club or clubs. In the past, grants have been awarded for purchases of equipment (e.g. mistnets) and the printing of local or regional bird checklists. More recently grants have gone toward locating bluebird boxes in Westchester County. Applications can be made at any time, and should include a brief description of the project, items to be produced, and a statement of how much funding is needed and how the funds will be used relative to the overall project budget. * John J. Elliott Award­-This award recognizes the best The Kingbird article each year, which is selected by the editorial staff. The 2008 award went to Alex Wilson for “Western Reef-Heron (Egretta gularis gularis) at Calvert Vaux Park, Brooklyn”; The Kingbird, Vol. 57, No. 4, December 2007. * Certificates of Appreciation--For several years, nominations have been accepted for recipients of certificates of appreciation. These certificates are given for service that benefited New York State birds and/or ornithology. They are also awarded to "hosts" of rare birds that visited New York State. These hosts are recognized for their hospitality to birders who came to view the rare bird. Among recent certificates of appreciation have been: --Deep Hollow Ranch for hosting a Pink-footed Goose and a Barnacle Goose in Montauk, NY. --John Haas for his efforts in locating and publicizing gulls, winter finches and other avian rarities in Sullivan Co., NY, and for his cooperation, hospitality, and able assistance to visiting birders. --Larry Wilson for hosting Rufous Hummingbirds in Houghton, NY. Nominations for grants or awards should be submitted in letter form stating relevant background and identity to: Andy Mason, 1039 Peck St., Jefferson, NY 12093, (607) 652-2162, AndyMason AT earthling.net. Please consider nominating suitable individuals for these awards and help us recognize and show our appreciation for those who support NY’s birds. --Andy Mason, NYSOA Awards Committee Chair Andrew Mason 1039 Peck St. Jefferson, NY 12093 (607) 652-2162 AndyMason AT earthling.net -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Upland Sandpipers & more From: "ROBERT ADAMO" <radamo2 AT msn.com> Date: Wed, 1 Jul 2009 01:58:45 -0400 Yesterday, Tuesday,6/30 at 3:45 PM, I met Andy Baldelli at the n/s of Grabeski Airport, Westhampton, Suffolk Co., where,at approx. 6 PM on Monday,he had seen 6 Uppies. At that time he felt he was looking at 2 adults and 4 young, with 2 of the latter still showing a little down on their heads. Yesterday, after a short period of time, 2 of the birds appeared, followed by the remaining 4 over the ensuing 10 minutes. We surmised, that when the birds were out of sight, they must have been in the taller grass,at the side of the runway. We also were able to see the down on 2 of yesterday's birds. While still at the airport, a lone Turkey Vulture flew over us heading in a southerly direction. I only mention it's heading because of our next sighting, 15 minutes later, of another lone T.V., as it flew over Sunrise Highway (Route 27) in a northerly direction, as we headed east toward Mecox Bay-same bird?_ Once there, we found many good birds, but not the one we were after, an Artic Tern. We did have, in Andy's words, "a good candidate" while it was on the wing, only to lose it in a "dive and scatter" maneuver- not to be seen again! I likened this phenomenon to when a group of birders have a bush surrounded, waiting for a bird to make itself known. After awhile, the circle is closed...the hunt is over, and one of the forlorn (whose sense of humor is still in tact) says "the bush must have eaten it". We did see many species, notably, at least 3 Piping Plovers, 4 White-rumped Sandpipers, a Bonaparte's Gull, Laughing Gulls, an adult alternate plummaged Foster's Tern, at least 2 adult alternate plummaged Roseate Terns, and as described previously by Eric Salzman, Bank Swallows entering and exiting their nest holes in the banks along the e/s of M.B., near it's opening to the ocean. Cheers, Bob -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Mississippi Kite - YES From: "Richard Guthrie" <gaeltic AT capital.net> Date: Tue, 30 Jun 2009 20:53:24 -0400 I just received word that Steph Restuccia, the gal who found the bird in the first place, saw the kite perched on one of the dead elms east of 919 Mapletown Road at 5:55 PM this evening (June 30). The elms are down the hill and almost next to the road on the left side as you go east from 919 Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County gaeltic AT capital.net . _____ From: bounce-4061195-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4061195-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Robert Grosek Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 8:31 PM To: NYS Birds Subject: [nysbirds-l] Mississippi Kite - no Bill Howard and I searched for the Mississippi Kite from approximately 12:15 PM to 5:45 PM this afternoon and we did not see the bird. The bird was previously reported to be near 919 Mapletown Road in Montgomery County, NY. At 5:00 PM we did see an Upland Sandpiper near the intersection of West Ames Road and Rt. 163. Many thanks to the lady birder for the clear directions to this location. - Bob Grosek Binghamton, New York [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: RE: Mississippi Kite - YES From: "Richard Guthrie" <gaeltic AT capital.net> Date: Tue, 30 Jun 2009 20:53:24 -0400 I just received word that Steph Restuccia, the gal who found the bird in the first place, saw the kite perched on one of the dead elms east of 919 Mapletown Road at 5:55 PM this evening (June 30). The elms are down the hill and almost next to the road on the left side as you go east from 919 Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County gaeltic AT capital.net . _____ From: bounce-4061195-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4061195-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Robert Grosek Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 8:31 PM To: NYS Birds Subject: [nysbirds-l] Mississippi Kite - no Bill Howard and I searched for the Mississippi Kite from approximately 12:15 PM to 5:45 PM this afternoon and we did not see the bird. The bird was previously reported to be near 919 Mapletown Road in Montgomery County, NY. At 5:00 PM we did see an Upland Sandpiper near the intersection of West Ames Road and Rt. 163. Many thanks to the lady birder for the clear directions to this location. - Bob Grosek Binghamton, New York -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Mississippi Kite - no From: "Robert Grosek" <bluewing AT stny.rr.com> Date: Tue, 30 Jun 2009 20:30:57 -0400 Bill Howard and I searched for the Mississippi Kite from approximately 12:15 PM to 5:45 PM this afternoon and we did not see the bird. The bird was previously reported to be near 919 Mapletown Road in Montgomery County, NY. At 5:00 PM we did see an Upland Sandpiper near the intersection of West Ames Road and Rt. 163. Many thanks to the lady birder for the clear directions to this location. - Bob Grosek Binghamton, New York -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Orange and Ulster Co. Grasslands, 6/30 (Sedge Wren YES, 2 birds) From: jacob drucker <jacobdrucker AT msn.com> Date: Tue, 30 Jun 2009 22:16:57 +0000 An early departure by David Burg, Lila Fried, Jared Cole and I on a trip up to the Orange and Ulster co. Grasslands was quite preductive, and we saw or heard all of our target species for the trip. Of course, our main was find the sedge wrens in Benedict park, and this was our first stop. From the second parking lot, we were almost immediately able to hear the male singing about 30 feet down the path, looking back towards the main road. It took about 20 minutes for the bird to actually show itself, and provided several good looks throughout the hour we observed it. The second time the male showed himself, he was joined by a second bird, and they interracted briefly, both perching out in the open. As only one was singing, we presume they are a pair. Also at Benedict, two Grasshopper Sparrows were heard (far out in first fields), as well as several Bobolinks. An absence of note was the lack of Savannah Sparrows, and meadowlark. Continuing on to Shawangunk, the Upland Sandpipers were found at their usual haunt this year, viewed from the parking lot of Galeville Park. They were practically a drive in bird for us, and two were viewed on top of the bluebird houses and NWR signs. After a few minutes, the two dropped back down into the grass. 10 minutes later, one returned to it's perch, giving long gratifying looks. A scope is reccomended for the best viewing. Also seen from Galeville Park were a few distant bobolinks, meadowlarks and kestrels (all seen better from the main Shawangunk Grasslands NWR entrance) as well as closer killdeer, field sparrow (common) and Yellow-throated Vireo. A brief (and unthorough) drive through of Blue Chip Farms didn't turn up any more upland sandpipers, but did provide several killdeer. No red headed woodpeckers were found. The conservation and managements of grasslands is an extremely important concept in conservation, and are often overlooked, and a trip to these two locations is motivating to anyone to help preserve these icons of what much of the northeast looked like before settlement. Jacob Drucker -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Of interest to Kite searchers: Weather warning for the Ames, NY area today (June 30) From: "Richard Guthrie" <gaeltic AT capital.net> Date: Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:49:40 -0400 The National Weather Service has just (1 45 PM) issued a FLOOD WARNING for Montgomery County including the Ames & Canajoharie areas for this afternoon and evening. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore The Greener County gaeltic AT capital.net [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Of interest to Kite searchers: Weather warning for the Ames, NY area today (June 30) From: "Richard Guthrie" <gaeltic AT capital.net> Date: Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:49:40 -0400 The National Weather Service has just (1 45 PM) issued a FLOOD WARNING for Montgomery County including the Ames & Canajoharie areas for this afternoon and evening. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore The Greener County gaeltic AT capital.net -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RE: Miss Kite yet more info From: Will Raup <hoaryredpoll AT hotmail.com> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 23:53:42 -0400 Conway Road to the East of Mapletown may also provide new views, at least on Sunday that was the direction the birds seen were flying towards. Plus there is a lot of open land along that road, with scattered tall trees, what I would consider good habitat for Kites. Also, I know many would also like to know about any other species found while searching for the kites, especially birds such as Grasshopper Sparrow and Upland Sandpiper. Keep in mind this location is only a short distance away from where both Sedge Wren and Dickcissel have recently nested (in the past couple of years), so both of those species could appear in any of the surrounding hayfields. Those on HM Birds should continue to report (Even misses), and those from other areas of the state visiting the region, (Montgomery county is in Region 8) and I'm sure the Hudson-Mohawk Bird Club would appreciate any reports of all speces by e-mail at birdline AT hmbc.net or by calling (518) 439-8080. This is a rather under birded part of the state, but has been shown in the past with the Northern Hawk Owl and again with the Kites, holds quite a few surprises! Good Birding, Will Raup Albany, NY http://hoaryredpoll.wordpress.com From: gaeltic AT capital.net To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu; hmbirds AT yahoogroups.com Subject: [nysbirds-l] Miss Kite yet more info Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 22:35:03 -0400 A few more notes regarding the kites: Donato Road, which is a Dead End road off Mapletown Road is narrow and gets narrower. Folks are advised not to venture too far along Donato Road as turning around has been difficult. Using any of the few driveways is not advisable since, if it becomes a hassle, it may wear thin with the residents. For the sake of the birder friendly neighbors, which there are plenty, I’d hate to see the bird become the cause for further animosities amongst the few inhospitable folk and our friends. That said, it is a public right-of-way and anyone has a right to be on the road. But if you get stuck and block access to the houses, or spin up gravel in a driveway, you’ll be burning more than rubber. Both birds have been seen multiple times today (June 29th). But patience is necessary since their feeding regime is not fully known. Positioning one’s self at 919 Mapletown Rd. seems to be the most favorable strategy so far. But the birds have also been seen from points along Donato Rd (see note above). Latimer Hill Road, to the west, may also be productive since it offers an elevated view of the lower wooded area and wetlands where the birds seem to be seen coming to or from. This is one of those situations where FRS radios would come in handy. Remember the ABA recommended frequency? I think it was CH 11/Privacy code 22. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County gaeltic AT capital.net From: bounce-4057601-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4057601-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Richard Guthrie Sent: Monday, June 29, 2009 6:40 PM To: 'Joseph Brin'; NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Syracuse RBA Miss Kite info Au, contraire The Canajoharie Thruway Exit is in fact # 29. Fide: NYS Thruway Web site: Exit MP 29 Canajoharie - Sharon Springs - NY Route 10 194.10 From that exit, take NYS Rt. 10 south to Mapletown Road [ignore the detour signs]. Follow Mapletown to mailbox # 919. The bird(s) was/were seen by many observers today (June 29th). The experience over the recent days suggests that later afternoon is the better time to look. Morning observers seem to have a lower success rate. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County New York gaeltic AT capital.net From: bounce-4057291-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4057291-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Joseph Brin Sent: Monday, June 29, 2009 4:18 PM To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: [nysbirds-l] Syracuse RBA RBA * New York * Syracuse * June 29, 2009 * NYSY 2906.09 Hotline: Syracuse Rare bird Alert Dates(s): June 22, 2009 - June 29, 2009 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:June 29 AT 4:00 p.m. (EST) compiler: Joseph Brin Onondaga Audubon Homepage: www.onondagaaudubon.org #160 -Monday June 29, 2009 Greetings! This is the Syracuse Area Rare Bird Alert for the week of June 22 , 2009 Highlights: ----------- SANDHILL CRANE LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO ORCHARD ORIOLE PROTHONOTARY WRBLER GRASSHOPPER SPARROW MISSISSIPPI KITE (Extralimital) Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (MNWR) and Montezuma Wetlands Complex (MWC) ------------ 6/22: 7 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. 6/23: 2 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. Onondaga County ------------ 6/20: (belated) Many species of birds including 8 species of warbler were found in the Central New York Land Trust’s Mason Hill Preserve in the Town of LaFayette. Highlights were LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH and HOODED WARBLER. 6/28: A YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO was heard singing on Oran-Delphi Road in the Town of Pompey. Reports of YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOOS were also recieved from Slate Hill Road and Beaver Creek Road in south eastern Madison County. It is thought that this years Tent Caterpiller infestation may be bring larger numbers of the YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO than is normal in our area. 6/28: An adult male ORCHARD ORIOLE was seen on Perry Road in the Town of Van Buren. Earlier this week at this sight a pair of ORCHARD ORIOLES was observed feeding young and a second year male was also seen. Oswego County ------------ 6/27: An adult male PROTHONOTARY WARBLER was seen in the usual site on Toad Harbor Road at the first lagoon. It was seen again the next day. 6/28: 2 GRASSHOPPER SPARROWS were seen on Silk Road near the Oswego County Airport. Extralimital ------------ This weeks big news is the pair of MISSISSIPPI KITES found in southern Montgomery County south of Canajoharie. One bird was apparently found as early as June 1 and local farmers have reported seeing and hearing them daily since. One bird was reported again on 6/27 and 2 were seen on 6/28 and it is thought they may be a nesting pair. One bird was seen again today and later reports are certain to come in. Directions th where the birds are being seen are: NYS Thruway to the Canajoharie exit, #28 (not 29 as NYS Birds says). Take Rt.10 south to Maple Town Road and turn left and go about 3 miles to mailbox #919. From here the bird has seen flying overhead and also further east in some dead trees. You may have to wait a while to see the birds. --end transcript -- Joseph Brin Region 5 Baldwinsville, N.Y., U.S.A. _________________________________________________________________ Lauren found her dream laptop. Find the PC that’s right for you. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/choosepc/?ocid=ftp_val_wl_290 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Miss Kite yet more info From: Will Raup <Hoaryredpoll AT hotmail.com> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 23:53:42 -0400 Conway Road to the East of Mapletown may also provide new views, at least on Sunday that was the direction the birds seen were flying towards. Plus there is a lot of open land along that road, with scattered tall trees, what I would consider good habitat for Kites. Also, I know many would also like to know about any other species found while searching for the kites, especially birds such as Grasshopper Sparrow and Upland Sandpiper. Keep in mind this location is only a short distance away from where both Sedge Wren and Dickcissel have recently nested (in the past couple of years), so both of those species could appear in any of the surrounding hayfields. Those on HM Birds should continue to report (Even misses), and those from other areas of the state visiting the region, (Montgomery county is in Region 8) and I'm sure the Hudson-Mohawk Bird Club would appreciate any reports of all speces by e-mail at birdline AT hmbc.net or by calling (518) 439-8080. This is a rather under birded part of the state, but has been shown in the past with the Northern Hawk Owl and again with the Kites, holds quite a few surprises! Good Birding, Will Raup Albany, NY http://hoaryredpoll.wordpress.com From: gaeltic AT capital.net To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu; hmbirds AT yahoogroups.com Subject: [nysbirds-l] Miss Kite yet more info Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 22:35:03 -0400 A few more notes regarding the kites: Donato Road, which is a Dead End road off Mapletown Road is narrow and gets narrower. Folks are advised not to venture too far along Donato Road as turning around has been difficult. Using any of the few driveways is not advisable since, if it becomes a hassle, it may wear thin with the residents. For the sake of the birder friendly neighbors, which there are plenty, I’d hate to see the bird become the cause for further animosities amongst the few inhospitable folk and our friends. That said, it is a public right-of-way and anyone has a right to be on the road. But if you get stuck and block access to the houses, or spin up gravel in a driveway, you’ll be burning more than rubber. Both birds have been seen multiple times today (June 29th). But patience is necessary since their feeding regime is not fully known. Positioning one’s self at 919 Mapletown Rd. seems to be the most favorable strategy so far. But the birds have also been seen from points along Donato Rd (see note above). Latimer Hill Road, to the west, may also be productive since it offers an elevated view of the lower wooded area and wetlands where the birds seem to be seen coming to or from. This is one of those situations where FRS radios would come in handy. Remember the ABA recommended frequency? I think it was CH 11/Privacy code 22. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County gaeltic AT capital.net From: bounce-4057601-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4057601-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Richard Guthrie Sent: Monday, June 29, 2009 6:40 PM To: 'Joseph Brin'; NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Syracuse RBA Miss Kite info Au, contraire The Canajoharie Thruway Exit is in fact # 29. Fide: NYS Thruway Web site: Exit MP 29 Canajoharie - Sharon Springs - NY Route 10 194.10 From that exit, take NYS Rt. 10 south to Mapletown Road [ignore the detour signs]. Follow Mapletown to mailbox # 919. The bird(s) was/were seen by many observers today (June 29th). The experience over the recent days suggests that later afternoon is the better time to look. Morning observers seem to have a lower success rate. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County New York gaeltic AT capital.net From: bounce-4057291-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4057291-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Joseph Brin Sent: Monday, June 29, 2009 4:18 PM To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: [nysbirds-l] Syracuse RBA RBA * New York * Syracuse * June 29, 2009 * NYSY 2906.09 Hotline: Syracuse Rare bird Alert Dates(s): June 22, 2009 - June 29, 2009 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:June 29 AT 4:00 p.m. (EST) compiler: Joseph Brin Onondaga Audubon Homepage: www.onondagaaudubon.org #160 -Monday June 29, 2009 Greetings! This is the Syracuse Area Rare Bird Alert for the week of June 22 , 2009 Highlights: ----------- SANDHILL CRANE LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO ORCHARD ORIOLE PROTHONOTARY WRBLER GRASSHOPPER SPARROW MISSISSIPPI KITE (Extralimital) Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (MNWR) and Montezuma Wetlands Complex (MWC) ------------ 6/22: 7 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. 6/23: 2 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. Onondaga County ------------ 6/20: (belated) Many species of birds including 8 species of warbler were found in the Central New York Land Trust’s Mason Hill Preserve in the Town of LaFayette. Highlights were LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH and HOODED WARBLER. 6/28: A YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO was heard singing on Oran-Delphi Road in the Town of Pompey. Reports of YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOOS were also recieved from Slate Hill Road and Beaver Creek Road in south eastern Madison County. It is thought that this years Tent Caterpiller infestation may be bring larger numbers of the YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO than is normal in our area. 6/28: An adult male ORCHARD ORIOLE was seen on Perry Road in the Town of Van Buren. Earlier this week at this sight a pair of ORCHARD ORIOLES was observed feeding young and a second year male was also seen. Oswego County ------------ 6/27: An adult male PROTHONOTARY WARBLER was seen in the usual site on Toad Harbor Road at the first lagoon. It was seen again the next day. 6/28: 2 GRASSHOPPER SPARROWS were seen on Silk Road near the Oswego County Airport. Extralimital ------------ This weeks big news is the pair of MISSISSIPPI KITES found in southern Montgomery County south of Canajoharie. One bird was apparently found as early as June 1 and local farmers have reported seeing and hearing them daily since. One bird was reported again on 6/27 and 2 were seen on 6/28 and it is thought they may be a nesting pair. One bird was seen again today and later reports are certain to come in. Directions th where the birds are being seen are: NYS Thruway to the Canajoharie exit, #28 (not 29 as NYS Birds says). Take Rt.10 south to Maple Town Road and turn left and go about 3 miles to mailbox #919. From here the bird has seen flying overhead and also further east in some dead trees. You may have to wait a while to see the birds. --end transcript -- Joseph Brin Region 5 Baldwinsville, N.Y., U.S.A. _________________________________________________________________ Lauren found her dream laptop. Find the PC that’s right for you. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/choosepc/?ocid=ftp_val_wl_290 [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hmbirds/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hmbirds/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: mailto:hmbirds-digest AT yahoogroups.com mailto:hmbirds-fullfeatured AT yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: hmbirds-unsubscribe AT yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ Subject: Re: Heard/Seen Ratio From: Hugh McGuinness <hmcguinness AT ross.org> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 22:57:43 -0400 Hi Paul et al, I remember when I lived in Central America that we would often hear the call, and as a result sometimes even see, Wood Thrush in wet Caribbean forest at dawn and again at dusk. However, during the rest of the day, we rarely (if ever) recorded the species. So it's not just a skulker on the nesting grounds. That said, on eastern Long Island Wood Thrush has never seemed particularly difficult to see on the nesting grounds, which may be a testimony to the pathetically sparse nature of our nutrient-deprived forests, and the same is true during migration when the species seems rather difficult to observe when it is present. Hugh Hugh McGuinness The Ross School 18 Goodfriend Drive East Hampton, NY 11937 hmcguinness AT ross.org On Jun 29, 2009, at 10:38 PM, Paul Dubuc wrote: > I heard over 200 Wood Thrushes this weekend in Paul Smith's, NY and > spied precisely zero. The second-place finisher was Yellow-throated > Vireo at 45 heard and one seen. I'm pretty patient, and made a > solid effort to spot a Woody, but ended up with bupkis. > > Many birds are described in the field guides as "skulkers," or > "secretive," but can any bird beat the ratio of this vociferous but > hard to see thrush? > > A tip of the DEET-soaked cap to you, Hyocichla mustelina. You are > truly elusive. > > -- > Paul Dubuc, > Pearl River, NY for the moment > Dayton, OH for the duration > at sign beween pauldubuc and gmail dot com > -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Heard/Seen Ratio From: Paul Dubuc <pauldubuc AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 22:38:21 -0400 I heard over 200 Wood Thrushes this weekend in Paul Smith's, NY and spied precisely zero. The second-place finisher was Yellow-throated Vireo at 45 heard and one seen. I'm pretty patient, and made a solid effort to spot a Woody, but ended up with bupkis. Many birds are described in the field guides as "skulkers," or "secretive," but can any bird beat the ratio of this vociferous but hard to see thrush? A tip of the DEET-soaked cap to you, Hyocichla mustelina. You are truly elusive. -- Paul Dubuc, Pearl River, NY for the moment Dayton, OH for the duration at sign beween pauldubuc and gmail dot com -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Miss Kite yet more info From: "Richard Guthrie" <gaeltic AT capital.net> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 22:35:03 -0400 A few more notes regarding the kites: Donato Road, which is a Dead End road off Mapletown Road is narrow and gets narrower. Folks are advised not to venture too far along Donato Road as turning around has been difficult. Using any of the few driveways is not advisable since, if it becomes a hassle, it may wear thin with the residents. For the sake of the birder friendly neighbors, which there are plenty, I'd hate to see the bird become the cause for further animosities amongst the few inhospitable folk and our friends. That said, it is a public right-of-way and anyone has a right to be on the road. But if you get stuck and block access to the houses, or spin up gravel in a driveway, you'll be burning more than rubber. Both birds have been seen multiple times today (June 29th). But patience is necessary since their feeding regime is not fully known. Positioning one's self at 919 Mapletown Rd. seems to be the most favorable strategy so far. But the birds have also been seen from points along Donato Rd (see note above). Latimer Hill Road, to the west, may also be productive since it offers an elevated view of the lower wooded area and wetlands where the birds seem to be seen coming to or from. This is one of those situations where FRS radios would come in handy. Remember the ABA recommended frequency? I think it was CH 11/Privacy code 22. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County gaeltic AT capital.net _____ From: bounce-4057601-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4057601-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Richard Guthrie Sent: Monday, June 29, 2009 6:40 PM To: 'Joseph Brin'; NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Syracuse RBA Miss Kite info Au, contraire The Canajoharie Thruway Exit is in fact # 29. Fide: NYS Thruway Web site: Exit MP 29 Canajoharie - Sharon Springs - NY Route 10 194.10 From that exit, take NYS Rt. 10 south to Mapletown Road [ignore the detour signs]. Follow Mapletown to mailbox # 919. The bird(s) was/were seen by many observers today (June 29th). The experience over the recent days suggests that later afternoon is the better time to look. Morning observers seem to have a lower success rate. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County New York gaeltic AT capital.net _____ From: bounce-4057291-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4057291-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Joseph Brin Sent: Monday, June 29, 2009 4:18 PM To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: [nysbirds-l] Syracuse RBA RBA * New York * Syracuse * June 29, 2009 * NYSY 2906.09 Hotline: Syracuse Rare bird Alert Dates(s): June 22, 2009 - June 29, 2009 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:June 29 AT 4:00 p.m. (EST) compiler: Joseph Brin Onondaga Audubon Homepage: www.onondagaaudubon.org #160 -Monday June 29, 2009 Greetings! This is the Syracuse Area Rare Bird Alert for the week of June 22 , 2009 Highlights: ----------- SANDHILL CRANE LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO ORCHARD ORIOLE PROTHONOTARY WRBLER GRASSHOPPER SPARROW MISSISSIPPI KITE (Extralimital) Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (MNWR) and Montezuma Wetlands Complex (MWC) ------------ 6/22: 7 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. 6/23: 2 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. Onondaga County ------------ 6/20: (belated) Many species of birds including 8 species of warbler were found in the Central New York Land Trust's Mason Hill Preserve in the Town of LaFayette. Highlights were LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH and HOODED WARBLER. 6/28: A YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO was heard singing on Oran-Delphi Road in the Town of Pompey. Reports of YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOOS were also recieved from Slate Hill Road and Beaver Creek Road in south eastern Madison County. It is thought that this years Tent Caterpiller infestation may be bring larger numbers of the YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO than is normal in our area. 6/28: An adult male ORCHARD ORIOLE was seen on Perry Road in the Town of Van Buren. Earlier this week at this sight a pair of ORCHARD ORIOLES was observed feeding young and a second year male was also seen. Oswego County ------------ 6/27: An adult male PROTHONOTARY WARBLER was seen in the usual site on Toad Harbor Road at the first lagoon. It was seen again the next day. 6/28: 2 GRASSHOPPER SPARROWS were seen on Silk Road near the Oswego County Airport. Extralimital ------------ This weeks big news is the pair of MISSISSIPPI KITES found in southern Montgomery County south of Canajoharie. One bird was apparently found as early as June 1 and local farmers have reported seeing and hearing them daily since. One bird was reported again on 6/27 and 2 were seen on 6/28 and it is thought they may be a nesting pair. One bird was seen again today and later reports are certain to come in. Directions th where the birds are being seen are: NYS Thruway to the Canajoharie exit, #28 (not 29 as NYS Birds says). Take Rt.10 south to Maple Town Road and turn left and go about 3 miles to mailbox #919. From here the bird has seen flying overhead and also further east in some dead trees. You may have to wait a while to see the birds. --end transcript -- Joseph Brin Region 5 Baldwinsville, N.Y., U.S.A. [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Miss Kite yet more info From: "Richard Guthrie" <gaeltic AT capital.net> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 22:35:03 -0400 A few more notes regarding the kites: Donato Road, which is a Dead End road off Mapletown Road is narrow and gets narrower. Folks are advised not to venture too far along Donato Road as turning around has been difficult. Using any of the few driveways is not advisable since, if it becomes a hassle, it may wear thin with the residents. For the sake of the birder friendly neighbors, which there are plenty, I'd hate to see the bird become the cause for further animosities amongst the few inhospitable folk and our friends. That said, it is a public right-of-way and anyone has a right to be on the road. But if you get stuck and block access to the houses, or spin up gravel in a driveway, you'll be burning more than rubber. Both birds have been seen multiple times today (June 29th). But patience is necessary since their feeding regime is not fully known. Positioning one's self at 919 Mapletown Rd. seems to be the most favorable strategy so far. But the birds have also been seen from points along Donato Rd (see note above). Latimer Hill Road, to the west, may also be productive since it offers an elevated view of the lower wooded area and wetlands where the birds seem to be seen coming to or from. This is one of those situations where FRS radios would come in handy. Remember the ABA recommended frequency? I think it was CH 11/Privacy code 22. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County gaeltic AT capital.net _____ From: bounce-4057601-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4057601-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Richard Guthrie Sent: Monday, June 29, 2009 6:40 PM To: 'Joseph Brin'; NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Syracuse RBA Miss Kite info Au, contraire The Canajoharie Thruway Exit is in fact # 29. Fide: NYS Thruway Web site: Exit MP 29 Canajoharie - Sharon Springs - NY Route 10 194.10 From that exit, take NYS Rt. 10 south to Mapletown Road [ignore the detour signs]. Follow Mapletown to mailbox # 919. The bird(s) was/were seen by many observers today (June 29th). The experience over the recent days suggests that later afternoon is the better time to look. Morning observers seem to have a lower success rate. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County New York gaeltic AT capital.net _____ From: bounce-4057291-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4057291-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Joseph Brin Sent: Monday, June 29, 2009 4:18 PM To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: [nysbirds-l] Syracuse RBA RBA * New York * Syracuse * June 29, 2009 * NYSY 2906.09 Hotline: Syracuse Rare bird Alert Dates(s): June 22, 2009 - June 29, 2009 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:June 29 AT 4:00 p.m. (EST) compiler: Joseph Brin Onondaga Audubon Homepage: www.onondagaaudubon.org #160 -Monday June 29, 2009 Greetings! This is the Syracuse Area Rare Bird Alert for the week of June 22 , 2009 Highlights: ----------- SANDHILL CRANE LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO ORCHARD ORIOLE PROTHONOTARY WRBLER GRASSHOPPER SPARROW MISSISSIPPI KITE (Extralimital) Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (MNWR) and Montezuma Wetlands Complex (MWC) ------------ 6/22: 7 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. 6/23: 2 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. Onondaga County ------------ 6/20: (belated) Many species of birds including 8 species of warbler were found in the Central New York Land Trust's Mason Hill Preserve in the Town of LaFayette. Highlights were LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH and HOODED WARBLER. 6/28: A YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO was heard singing on Oran-Delphi Road in the Town of Pompey. Reports of YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOOS were also recieved from Slate Hill Road and Beaver Creek Road in south eastern Madison County. It is thought that this years Tent Caterpiller infestation may be bring larger numbers of the YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO than is normal in our area. 6/28: An adult male ORCHARD ORIOLE was seen on Perry Road in the Town of Van Buren. Earlier this week at this sight a pair of ORCHARD ORIOLES was observed feeding young and a second year male was also seen. Oswego County ------------ 6/27: An adult male PROTHONOTARY WARBLER was seen in the usual site on Toad Harbor Road at the first lagoon. It was seen again the next day. 6/28: 2 GRASSHOPPER SPARROWS were seen on Silk Road near the Oswego County Airport. Extralimital ------------ This weeks big news is the pair of MISSISSIPPI KITES found in southern Montgomery County south of Canajoharie. One bird was apparently found as early as June 1 and local farmers have reported seeing and hearing them daily since. One bird was reported again on 6/27 and 2 were seen on 6/28 and it is thought they may be a nesting pair. One bird was seen again today and later reports are certain to come in. Directions th where the birds are being seen are: NYS Thruway to the Canajoharie exit, #28 (not 29 as NYS Birds says). Take Rt.10 south to Maple Town Road and turn left and go about 3 miles to mailbox #919. From here the bird has seen flying overhead and also further east in some dead trees. You may have to wait a while to see the birds. --end transcript -- Joseph Brin Region 5 Baldwinsville, N.Y., U.S.A. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: City Island birds From: Andrew Block <troubleinshangrila1 AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 17:06:27 -0700 (PDT) 6/29/09 - City Island vacinity, Bronx, NY usual birds plus: 1 Greater Scaup 3 Common Terns 2 Brants 1 Willow Flycatcher several American Oystercatchers 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 Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RE: Syracuse RBA Miss Kite info From: "Richard Guthrie" <gaeltic AT capital.net> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:40:02 -0400 Ou, contraire The Canajoharie Thruway Exit is in fact # 29. Fide: NYS Thruway Web site: Exit MP 29 Canajoharie - Sharon Springs - NY Route 10 194.10 From that exit, take NYS Rt. 10 south to Mapletown Road [ignore the detour signs]. Follow Mapletown to mailbox # 919. The bird(s) was/were seen by many observers today (June 29th). The experience over the recent days suggests that later afternoon is the better time to look. Morning observers seem to have a lower success rate. Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County New York gaeltic AT capital.net _____ From: bounce-4057291-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4057291-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Joseph Brin Sent: Monday, June 29, 2009 4:18 PM To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: [nysbirds-l] Syracuse RBA RBA * New York * Syracuse * June 29, 2009 * NYSY 2906.09 Hotline: Syracuse Rare bird Alert Dates(s): June 22, 2009 - June 29, 2009 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:June 29 AT 4:00 p.m. (EST) compiler: Joseph Brin Onondaga Audubon Homepage: www.onondagaaudubon.org #160 -Monday June 29, 2009 Greetings! This is the Syracuse Area Rare Bird Alert for the week of June 22 , 2009 Highlights: ----------- SANDHILL CRANE LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO ORCHARD ORIOLE PROTHONOTARY WRBLER GRASSHOPPER SPARROW MISSISSIPPI KITE (Extralimital) Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (MNWR) and Montezuma Wetlands Complex (MWC) ------------ 6/22: 7 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. 6/23: 2 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. Onondaga County ------------ 6/20: (belated) Many species of birds including 8 species of warbler were found in the Central New York Land Trust's Mason Hill Preserve in the Town of LaFayette. Highlights were LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH and HOODED WARBLER. 6/28: A YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO was heard singing on Oran-Delphi Road in the Town of Pompey. Reports of YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOOS were also recieved from Slate Hill Road and Beaver Creek Road in south eastern Madison County. It is thought that this years Tent Caterpiller infestation may be bring larger numbers of the YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO than is normal in our area. 6/28: An adult male ORCHARD ORIOLE was seen on Perry Road in the Town of Van Buren. Earlier this week at this sight a pair of ORCHARD ORIOLES was observed feeding young and a second year male was also seen. Oswego County ------------ 6/27: An adult male PROTHONOTARY WARBLER was seen in the usual site on Toad Harbor Road at the first lagoon. It was seen again the next day. 6/28: 2 GRASSHOPPER SPARROWS were seen on Silk Road near the Oswego County Airport. Extralimital ------------ This weeks big news is the pair of MISSISSIPPI KITES found in southern Montgomery County south of Canajoharie. One bird was apparently found as early as June 1 and local farmers have reported seeing and hearing them daily since. One bird was reported again on 6/27 and 2 were seen on 6/28 and it is thought they may be a nesting pair. One bird was seen again today and later reports are certain to come in. Directions th where the birds are being seen are: NYS Thruway to the Canajoharie exit, #28 (not 29 as NYS Birds says). Take Rt.10 south to Maple Town Road and turn left and go about 3 miles to mailbox #919. From here the bird has seen flying overhead and also further east in some dead trees. You may have to wait a while to see the birds. --end transcript -- Joseph Brin Region 5 Baldwinsville, N.Y., U.S.A. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Syracuse RBA From: Joseph Brin <brinjoseph AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:17:58 -0700 (PDT) RBA * New York * Syracuse * June 29, 2009 * NYSY 2906.09 Hotline: Syracuse Rare bird Alert Dates(s): June 22, 2009 - June 29, 2009 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:June 29 AT 4:00 p.m. (EST) compiler: Joseph Brin Onondaga Audubon Homepage: www.onondagaaudubon.org #160 -Monday June 29, 2009 Greetings! This is the Syracuse Area Rare Bird Alert for the week of June 22 , 2009 Highlights: ----------- SANDHILL CRANE LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO ORCHARD ORIOLE PROTHONOTARY WRBLER GRASSHOPPER SPARROW MISSISSIPPI KITE (Extralimital) Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (MNWR) and Montezuma Wetlands Complex (MWC) ------------ 6/22: 7 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. 6/23: 2 SANDHILL CRANES were seen along the wildlife drive. Onondaga County ------------ 6/20: (belated) Many species of birds including 8 species of warbler were found in the Central New York Land Trust’s Mason Hill Preserve in the Town of LaFayette. Highlights were LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH and HOODED WARBLER. 6/28: A YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO was heard singing on Oran-Delphi Road in the Town of Pompey. Reports of YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOOS were also recieved from Slate Hill Road and Beaver Creek Road in south eastern Madison County. It is thought that this years Tent Caterpiller infestation may be bring larger numbers of the YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO than is normal in our area. 6/28: An adult male ORCHARD ORIOLE was seen on Perry Road in the Town of Van Buren. Earlier this week at this sight a pair of ORCHARD ORIOLES was observed feeding young and a second year male was also seen. Oswego County ------------ 6/27: An adult male PROTHONOTARY WARBLER was seen in the usual site on Toad Harbor Road at the first lagoon. It was seen again the next day. 6/28: 2 GRASSHOPPER SPARROWS were seen on Silk Road near the Oswego County Airport.. Extralimital ------------ This weeks big news is the pair of MISSISSIPPI KITES found in southern Montgomery County south of Canajoharie. One bird was apparently found as early as June 1 and local farmers have reported seeing and hearing them daily since. One bird was reported again on 6/27 and 2 were seen on 6/28 and it is thought they may be a nesting pair. One bird was seen again today and later reports are certain to come in. Directions th where the birds are being seen are: NYS Thruway to the Canajoharie exit, #28 (not 29 as NYS Birds says). Take Rt.10 south to Maple Town Road and turn left and go about 3 miles to mailbox #919. From here the bird has seen flying overhead and also further east in some dead trees. You may have to wait a while to see the birds. --end transcript -- Joseph Brin Region 5 Baldwinsville, N.Y., U.S.A.. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Upland Sandpiper, Whip-poor-wills, West Hampton, Long Island From: Vinny Pellegrino <pellegrinov AT ymail.com> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:30:57 -0700 (PDT) Last night I ventured out to Gabreski Airport in West Hampton hoping to hear some nightjars.  I managed to hear a few Whip-poor-wills, but no Chuck-will-widows.  I arrived there about a half hour before sunset.  A handful of Chipping, Song, and Field sparrows were present.  Eastern Meadowlarks were also conspicuous with five recorded.  A big suprise to me was the eight Upland sandpipers strolling across one of the runways.  Many were vocalizing; that was by far a great treat to witness.  A White-tailed Deer buck was also patrolling the area.  After fifteen minutes or so after sunset, Whip-poor-wills began calling from various points around the runways.  A walk around Makamah Nature Preserve yesterday morning and Sunken Meadow State Park this morning from 7:45am to 11:00am recorded some good breeding birds.  Scarlet Tanager, Indigo Bunting, and Rose-breasted Grosbeak were plentiful in Makamah Nature Preserve, while Cedar waxwing, White-eyed, Red-eyed, and Warbling Vireos, Orchard Orioles, Chipping sparrows, Brown thrasher, Chimney swift, Prairie warblers, and American Redstart were present on the trails at Sunken Meadow State Park.  A snapping turtle was skulking on Makamah Pond; Green and Bull frogs were calling around the perimeter of the marsh.   Vinny Pellegrino www.flickr.com/pellegrinov East Northport, NY   "It just doesn't get any better than this" -Jeff Corwin -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RE:[osbirds] mississippi kite From: "grosbeak AT clarityconnect.com" <grosbeak@clarityconnect.com> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:30:08 -0400 Hello, I'd like to thank everyone for doing follow-ups on the Mississippi Kite that was originally seen June 1st. I'd especially like to thanks Steph for continuing to do visits to the area and for continuing to email me about whether she had seen the bird or not. Great find!! Matt Original Message: ----------------- From: michael restuccia msrestuccia AT roadrunner.com Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 17:58:57 -0400 To: osbirds AT yahoogroups.com Subject: [osbirds] mississippi kite The Mississippi kite was first seen on June 1 and again on June 27 on Mapletown Road, about 8 miles south of Canajoharie and 3 miles east of Old Sharon Rd. He seems to be in the area in the evening, both times I saw him was between 5:00 and 6:00 p.m. in a dead tree on the north side of the road. Good luck! Steph Restuccia West Ames Rd Canajoharie [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] -------------------------------------------------------------------- mail2web LIVE – Free email based on Microsoft® Exchange technology - http://link.mail2web.com/LIVE -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Benedict Farm Park Sedge Wren‹YES; park slated for development‹unfortunately also yes From: John Gluth <jgluth AT optonline.net> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 22:36:04 -0400 Much patience was required, but I finally got a passable look at the Sedge Wren at Benedict Farm park in Montgomery (Orange Co.) early this afternoon. The bird sang sporadically, but for extended periods when it did. At times it was less than 100 feet out in the field north of the foot trail that runs east from the second parking area (marked by a kiosk and metal gate). Unfortunately the bird always remained under cover until it decided to fly farther out into the field, offering only fleeting looks at its backside. This happened twice, after which long waits were required before the wren approached closely again. But the third time it did this I was able to keep it in view for its entire flight and saw where it dropped out of sight. After a brief delay it popped up and perched for ~30 seconds, allowing a reasonably good scope view. Other birds seen or head in the vicinity and elsewhere in the park included Bobolink, Grasshopper Sparrow (heard only), Willow Flycatcher, Swamp Sparrow, E. Kingbird, E. Bluebird, Warbling Vireo and Rose-breasted Grosbeak. That was the good news. The bad news is that this very birdy location is slated to be turned into a sports complex. This sad news was imparted by a local woman who passed by walking her dogs during one of the wren's quiet periods. Below is a link to a YouTube video she told me she'd posted that provides some background into the issue. She made it sound like development was a done deal, but perhaps something more can be done before it's too late. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYBn0sSjTW0 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions From: Will Raup <Hoaryredpoll AT hotmail.com> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 22:28:12 -0400 About noon, Danika spotted a non-descript Hawk take off in the distance, near Donato (sp?) Road, which is a few hundred yards down the hill from 919 Mapletown Road. The bird was very distant and rose very quickly into the air. Binocular views could not get much detail off the bird, other than shape, which can be described as "medium sized" and showed no color markings. A Turkey Vulture and Red-tailed Hawk were also in the same field of view, the Red tail on the Red-tail could easily be seen, also the Hawk was smaller than the Red-tail and much smaller than a Turkey Vulture. While I was tracking the bird, Danika was able set up and get the bird into our poor excuse of a scope. The scope didn't add much, other than we could see extensive white on the secondaries as the bird banked. The bird went extremely high into the air, then closed wings and dove towards the ground, at which point we lost the bird. We waited in the area, but found no further signs of the bird. We were fairly certain based on the size, shape and the white on the secondaries that we had found the Kite. However, it was not a satisfying look. We reported our findings to Rich Guthrie and Kevin McGann, who were working on their tans on a nearby hill top, which gave them new hope. Danika and I continued to do a loop around the area, following Mapletown Road, we turned left onto Carlisle Road, then left again onto Conway Road and then left onto Blaine Road and the left onto Mapletown again, it makes a nice rectangle of the area, although as far as I know all the sightings have been from Mapletown Road. We were only a few hundred yards away trying to turn a Savannah Sparrow into a Grasshopper Sparrow, when we got the call from Rich. We grouped up with them and after about an hour of waiting, we had 1 Mississippi Kite clearly fly over the road, to which all 4 of us got to see well. I will say that it appears the birds are keeping a low profile and it seems sitting in one spot works better than moving around. Good Luck to all those who try for it! Will Raup Albany, NY http://hoaryredpoll.wordpress.com > From: gaeltic AT capital.net > To: jamesost AT optonline.net; NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu > CC: hmbirds AT yahoogroups.com > Subject: [nysbirds-l] MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions > Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 21:52:38 -0400 > > More about the Kites: > > This afternoon, Kevin McCann and I saw TWO Mississippi Kites on Mapletown > Road, near Ames, NY! > > Will and Danika Raup arrived shortly after we called their cell phone and > got to see one bird. This sighting confirmed for them that the bird they had > a brief look at earlier in the day was also Miss Kite. > > The bird was first found and photographed perched on a dead snag next to > Mapletown Road, on June 1st, by Steph Restuccia. A local states that he had > been seeing [what sure sounds like] the kites almost daily since about then. > > > So safe to say that the kites are hunkered down - and may be nesting - in > the vicinity. > > The problem is that there is limited visibility in the areas where the birds > have been seen most often - along Mapletown Road. > > The birds today were seen flying over Mapletown Road at around noon, 3:00 > PM, 4:30 PM, and 4:45 PM. > > A note about the neighbors: the ones that we had spoken to were very > friendly and glad that they were hosting a celebrity bird. > > That said, they also cautioned that there are definitely some locals that > are downright hostile to trespassers. > > Also, the pinpoint that Jim had inserted on the google map should be on the > road - not in those folk's backyard! The address given relates to the number > on the mailbox - on the road. > > So, please, searchers, once again, let's not over-step our welcome. Please > stick to the roads, and pull off safely and legally. There is ample shoulder > room along the best viewing areas. Please don't go uninvited onto private > property. > > Given the recent history of the species in neighboring states, and that the > bird(s) have been around at least since early June, I guess that we can > safely assume that the birds are nesting. But, because of access > limitations, confirming that may have to wait until the young are off the > nest and in the air. I urge patience and restraint. Time will tell. > > During one of the sightings today, one of the kites was seen picking what > may have been some prey out of its talons; typically for the species, while > in flight. > > TRAVEL NOTES: > The kites are in the northern edge of the Town of Root (ie - Hawk Owl), > Montgomery County. > > To get there from the NYS Thruway, go to Canajoharie (Exit 29) and go south > on NYS Rt. 10. Ignore the DETOUR signs - you won't be going past the bridge > that's out. [Besides the road is scheduled to be re-opened on Wednesday July > 1st]. Turn LEFT (East) on Mapletown Road. Go 3 miles after the zig-zag > crossing of Old Sharon Road. Look for Mailbox # 919 on the right and pull > over safely. Keep looking up! > > Folks coming up from the south may like to Exit the Thruway at Catskill > (Exit 21) and take NY 23 to bucolic NY Rt. 145 through Cobleskill to Rt 20, > then west (left) on 20 to Sharon Springs. Take Rt. 10 north out of Sharon > Springs, and get onto Old Sharon Road which will diverge straight ahead at a > sharp turn about 3 miles north of the village. Go about 3 miles and turn > right (East) on Mapletown Road and go 3 miles to Mailbox #919. This route, > while may be complicated, will save you some miles and provide a much nicer > path through the beautiful Schoharie Valley. Or, you might consider this as > a return trip route after you've seen the kites. > > > In the area, there are also: Northern Harrier, several Red-tail Hawks, > Sharp-shinned Hawk, lots of Turkey Vultures, a couple of C. Ravens, Brown > Thrasher, lots of Savannah Sparrows and too many barnyard pigeons flying > over the treetops to keep you from falling asleep. Upland Sandpipers and > Grasshopper Sparrows have been regular in nearby Ames area (intersection of > NY Rt. 163 & W. Ames Road). > > Keep looking up! > > Beautiful birds! > > Rich Guthrie > New Baltimore, > The Greener County > gaeltic AT capital.net > > > > > > > > > > > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: bounce-4053768-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu > [mailto:bounce-4053768-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Jim Osterlund > Sent: Sunday, June 28, 2009 5:13 PM > To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu > Subject: Re: [nysbirds-l] 6/28/09 - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, > Montgomery County > > Google marks that address thus; > > http://tinyurl.com/l566sk > > > -- > NYSbirds-L List Info: > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES > > Temporary archive: > http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html > > Please submit your observations to eBird: > http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ > -- > > > > > -- > NYSbirds-L List Info: > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES > > Temporary archive: > http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html > > Please submit your observations to eBird: > http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ > -- _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live™ SkyDrive™: Get 25 GB of free online storage. http://windowslive.com/online/skydrive?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_SD_25GB_062009 [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hmbirds/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hmbirds/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: mailto:hmbirds-digest AT yahoogroups.com mailto:hmbirds-fullfeatured AT yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: hmbirds-unsubscribe AT yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ Subject: RE: MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions From: Will Raup <hoaryredpoll AT hotmail.com> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 22:28:12 -0400 About noon, Danika spotted a non-descript Hawk take off in the distance, near Donato (sp?) Road, which is a few hundred yards down the hill from 919 Mapletown Road. The bird was very distant and rose very quickly into the air. Binocular views could not get much detail off the bird, other than shape, which can be described as "medium sized" and showed no color markings. A Turkey Vulture and Red-tailed Hawk were also in the same field of view, the Red tail on the Red-tail could easily be seen, also the Hawk was smaller than the Red-tail and much smaller than a Turkey Vulture. While I was tracking the bird, Danika was able set up and get the bird into our poor excuse of a scope. The scope didn't add much, other than we could see extensive white on the secondaries as the bird banked. The bird went extremely high into the air, then closed wings and dove towards the ground, at which point we lost the bird. We waited in the area, but found no further signs of the bird. We were fairly certain based on the size, shape and the white on the secondaries that we had found the Kite. However, it was not a satisfying look. We reported our findings to Rich Guthrie and Kevin McGann, who were working on their tans on a nearby hill top, which gave them new hope. Danika and I continued to do a loop around the area, following Mapletown Road, we turned left onto Carlisle Road, then left again onto Conway Road and then left onto Blaine Road and the left onto Mapletown again, it makes a nice rectangle of the area, although as far as I know all the sightings have been from Mapletown Road. We were only a few hundred yards away trying to turn a Savannah Sparrow into a Grasshopper Sparrow, when we got the call from Rich. We grouped up with them and after about an hour of waiting, we had 1 Mississippi Kite clearly fly over the road, to which all 4 of us got to see well. I will say that it appears the birds are keeping a low profile and it seems sitting in one spot works better than moving around. Good Luck to all those who try for it! Will Raup Albany, NY http://hoaryredpoll.wordpress.com > From: gaeltic AT capital.net > To: jamesost AT optonline.net; NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu > CC: hmbirds AT yahoogroups.com > Subject: [nysbirds-l] MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions > Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 21:52:38 -0400 > > More about the Kites: > > This afternoon, Kevin McCann and I saw TWO Mississippi Kites on Mapletown > Road, near Ames, NY! > > Will and Danika Raup arrived shortly after we called their cell phone and > got to see one bird. This sighting confirmed for them that the bird they had > a brief look at earlier in the day was also Miss Kite. > > The bird was first found and photographed perched on a dead snag next to > Mapletown Road, on June 1st, by Steph Restuccia. A local states that he had > been seeing [what sure sounds like] the kites almost daily since about then. > > > So safe to say that the kites are hunkered down - and may be nesting - in > the vicinity. > > The problem is that there is limited visibility in the areas where the birds > have been seen most often - along Mapletown Road. > > The birds today were seen flying over Mapletown Road at around noon, 3:00 > PM, 4:30 PM, and 4:45 PM. > > A note about the neighbors: the ones that we had spoken to were very > friendly and glad that they were hosting a celebrity bird. > > That said, they also cautioned that there are definitely some locals that > are downright hostile to trespassers. > > Also, the pinpoint that Jim had inserted on the google map should be on the > road - not in those folk's backyard! The address given relates to the number > on the mailbox - on the road. > > So, please, searchers, once again, let's not over-step our welcome. Please > stick to the roads, and pull off safely and legally. There is ample shoulder > room along the best viewing areas. Please don't go uninvited onto private > property. > > Given the recent history of the species in neighboring states, and that the > bird(s) have been around at least since early June, I guess that we can > safely assume that the birds are nesting. But, because of access > limitations, confirming that may have to wait until the young are off the > nest and in the air. I urge patience and restraint. Time will tell. > > During one of the sightings today, one of the kites was seen picking what > may have been some prey out of its talons; typically for the species, while > in flight. > > TRAVEL NOTES: > The kites are in the northern edge of the Town of Root (ie - Hawk Owl), > Montgomery County. > > To get there from the NYS Thruway, go to Canajoharie (Exit 29) and go south > on NYS Rt. 10. Ignore the DETOUR signs - you won't be going past the bridge > that's out. [Besides the road is scheduled to be re-opened on Wednesday July > 1st]. Turn LEFT (East) on Mapletown Road. Go 3 miles after the zig-zag > crossing of Old Sharon Road. Look for Mailbox # 919 on the right and pull > over safely. Keep looking up! > > Folks coming up from the south may like to Exit the Thruway at Catskill > (Exit 21) and take NY 23 to bucolic NY Rt. 145 through Cobleskill to Rt 20, > then west (left) on 20 to Sharon Springs. Take Rt. 10 north out of Sharon > Springs, and get onto Old Sharon Road which will diverge straight ahead at a > sharp turn about 3 miles north of the village. Go about 3 miles and turn > right (East) on Mapletown Road and go 3 miles to Mailbox #919. This route, > while may be complicated, will save you some miles and provide a much nicer > path through the beautiful Schoharie Valley. Or, you might consider this as > a return trip route after you've seen the kites. > > > In the area, there are also: Northern Harrier, several Red-tail Hawks, > Sharp-shinned Hawk, lots of Turkey Vultures, a couple of C. Ravens, Brown > Thrasher, lots of Savannah Sparrows and too many barnyard pigeons flying > over the treetops to keep you from falling asleep. Upland Sandpipers and > Grasshopper Sparrows have been regular in nearby Ames area (intersection of > NY Rt. 163 & W. Ames Road). > > Keep looking up! > > Beautiful birds! > > Rich Guthrie > New Baltimore, > The Greener County > gaeltic AT capital.net > > > > > > > > > > > > > > -----Original Message----- > From: bounce-4053768-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu > [mailto:bounce-4053768-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Jim Osterlund > Sent: Sunday, June 28, 2009 5:13 PM > To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu > Subject: Re: [nysbirds-l] 6/28/09 - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, > Montgomery County > > Google marks that address thus; > > http://tinyurl.com/l566sk > > > -- > NYSbirds-L List Info: > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES > > Temporary archive: > http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html > > Please submit your observations to eBird: > http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ > -- > > > > > -- > NYSbirds-L List Info: > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES > > Temporary archive: > http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html > > Please submit your observations to eBird: > http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ > -- _________________________________________________________________ Windows Live™ SkyDrive™: Get 25 GB of free online storage. http://windowslive.com/online/skydrive?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_SD_25GB_062009 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions From: Jim Osterlund <jamesost AT optonline.net> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 22:17:22 -0400 A good point, and well taken. An appropriate location can be seen at; http://tinyurl.com/n3u98d -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions From: "Richard Guthrie" <gaeltic AT capital.net> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 21:52:38 -0400 More about the Kites: This afternoon, Kevin McCann and I saw TWO Mississippi Kites on Mapletown Road, near Ames, NY! Will and Danika Raup arrived shortly after we called their cell phone and got to see one bird. This sighting confirmed for them that the bird they had a brief look at earlier in the day was also Miss Kite. The bird was first found and photographed perched on a dead snag next to Mapletown Road, on June 1st, by Steph Restuccia. A local states that he had been seeing [what sure sounds like] the kites almost daily since about then. So safe to say that the kites are hunkered down - and may be nesting - in the vicinity. The problem is that there is limited visibility in the areas where the birds have been seen most often - along Mapletown Road. The birds today were seen flying over Mapletown Road at around noon, 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM, and 4:45 PM. A note about the neighbors: the ones that we had spoken to were very friendly and glad that they were hosting a celebrity bird. That said, they also cautioned that there are definitely some locals that are downright hostile to trespassers. Also, the pinpoint that Jim had inserted on the google map should be on the road - not in those folk's backyard! The address given relates to the number on the mailbox - on the road. So, please, searchers, once again, let's not over-step our welcome. Please stick to the roads, and pull off safely and legally. There is ample shoulder room along the best viewing areas. Please don't go uninvited onto private property. Given the recent history of the species in neighboring states, and that the bird(s) have been around at least since early June, I guess that we can safely assume that the birds are nesting. But, because of access limitations, confirming that may have to wait until the young are off the nest and in the air. I urge patience and restraint. Time will tell. During one of the sightings today, one of the kites was seen picking what may have been some prey out of its talons; typically for the species, while in flight. TRAVEL NOTES: The kites are in the northern edge of the Town of Root (ie - Hawk Owl), Montgomery County. To get there from the NYS Thruway, go to Canajoharie (Exit 29) and go south on NYS Rt. 10. Ignore the DETOUR signs - you won't be going past the bridge that's out. [Besides the road is scheduled to be re-opened on Wednesday July 1st]. Turn LEFT (East) on Mapletown Road. Go 3 miles after the zig-zag crossing of Old Sharon Road. Look for Mailbox # 919 on the right and pull over safely. Keep looking up! Folks coming up from the south may like to Exit the Thruway at Catskill (Exit 21) and take NY 23 to bucolic NY Rt. 145 through Cobleskill to Rt 20, then west (left) on 20 to Sharon Springs. Take Rt. 10 north out of Sharon Springs, and get onto Old Sharon Road which will diverge straight ahead at a sharp turn about 3 miles north of the village. Go about 3 miles and turn right (East) on Mapletown Road and go 3 miles to Mailbox #919. This route, while may be complicated, will save you some miles and provide a much nicer path through the beautiful Schoharie Valley. Or, you might consider this as a return trip route after you've seen the kites. In the area, there are also: Northern Harrier, several Red-tail Hawks, Sharp-shinned Hawk, lots of Turkey Vultures, a couple of C. Ravens, Brown Thrasher, lots of Savannah Sparrows and too many barnyard pigeons flying over the treetops to keep you from falling asleep. Upland Sandpipers and Grasshopper Sparrows have been regular in nearby Ames area (intersection of NY Rt. 163 & W. Ames Road). Keep looking up! Beautiful birds! Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County gaeltic AT capital.net -----Original Message----- From: bounce-4053768-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4053768-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Jim Osterlund Sent: Sunday, June 28, 2009 5:13 PM To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: Re: [nysbirds-l] 6/28/09 - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County Google marks that address thus; http://tinyurl.com/l566sk -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: MORE - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County - longish with directions From: "Richard Guthrie" <gaeltic AT capital.net> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 21:52:38 -0400 More about the Kites: This afternoon, Kevin McCann and I saw TWO Mississippi Kites on Mapletown Road, near Ames, NY! Will and Danika Raup arrived shortly after we called their cell phone and got to see one bird. This sighting confirmed for them that the bird they had a brief look at earlier in the day was also Miss Kite. The bird was first found and photographed perched on a dead snag next to Mapletown Road, on June 1st, by Steph Restuccia. A local states that he had been seeing [what sure sounds like] the kites almost daily since about then. So safe to say that the kites are hunkered down - and may be nesting - in the vicinity. The problem is that there is limited visibility in the areas where the birds have been seen most often - along Mapletown Road. The birds today were seen flying over Mapletown Road at around noon, 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM, and 4:45 PM. A note about the neighbors: the ones that we had spoken to were very friendly and glad that they were hosting a celebrity bird. That said, they also cautioned that there are definitely some locals that are downright hostile to trespassers. Also, the pinpoint that Jim had inserted on the google map should be on the road - not in those folk's backyard! The address given relates to the number on the mailbox - on the road. So, please, searchers, once again, let's not over-step our welcome. Please stick to the roads, and pull off safely and legally. There is ample shoulder room along the best viewing areas. Please don't go uninvited onto private property. Given the recent history of the species in neighboring states, and that the bird(s) have been around at least since early June, I guess that we can safely assume that the birds are nesting. But, because of access limitations, confirming that may have to wait until the young are off the nest and in the air. I urge patience and restraint. Time will tell. During one of the sightings today, one of the kites was seen picking what may have been some prey out of its talons; typically for the species, while in flight. TRAVEL NOTES: The kites are in the northern edge of the Town of Root (ie - Hawk Owl), Montgomery County. To get there from the NYS Thruway, go to Canajoharie (Exit 29) and go south on NYS Rt. 10. Ignore the DETOUR signs - you won't be going past the bridge that's out. [Besides the road is scheduled to be re-opened on Wednesday July 1st]. Turn LEFT (East) on Mapletown Road. Go 3 miles after the zig-zag crossing of Old Sharon Road. Look for Mailbox # 919 on the right and pull over safely. Keep looking up! Folks coming up from the south may like to Exit the Thruway at Catskill (Exit 21) and take NY 23 to bucolic NY Rt. 145 through Cobleskill to Rt 20, then west (left) on 20 to Sharon Springs. Take Rt. 10 north out of Sharon Springs, and get onto Old Sharon Road which will diverge straight ahead at a sharp turn about 3 miles north of the village. Go about 3 miles and turn right (East) on Mapletown Road and go 3 miles to Mailbox #919. This route, while may be complicated, will save you some miles and provide a much nicer path through the beautiful Schoharie Valley. Or, you might consider this as a return trip route after you've seen the kites. In the area, there are also: Northern Harrier, several Red-tail Hawks, Sharp-shinned Hawk, lots of Turkey Vultures, a couple of C. Ravens, Brown Thrasher, lots of Savannah Sparrows and too many barnyard pigeons flying over the treetops to keep you from falling asleep. Upland Sandpipers and Grasshopper Sparrows have been regular in nearby Ames area (intersection of NY Rt. 163 & W. Ames Road). Keep looking up! Beautiful birds! Rich Guthrie New Baltimore, The Greener County gaeltic AT capital.net -----Original Message----- From: bounce-4053768-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu [mailto:bounce-4053768-8863757 AT list.cornell.edu] On Behalf Of Jim Osterlund Sent: Sunday, June 28, 2009 5:13 PM To: NYSBIRDS-L AT cornell.edu Subject: Re: [nysbirds-l] 6/28/09 - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County Google marks that address thus; http://tinyurl.com/l566sk -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: 6/28/09 - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County From: Jim Osterlund <jamesost AT optonline.net> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 17:13:25 -0400 Google marks that address thus; http://tinyurl.com/l566sk -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: 6/28/09 - Mississippi Kite - Canojoharie, Montgomery County From: Christine Guarino <cmguarino AT earthlink.net> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 16:33:34 -0400 Per Rich Guthrie: 2 Mississippi Kites were seen this morning at 919 Maple Town Rd in Canojoharie. Begin forwarded message: > From: Andrew Mason > Date: June 27, 2009 11:23:17 PM EDT > To: NYSBIRDS > Subject: [nysbirds-l] Fwd: [osbirds] Mississippi Kite > Reply-To: Andrew Mason > >> Folks-- > > A Mississippi Kite was spotted today, 6/27, in the same locale as > one was seen and photographed earlier this month. The best location > I have is "on Mapletown Rd. south of Canajoharie". This is in > southern Montgomery Co. > > Below is today's report. > > Andy Mason > > >> Well, at 4:50 on Saturday, in the pouring rain, driving by the spot >> and telling my husband that I keep looking for the kite but he must >> be gone because we never see him, there he was! Sitting almost >> exactly where he was on June 1. Just as if he'd been there all >> along. So I guess those couple of maybes are now a positive yes the >> Miss kite is still in the neighborhood. >> >> Steph Restuccia >> West Ames Rd >> Canajoharie, NY > > Andrew Mason > 1039 Peck St. > Jefferson, NY 12093 > (607) 652-2162 > AndyMason AT earthling.net -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Whimbrel at Shinnecock From: "Seth Ausubel" <sausubel AT nyc.rr.com> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 15:02:41 -0400 This morning, near the low tide, Dave Klauber and I had a whimbrel on the flats just west of the Ponquogue Bridge. A few Wilson's storm-petrels were on the ocean off Shinnecock Inlet, and two roseate terns were among the common terns on a marsh island east of Triton Lane. Seth Ausubel Forest Hills, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Pike's Beach/Cupsogue Co. Park Today (Suffolk Co.) From: Ken Feustel <feustel AT optonline.net> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 13:29:37 -0400 Good numbers of shorebirds continued to filter into Pike's Beach and the Cupsogue Co. Park mudflats this cool, overcast morning. The highlight were four breeding plumaged White-rumped Sandpipers at Pike's Beach (a species I do not typically see until early August). A total of thirteen species of shorebirds were observed. At Pike's Beach (7:15AM to 8:15AM): Black-bellied Plover - 2 Piping Plover - 2 Am. Oystercatcher - 1 Eastern Willet - 8 Spotted Sandpiper - 1 Semipalmated Sandpiper - 60 White-rumped Sandpiper - 4 Red Knot - 20 Ruddy Turnstone - 1 Sanderling - 12 Short-billed Dowitcher - 38 At Cupsogue Co. Park (8:30AM to 10:00AM) Black-bellied Plover - 15 Piping Plover - 7 Am. Oystercatcher - 25 Eastern Willet - 35 Greater Yellowlegs - 2 Semipalmated Sandpiper - 3 Red Knot - 2 Ruddy Turnstone - 4 Dunlin - 3 Short-billed Dowitcher - 61 Other species present at CCP included Roseate, Common, and Least Terns, and Black Skimmer. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Sullivan County Yellow-bellied Flycatcher From: "Lance Verderame" <flybynight9 AT hvc.rr.com> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 11:13:18 -0400 A Yellow-bellied Flycatcher is present at the "bog" on Cooley Road in Parksville. I heard the bird yesterday morning and went back this morning at 6:00 A.M.. The bird sings often, but at times can be some distance from the road and difficult to hear. At other times he can be fairly close. I left the bog at 8:00 this morning and he was in the top of a dead Black Spruce tree at the far right end of the bog. For anyone not familar with this location please email me and I will be happy to give you directions. I would appreciate it if anyone does go for the bird, and observes any signs of breeding, that they report their findings to me as this would be the first breeding record for the county. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Fw: your email message From: "Lance Verderame" <flybynight9 AT hvc.rr.com> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 11:08:38 -0400 ----- Original Message ----- From: "Lyris ListManager" To: Sent: Sunday, June 28, 2009 9:04 AM Subject: re: your email message > The following lines in your email message did not appear to be > Lyris ListManager commands and were skipped: > >> A Yellow-bellied Flycatcher is present at the "bog" on Cooley Road in >> Parksville. I heard the bird yesterday morning and went back this morning >> at 6:00 A.M.. The bird sings often, but at times can be some distance >> from the road and difficult to hear. At other times he can be fairly >> close. I left the bog at 8:00 this morning and he was in the top of a >> dead Black Spruce tree at the far right end of the bog. For anyone not >> familar with this location please email me and I will be happy to give >> you directions. >> I would appreciate it if anyone does go for the bird, and observes any >> signs of breeding, that they report their findings to me as this would be >> the first breeding record for the county. > > This email message is simply a notification of how Lyris ListManager > understood > your email message. If you want to resend your commands, send > them to lyris AT list.cornell.edu > > > -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Fwd: [osbirds] Mississippi Kite From: Andrew Mason <AndyMason AT earthling.net> Date: Sat, 27 Jun 2009 23:23:17 -0400 >Folks-- A Mississippi Kite was spotted today, 6/27, in the same locale as one was seen and photographed earlier this month. The best location I have is "on Mapletown Rd. south of Canajoharie". This is in southern Montgomery Co. Below is today's report. Andy Mason >Well, at 4:50 on Saturday, in the pouring rain, driving by the spot >and telling my husband that I keep looking for the kite but he must >be gone because we never see him, there he was! Sitting almost >exactly where he was on June 1. Just as if he'd been there all >along. So I guess those couple of maybes are now a positive yes the >Miss kite is still in the neighborhood. > >Steph Restuccia >West Ames Rd >Canajoharie, NY Andrew Mason 1039 Peck St. Jefferson, NY 12093 (607) 652-2162 AndyMason AT earthling.net -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Salt marsh birds From: Sy Schiff <icterus AT optonline.net> Date: Sat, 27 Jun 2009 21:42:09 -0400 Marine Nature Study Area, Oceanside 27 Jun This healthy salt marsh continues to harbor breeding birds, all of which were seen this morning during a walk though the facility; namely:-- Clapper Rail, Willet, Osprey, Peregrine Falcon on the marsh island, Marsh Wren, Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrow and Seaside Sparrow. Fishing on the property were both Egrets, both Night-Herons, Glossy Ibis and Tree Swallows. Too early for shorebirds. Sy Schiff -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: NYC Area RBA: 26 June 2009 From: Ben Cacace <bcacace AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 21:17:23 -0400 - RBA * New York * New York City, Long Island, Westchester County * Jun. 26, 2009 * NYNY0906.26 - Birds mentioned ARCTIC TERN+ Northern Bobwhite CORY'S SHEARWATER GREATER SHEARWATER MANX SHEARWATER Wilson's Storm-Petrel Northern Gannet Cattle Egret Yellow-crowned Night-Heron Clapper Rail Black-bellied Plover Semipalmated Plover Piping Plover Greater Yellowlegs Ruddy Turnstone Red Knot Sanderling Semipalmated Sandpiper Western Sandpiper Least Sandpiper White-rumped Sandpiper Short-billed Dowitcher Lesser Black-backed Gull Least Tern GULL-BILLED TERN Roseate Tern Black Skimmer Parasitic Jaeger Black-billed Cuckoo Eastern Wood-Pewee Great Crested Flycatcher Yellow-throated Vireo SEDGE WREN (in Orange County) Worm-eating Warbler Ovenbird Grasshopper Sparrow Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrow Seaside Sparrow Bobolink - Transcript 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 nysarc3 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 Hotline: New York City Area Rare Bird Alert Number: (212) 979-3070 To report sightings call: Tom Burke (212) 372-1483 (weekdays, during the day) Tony Lauro at (631) 734-4126 (Long Island) Compiler: Tom Burke, Tony Lauro Coverage: New York City, Long Island, Westchester County Transcriber: Ben Cacace BEGIN TAPE Greetings. This is the New York Rare Bird Alert for Friday, June 26th 2009 at 7pm. The highlights of today's tape are ARCTIC TERN, MANX SHEARWATER, CORY'S SHEARWATER, GREATER SHEARWATER, GULL-BILLED TERN, and an Orange County SEDGE WREN. Last Sunday afternoon a visit to the flats at Cupsogue County Park in Westhampton Dunes again produced an ARCTIC TERN. This a second summer bird very similar in plumage to one present there a week earlier perhaps indicating a lingering bird. The Arctic was sitting with Common Terns on a rising tide. Cupsogue and Pike's Beach, just to the east, also harbored a good variety of shorebirds the highlight an adult WESTERN SANDPIPER at Cupsogue. Also spread between these two sites were several WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPERS, over 20 RED KNOT, decent numbers of RUDDY TURNSTONES, SANDERLING, SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER and SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER with lesser numbers of BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER, SEMIPALMATED PLOVER and LEAST SANDPIPER. Among the breeding birds in that area were PIPING PLOVER, ROSEATE TERN, LEAST TERN, BLACK SKIMMER, CLAPPER RAIL, SEASIDE SPARROW and SALTMARSH SHARP-TAILED SPARROW. While the pelagic birds were much less exciting than during the previous week with mostly just a small number of WILSON'S STORM-PETRELS off Dune Road this compensated for by a pod of 30+ BOTTLE-NOSED DOLPHINS actively feeding off Pike's Beach Sunday afternoon. An interesting but unidentified storm petrel was noted off Tiana Beach Sunday but a subsequent search could not relocate it though there was an immature LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL in the Tiana Beach parking lot. Seawatches off Amagansett Saturday evening and Sunday morning recorded 2 MANX SHEARWATERS Saturday, a CORY'S SHEARWATER Sunday, counts of 44 plus WILSON'S STORM-PETRELS Saturday followed by over 125 on Sunday and a PARASITIC JAEGER each day. Montauk Point Sunday added 2 CORY'S SHEARWATERS and another PARASITIC JAEGER and a LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL was on the town beach in Montauk Sunday. A watch off Robert Moses State Park parking field 2 on Fire Island Saturday morning noted a few CORY'S and 1 or 2 GREATER SHEARWATERS and some WILSON'S STORM-PETRELS with a dark morph PARASITIC JAEGER there in the evening. While Sunday morning produced seven more CORY'S SHEARWATERS and about 25 WILSON'S STORM-PETRELS. The constant on all the seawatches was a continuing stream of almost entirely immature NORTHERN GANNETS. The NORTHERN BOBWHITE around field 2 at Robert Moses State Park was still singing there Sunday morning. Another NORTHERN BOBWHITE was encountered Tuesday morning at Fort Tilden where other notable birds included BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO, GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER and EASTERN WOOD-PEWEE. These later presumably floaters at that location, non-breeding wanderers unproductively adrift during the nesting season for an undermined variety of reasons. Another example would probably be the WORM-EATING WARBLER at Alley Pond Park Sunday. Though the YELLOW-THROATED VIREO and probably the OVENBIRD also seen there are nesters, good records for the city parks. A CATTLE EGRET was spotted by an alert driver along the Grand Central Parkway in Brooklyn Monday morning. Two GULL-BILLED TERNS were cavorting at Jones Beach West End Tuesday where shorebirds included 20 SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS and a SANDERLING. Among the birds at the Oceanside Marine Nature Study Area Tuesday were 11 YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERONS and a GREATER YELLOWLEGS. The latter reminds us that the fall shorebird season is now commencing so if you stop by Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge remind the desk that the East Pond should be lowered now. A SEDGE WREN has been singing for over a week at Montgomery, Orange County this at Benedict Farm County Park where a wonderful series of fields has remained uncut this year so far. The fields have attracted some GRASSHOPPER SPARROWS and BOBOLINKS as well as the wren. The park is off Route 17K 1.1 miles west of the bridge in Montgomery that crosses over the Wallkill River. Drive in the park on the south side of 17K, pass the 2 silos to the back parking lot. The wren has been singing on the left 50 yards down the trail passed the metal gate. Please play no tapes and do nothing to disturb the wren and please stay on the manicured path. The wren does sing regularly in the morning and later afternoon and can be seen with patience. To phone in reports on Long Island, call Tony Lauro at (631) 734-4126, or weekdays call Tom Burke at (212) 372-1483. This service is sponsored by the Linnaean Society of New York and the National Audubon Society. - End transcript -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RFI: Franklin Co., esp. Seven Carrys From: Paul Dubuc <pauldubuc AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 02:09:04 -0400 Hello, I'll be in the Adirondacks all weekend, staying in Paul Smith's in Franklin Co. and planning to do the "Reverse Seven Carrys" from Black Pond to Upper Saint Regis Lake over Saturday and Sunday. According to Drennan's "Where To Find Birds in New York State," this is one of the better summer birding routes to be found in "Region 7." I can't find anything on the internet that contradicts Drennan's assessment, but there are entire "preserves" in other regions described in the book that no longer exist, so I want to be sure. Any "voyageurs" out there that can offer any bird-finding tips? I'll be paddling and portaging through some gorgeous territory, so I won't die of boredom if a Great Auk and Passenger Pigeon don't show up and sing the National Anthem for me, but some local specialties would be nice. Bird well, Paul -- Paul Dubuc, Pearl River, NY for the moment Dayton, OH for the duration at sign beween pauldubuc and gmail dot com -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Continuing breeding bird hunt, Eastern Long Island From: Sy Schiff <icterus AT optonline.net> Date: Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:45:16 -0400 Eastern Long Island, NY, 25 June Joe Giunta, Sam Jannazzo, Debbie Martin and I (Sy Schiff) journeyed East to continue our perusal of NY breeding birds. Our first stop was the Route 51 Bicycle Path fields looking for a Northern Bobwhite target bird. Not there. However, both DEER and DOG TICKS were! LOTS OF THEM! After the recent rains, the vegetation is lush and green. The fields and shrubbery had a fair number of breeders including among others:--Mourning Dove, Black-billed Cuckoo, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Tree Swallow, Barn Swallow, Cedar Waxwing, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Northern Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, Yellow Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Baltimore Oriole, Orchard Oriole and American Goldfinch. We then went to the Swan Lake Golf Course and observed both RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS bring food to the nest hole. The balance of the trip was an unsuccessful hunt, at both previously reported locations, for the Blue Grosbeak. We did find a GRASSHOPPER SPARROW on the Grumman Airport fence. Sy -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: QCBC Field Trip to Ward Pound Ridge, Sunday June 28th From: Donna Schulman <queensgirl30 AT gmail.com> Date: Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:08:17 -0400 The Queens County Bird Club will be exploring Ward Pound Ridge Reservation (Westchester) this Sunday, June 28th. Ward Pound Ridge is known for its diversity of breeding birds, as well as being a natural paradise of butterflies, dragonflies, reptiles, and wildflowers. There is also a rumor that the sun will be out! So, join us! Bring a picnic lunch. We will be meeting 6:30am at the lower Alley Pond Park lot (off Winchester Blvd., see map at see http://tinyurl.com/qcbc-alley-carpooling). Trip leader is George Dadone, 917-748-5716. Please let George know if you will be coming. *Donna Schulman* Editor, QCBC News & Notes QCBC Trips and Meetings are free! Please check our website for more information on field trips and programs http://www.queenscountybirdclub.org/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Fwd: [Manitoba Birds] Churchill, 22 June; (+Fwd. from MaineBirds) From: Tom Fiore <tomfi2 AT earthlink.net> Date: Wed, 24 Jun 2009 09:15:59 -0400 Forwarding a report from a Cornell researcher at Churchill Manitoba [Canada] with reference to the delayed summer season. Also (below) a message from Dr. Jeff Wells of Maine, with a link to his blog entries, including photo-video from NW Territories. Tom Fiore, Manhattan - - - - - - - http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/MANI.html#1245709458 >> Subject: Churchill - 22 June From: Tom Johnson Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:23:05 -0500 Manitoba birders, Summer has finally settled on Churchill after a long, cold, snowy, and unstable spring. Very small numbers of shorebirds have initiated nesting within the past week - these have been Whimbrel, Hudsonian Godwit, American Golden-Plover, Semipalmated Plover, and Short-billed Dowitcher - we (Cornell University shorebird crew) have yet to find nests for the majority of shorebird species that nest here, including Least Sandpiper, Dunlin, Stilt Sandpiper, Red-necked Phalarope, etc. If these species don't intiate nesting very soon, it is likely that they will fail locally this year. Recently, more Smith's Longspurs and Alder Flycatchers have arrived, and Yellow Warblers finally started nest-building yesterday (very late for here). Today while doing point counts along the eastern 4 km of Launch Rd. near the Churchill Northern Studies Centre, I heard a Chestnut-collared Longspur call twice as it flew over (!). Though this local mega was not photographed, the identification was solid (rich, three note "chrrt-chrrt-chrrt" flight call) and others heard the bird and were able to immediately compare it to flight call recordings on my iPod. I will post if the bird is relocated. The flyover was on Launch Rd. adjacent to the Churchill Wildlife Management Area sign with the polar bear on it. Along with many Smith's and a single Lapland, this made for a special three longspur day in Churchill. Yesterday was the first day that the Twin Lakes Road was open to car travel this summer. A quick jaunt into the boreal forest along Cook St. turned up a female Spruce Grouse, flyover White-winged Crossbills, and a Bohemian Waxwing, among other typical Twin Lakes breeders. Some recent Churchill photos are here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ bonxie88 Cheers, Tom -- Thomas Brodie Johnson Ithaca, NY << ________ from the Maine Birds list-serve: >> Subject: More about iced-in North From: "Jeff Wells" Date: Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:50:40 -0700 I just posted some photos and video I took of iced-in Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories on June 10 when I was there at http://www.borealbirds.org/blog/ Jeff Wells << ________ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RFI: SEPTEMBER BIRDING ADVICE - LONG ISLAND From: Gruff Dodd <gruff AT doddg.freeserve.co.uk> Date: Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:01:15 +0200 (CEST) Hi Hoping I can get some expert advice from you folks in advance of a possible trip I may be making in September 09, please. It is likely to be a short trip, perhaps 4 days in total while the rest of my family hit New York City. Timing likely to be 2nd week of September. My plan is to firstly head up into New England to look for Bicknell's Thrush - is that a realistic possibility at that time of year? If so, is Mount Washington, NH still the best place to look for this bird, or is there anywhere better? I then hope to have some time on Long Island on my way back to NYC, crossing over on the Montauk ferry. My target list for this area is as follows: Tundra Swan - too early? White-winged Scoter - too early? Saw-whet Owl - too early? Whip-poor-will Chuck-will's-widow King Rail Least Bittern Olive-sided Flycatcher Acadian Flycatcher Grey-cheeked Thrush - too early? Seaside Sparrow Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrow Dickcissel - too late / rare? How do you rate my chances of seeing these birds? If any are realistic, where would I be best looking? From the reading I've done, Wertheim and Seatuck look very promising - would you recommend them or is there somewhere better for these birds? Thanks in advance for any help you can offer. GRUFF DODD Cardiff, Wales, UK -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Fw: email address From: "ROBERT ADAMO" <radamo2 AT msn.com> Date: Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:29:10 -0400 ----- Original Message ----- From: ROBERT ADAMO To: Sent: Tuesday, June 23, 2009 3:56 PM Subject: email address From now on, please use only radamo2 AT msn.com when emailing me. Thanks, Bob -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: Hunt for the Sedge Wren. Successful From: Paul Dubuc <pauldubuc AT gmail.com> Date: Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:15:26 -0400 Hey, Sy and Nysbirders: Since I'm now two for two at finding Upland Sandpipers at Shawangunk Grasslands NWR after a 6/21 trip, I'll share the following bad advice: After five in the evening, set up your scope (you need 20X to ID) at the furthest SE point you can along the runways (as far from the entrance as you can get), careful to make your central focal point the gazebo off the parking lot in the Town Park, which is visible with the naked eye to the southeast. Pan both directions and locate, focus on, and remember all the reflective marker signs and swallow nest boxes sticking out of the sea of grass in your 180-degree radius. Revisit these buoys in the swaying sea every ten minutes or so, while enjoying the Bobolinks, Meadowlarks and Sparrows in the meantime, and you are likely to find an obvious sandpiper perched on one of the signs or boxes before an hour has elapsed. Results may vary. If you are pregnant, or may become pregnant... Bird well, Paul -- Paul Dubuc, Pearl River, NY for the moment Dayton, OH for the duration at sign beween pauldubuc and gmail dot com -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Hunt for the Sedge Wren. Successful From: Sy Schiff <icterus AT optonline.net> Date: Tue, 23 Jun 2009 21:15:12 -0400 Various Sullivan and Ulster CO sites; 23 Jun Joe Giunta, Sam Jannazzo, Debbie Martin and I (Sy Schiff) journeyed to Montgomery, NY. following the excellent directions posted by Curt McDermott. We arrived somewhat after 9:00 and heard the SEDGE WREN almost immediately. Finding the bird was a more difficult task. We finally had brief, barely satisfactory looks with the assistance of Curt who arrived shortly after we did with Guy Tudor and John Yrizarry in tow. (Always nice to meet birding friends in offbeat places-pause here for hellos and handshakes). Although Grasshopper Sparrows have been singing there in recent days, today the were silent. But we did see EASTERN BLUEBIRDS, CHIPPING and SWAMP SPARROWS, EASTERN MEADOWLARKS and BOBOLINKS. The balance of the day was spent visiting various sites "nearby" starting at the main boat launch site in Bashakill. There on the trail to the right, were VIRGINIA RAIL and AM. BITTERN. An adult BALD EAGLE was on the nest today, and a female WOOD DUCK was seen. The Haven Road bridge was under water from the recent heavy rains necessitating driving completely around Bashakill to get to the other side. From there we saw a distant COMMON MOORHEN. On Gumear Falls Road in Wurtsboro we found the previously reported ACADIAN and OLIVE-BACKED FLYCATCHERS along with YELLOW-THROATED VIREO and BLACKBURNIAN WARBLERS. At Blue Chip Farms, only KILLDEER, EASTERN BLUEBIRDS and SAVANNAH SPARROWS. (No Upland Sandpiper today). Of interest was a RED FOX in one of the fields. Following the post by towhee2 Jun 19, we came to the BANK SWALLOW nesting site off Galeville Road. Nice day, good company and a lifer all around. Sy -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: West End/Jones Beach and Oceanside Marine Nature Study Area Today (Nassau Co.) From: Ken Feustel <feustel AT optonline.net> Date: Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:10:57 -0400 We paid a visit to the Oceanside Marine Nature Study Area today on an above average high tide (over the boardwalk in some locations). Not much of note except a good number of herons and egrets including eleven Yellow-crowned Night Herons. The only migrant shorebird was a Greater Yellowlegs. We saw no Salt Marsh Sharp-tailed Sparrows and heard one Seaside Sparrow. At the West End Boat Basin there were two Gull-billed Terns courting, while twenty Semipalmated Sandpipers and a Sanderling were feeding on the sandbar. Ken & Sue Feustel -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: S.-t. Flycatcher [in CONN.] 6/22-23 From: Jim Osterlund <jamesost AT optonline.net> Date: Tue, 23 Jun 2009 11:12:11 -0400 The first somewhat sparing set of directions leads you to park here; http://tinyurl.com/l7ujfu The second set was more detailed, and lead to a different spot. It's a turn-by-turn set, but it unfortunately misses a critical turn; > Take I-95 exit 17 for CT-33 toward Westport/CT-136/Saugatuck > Turn left at CT-33/Saugatuck Ave (signs for Westport) Continue to > follow CT-33 > Turn right at CT-57/Kings Hwy N > Continue to follow CT-57 > Slight right at CT-136/Easton Rd > Continue to follow CT-136 > Turn left at Redding Rd > Turn left at Black Rock Rd/CT-58 > Turn left at Norton Rd to Elm Dr. > Right on Elm Dr. to parking area The last two lines become three; Turn left at Norton Road to Freeborn Road Turn left at Freeborn Road to Elm Drive Right on Elm Drive to parking area. http://tinyurl.com/lx223u -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: S.-t. Flycatcher [in CONN.] 6/22-23 From: Tom Fiore <tomfi2 AT earthlink.net> Date: Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:00:40 -0400 Tuesday, 23 June 2009: In Easton, Connecticut a Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was found Monday, June 22 & re-found in the same area this morning. Some directions posted on the CT-Birds list seem a bit involved... anyhow, the report is also of interest as one might wonder if this could be the same individual that was in Union Co., New Jersey, & then (IF same bird) a rather short distance away in Staten Island/Richmond Co., NY (NYC) earlier this month - & now (IF same bird) near the coast of CT. - and IF it is the same bird, it likely moved through other parts of southeast NY enroute to the currently reported location in CT. (current location is within about 50 miles east of NYC.) (recent directions to current scissor-tailed site) http://www.birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/CTBD.html#1245690339 (current on-site directions) http://www.birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/CTBD.html#1245759879 (scroll down on the following web archive for the most recent CT Birds reports) http://lists.ctbirding.org/pipermail/ctbirds_lists.ctbirding.org/Week- of-Mon-20090622/date.html (alternatively to latter list) http://www.birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/CTBD.html Good birding, Tom Fiore, Manhattan _________ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Cattle Egret From: Shane Blodgett <shaneblodgett AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:59:45 -0700 (PDT) As I was driving on the Grand Central Parkway West about 10:00 this morning-headed to LGA- I saw a bird ahead of me and to my left that at first glance looked like a Black-crowned Night Heron. As I caught up to it the bird banked and flew over the Parkway from SW to NE and I had a brief but stellar side on views of a CATTLE EGRET, my first of the year. Regards, Shane Blodgett Brooklyn NY Sent from my iPhone -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Canadian/Arctic weather, & possible effects on birds From: Tom Fiore <tomfi2 AT earthlink.net> Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:55:42 -0400 See this general temperature outlook from Environment Canada's weather office & keep in mind that the eastern Canadian Arctic is a very broad and diverse area not necessarily all in the same situation, weather-wise. Is it bitterly cold all throughout? The area around Churchill may be - but what about all the rest of the eastern area? http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/saisons/image_e.html? img=mfe1t_s&title=forecasts Tom Fiore, Manhattan _________ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Syracuse RBA From: Joseph Brin <brinjoseph AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:51:16 -0700 (PDT) RBA * New York * Syracuse * June 22, 2009 * NYSY 2206.09 Hotline: Syracuse Rare bird Alert Dates(s): June 15, 2009 - June 22, 2009 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:June 22 AT 5:00 p.m. (EST) compiler: Joseph Brin Onondaga Audubon Homepage: www.onondagaaudubon.org #159 -Monday June 22, 2009 Greetings! This is the Syracuse Area Rare Bird Alert for the week of June 15 , 2009 Highlights: ----------- RED CROSSBILL GREAT EGRET GRASSHOPPER SPARROW BLACK TERN EURASIAN WIGEON SHORT-EARED OWL WHIP-POOR-WILL COMMON NIGHTHAWK RED-HEADED WOODPECKER SEDGE WREN GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER GRASSHOPPER SPARROW CLAY-COLORED SPARROW HENSLOW’S SPARROW OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (MNWR) and Montezuma Wetlands Complex (MWC) ------------ 6/16: 5 GREAT EGRETS, 1 SANDHILL CRANES, and 4 BLACK TERNS were seen at May’s Point Pool. 6/20: 6 SDANDHILL CRANES were seen in the Main Pool. 6/21: An adult drake EURASIAN WIGEON was seen in the Main Pool. Also seen were 6 SANDHILL CRANES, and 30 BALD EAGLES. Fort Drum ------------ Fort Drum in Jefferson County has always been known as an excellent birding location but the report from Jeff Bolsinger for the first half of June is nothing short of spectacular. Highlights are probable nesting SHORT-EARED OWLS, WHIP-POOR-WILL, COMMON NIGHTHAWK, numerous RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS, GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLERS, GRASSHOPPERS, CLAY-COLORED SPARROWS, and HENSLOW’S SPARROWS. I will include a list of all birds seen from June 1 to June 15 on the area. Canada Goose Wood Duck Mallard Hooded Merganser Ruffed Grouse Wild Turkey Pied-billed Grebe American Bittern Least Bittern Great Blue Heron Green Heron Turkey Vulture Osprey Northern Harrier Sharp-shinned Hawk Cooper’s Hawk Red-shouldered Hawk Broad-winged Hawk Red-tailed Hawk American Kestrel Virginia Rail Sora Killdeer Spotted Sandpiper Wilson’s Snipe American Woodcock Ring-billed Gull Rock Pigeon Mourning Dove Yellow-billed Cuckoo Black-billed Cuckoo Great Horned Owl Common Nighthawk Whip-poor-will Belted Kingfisher Red-headed Woodpecker Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Downy Woodpecker Hairy Woodpecker Northern Flicker Pileated Woodpecker Eastern Wood-Pewee Alder Flycatcher Willow Flycatcher Least Flycatcher Eastern Phoebe Great Crested Flycatcher Eastern Kingbird Yellow-throated Vireo Blue-headed Vireo Warbling Vireo Red-eyed Vireo Blue Jay American Crow Common Raven Tree Swallow Northern Rough-winged Swallow Bank Swallow Cliff Swallow Barn Swallow Black-capped Chickadee Red-breasted Nuthatch White-breasted Nuthatch Brown Creeper House Wren Winter Wren Sedge Wren Marsh Wren Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Eastern Bluebird Veery Hermit Thrush Wood Thrush American Robin Gray Catbird Northern Mockingbird Brown Thrasher European Starling Cedar Waxwing Blue-winged Warbler Golden-winged Warbler “Brewster’s” Warbler “Lawrence’s” Warbler Nashville Warbler Yellow Warbler Chestnut-sided Warbler Magnolia Warbler Black-throated Blue Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Blackburnian Warbler Pine Warbler Prairie Warbler Blackpoll Warbler Black-and-white Warbler American Redstart Ovenbird Northern Waterthrush Mourning Warbler Common Yellowthroat Canada Warbler Scarlet Tanager Eastern Towhee Chipping Sparrow Clay-colored Sparrow Field Sparrow Vesper Sparrow Savannah Sparrow Grasshopper Sparrow Henslow’s Sparrow Song Sparrow Swamp Sparrow White-throated Sparrow Northern Cardinal Rose-breasted Grosbeak Indigo Bunting Bobolink Red-winged Blackbird Eastern Meadowlark Common Grackle Brown-headed Cowbird Baltimore Oriole Purple Finch American Goldfinch House Sparrow Birding is permitted on the base by permit only. For instructions to obtain a permit contact Jeff Bolsinger by email (jsbolsinger AT yahoo.com) . Madison County ------------ 6/20: An adult RED-HEADED WOODPECKER was seen and photographed at a feeder in Morrisville. The bird also returned the next day. Herkimer County ------------ 6/21: An OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER was heard only from the Third Lake Creek Trail north of Old Forge. Also seen and heard were 10 species of warbler. --end transcript -- Joseph Brin Region 5 Baldwinsville, N.Y., U.S.A. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re:Arctic: winter hasn't gone away From: jgluth AT optonline.net Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 18:23:54 +0000 (GMT) In my last post I mentioned wishing that it was already July or August so migrant shorebirds could take advantage of the existing ephemeral wetlands caused by all the recent rain. Based on the article that Hugh just posted it looks like they may have to do just that. But I'd gladly trade my wish fulfillment for a successful breeding seasonfor the birds any time. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Arctic: winter hasn't gone away From: Hugh McGuinness <hmcguinness AT ross.org> Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:24:43 -0400 I thought NYS birders might be interested in the following story (follow links given below), which would seem to indicate that many breeding birds of the eastern Arctic are going to be unable to do so this year. We might see the repercussions of this in shorebird migration over the next few weeks. The text from the second link is re-printed below. http://globalfreeze.wordpress.com/2009/06/20/manitoba/ http://www.iceagenow.com/Winter_still_grips_90_per_cent_of_north.htm Big chill in Churchill Winter grips 90 per cent of north, migratory birds can't breed By: Robert Alison 13/06/2009 1:00 AM | Comments: 3 It is the winter that refuses to go away in northern Manitoba and most of the eastern Arctic. Prolonged cold snowy conditions in the Hudson Bay area are expected to obliterate the breeding season for migratory birds and most other species of wildlife this year. According to Environment Canada, the spring of 2009 is record-late in the eastern Arctic with virtually 100 per cent snow cover from James Bay north as of June 11. May temperatures in northern Manitoba were almost four degrees C below the long-term average of -0.7, and in early June, temperatures averaged three degrees below normal. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration images confirm snow and ice blanket all of northern Manitoba, part of northern Ontario and almost all of the eastern Arctic as of June 12. U.S. arieal flight surveys confirm the eastern Arctic has no sign of spring so far. "I have lived in Churchill since the 1950s, and this the latest spring I have ever seen here," said local resident Pat Penwarden. "The spring of 1962 was almost this bad." Six-foot snowdrifts blocked Churchill-area roads. A thick blanket of snow, in places three- and four-feet deep, coated 90 per cent of the local taiga in northern Manitoba. Ecotourists, who normally flock to northern Manitoba every June to see birds and other wildlife, cancelled their plans this June "in droves," according to local ecotourist specialists. Snowy conditions are largely to blame. "It is like a winter landscape," said Ruth Baker, a Michigan tourist who spent June 9 to 12 at Churchill. "I couldn't believe the snowdrifts, like mountains of snow". Researchers confirm that the lateness of the spring of 2009 dooms local birds to a virtually complete reproductive failure. According to Robert Jefferies, professor emeritus of botany at the University of Toronto, the last time there was a late spring in northern Manitoba, in 1983, there was a total reproductive "bust" in lesser snow geese. Most species of birds did not nest at all. Aerial inventories of fall migrant geese from the eastern Arctic that year confirmed 0.005 per cent of the fall population comprised juvenile birds, compared to the normal figure of over 50 per cent. According to Cornell University researchers, currently at Churchill, shorebird nesting is already three-weeks late, and has yet to start. The first Canada goose nests were initiated on June 7, more than one month later than normal, and probably not early enough to allow goslings to mature before the fall migration flight. Canada geese are the first birds to nest in northern Manitoba. Many northern birds require more than 100 days to nest, incubate young and rear offspring to a condition suitable for fall migration. According to Robert Rockwell of The City University of New York, who studies geese in northern Manitoba, if the geese have not begun incubating clutches of eggs before June 11, there is almost no chance that their offspring will be strong enough to endure the long southbound fall flight. In 1983, that was the case, and 1983 was not nearly as late as 2009. Research by Hugh Boyd, scientist emeritus at the Canadian Wildlife Service, states late Arctic springs reduce northern waterfowl production by up to 90 per cent, with very late springs having a devastating impact. According to Vern Thomas, a University of Guelph researcher, record- late springs produce "reproductive failures" in northern geese. "These late springs generate reproductive busts," confirmed Joe Jehl, who has studied birds in northern Manitoba since the late 1960s and recently retired from the Smithsonian Institution. Studies at Churchill show that in late springs, female birds delay nesting, and rather than starve for lack of food, they re-absorb already-formed eggs to benefit from their nutritional content. Nesting often does not occur under those conditions. In 2004, a late spring caused many northern Manitoba migratory birds to abandon nesting efforts and head back south in late June, more than two months early. Recent late springs in the Hudson Bay area have been more frequent than normal: 2004, 2002, 2000 and 1997. According to NOAA scientists, although the Arctic is warming, more frequent annual oscillations in temperature are likely to occur, often resulting in late springs. "Such major oscillations are part of a bumpy ride toward global warming," said Thomas Karl of the National Climate Center. "For awhile at least this will be the shape of things to come." Vegetation is also impacted upon by late Arctic springs, with green-up about three weeks late this year. Consequently, herbivorous animals have delayed breeding "People often confuse climate with weather, and this spring is a weather phenomenon," said an Environment Canada spokesperson. Robert Alison is a Victoria-based wildlife biologist and writer with a PhD in zoology. 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 Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: RE:Unexpected in Alley Pond, Queens From: Rob Jett <citybirder AT earthlink.net> Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:42:33 -0400 I thought I'd send a quick note after reading Steve Walter's & Tom Fiore's recent postings. In Prospect Park yesterday I spotted one of our resident Red-tailed Hawks being mobbed by a mixed flock of songbirds. I was surprised to find among the mostly robin-dominated flock one Yellow-throated Vireo. It seems significant to have this species still present in late-June in at least three different city parks. Could this be a trend? 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 Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Two Cooper's Hawk nestlings at SSNC (update); Bobwhites at Heckscher State Park From: John Gluth <jgluth AT optonline.net> Date: Sun, 21 Jun 2009 23:29:25 -0400 I visited the South Shore Nature Center (E. Islip, Suffolk Co.) this afternoon to check on the Cooper's Hawks nesting there, as I've done every 2 weeks or so since late April when I spotted the nest under construction. One of the adults was seen briefly early on today, when it flew from one perch to another, but it did not approach the nest and did not vocalize to let on that my presence was disturbing it. Just last Saturday the female had still been hunkered down on the nest. I assumed then that she was either still incubating eggs (though it seemed a bit late for that) or more likely brooding recently hatched young. So I was a bit surprised to see a fairly large and well developed nestling (with both pin and open feathers emerging through white down) scrambling about the nest and stretching its wings. I only saw that one nestling during the first few minutes of my observation, but I thought it likely there could be more present and wanted to confirm that. But I also didn't want to stress out the parents by sticking around too much longer. Thankfully a second nestling made an appearance shortly thereafter. It had apparently been huddled farther down in the nest, which must be deeper than it looks. I next visited nearby Heckscher State Park. All the recent rain had left extensive pools in the parking lot and adjacent grassy areas of Field 7 (as well as the median of the park road and nearby foot and bike trails). The conditions were prime for shorebirds and got me wishing it was late July or August instead of June. The only shorebirds present today were a trio of Oystercatchers and a Killdeer or two, plus a Snowy Egret. A bit farther east at Field 8 (closed to parking but accessible on foot) the stretch of beach between the bath house and the high tide line has taken on an appearance quite similar to the notorious "swale" at Jones Beach west end field 2. The compact sandy soil with short, sparse vegetation and several sizeable water-collecting depressions could have potential for luring grasspipers. Farther east, in the vicinity of the RC model airplane field I heard Bobwhite calling and caught brief glimpses of at least 2 birds. Whether these are wild or raised-and-released is open for speculation, but the latter seems more likely as it has been several years since I've encountered Bobwhite at this location. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: lingering songbirds in NYC From: Tom Fiore <tomfi2 AT earthlink.net> Date: Sun, 21 Jun 2009 22:50:38 -0400 Although some species may be, or are nesting there have also been some that, in Central Park (Manhattan, N.Y. City) are most likely not - including at least several Ovenbirds which were still around in the last week of spring which has on the calendar (if not in how the weather feels) just passed. A few other warblers also had lingered on and were rather unlikely to be breeding in Central Park. On the other hand in the Bronx, Yellow-throated Vireo is, & a Scarlet Tanager or two are interesting to see & hear this late - they have been there in summer other years as well. The specific areas and some of the other species present in both Manhattan & Bronx aren't mentioned, just so the nesting or possibly-nesting species are given the chance to be undisturbed. The weather has been tough enough on some of them anyhow. There have been at least a few nesting failures (observed) in some city parks from recent weather, although predation also has played its part as well. At least some of the birds will try or have already begun again while some may have given up this year. Solstice is here - hope summer comes with it, Tom Fiore, Manhattan _________ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: LI Birds: Arctic Tern, Western Sandpiper++ From: "Shaibal Mitra" <mitra AT mail.csi.cuny.edu> Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 01:56:18 GMT The seabird flight this morning at Robert Moses SP, Suffolk was light to begin with and diminished greatly by 8:00. Totals were: 29 Northern Gannet 23 Wilson's Storm-Petrel 7 Cory's Shearwater 5 Cory's/Greater Shearwater 2 Common Loon We also saw a pod of about 8 Bottle-nosed Dolphins. The Northern Bobwhite continues, and there was evidence of the usual solstice wandering by landbirds: Chimney Swift, Eastern Kingbird, and three Cedar Waxings in obvious transit along the barrier beach, plus a Purple Martin that flew in off the ocean. Andy Baldelli had a possible Leach's Storm-Petrel at Tiana Beach, on Dune Road, Suffolk. Several of us raced over an hour later, but of course did not find it. We did enjoy an immature Lesser Black-backed Gull there, plus a pair of Roseate Terns breeding among the Commons just east of Triton Lane. Highlights at Cupsogue, near the Moriches Inlet, included a second-summer Arctic Tern and a Western Sandpiper. The latter has very rarely been documented anywhere in the state prior to the mid July arrival of southbound adults, but Cupsogue has produced late spring birds three years in a row now. The former bore an uncanny resemblance to last weekend's bird--a very rare instance of an ARTE lingering on LI from day to day. An evening seawatch at Pikes Beach produced no notable birds but a large (40+) pod of Bottle-nosed Dolphins. My companions today at various times included Pat Lindsay, Doug Futuyma, Gail Benson, Tom Burke, Andy Baldelli, Corey Finger, and Andrew Baksh. The latter two got some excellent photos of some of these birds; in the meantime, I've posted some of my documentary shots at: http://picasaweb.google.com/tixbirdz/Various2009# Shai Mitra Bay Shore -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Unexpected in Alley Pond, Queens From: "Steve Walter" <swalter15 AT verizon.net> Date: Sun, 21 Jun 2009 20:42:12 -0400 Today I observed a Worm-eating Warbler in Alley Pond Park, Queens, quite unexpected on June 21. It's not a bird that breeds in this area (although I think I see the block marked in the 1980-5 atlas). Similarly, Ovenbird is marked as breeding in the first atlas. It was definitely not present in the second atlas (2000-5). I heard one singing today and Eric Miller reported one or two earlier this month. It's hard to tell if nesting is going on, as the vegetation is dense in the area where my singer was. There are no deer here and, as a result, many parts of the park have a lush understory -- which makes me wonder why they shouldn't nest here. A species that was not present on either atlas (anywhere in the county) is Yellow-throated Vireo. For a couple of years, I had monitored individuals lingering well into May, and this year one that sang in the same area from early May into the second week of June. Eric reported one or two in another section of the park and more recently, sharp eyed Eric confirmed that they had nested. Steve Walter Bayside, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: South Fork LI: Storm-petrels, jaegers and lingering loons From: Angus Wilson <gadflypetrel AT hotmail.com> Date: Sun, 21 Jun 2009 13:43:03 -0400 It rained off and on all morning but the visibility on the eastern tip of the South Fork was much better than yesterday. I seawatched from several spots and it was a case of 'boom-or-bust', meaning it was reasonably birdy in some spots and completely dead in others. Highlights included four Parasitic Jaegers, my first Cory's Shearwaters of the season, good numbers of Wilson's Storm-Petrels off Amagansett (but oddly nowhere else) and some very late Red-throated Loons. **Amagansett** (6:50-7:15 am) RED-THROATED LOON - 1 (alt. plumage, flying east) Common Loon - 1 Northern Gannet - 6 WILSON'S STORM-PETREL - 55 **Montauk Point** (7:55-9:15 am) Northern Gannet - 17 CORY'S SHEARWATER - 2 PARASITIC JAEGER - 3+ (all subads. seemed focused hounding on Laughing Gulls) Laughing Gull - 100+ several hundred Common & Roseate Terns **Amagansett** (10:20-11:20 am) RED-THROATED LOON - 2 (one alt. flying east and one basic type on water) Common Loon - 1 Northern Gannet - 7 CORY'S SHEARWATER - 1 WILSON'S STORM-PETREL - 125 (max. count on single sweep) PARASITIC JAEGER - 1 (sub ad., at times close inshore. Successfully robbed Common Terns and Laughing Gulls but also chased storm-petrels) Laughing Gull - 15 Eastern Willet - 2 Didn't spend much time looking inland because of the soggy and overcast conditions. A TURKEY VULTURE over Fort Pond and a LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (3rd summer?) on the Montauk Town beach were the one things of note. Cheers, Angus Wilson http://birdingtotheend.blogspot.com/ _________________________________________________________________ Microsoft brings you a new way to search the web. Try Bing™ now http://www.bing.com?form=MFEHPG&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MFEHPG_Core_tagline_try bing_1x1 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: South Fork LI: Manx Shearwaters, Wilson's SPs, Amagansett From: Angus Wilson <gadflypetrel AT hotmail.com> Date: Sat, 20 Jun 2009 20:42:10 -0400 The waters off Montauk Point (Suffolk Co.) were shrouded in fog today peventing me from doing any seawatching but by evening the visibility was improved off Amagansett, about 15 miles further east. During the hour before dusk (6:00-7:00 pm) offshore movement was slow but the diversity reasonable. Northern Gannet - 28 D.c. Cormorant - 4 Common Loon - 2 MANX SHEARWATER - 2 (both zooming west) WILSON'S STORM-PETREL - 44 ++ PARASITIC JAEGER - 1 subad. Laughing Gull - 4 subads. BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN -1 (leapt clear of the water a couple of times showing a nice pink belly) The jaeger set up shop on the ocean to the west of me and every 20 mins or so would lift off the water and go after a Common Tern, successfully on each occasion. The count of WILSON'S STORM-PETREL was very good for this location and likely a significant under-estimate of the real number. Storm-petrels were strung out all along the horizon and seemed to steadily working eastward. Considering the momentus arrival of the 'summer shearwaters' into the regions earlier in the week, I was suprised to see so many storm-petrels and yet log no Cory's or Great Shearwaters. Water temperature might be a factor in this, being a few degrees cooler around the eastern tip of the island compared to spots further west. Cheers, Angus Wilson http://birdingtotheend.blogspot.com/ Angus WilsonNew York City/Springshttp://www.oceanwanderers.com _________________________________________________________________ Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail®. http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_QuickAdd_062009 -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: [out of state] Roseate Spoonbill movement, etc. From: Tom Fiore <tomfi2 AT earthlink.net> Date: Sat, 20 Jun 2009 15:55:51 -0400 Although not in NY, at least one Roseate Spoonbill was reported in Ontario Canada quite recently. The report had this bird just north of Kingston ON, which means it was not far at all from the area around Watertown, NY. That bird was reported a bit belatedly from last Saturday, 6/13 and apparently not seen there the following day. Don't assume a spoonbill in NY state is escaped from a zoo! Other Roseate Spoonbills far out of their typical deep-southern range are located in Indiana & in Virginia, the latter up in the Blue Ridge area (not near the coastal plain). While we've been mostly flooded, some areas in the south have had serious drought, with water birds moving out to survive - there are reports of many of both whistling- duck species moving out, & of Black-necked Stilts - some of these turning up north of any usual areas. Also of interest, a Painted Bunting (male) was just reported today, at Mystic, Connecticut (which is along Long Island Sound). Well northeast of us, a so-far tentative (as to species) report of an albatross off the Newfoundland coast... a possibility, with tremendous luck, in New York's Atlantic waters. Far to our west, a Tropical Kingbird was found in south-central Illinois, a first state record if accepted (it was positively identified). Seabirds and many other birds continue to move, in June! Good birding, Tom Fiore, Manhattan _________ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: NYC Area RBA: 19 June 2009 From: Ben Cacace <bcacace AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 19 Jun 2009 23:27:06 -0400 - RBA * New York * New York City, Long Island, Westchester County * Jun. 19, 2009 * NYNY0906.19 - Birds mentioned ARCTIC TERN+ White-winged Scoter Long-tailed Duck Northern Bobwhite Cory's Shearwater Greater Shearwater Sooty Shearwater MANX SHEARWATER Wilson's Storm-Petrel Northern Gannet BROWN PELICAN Black Vulture Northern Goshawk Red-shouldered Hawk Common Moorhen Willet Red Knot Sanderling White-rumped Sandpiper Gull-billed Tern Black Tern Roseate Tern Forster's Tern Parasitic Jaeger Black-billed Cuckoo Barred Owl Acadian Flycatcher Alder Flycatcher Scissor-tailed Flycatcher+ (not seen on Staten Island) Common Raven Blackpoll Warbler Hooded Warbler Canada Warbler BLUE GROSBEAK Purple Finch Pine Siskin - Transcript 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 nysarc3 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 Hotline: New York City Area Rare Bird Alert Number: (212) 979-3070 To report sightings call: Tom Burke (212) 372-1483 (weekdays, during the day) Tony Lauro at (631) 734-4126 (Long Island) Compiler: Tom Burke, Tony Lauro Coverage: New York City, Long Island, Westchester County Transcriber: Ben Cacace BEGIN TAPE Greetings. This is the New York Rare Bird Alert for Friday, June 19th 2009 at 10pm. The highlights of today's tape are BROWN PELICAN, ARCTIC TERN, various pelagics including MANX SHEARWATER, BLUE GROSBEAK and summer count results. Most of this week's highlights are pelagics especially since last Friday's SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER was not seen over the weekend on Staten Island. What was probably the same BROWN PELICAN was first spotted last Saturday around 3pm moving east past the town of Montauk and then later at about 7:30pm it cruised around Great Gull Island where it received an unfriendly welcome from the resident terns. The miserable weather engulfing our area has at least produced an ornithological benefit offshore. Beginning Thursday the southeast winds brought an excellent number of shearwaters to Long Island's south shore. At Robert Moses State Park on Fire Island on Thursday in the evening a watch off field 2 estimated 100s of CORY'S SHEARWATERS these joined by 17 GREATER SHEARWATERS and single MANX and SOOTY SHEARWATERS along with 33 WILSON'S STORM-PETRELS and a PARASITIC JAEGER. Similar numbers of CORY'S and large numbers of WILSON'S STORM-PETRELS and another PARASITIC JAEGER also occurred off Shinnecock Inlet. A continuation of the watch off Robert Moses State Park field 2 this morning produced about 60 CORY'S, 12 GREATER, 20 SOOTY and 5 MANX SHEARWATERS. About 115 WILSON'S STORM-PETRELS including some lingering offshore, 1 PARASITIC JAEGER and decent numbers of NORTHERN GANNETS. This afternoon a walk out to Democrat Point at the western tip of Fire Island uncovered a near adult ARCTIC TERN sitting in with other terns there. Also at field 2 were a BLACK TERN and a calling NORTHERN BOBWHITE. A PARASITIC JAEGER had also appeared off Moses earlier in the week on Tuesday. Last Saturday a second year ARCTIC TERN was found on the flats in Cupsogue County Park in Westhampton Dunes. These productive flats are on the north of the large Cupsogue parking lot and are best worked on the rising tide. Last Friday off Montauk Point there was another PARASITIC JAEGER, WILSON'S STORM-PETRELS, good numbers of ROSEATE TERNS and a possible ARCTIC TERN. A female BLUE GROSBEAK was found at Alley Pond Park in Queens back on the 9th and another continues along the DEC bike path off Route 51 southwest of Riverhead and just east of Route 111. NORTHERN BOBWHITE have also been calling at Route 51 and at several other locations recently. Among the birds at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge last weekend were a GULL-BILLED TERN around the West Pond, COMMON MOORHEN on the East Pond and a BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO in the north garden. The Greenwich/Stamford Summer Bird Count held last weekend recorded 141 species. Highlights included 5 WHITE-WINGED SCOTER, 3 LONG-TAILED DUCK, BLACK VULTURE, NORTHERN GOSHAWK, several RED-SHOULDERED HAWKS, WILLET, RED KNOT, SANDERLING, WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER, FORSTER'S TERN, 8 BARRED OWLS, ACADIAN FLYCATCHER, ALDER FLYCATCHER, 7 COMMON RAVENS, 15 species of warblers including BLACKPOLL WARBLER, HOODED WARBLER and CANADA WARBLER, PURPLE FINCH and 17 PINE SISKINS. To phone in reports on Long Island, call Tony Lauro at (631) 734-4126, or weekdays call Tom Burke at (212) 372-1483. This service is sponsored by the Linnaean Society of New York and the National Audubon Society. - End transcript -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Arctic Tern at Democrat Pt, Suffolk County, LI From: "Shaibal Mitra" <mitra AT mail.csi.cuny.edu> Date: Sat, 20 Jun 2009 03:03:13 GMT This evening there was a near-adult Arctic Tern on the spit at Democrat Pt, the western tip of Fire Island. It was with just a dozen Common Terns (two second-summer) and four Roseate Terns. I had hiked out to the inlet hoping that some of the tubenoses present recently might approach closer to shore there. In this regard, I was disappointed, with small numbers of Wilson's Storm-Petrels and Cory's Shearwaters offering views similar to those more easily obtained from Parking Field 2--but the tern was a very pleasant consolation. Photos of this bird, and of a second-summer Arctic Tern from Cupsogue last Saturday, can be viewed at: http://picasaweb.google.com/tixbirdz/Various2009# Shai Mitra Bay Shore -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Pine Siskin in Dutchess County From: susan joseph <susan.joseph.birder AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 19 Jun 2009 17:46:57 -0400 Today, Friday June 19th at about 3:00PM a Pine Siskin landed on the thistle feeder at my feeding station at the Netherwood Elementary School in Hyde Park. The bird flew off but returned to the feeder several times, once even getting into a little dust-up with a male goldfinch.The siskin was still there at the close of the day around 3:30. Pine Siskins were plentiful at my feeding station all winter and were still being seen into the third week of April but I haven't seen one since then. For anyone interested in seeing the bird, the Netherwood School is at 648 Netherwood Rd. in Hyde Park. Netherwood Road is a continuation of Crum Elbow Road, which originates on Route 9 in the village of Hyde Park. Crum Elbow travels in a westerly direction. After passing the Victory Lake Nursing Home and going through the traffic light, the school's sign is clearly visible on the right. The school itself cannot be seen from the road. The feeding station is in the courtyard, which is around the back between the two south-facing wings of the building. Coming from the Taconic, Netherwood Road (County Route 41) can be reached by taking the exit for Salt Point and heading towards Poughkeepsie on Salt Point Turnpike. Look for the county route sign(Route 41) and turn right on to Netherwood Road. After passing Drake Lake and Marshall Road, Netherwood is on your left. There isn't a sign so look for the yellow school warning sign. Susan Joseph Rhinebeck, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Fw: Red-headed Woodpeckers nesting in Manorville, Suffolk Co. From: "ROBERT ADAMO" <radamo2 AT msn.com> Date: Fri, 19 Jun 2009 12:57:35 -0400 ----- Original Message ----- From: ROBERT ADAMO To: Radamo2 Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 12:54 PM Subject: Fw: Red-headed Woodpeckers nesting in Manorville, Suffolk Co. ----- Original Message ----- From: ROBERT ADAMO To: NY BIRDS Sent: Thursday, June 18, 2009 11:52 PM Subject: Red-headed Woodpeckers nesting in Manorville, Suffolk Co. On Wednesday, 6/17, I found myself with a few hours to kill, before having blood work done at 0900, in preparation for my yearly physical on Friday, 6/19. Upon rising at 0600, I thought it best to leave the house and temptation (read food) to do all I could in bringing about a successful "fasting". What better way, than to look for the previously reported R-h W's in Manorville, which I hadn't caught up to yet, this year. While waiting for the birds to appear, I was treated to my FOS Willow Flycatcher. Shortly afterward, the 2 adult woodpeckers started to hunt for food, and boy did they stay busy! I watched them for about 20 minutes, and during that time, both birds never stopped bringing food to the nest hole, diving completely into the hole, staying no longer than 5 seconds, before turning themselves completely around and leaving on another foray. Exhausting for them...maybe? Exhilarating for me...definitely! -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: 6/19 Riis Park- Storm-Petrels & Sooty Shearwater From: fresha2411 AT aol.com Date: Fri, 19 Jun 2009 12:48:19 -0400 I did a lengthy seawatch this morning from Jacob Riis Park in Queens. While I didn't there wasn't any movement of seabirds to speak of most of the time, there was a ~30 minute window where there was some activity. I think this window coincided with the time the (light) wind was shifting around from SE to NW. At 6:59 AM, as I was coming back from the water fountain after leaving my scope briefly, I saw my first (and only identified) Shearwater through binoculars. It looked too small and dark for the expected Cory's, and when I scrambled back to my scope for more magnified views it turned out to be a rather unexpected SOOTY SHEARWATER working its way East about 300 or so yards offshore. Later on I had an extremely brief look at a very distant unidentified Shearwater (non-Sooty). Just after 7:20 AM I found a WILSON'S STORM-PETREL feeding only a couple of hundred yards out in the water, and a few minutes later there were 3 additional Wilson's Storm-Petrels feeding at about the same distance. In between these two observations my time was taken up observing a rather perplexing seabird. At first I assumed it was another Wilson's, but as it moved East it seemed to be flying a more like a Shearwater (arcing up and down staying low to the water, seemed to have a more attenuated shape (both the wings and body) than a Storm-Petrel) and try as I might I couldn't see any white on the rump despite the fact that I was looking specifically for that. I briefly wondered if it could be a Shearwater but it was too small for any of ours and appeared all dark (no lighter areas even on the undersides of the wings). I passed it off as a Wilson's and chalked the unfamiliarity up to my rustiness with regards to seabirds, but now I'm not so sure. I don't know much about the ! range of variation in Storm-Petrel plumages this time of year, and I have no experience with Leach's Storm-Petrel, which would certainly be very unexpected this close to shore without any extremely strong east winds or a storm. Maybe someone can shed light on their occurence (or lack thereof) this close to shore or at this time of year. If anyone has any other ideas about what it might have been I would appreciate that input as well. Also of interest was one adult (or very near adult) Northern Gannet photographed poorly, and a continuing male BLACK SCOTER in the water just off the jetties. I only saw about 12 Gannets total during my time there. By the time I left there was a large mixed feeding flock of Gulls (moslty Laughing) and Terns (mostly Common) not too far offshore, but apparently lacking a Jaeger at that point in time. Good Birding -Doug Gochfeld. Brooklyn, NY. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Re: Friday Morning Sea Watch at Robert Moses State Park (Suffolk Co.) From: "Shaibal Mitra" <mitra AT mail.csi.cuny.edu> Date: Fri, 19 Jun 2009 16:34:39 GMT Like Ken, I was at Robert Moses SP this morning, from 5:45-10:45, joined by Pat Lindsay around 7:00, Tom Burke around 7:30, and Sy Schiff, Sam Jannazzo, and Joe Giunta around 9:30. We didn't see Ken, but my notes for the hour he was there were pretty similar to his. Logging five hours has its rewards, as the flight waxed and waned several times throughout the morning. 58 Cory's Shearwater 10 Greater Shearwater 15 Cory's/Greater Shearwater 4 Manx Shearwater (including 2 by Tom, just after I left) 19 Sooty Shearwater 113 Wilson's Storm Petrel 89 Northern Gannet 4 Common Loon 1 Black Scoter 1 Parasitic Jaeger 1 Black Tern Tom added another Manx, and several each of Sooty, Cory's, Greater, and Cory's/Greater through 11:45. The Northern Bobwhite was calling frequently throughout the morning, from various places around the Field 2 area. Shai Mitra Bay Shore -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Friday Morning Sea Watch at Robert Moses State Park (Suffolk Co.) From: Ken Feustel <feustel AT optonline.net> Date: Fri, 19 Jun 2009 09:56:12 -0400 Taking advantage of the recent influx of seabirds to LI's south shore, I conducted a sea watch from RMSP Field 2 from 7:15AM to 8:15AM. On a northwest wind, shearwater numbers were nothing like what Shai Mitra and Pat Lindsay observed yesterday evening, but Wilson's Storm Petrel numbers were impressive, with two flocks of approximately ten birds observed feeding about three hundred yards offshore. Greater Shearwater - 4 Cory's Shearwater - 2 Manx Shearwater - 1 Wilson's Storm Petrel - 62 Northern Gannet - 24 Common Loon - 1 Black Scoter - 1 Ken Feustel -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Major Seabird Flight on Long Island From: "Shaibal Mitra" <mitra AT mail.csi.cuny.edu> Date: Fri, 19 Jun 2009 01:26:05 GMT Bobby Kurtz saw the season's first Cory's Shearwaters while fishing off of Fire Island Inlet, Suffolk County, yesterday (17 Jun 09), followed by more this morning from shore, seen by Ken Feustel. Based on these reports, I expected to see some shearwaters when I visited Robert Moses SP this evening, but I was not prepared for the spectacle that ensued. Between 17:50 and 19:45 (joined by Pat Lindsay after 19:10), the following seabirds were observed: 300+ Cory's Shearwaters 17+ Greater Shearwaters 2 Manx Shearwaters (together around 18:00) 1 Sooty Shearwater (19:15) 33 Wilson's Storm-Petrels 80 Northern Gannets (all immature) 1 Surf Scoter (adult male) 1 Parasitic Jaeger (light morph, adult-like, 19:25) I conducted eleven one minute fixed counts, with the scope aimed straight out and not moved, during which the passage of the large shearwaters averaged 7.4/minute from 18:00-19:00 and 5.7/minute from 19:00-19:30. We saw about ten more Cory's and two more Greaters, including several that alighted on the water as I watched, as the light faded from 19:30-19:45. Based on these data, I think that roughly 600 shearwaters passed during the interval I was there, of which 95% were Cory's. It's possible though, that I unconsciously started my one-minute counts during bouts of heavier passage, so the tally noted above is based on my impression of how many Cory's I saw reasonably well. Andy Baldelli called in while I was watching this scene, and reported the following from Shinnecock Inlet and Tiana Beach: 100+ Cory's Shearwaters 100+ Wilson's Storm-Petrels (streaming by close to the beach, with fog, at Tiana) 1 Parasitic Jaeger Another unexpected bird at RMSP was a male Northern Bobwhite near the four-wheel-drive access. I've puzzled over this species' status on Fire Island for many years, and will add that this observation comes in the context of a spate of others this week on Long Island: Fort Tilden, Queens; Heckscher SP, Suffolk; and Eastport, Suffolk. Shai Mitra, Bay Shore -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- Subject: Correction to Recent RMSP Sea Watch Post From: Ken Feustel <feustel AT optonline.net> Date: Thu, 18 Jun 2009 10:50:09 -0400 The correct spelling in my post should be Cory's Shearwater. Apologies to all - Ken Feustel -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES Temporary archive: http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --