American Tree Sparrow
Here’s a look at a little bit of lingering green, thanks to some holly trees, with a lovely American Tree Sparrow (Spizelloides arborea). This cute bird is one of many on the move to the south right now. We are far enough into the season that these winter residents, along with species like the White-throated Sparrow and Dark-eyed Junco, are beginning to fill up our yards. Be careful not to confuse their rufous caps with the similar Chipping Sparrow. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreBirds; Eloquent Expressions of Life
Roger Tory Peterson once said; “Birds are eloquent expressions of life and vitality, and watching them makes you a bit more alive….” Judging by his remarkable artistic renditions of a multitude of avian species, artist Neil Rizos would wholeheartedly agree with this statement. The Canada Goose shown here – created with mixed media – is one of many beautiful pieces in RTPI’s current exhibition, “Neil Rizos; the Art of Exploration”. Don’t miss your chance to view this outstanding show while it’s here this fall. For more about the artist and his work, visit...
Read MoreBaltimore Oriole
They may be gone from our yards for the winter but I thought that as we near Halloween it was very appropriate to post this male Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula). I enjoyed watching it feeding in an oak tree this past spring on a cool, cloudy and windy day. Do you ever have any luck getting them to come down to eye level at your feeders? I certainly do not, and this bird hopping down to the lower branches of the tree for a minute was a real treat. I hear them every day all summer long but rarely get the chance to see a glow like this one up close. RTPI’s work around the world helps...
Read MoreSwimming Sparrow
Sparrow diversity will be increasing by the day as we move through October and the temperature finally drops. You can expect to see more familiar faces soon after cold fronts bring cooperative winds. In the mean time we have plenty of the more abundant birds like this Savannah Sparrow utilizing the grasslands, feed plots, gardens, dirt patches, rocks, and waterways of Chautauqua County. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreBonding while Bird-Banding
Artist Neil Rizos, shown here with RTPI President Twan Leenders, enjoyed participating in bird banding efforts at RTPI during his stay in Jamestown. Although Neil is no longer in our area, his art is still here! RTPI’s current exhibition, ‘Neil Rizos: the Art of Exploration’, showcases Rizos’ artistic talent and reflects his keen perception of the living world through a myriad of media. Have you been in to experience his amazing work yet? Don’t miss the chance to see Rizos’ art on view through January 7th.
Read More
