Neil Rizos: The Art of Exploration
Our current exhibition, Neil Rizos: The Art of Exploration, Showcases Rizos’ creative talent and his love for birds. The artwork included in this exhibit, on view through January 7th, is available for purchase. Preview the pieces and view prices here: http://www.rizosart.com/peterson-institute.html. Be sure to come in to see this outstanding show while it’s still here!
Read MoreSaw-whet Owl Banding
Last night RTPI’s Elyse Henshaw joined US Forest Service researchers in their attempts to capture and band migrating Northern Saw-whet owls. Throughout the evening the researchers captured four birds in their mist nets, and subsequently collected data on each individual including physical measurements, age, sex and overall health. Each owl was then outfitted with a uniquely numbered leg band and then released back into the night. If and when these birds are captured again, the data collected contribute to better a better understanding of the movements and ecology of these charismatic little...
Read MoreCorvids in Autumn
This painting by Roger Tory Peterson depicts several corvid species. While you’re not likely to see Gray Jays (Perisoreus canadensis) in the Northeastern United States, Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata), American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and Common Ravens (Corvus corax) can all be found here. Peterson created this image for the 1951 book “Birds of Newfoundland”, by Harold S. Peters and Thomas D. Burleigh of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Peters and Burleigh were commissioned by the Newfoundland government to write the book to be used as a reference in schools, as well as for...
Read MoreYellow-rumped Warblers Feeding
I always feel that as we enter November we shift from one phase of avian life to the next. Songbird migrants are now decreasing rapidly in both abundance and diversity. More waterfowl are beginning to arrive on our shores. Our wintering species start to show up frequently at our feeders. Birds also shift from eating insects to dining on this season’s harvest, as is the case with the Yellow-rumped Warblers (Setophaga coronata) here. Junipers, cedars, holly trees and many more all provide delicious berries that were the treats for these Halloween birds. I did not even notice I had...
Read MoreOctober Merlin
October is a terrific month to spot some falcons flying by in migration, and like with our winter friends the Snowy Owls, sometimes a pole is the best place to look! If you’re lucky enough you might be able to get an American Kestrel, a Peregrine Falcon, and a Merlin like this all on one day. I would suggest waiting and watching because seeing them soar back into the sky is worth it. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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