First Species of 2015
What was your first bird of 2015? The Blue Jay was my #1 New Year species. It is definitely a repeat winner given that their screaming and screeching calls can be heard indoors with the windows closed – I did not even have to get out of bed! Thanks for all too typical “alarm”, guys and gals! Are you planning on a “Big January” to see how many species you can find? If you have yet to decide on a birding game plan for 2015 I would definitely recommend trying a geographical challenge and largely restricting yourself to birding in your own town or city. You will end...
Read MoreHeavy and low avian migration in Jamestown
This past Wednesday, October 15, I was outside in downtown Jamestown, New York, for much of the night. An area of low pressure had moved by earlier in the day and precipitation had cleared. Clouds were thinning and moving east. There are plenty of unnatural noises to hear on a typical night in the City of Jamestown – music, people shouting, vehicles and often large trucks passing by. There was also an incessant yet subtle chorus of noises coming from the low levels of the sky in the form of avian flight calls! Birds were moving south and in strong numbers with almost endless peeps and...
Read MoreBlue-gray Gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea) by Scott Kruitbosch
Hello again, winter! This brutal snap back to frozen precipitation and frigid air is difficult on birds like this Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea). Their wheezing call is a big sign of spring to me but today…I wish them and other insect-eating birds not accustomed to this all the luck in the world.
Read MoreAmerican Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus) by Scott Kruitbosch
The American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus) is the most vibrant and unmistakable shorebird along the Gulf and Atlantic Coasts. Their loud and almost rattling “wheep” calls are filling the air of beaches and offshore islands as territories are established. Many people say they resemble clowns – what do you think?
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