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 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 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
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
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