Grassland Migrants
Yesterday I was able to enjoy and photograph a couple of uncommon grassland birds for us in the Northeast – the Dickcissel (Spiza americana) and the Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum). Both of these species had been spotted at Stratford Point where they are almost annual visitors, with Dickcissels typically stopping over in the fall and Grasshopper Sparrows being seen sometimes in both spring and autumn. I decided to take a walk around the site with my friend and great birder Tom Murray as we were giving the sparrows some space in hopes the unseen Grasshopper would pop back...
Read MoreCanada Warbler (Cardellina canadensis)
Today was a welcome break for field work on an idyllic May spring day. With sunshine and perfect temperatures plus a light wind it was as wonderful for all of our migrant birds as us. I was watching the radar last night and noted a strong migration occurring with birds leaving and entering the region. I also knew that the weekend was going to end up showery and cloudy, and I decided to swap my Friday and Saturday work plans. This Canada Warbler (Cardellina canadensis) was a very cooperative fella, allowing me to upgrade my photos of the species from earlier this week. I actually did not have...
Read MoreCanada Warbler
It was a strong morning for migration in my neighborhood with oak trees holding Bay-breasted Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, and my first of year Blackpoll Warbler among good numbers of the regulars. For the most part birds were high and far in the tops of the trees, but this Canada Warbler (Cardellina canadensis) was a little more cooperative highlight. For a bird I am happy to see one or two of each spring…I will take it! Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreBlack-and-white Warbler
I finally took some good photos of Black-and-white Warblers (Mniotilta varia) over the last few days as the species is peaking as a migrant in the Northeast. These stunning little birds never stop moving…and they move like a nuthatch, creeping and crawling along branches, vines and tree trunks for various insects and spiders. This nonstop motion makes them a difficult clean capture as their photos often end up a little blurry. At least this guy – while still not paying me any attention – paused for a moment or two while searching for prey on Sunday morning. I found an even...
Read MoreWall of Rainforest
Here’s an early morning look into the entrance of Rara Avis Preserve, what photographer RTPI Affiliate Sean Graesser always calls a breathtaking gaze at the entrance to a wall of rainforest. It is especially beautiful to look at on a cool, wet and cloudy March day.
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