Palm Warbler
It is getting late for warblers in many areas of the Northeast with the exception of a few like the Yellow-rumped Warbler, an uncommon Orange-crowned Warbler, or a late and lingering Palm Warbler (Setophaga palmarum) like this one. Occasionally I have seen them into December in warm and productive feeding areas if there is not too much happening in the way of frigid air or snow. I hope to find one like that this year as an always welcome little yellow sight in an increasingly brown landscape. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreCommon Loons
Goodbye, October, and welcome to the last month of meteorological autumn. As the fall foliage finally fades into the background we welcome the waterfowl returning to our region. Common Loons (Gavia immer) are losing their brilliant breeding plumage and you will soon be able to find them at many locations along the coast, at inland lakes and reservoirs, swimming, preening and diving for food. Watch for them on Chautauqua Lake, a place that I have seen plenty. These are sizable and stout birds with dagger-like bills – ones you would not want to mess around with! November is a time to...
Read MoreNeon Glow
These leaves have a neon glow! Taken before the rain and wind of the last couple of days eliminated a lot of our fall foliage until 2016, the trees have been hauntingly beautiful as we approach Halloween. What a fiery feel to the landscape. Please remember that if you can leave the leaves where they fall it is better in all regards. It will save you time, possibly money and perhaps a sore back. It will help the environment locally and globally, saving unnecessary pollution (leaf blowers to trucks hauling them away) and making your yard look all the better as a natural fertilizer. Yes, it may...
Read MoreSwamp Sparrow
Swamp Sparrows can sometimes be difficult to photograph, but no one told this bird that it was not supposed to be captured this way! Those brush piles can be very productive at this time of year. Make sure to have one or two in your yard this winter, especially if you have bird feeders nearby. They provide cover and a great photographic opportunity.
Read MoreYellow-rumped Warbler
This Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata) was sitting in the shade while feeding and soaking in the shades of this stunning fall foliage. The sunlight left a vibrant glow of leaves on the bird’s feathers showing us the definition of autumn beauty.
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