Red-eyed Tree Frog (Agalychnis callidryas) hanging out
The Red-eyed Tree Frog (Agalychnis callidryas) is what RTPI Affiliate Sean Graesser calls the “unofficial national mascot” of Costa Rica. These photos of an individual that spent a bit of time hanging out before returning to its breeding pool shows you why they have attained such legendary underground status. Stunning. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreHead-turning Tufted Titmouse
This Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) is a real head-turner! Yes, I will be here all week, every week…but did you know these gals and guys are still expanding their range northward? Back in my grandfather’s (and Roger Tory Peterson’s) day in they were very rare in New York and New England. In the middle of the last century they started a massive surge to the north likely thanks to climate change, the spread of feeding stations, and changing habitats as the suburban and developed landscape opened up for their arrival. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach...
Read MoreWintering American Kestrels
One species you may spot even if you strike out on finding a Snowy Owl is the American Kestrel, a bird of open fields and grasslands that will favor much of the same inland habitats. Like other falcons (and the Snowy Owls, again) you can also spot it while at the shore, feeding on rodents or avian migrants. They are small, fast raptors, usually wary of humans. If you spot a Kestrel while driving a quiet road like this one and do not get out of your vehicle you may be able to get a nice look before it dashes off after a small bird or mammal.
Read MoreAutumn Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus)
This beautiful Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus) posed wonderfully for me in the shade earlier today, taking a quick break from foraging in mounds of leaf litter. They are a shy species that can be found on the edges of forests and woodlands, even your yard, if there is enough space and habitat for them to find insects. As we near the winter their diet is going to shift to include various berries. I was surprised to find several of them this weekend, possibly having moved south and been more boldly active given all of the cold temperatures lately. They will enjoy this warm-up making bug...
Read MoreRed-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus)
This Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) has been hanging out with RTPI Affiliate Sean Graesser at Audubon Greenwich recently. Many more have been passing through as their migration has peaked in early November. There is still plenty of action in the sky even at this late autumn date.
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