Pine Warbler
Here is a Pine Warbler (Setophaga pinus) that I enjoying finding last weekend during less than optimal migratory conditions on one of those autumn days that feels like the definition of the seasonal transition. And would you look at that, what is it foraging in? Why a White Pine tree, naturally. They are also one of the first warblers to return in the spring when March is finally beginning to break winter’s hold on the Northeast. Pines are a bright little beacon of spring’s light coming in or summer’s glow heading out. We only have a few more weeks to enjoy a variety of...
Read MoreEarly Palm Warblers
If I had to pick out one theme of the overall autumn songbird migration thus far it would have to be how oddly scheduled our birds have been. Are they checking their calendars correctly? Different parts of the region are having often different sightings, possibly based on local conditions including drought and more than double the anticipated amount of rain in some areas, of birds that “should” or “should not” be seen. Lincoln’s Sparrows, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, and birds like these Palm Warblers (Setophaga palmarum) are October species to me with that being the...
Read MorePine Warbler
Spring Pine Warblers males are stunning little beacons of light on bright mornings, especially when in a pine tree! Have you seen or heard any yet this April? The warblers are coming…
Read MoreField Sparrow
This Field Sparrow (Spizella pusilla) actually flew directly towards me and my dog to perch on this white pine branch this morning. It looked us over for a minute and then went back to snacking. It is another great example of a lovely bird that we can still find even in the..uh, cold days of November? It is November, and apart from the low sun angle and early sunset it felt like it could have been late August out there today. This will undoubtedly keep birds with us a little longer with easier to survive temperatures, poor migratory conditions because of the southerly flow, and prolonged...
Read MoreBlue Grosbeak
Here is a lovely fall Blue Grosbeak (Passerina caerulea) from a little while ago at Stratford Point. Check out that massive bill! It popped up for me from among a flock of Song, Swamp and White-throated Sparrows, likely helped in making its way here by all those westerly winds. Many uncommon birds like this one and some rarities are probably out there right now waiting to be found… Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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