HNY! BBC walk results; Prospect reports

The Kingsboider wishes all a Happy New Year and all the good things in 2012 ( thats birds too).

Leading : Peter Dorosh

12 trip participants

First a Happy New Year from the Brooklyn Bird Club ! Good birds be your fortune in 2012

A terrific start for the Brooklyn Bird Club New Year's Day traditional walk in Prospect Park of recent years with several quality birds seen today. Most notably was GREEN HERON,a juvenile that was seen on the Brooklyn CBC, continuing its spotty showing till today, but in the same exact location in Phragmites reeds recess along south Breeze Hill shores.

Then there are the long time reliable warblers that delighted birders of late fall: BLACK&WHITE WARBLER , and ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER. The B&W is sticking to same particular area, the south side of the Nethermead Bridge, either side of the watercourse. Several of my walk's birders and me saw it (looking south) on the left slope of the bridge from the bridge top. The ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER was seen at Lamppost #249, by the Well Dr picnic tables where after a brief perch on a small tree, it flew across to the tall pine on the other side of the drive, feeding from the top downward.

Peter
BBC

Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY
Jan 1, 2012 9:00 AM - 1:15 PM
Protocol: Traveling
4.0 mile(s)
37 species

Canada Goose X
Mute Swan X
American Black Duck 1
Mallard X
Ruddy Duck X
Pied-billed Grebe 3
Green Heron 1 juvenile south Breeze Hill shoreline
Cooper's Hawk 1
Red-tailed Hawk 2
Merlin 1
Peregrine Falcon 1
American Coot 7
Ring-billed Gull X
Herring Gull X
Rock Pigeon X
Mourning Dove X
Belted Kingfisher 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 1
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 2
Downy Woodpecker 1
Blue Jay X
Black-capped Chickadee 3
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
Brown Creeper 1
Carolina Wren 2
Winter Wren 1
Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1
European Starling X
Black-and-white Warbler 1
Orange-crowned Warbler 1
Song Sparrow 6
White-throated Sparrow 15
Northern Cardinal 2
House Finch X
American Goldfinch X
House Sparrow X

This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)

Other reports

From Rafael Campos:

As the hours are telling us that 2011 is almost over, and weather is still nice around NYC, I did my last walk around Prospect Park.


The temperatures for today, the last day of 2011 are very unusual: 12°C/54°F. And so the bird species I saw today.


First, around Lamppost # 249, I saw 1 Winter Wren, followed seconds later by 1 Brown Thrasher, and 1 Gray Catbird.


I was told by Elise, about Black-and-white & Orange-crowned Warblers around the Nethermead Arch. I saw only the Black-and-white, missed the OCWA (Ed Crowne told about 1 around the Maryland Monument. Perhaps there are 2 individuals??).


Other sps were: Hooded Merganser, Pied-billed Grebe; 3 sps of Gulls; 3 sps of Woodpeckers; Brown Creeper; Hermit Thrush, Great Blue Heron, Carolina Wreen. In total I saw 36 sps of birds on my last walk of the year 2011 at PP.


Brooklyn is great birding: Rafa Campos R.


Prospect Park, Brooklyn, Kings, US-NY
Dec 31, 2011 8:45 AM - 12:15 PM
Protocol: Traveling
3.0 kilometer(s)
Comments: Last walk at Prospect Park, Brooklyn for the year 2011. Nice weather, and no snow on the ground, yet.
36 species

Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) X
Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) X
Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) X
Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata) X
Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) 3
Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) X
Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) 3
Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) 1
American Coot (Fulica americana) X
Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) X
Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) X
Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus) 1
Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) X
Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) X
Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) 2
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius) 1
Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) 3
Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) X
Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) 4
Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) 2
White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) 1
Brown Creeper (Certhia americana) 1
Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) 1
Winter Wren (Troglodytes hiemalis) 1
Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus) 1
American Robin (Turdus migratorius) X
Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) 1
Brown Thrasher (Toxostoma rufum) 1 1 individual, observed by lampost # 249. Adult.
European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) X
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) 1 Perhaps a FY, seen around Nethermead Arch.x
Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) X
White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) X
Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) X
House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus) X
House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) X

Brooklyn is great birding: Rafa Campos R.

Cell Phone Trouble

This is a note to tell you that my cell phone went KA-put....(and its not the battery)

So, if you send me a text message..like Brooklynites say "Fuhgettaboouuiit!". And I cannot send out any alerts.

Hopefully by early next week, i will get a new Cell Phone...and reconstruct the address book and so on will be a labor... :(

--Kingsboider

2 New Year's Day walk; OCWA + feederwatch

Two scheduled walks are holiday treats this coming Sunday New Years Day. One is the Brooklyn Bird Club walk and the other is the First Sunday Walk from the Audubon Boathouse Center at 10 am.

See http://www.brooklynbirdclub.org/trips.htm for details on the BBC walk and see below info from Michele Dreger on 1st Sunday

I have been informed that the NY Times was going to cover the 1st Sunday Walk. If you are lucky, you might be photo...

From Michele Dreger :

Happy New Year everyone!
We have Paul Keim leading the tour this weekend. It starts at 10am at the Boathouse. Bring your own binoculars and have a great time...
Many of you know Paul and for those of you that don't, you are in for a real treat. His knowledge of the park, the flora and fauna will make this a very special walk.
If you can't make it, I hope to see you in February.. that walk will be at 10am also.


Michele, Eni and Vinnie

Today's Highlight was a very good bird still in thru the Holidays , an ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER reported by Mary Eyster along the narrow winding path that goes from the East Drive down to the Boathouse. The rare warbler was seen in a pine, then flew downward.


Feederwatch : late this afternoon 17 Whitethroated Sparrows,2 White-breasted Nuthatches, 3 Downy Woodpeckers, several House finches, Mourning Dove, BC Chickadee , Cardinal and a bright reddish brown with buffy breast CAROLINA WREN seen on the ground below the feeders.

Squirrel raids upon the feeders have become more bold ,these desperate creatures aggressive now due to an acorn crop crash this year. I presumed that they are flying down from a high distant tree perch, slamming unto the baffle but succeeding in knocking 2 feeders hard off the hook perch. Are they Nuts ? :)> I remedied it today with electrical type tape around the hook and loop. Can't stop them ( but I won't join them !).Bah humbug.... Seems like they are giving themselves a gift ...at our expense

Orange crnwd warble @ Boathousepath pines to East Dr per mary

Prospect December 28th

From Adam :

Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY
Dec 28, 2011 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Protocol: Traveling
2.0 kilometer(s)
Comments: cold, windy, few birds, many common species not seen. Very few gulls on Prospect Lake.
17 species (+1 other taxa)

Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) X
Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) X
American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) 1
American Black Duck x Mallard (hybrid) (Anas rubripes x platyrhynchos) 1
Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) X
Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) 4
Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) 8
Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) 1
Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) 2
American Coot (Fulica americana) 15
Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) 5
Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) 5
Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) 2
White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) 1
White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) 8
Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) 2
Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) 1 at feeder. Not the same bird as yesterday.
House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) X

This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)

Reports received while I was away for the holiday

From Adam:

Hi Peter


Went for a walk with my wife around the Lake area, not birding too hard as we were trying out a new camera. Nothing surprising, but was nice to see a group of 3 Pied-billed Grebe diving together and 2 pairs Hooded Merganser. Hairy Woodpecker very active in feeder area.
Cheers!

Adam

---------- Forwarded message ----------

From:

Date: Sun, Dec 25, 2011 at 8:29 PM

Subject: eBird Report - Prospect Park, Dec 25, 2011

To: adamwelz@xxxxx.com



Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY

Dec 25, 2011 2:45 PM - 4:15 PM

Protocol: Traveling

2.0 mile(s)

Comments: was not birding for full duration -- spent a lot of time photographing other things! slightly overcast, not very windy

25 species



Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) X maybe 20?

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) X

American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) 1

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) X many

Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata) 1 Prospect Lake

Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) 4 near Duck Island, Prospect Lake

Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) X

Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) 4 One group of 3, other alone, Prospect Lake

American Coot (Fulica americana) 10

Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) X

Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) X

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus) 1

Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) 2

Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) 1

Hairy Woodpecker (Picoides villosus) 2

Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) 8

Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) 2

White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) 1

American Robin (Turdus migratorius) 1

European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) 8

Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) 2

White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) 7

Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) 3

House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus) 2

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) X



This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)

Had a late, quick stroll around Prospect this afternoon. Red-winged Blackbird was interesting because I've seen so few around in recent months.

Cheers!

Adam

---------- Forwarded message ----------

From:

Date: Mon, Dec 26, 2011 at 7:08 PM

Subject: eBird Report - Prospect Park, Dec 26, 2011

To: adamwelz@xxxxxxx.com




Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY

Dec 26, 2011 3:50 PM - 4:50 PM

Protocol: Traveling

2.0 kilometer(s)

Comments: clear, cold day. Some observations made at feeders -- see notes under individual species. Another birder said he had Hooded Merganser on the Lake again -- I did not survey that area.

24 species



Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) X at least 50 on Prospect Lake

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) X

American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) 1

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) X inc. hybrids with domestic types. Domestic-type Muscovy Duck on seen on Lake yesterday.

Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata) 5

Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) 10

Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) 1

Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) 1

Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) 1

American Coot (Fulica americana) 10

Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) X

Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) X

Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) 11 some at feeder

Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) 2

Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) 2 at feeder

Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) X

Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) 2 at feeder

White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) 1 at feeder

Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) 1 on suet cake at feeder

European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) 40

White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) 10

Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) 1 at feeder. Photographed. Male with narrow, indistinct shoulder patch.

House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus) 7 at feeder

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) X



This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org/)

From Kathy Toomey:

date = 2011/12/26


site = Prospect Park

observers = Kathy Toomey and Emily Goldstein

Pied-billed Grebe

Great Blue Heron 1, at the Upper pool

Northern Shoveler 5, on Lake

Canada Goose

Red-breasted Merganser 1, female, on Lake

Ruddy Duck

Mute Swan

Mallard

Red-tailed Hawk

Merlin

American Coot

Ring-billed Gull

Rock Pigeon

Mourning Dove

Downy Woodpecker

Blue Jay many, still at Lamp post 249

Tufted Titmouse

Black-capped Chickadee

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Carolina Wren heard

Hermit Thrush

White-throated Sparrow

Northern Cardinal

House Finch many, at feeders

House Sparrow

From Elyse:

Hi Peter,


Hope you are having a great holiday!

Today when I went to the feeders, as I was passing ravine to go to the feeders, just past the Audubon center, near the benches an orange crowned warbler flew by and landed in the bush near the bench. I was amazed,
considering that I gave up looking for it!

At the feeders I saw many house finches, a mocking bird nearby, a chickadee, and than a hawk zooming around, so all the birds took flight! It looked like a coopers hawk.That made me happy.

Timing is everything,

Elyse

Prospect December 26th

A RED-BREASTED MERGANSER hen was reported on Prospect Lake by Kathy Toomey and Emily Goldstein yesterday.

Three reports received since I have been away will be posted this eve.

--Kingsboider

December 25th Season greetings !

Merry Christmas and best wishes for a joyful holiday to all , -- the Kingsboider

Prospect Christmas Eve Dec 24th :the gathering

When growing up a child in the Wallabout section of Brooklyn --this near the Brooklyn Navy Yard and almost under the Brooklyn Queens Expressway--my mother would always come fetch me  to see the beautiful BLUE JAY in my backyard. This was big  for me, for we never get anything so "spectacular " in my nondescript yard.

So memories come back abit when this morning, I saw 5 BLUE JAYS together behind the fence at Lamppost 249 picnic tables, sort of a "gathering" as this holiday of Christmas we celebrate symbolizes, whether with friends, family or strangers. Blue Jays are spectacular birds, given its variety of bluish colors if you look close at its feathers. Its a common species but how hard are we really looking and appreciating the gift this bird represents ? For me, it never ends, the wonderment some species give with its beauty even if not a rarity.

Today , BLACK&WHITE WARBLER at the front of the Binnen Pool and COMMON GRACKLE was seen at the feeders offers the best sightings on this Xmas eve day..OH Yes !...those gorgeous Blue Jays too....

Have a wonderful holiday !

Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY


Dec 24, 2011 11:00 AM - 11:35 AM

Protocol: Traveling

1.0 mile(s)

7 species



American Coot 11

Ring-billed Gull X

Rock Pigeon X

Mourning Dove 23

Blue Jay 5

Black-and-white Warbler 1

White-throated Sparrow X




Prospect Park--Feeders, Kings, US-NY


Dec 24, 2011 11:36 AM - 11:51 AM

Protocol: Stationary

5 species



Downy Woodpecker 1

Black-capped Chickadee 1

White-breasted Nuthatch 1

Common Grackle 1

American Goldfinch 2




Prospect Park--Prospect Lake, Kings, US-NY


Dec 24, 2011 10:45 AM - 11:00 AM

Protocol: Stationary

7 species



Canada Goose 45

Mute Swan X

American Black Duck 2

Mallard X

Northern Shoveler 5

Ruddy Duck 17

Pied-billed Grebe 2

Something Buffalo ,NY got too

I picked this off the NY Buffalo Rare Bird Alert of Dec 22nd ( I get a number of RBA's for the northeast)

December 18, on one of the region's many Christmas Bird Counts, a
BL. AND W. WARBLER at the mouth of Spicer Creek, off East River
Road on Grand Island. This may be the first December record
of BL. AND W. WARBLER in the BOS archives.

**
Apparently , both ends of NY State got a Black and White Warbler....kind of strange....

--Kingsboider

Prospect Dec 22nd: A Xmas stocking full of warblers ?

Today's best bird (in the park , that is) was ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER spotted by Russ Alderson at the Peninsula Sumacs, near the water fountain.

The BLACK & WHITE WARBLER continues, seen along the Binnen Water just below the Nethermead Bridge , on the Bridle trail ( Bobbie Manian) at noon.

Continuing the warblers, getting better all the time was seen in a very unusual place. Rob Bate reported a YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT in his backyard ! His home is near Flatbush Ave and Parkside Ave. Last I heard was he is trying to convince it "GO WEST, young Bird " ( Of course, "west" is where Prospect Park is)

On a non avian note: I spotted a RED BAT flying circles above the Maryland Monument, pretty late for the species but with all this mild weather, perhaps it was spurred on. Just the right color though for the Xmas season.

The Lake did yield a few notables with only 2 Northern Shovelers and 3 HOODED MERGANSERS , two drakes courting the hen in front of Three Sisters Islands.

A Sharp-shinned Hawk was spotted at the north slope of Lookout Hill ( facing the Nethermead).

--Kingsboider

**********************************

Peter's list

Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY


Dec 22, 2011

Protocol: Incidental

15 species



Canada Goose 180 lake

Mute Swan 7 lake

Mallard X

Northern Shoveler 2 lake

Hooded Merganser 3 seen at 3 Sisters Isl

Ruddy Duck X

Pied-billed Grebe 2 lake

Double-crested Cormorant 1 at 3 Sisters Isl

Sharp-shinned Hawk 1 north Lookout Hill

American Coot X lake

Downy Woodpecker 1 Feeders

Black-and-white Warbler 1 seenby Bobbi Manian Nethermead Br

Orange-crowned Warbler 1  seen by Russ Alderson Peninsula Sumacs

Song Sparrow 1 west isl

White-throated Sparrow 15 west isl



This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)

ORNGD CRWNED WARB @ peninsula sumacs water fountian per Russ; rob bate has a YBCHAT n his backyrd.

Winter Solstice;BWWARB a holiday treat !

Winter begins tonight 12:30 am Thursday morning. May the new season bring new discoveries , great birds and a humble appreciation for wintry delights. ( Sorry, but I am a winter birder..but look at it this way--the days get longer from now on)

from www.skypub.com

•Longest night of the year (in the Northern Hemisphere). Winter begins at the solstice: at 12:30 a.m. on the 22nd EST, 9:30 p.m. on the 21st PST. This is when the Sun reaches its farthest south of the year and begins its six-month return northward.


And on a very busy workday, the only bird I noticed in the south Midwood was--yes you might have guessed it :WINTER WREN. It flew across the trail, a quick blur and I saw it perched on a dead timber...shaking its body up and down in its typical , almost scolding like fashion.

Oh, the scenery changes, if you haven't noticed on my blog....

*************

Mike Corzine reports the still present BLACK & WHITE WARBLER at the same Binnen pool back woods area yesterday in late afternoon. Amzing to see this tough little bird sticking around for the holidays.

Here's Mike's note:

Hey Peter. On my quick walk through the park to
pick up my little guy, the Black and White is
still present just East of Binnen Pool, 3:20.

Same bat time, same bat channel. Funny what we
take for granted during migration. I'll try to get
some video or a picture if I'm over there tomorrow.
I'm not sure exactly what it's foraging on.
-m

Below's photo courtesy of and credited to Peter Colen:

Season's greetings; A bridge opens

The Kingsboider wishes Happy Chanukah to club members and birders celebrating today's festivity.

One of the best spots to bird in Prospect is realized after over a decade closure. In its state of disrepair, closed inside a chain link for over ten years, the Nethermead Bridge --also known as "3 Arches" -- has reopened at the top of the old iconic span. Repair work and new parapet walls enables birders to now look over and down at the Ravine/Binnen watercourse when in spring time, one can thoroughly enjoy warblers and other delights.

Good to see the old span at the top is back ! :)>

--Kingsboider

December 19th Prospect

Some interesting bird notes:

Mike Corzine reports BLACK & WHITE WARBLER still present , seen 3:15 this afternoon, this tough warbler setting longevity records with its prolonged stay into late fall ( it's not winter yet , until this Thursday  ) and resilient survival. The female warbler was seen on the east side of the Binnen Pool, which is the bridle trail side. Binnen Pool is the first pond south of the Nethermead (3 arches) Bridge.

**

After a very notable absence Christmas Count Day, 39 NORTHERN SHOVELERS appeared, a flock in the northwest corner of Prospect Lake with 3 PIED-BILLED GREBEs. Its an end of an era , after 2 decades of a forceful presence--at one time over 680 Shovelers on one count day in Prospect--as the streak ends.... BAH HUMBUG !

**

One of my feeders was knocked off its perch, NO DOUBT , obviously caused by a "superman" jumping jacks Squirrel from I presumed one of the poles holding up the feeders. BAH HUMBUG!  ( send me a note if u see one 's tactics so I can improvise)

**

A report from Kathy Toomey from yesterday:

NYC Bird Report




date = 2011/12/19

site = Prospect Park

observers = Kathy Toomey and Emily Goldstein

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Northern Shoveler

Canada Goose

Ruddy Duck

Mute Swan

Mallard

American Coot

Ring-billed Gull

Herring Gull

Rock Pigeon

Mourning Dove

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Blue Jay

Tufted Titmouse

Black-capped Chickadee

White-breasted Nuthatch

Winter Wren

Carolina Wren

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

Northern Cardinal

Red-winged Blackbird

House Finch

House Sparrow

Dec 17th Kings County Xmas Count results

Posted to the local birding listserves:

The preliminary results -subject to count week and numbers edition review--for Brooklyn 12/17 Kings County Christmas Bird Census is as follows:


132 species were recorded, our second highest species total ever , tying the 1997 Kings County CBC with this year's three historical first time species with RED PHALAROPE at North Shore Brooklyn Heights , BLACK AND WHITE WARBLER at Prospect Park, & BARROWS GOLDENEYE at Jamaica Bay Refuge.

Those species qualified as 'rare' ( including the above species, based on 10 year totals and data ) are as follows : EARED GREBE, AMERICAN BITTERN, GREEN HERON,TURKEY VULTURE, WILSON'S SNIPE,GLAUCOUS GULL, GREAT HORNED OWL,LONG-EARED OWL, NORTHERN SHRIKE, PINE WARBLER, SALTMARSH SHARP-TAILED SPARROW,SEASIDE SPARROW & BALTIMORE ORIOLE.

Count week rarities were AMERICAN REDSTART ,MARBLED GODWIT, AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER (all seen Friday 12/16 ).

The overall species list is attached showing only the species until further review regarding individual numbers

We here in Brooklyn wish all Happy Holidays and good luck in your forthcoming CBC's in the NYC Metro area.

Peter Dorosh,Pres
Brooklyn Bird Club

Species

Snow Goose
Brant
Canada Goose
Mute Swan
Wood Duck
Gadwall
American Wigeon
American Black Duck
Mallard
Northern Shoveler
Northern Pintail
Green-winged Teal
Canvasback
Greater Scaup
Lesser Scaup
Surf Scoter
White-winged Scoter
Black Scoter
Long-tailed Duck
Bufflehead
Common Goldeneye
Barrow's Goldeneye
Hooded Merganser
Red-breasted Merganser
Ruddy Duck
Ring-necked Pheasant
Red-throated Loon
Common Loon
Pied-billed Grebe
Horned Grebe
Red-necked Grebe
Eared Grebe
Northern Gannet
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Cormorant
American Bittern
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Green Heron
Black-crowned Night-Heron
Turkey Vulture
Northern Harrier
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Cooper's Hawk
Red-shouldered Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
American Kestrel
Merlin
Peregrine Falcon
American Coot
Black-bellied Plover
Killdeer
American Oystercatcher
Greater Yellowlegs
Marbled Godwit
Sanderling
Purple Sandpiper
Dunlin
Wilson's Snipe
American Woodcock
Red Phalarope
Bonaparte's Gull
Ring-billed Gull
Herring Gull
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Glaucous Gull
Great Black-backed Gull
Razorbill
Rock Pigeon
Mourning Dove
Monk Parakeet
Barn Owl
Great Horned Owl
Snowy Owl
Long-eared Owl
Belted Kingfisher
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Northern Shrike
Blue Jay
American Crow
Horned Lark
Tree Swallow
Black-capped Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Red-breasted Nuthatch
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown Creeper
Carolina Wren
Winter Wren
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Hermit Thrush
American Robin
Gray Catbird
Northern Mockingbird
Brown Thrasher
European Starling
American Pipit
Cedar Waxwing
Orange-crowned Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Pine Warbler
Palm Warbler
Black-and-white Warbler
American Redstart
Common Yellowthroat
Yellow-breasted Chat
Eastern Towhee
American Tree Sparrow
Chipping Sparrow
Field Sparrow
Savannah Sparrow
Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrow
Seaside Sparrow
Fox Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
White-throated Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
Snow Bunting
Northern Cardinal
Red-winged Blackbird
Eastern Meadowlark
Rusty Blackbird
Common Grackle
Boat-tailed Grackle
Brown-headed Cowbird
Baltimore Oriole
House Finch
American Goldfinch
House Sparrow

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Prospect Park segment of Kings CBC

Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY


Dec 17, 2011 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Protocol: Area

580.0 ac

Comments: part of Kings County Christmas Bird Count

56 species


Canada Goose 331

Mute Swan 8

Wood Duck 1

American Black Duck 3

Mallard 193

Hooded Merganser 4

Ruddy Duck 26

Pied-billed Grebe 5

Double-crested Cormorant 2

Great Blue Heron 1

Green Heron 1 late juvenile , showed head adult plmg,streaky breast, first CBC sighting since 1987

Sharp-shinned Hawk 1

Cooper's Hawk 1

Red-tailed Hawk 2

Peregrine Falcon 1

American Coot 25

Ring-billed Gull 362

Herring Gull 64

Great Black-backed Gull 1

Rock Pigeon 82

Mourning Dove 39

Great Horned Owl 2

Belted Kingfisher 1

Red-bellied Woodpecker 16

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 6

Downy Woodpecker 11

Hairy Woodpecker 4

Blue Jay 31

American Crow 3

Black-capped Chickadee 10

Tufted Titmouse 11

White-breasted Nuthatch 12

Brown Creeper 5

Carolina Wren 3

Winter Wren 1

Golden-crowned Kinglet 1

Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1

Hermit Thrush 3

American Robin 1

Gray Catbird 1

Northern Mockingbird 2

European Starling 12

Black-and-white Warbler 1  First CBC record

Orange-crowned Warbler 1

Common Yellowthroat 1

Fox Sparrow 3

Song Sparrow 9

White-throated Sparrow 96

Dark-eyed Junco 4

Northern Cardinal 26

Red-winged Blackbird 6

Baltimore Oriole 1

House Finch 42

American Goldfinch 5

House Sparrow 88



This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)

Kings CBC Rarity alert

I will post more info later but the best bird on Kings County Xmas count was RED PHALAROPE seen very near the Fairway Supermarket, at the end  pier Van Brunt Street ( Artists shops pier) .  See Janet's Zinn post on her discovery

**********

From Janet's post to Metrobirds listserve

A Red Phalarope was found by my team on the

Brooklyn (Kings County) CBC.

Location is behind the Fairway market in Red Hook,
at the end of Van Brunt street. The bird was in the section
of water bounded by the artist's warehouses on the left and
the water taxi pier on the right (across from the rusted out
trolley cars.)

It was swimming back and forth quite close to the wall
alongside the artist's warehouse, actively feeding and
 preening at times.


See around 2 p.m.


A photo is on my Facebook page here:

http://tinyurl.com/6n5as4s

This is the first record for a Kings County CBC.


See by: Janet Zinn, Alan Baratz, Eric Salzman, Jerry Layton

Good luck if you go. (I know at least one of our Brooklyn CBC folks were

heading over tonight!)



Janet Zinn

Brooklyn, NY

_www.janetzinnphotography.com_ (http://www.janetzinnphotography.com/)

***


Other hilights from what I heard was NORTHERN SHRIKE at Floyd Bennett Field, along the forest edge of Camp Tamarack  which is just west of the boat ramp .and more which I forget right now.

Prospect park did very well with its first ever BLACK & WHITE WARBLER for the count, LITTLE GREEN HERON , first since 1987 on the overall count, ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER, BALTIMORE ORIOLE, COMMON YELLOWTHROAT ,GREAT HORNED OWLS among the best hilights.Unfortunately American Redstart wasnt found but qualified as Count Week bird.

More later , when I get the summary file from Rick the Compiler. TIME TO SLEEP...LOOOONG DAY...

--Kingsboider

Photo of Northern Shrike taken by Adam Welz:

Kings County finished with 132 species for its count tally.

December 17th : 112th Xmas Count

The 112th Christmas Bird Census in Kings County



               …..Now in Progress

(Results in a few days)   

Warblers continue...plus another species !

Hopefully a good sign, ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER and AMERICAN REDSTART continue their presence in Prospect and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden respectively. Both were reported by Rob Bate.

The Orange-crowned is at its usual location in LP 249 west Well drive area but seen in the phragmite marsh edge today ; The Redstart  is in the Holly tree section opposite the children's garden JUST INSIDE the BBgarden's south gate or Empire Blvd gate.

A report from Keir revealed another warbler species!  In the same area as Orange-crowned, COMMON YELLOWTHROAT seen low in phragmites .

Last for a non warbler, BALTIMORE ORIOLE stuck around, the same bird for the last two months in the Vale of Cashmere. See Rafael's report.

All these great birds CBC day material ? (well I hope!.but for now both are Count Week birds)

--Kingsboider

From Keir:


hi Peter

This morning Rob Bate and I saw the OCWA at the usual spot with a drab Common Yellowthroat also working the same area.

See you tmrw.



Keir

> Date: Fri, 16 Dec 2011 13:33:22 -0500

> From: do-not-reply@ebird.org

> Subject: eBird Report - Prospect Park, Dec 16, 2011


> Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY

> Dec 16, 2011 10:45 AM - 12:15 PM

> Protocol: Traveling

> 1.0 mile(s)

> 24 species (+1 other taxa)

>

> Mute Swan 7

> American Black Duck 1

> American Black Duck x Mallard (hybrid) 2

> Mallard 30

> Northern Shoveler 4 (West Island area)

> Hooded Merganser 3

> Ruddy Duck 20

> Pied-billed Grebe 4

> Double-crested Cormorant 1

> Red-tailed Hawk 1

> Ring-billed Gull 150

> Herring Gull 4

> Great Black-backed Gull 2

> Rock Pigeon 10

> Mourning Dove 1

> Downy Woodpecker 1

> Blue Jay 5

> American Crow 3

> Orange-crowned Warbler 1 in phragmites opposite containers nr L249

> Common Yellowthroat 1 drab female/imm, low in phragmites opposite containers nr L249

> Song Sparrow 8

> White-throated Sparrow 10

> Northern Cardinal 5

> House Finch 20 in and below Sweetgum, lakeside btwn L249 and West Island

> House Sparrow 20

>

> This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)

*******************************

From Rafael:


Prospect Park, Brooklyn, Kings, US-NY

Dec 16, 2011 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Protocol: Traveling

2.0 kilometer(s)

25 species



Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) X

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) X

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) X

Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata) 4

Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) 3

Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) 5

Merlin (Falco columbarius) 1

American Coot (Fulica americana) X

Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) X

Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) X

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus) 1

Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) X

Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) X

Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) 2

Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) 4

Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) X

Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) 1

Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) 4

American Robin (Turdus migratorius) X

Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) X

White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) X

Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) X

Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula) 1 It was seen forraging on the ground, near the Vale of Cashmere

House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus) 30

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) X



Brooklyn is good birding!!!!!

***************************************

From Rob Bate :

Major December warbler fallout, American Redstart, Orange-crowned, and Common Yellow-throat. I looked for the recent Black and White around the Binnen Pool but couldn't relocate it. Also - a Gray Catbird


29 species



Canada Goose 15

Mute Swan 6

Mallard 12

Pied-billed Grebe 2

Double-crested Cormorant 1

Great Blue Heron 1

American Coot 14

Ring-billed Gull 40

Herring Gull 4

Rock Pigeon 35

Mourning Dove 3

Peregrine Falcon 1 On radio tower eating

Red-bellied Woodpecker 1

Downy Woodpecker 2

Blue Jay 3

American Crow 1

Black-capped Chickadee 1

White-breasted Nuthatch 1

Gray Catbird 1 Under Terrace Bridge

Orange-crowned Warbler 1 In Phragmites opposit the containers near LP249

American Redstart 1 In BBG just inside south gate

Common Yellowthroat 1 Near the OC Warbler

Song Sparrow 4

White-throated Sparrow 11

Northern Cardinal 3

House Finch 8

American Goldfinch 7

House Sparrow 15

out of season AMER REDSTART continues BBGarden south gate holly opp children garden

NY Times : fishing line

NY Times posted today's edition an article about fishing line, hooks and sinkers dangers towards birds.

click on the link

http://tinyurl.com/nytimesfishingline




*****************************
*****************************

Orange crowned Warbler settling in

Looking good for the xmas count ( I hope fingers x)

From Chris Elliot:


Hi Peter,

The Orange-crowned warbler was still hanging on in Prospect Park
at dusk this evening. At first it was east of Lamppost 249, in the scrub
behind a small mound about fifteen feet west of the large storage container
 which is between LP249 and the Well House. Flushed by dog-walkers at
one-point, it flew, twittering, across the road to the shrubbery and
phragmites along the lake-shore. For the remaining time until dusk it was
 foraging on the lake side of the road, immediately behind the
 “Danger Thin Ice” sign which is right across from the storage container.

 It would go minutes without appearing, and then partly emerge to glean
some higher branches. Twice it popped up straight vertically about five
feet to hawk something out of the air, then immediately dropped out of sight.

Photos are here

 http://www.flickr.com/photos/eliotc/6512924387/ and
http://www.flickr.com/photos/eliotc/6512923795/ .

The Park seemed very quiet overall this afternoon, including the lake, though a Sharp-shinned tore through overhead as I was watching the warbler, and both Ruddy and Pied-billed were on the Lake.

Chris

Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY

Dec 14, 2011 3:05 PM - 4:33 PM

Protocol: Traveling

1.85 mile(s)

Comments: clear sky, but approaching dusk at the end, with early sunset



Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) 40

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) X

Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) 5

Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) 1

Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus) 1

Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) 1

Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) X

Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) 32

Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) 2

Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) 1

Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) 1

European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) 34

Orange-crowned Warbler (Oreothlypis celata) 1

Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) 1

Xmas bird count: its story ;BBG report BAOR

Birders:

For anyone wanting to know all about Christmas Bird Counts and whats its all about , how its done, or how it started and what it entails, here' below are two links , one on the whole gamut and the second on all the count circles if you wish to do two or more. ( Not me, Brooklyn is enough of a tall task !)


http://birds.audubon.org/christmas-bird-count#

*****

http://nybirds.org/ProjCBC.htm



***********************************************

Orrin Tilevitz reports BALTIMORE ORIOLE from the BBGarden .

his note:

Baltimore Oriole (semi-developed juvenile) in BBG this morning, in evergreen across from lilacs. Other birds of interest: great blue heron, 2 red-tailed hawks, northern mockingbird, catbird (heard), red-bellied woodpecker, white-throated sparrow

Warblers galore ! more reports Prospect 12/13

Don't know what the heck is going on with nature as winter solstice approaches, but it seems like today a warbler winter wave is occurring.  Joining Orange-crowned and Black & White Warblers reported earlier, Rob Bate reported AMERICAN REDSTART at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden's south gate , an adult male in an American Holly Tree. At least it knows what species "namesake" tree to go into.

-Kingsboider 

Below's photo of PP's B&W Warbler provided by Peter Colen

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

From Rob Bate:

Brooklyn Botanic Garden, then Prospect


In the BBG today
15 species

Peregrine Falcon 2 on radio tower
Mourning Dove 10
Red-bellied Woodpecker 2
Downy Woodpecker 2
Blue Jay 5
Tufted Titmouse 2
Golden-crowned Kinglet 1
American Robin 25
Northern Mockingbird 1
European Starling 5
American Redstart 1 just inside south entrance of the garden at Empire Blvd.
White-throated Sparrow 4
Northern Cardinal 9
American Goldfinch 4
House Sparrow 20



In Prospect Park walking down from GAP

17 species

Mallard 10
Ruddy Duck 1
Red-tailed Hawk 3
American Coot 5
Mourning Dove 5
Downy Woodpecker 2
Blue Jay 4
Black-capped Chickadee 1
Tufted Titmouse 2
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
American Robin 5
European Starling 5
Song Sparrow 1
White-throated Sparrow 3
Northern Cardinal 6
House Sparrow 5

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

From Alex Wilson:

Begin forwarded message:

> Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY
> Dec 13
> 45 species (+1 other taxa)
>
> Canada Goose 200
> Mute Swan 9
> Wood Duck 1
> American Black Duck 3
> American Black Duck x Mallard (hybrid) 2
> Mallard 60
> Northern Shoveler 3
> Hooded Merganser 3
> Ruddy Duck 15
> Pied-billed Grebe 5 (All seen at one time on the Lake.)
> Double-crested Cormorant 1
> Cooper's Hawk 2 (Adults.)
> Red-tailed Hawk 3
> American Coot 20
> Ring-billed Gull 100
> Herring Gull 20
> Great Black-backed Gull 1
> Rock Pigeon 15
> Mourning Dove 35
> Belted Kingfisher 1
> Red-bellied Woodpecker 5
> Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1
> Downy Woodpecker 7
> Blue Jay 15
> American Crow 35
> Black-capped Chickadee 3
> Tufted Titmouse 1
> White-breasted Nuthatch 6
> Carolina Wren 4
> Winter Wren 1
> Hermit Thrush 1
> American Robin 40
> Gray Catbird 1
> Brown Thrasher 1 (Continues around lamp post 249.)
> European Starling 75
> Orange-crowned Warbler 1 (Continues in lamp post 249 area.)
> Fox Sparrow 2
> Song Sparrow 6
> Swamp Sparrow 1
> White-throated Sparrow 40
> Dark-eyed Junco 15
> Northern Cardinal 20
> Red-winged Blackbird 5
> House Finch 25
> American Goldfinch 8
> House Sparrow 10

Geminids Meteor showers; Orange-crowned Warbler reappears;surprise B&W Warbler

An off topic , of course , but for you nature oriented, tonight into tomorrow eve is the Geminids meteor showers despite a full moon impact, bright meteors can be seen. For more:




http://www.skyandtelescope.com/observing/ataglance/135278248.html

**
In a surprise appearance , a very late BLACK & WHITE WARBLER was spotted today by the Pagoda Concert Grove, somewhere near the water fountain ( I presumed the one by Binnen Pool with the dog fountain on the ground). The good sighting for this out of season species was first seen by Peter Coen  in the back woods along the bridle path of Lily Pool  and Binnen water last Thursday & Friday.Today Elyse Taylor  reports the bird . This would definitely be a potential highlight for Prospect's Xmas count.It is certainly hanging around.

Today's Black & White Warbler is the lastest record for Prospect Park. ( fingers crossed for more reports)


****
From Elsye:

Hi Peter,



I saw the new birder Peter  and saw the picture of the
black & white warbler.He was taking pictures at the lilly ponds.


When I left him and past the concert grove I saw a
black & white warbler fly past me and land in the tree
next to the drinking fountain.


Thanks for letting me know about Peter and the warbler.


We saw a few other birds, titmouse, chickadee, downy
woodpeckers, goldfinches at the ponds.


happy birding,


Elyse

In other news, ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER is still around !  Adam Welz reported the bird opposite or across the Well Drive roadway , from Lamppost #249 ( western Well Drive) in the phragmite marsh edge. So , two Prospect warbler species potentially "save" birds for the upcoming count.

Also of note , late GRAY CATBIRD, same spot as the Orange-crowned Warbler.

Report from Adam:

A few interesting-ish things in the Park this morning:

- Ruby-cr Kinglet @Pink Beach (peninsula)

- Wood Duck @Rustic Arbor

- Belted Kingfisher @southern end of Lake

- Hooded Merganser @southern end of Lake

- Catbird @Lake /well drive (I havent seen one in a while)

- Lotsa Hairy Woodpecker in the Lookout/feeders/Penisula area

and the Orange-crowned Warbler, still by it's usual spot.

Cheers!

Adam

From:

Date: Tue, Dec 13, 2011 at 11:41 AM

Subject: eBird Report - Prospect Park, Dec 13, 2011


Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY

Dec 13, 2011 9:10 AM - 10:50 AM

Protocol: Traveling

2.0 mile(s)

Comments: clear day

32 species



Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) 95

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) 8

Wood Duck (Aix sponsa) 1

American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) 1

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) X

Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) 1

Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) 30

American Coot (Fulica americana) 7

Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) X

Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) X

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus) 2

Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) 8

Belted Kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon) 1

Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) 1

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius) 2

Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) 3

Hairy Woodpecker (Picoides villosus) 3

Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) 12

Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) 2

White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) 1

Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) 1

Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula) 1

American Robin (Turdus migratorius) 14

Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) 1

Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) 1

European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) X

Orange-crowned Warbler (Oreothlypis celata) 1 long-staying bird, seen in Phragmites over street from regular spot

Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) 5

White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) 1

Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) 10

American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis) 5

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) X



This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)

December 12th Prospect

As holidays approach, the focus looks toward the upcoming Christmas Bird Count. The anticipation and the participation look towards a great day and whatever quality birds will be around for this Saturday's count.

Winter birds of the common variety and the usual species looks promising (see Rob Bate's report) , with the lake not looking up to a promising potential with the absence of Northern Shoveler and Ring-necked Duck Brooklyn birders have enjoyed in the past. But there is always hope.

A quick look at the Lake while working the southern area revealed 3 HOODED MERGANSERS, a distant PIED-BILLED GREBE  and 206 Canada Geese that flew in.

WOOD DUCK reported by Rob at the Boathouse is a good bird for the Xmas count, most years a "save" bird for the count, meaning the only location to report a single species to save the day's overall list..So, at least maybe Prospect Park has something up her sleeve after all.

From Rob Bate:

It was nice to be in the park again, seems very wintery, few birds outside of lake activity.


36 species

Canada Goose 10

Mute Swan 7

Wood Duck 1 With begging ducks at Audubon center

Mallard 20

Ruddy Duck 9

Pied-billed Grebe 1

Red-tailed Hawk 3

Peregrine Falcon 1 On police radio tower

American Coot 3

Ring-billed Gull 40

Herring Gull 10

Great Black-backed Gull 2

Mourning Dove 25

Red-bellied Woodpecker 3

Downy Woodpecker 3

Hairy Woodpecker 1

Blue Jay 7

American Crow 2

Black-capped Chickadee 1

Tufted Titmouse 1

White-breasted Nuthatch 3

Brown Creeper 1

Carolina Wren 1

Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1

American Robin 2

Gray Catbird 1

European Starling 5

Fox Sparrow 1

Song Sparrow 2

White-throated Sparrow 8

Dark-eyed Junco 2

Northern Cardinal 6

House Finch 2

American Goldfinch 3

House Sparrow 5

Plus House Finches, Goldfinches, WBNHs, Downy WP, Chickadees and WT Sparrows at the feeders.

Peter's list:

Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY--LAKE


Dec 12, 2011

Protocol: Incidental

14 species (+1 other taxa)



Canada Goose 206

Mute Swan 9

American Black Duck 1

American Black Duck x Mallard (hybrid) 1

Mallard X

Hooded Merganser 3

Ruddy Duck 15

Pied-billed Grebe 1

Double-crested Cormorant 1

American Coot 10

Ring-billed Gull X

Herring Gull X

Rock Pigeon X

Mourning Dove X

White-throated Sparrow X south lakeside



This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)

Prospect December 11th

Two reports

*************************************

From Rafael Campos:

Prospect Park, Brooklyn, Kings, US-NY
Dec 11, 2011 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Protocol: Traveling
2.0 kilometer(s)
33 species

Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) X
Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) X
Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) X
Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata) 6
Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) 8
Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) 1
American Coot (Fulica americana) X
Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) X
Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) X
Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) X
Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) X
Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) 4
Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) 1
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius) 1
Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) 3
Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) X
American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) X
Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) 3
Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) 2
White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) 2
Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) 2
Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus) 1
American Robin (Turdus migratorius) 1
Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) 1
European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) X
Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) X
White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) X
Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) 1
Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) X
Common Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula) 4
House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus) X
American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis) X
House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) X

Brooklyn is good birding!!!!


**************************************

From Keir Randall:

> Date: Sun, 11 Dec 2011 15:29:53 -0500
> From: do-not-reply@ebird.org

> Subject: eBird Report - Prospect Park, Dec 11, 2011
>
> Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY
> Dec 11, 2011 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
> Protocol: Traveling
> 4.0 mile(s)
> 33 species
>
> Canada Goose 12
> Mute Swan 6
> Mallard 15
> Northern Shoveler 8
> Ruddy Duck 10
> Pied-billed Grebe 3
> Double-crested Cormorant 1
> Red-tailed Hawk 2
> Ring-billed Gull 250
> Herring Gull 6
> Rock Pigeon 20
> Mourning Dove 8
> Red-bellied Woodpecker 1
> Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1
> Hairy Woodpecker 1 Vale
> Blue Jay 10
> American Crow 1
> Black-capped Chickadee 4
> Tufted Titmouse 4
> White-breasted Nuthatch 1
> American Robin 6
> European Starling 2
> Cedar Waxwing 1 Carousel
> Fox Sparrow 1 Lily Pond
> Song Sparrow 3
> White-throated Sparrow 35
> Dark-eyed Junco 6
> Northern Cardinal 4
> Common Grackle 5
> House Finch 3
> American Goldfinch 8
> House Sparrow 40
>
> This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)

=

Prospect December 10th: stick around fella

In a promising sign for next Saturday's 112th Christmas Bird Census, ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER appeared late this morning at the Lamppost 249 location, aka the picnic tables Well Drive area; The rare warbler was seen along the fence, working thru the mugwort/blackberry brambles before a group of birders ( from the Audubon center) and myself. [So, stick around fella for next Saturday] Also seen yesterday mid morning at this "hot" spot was Brown Thrasher and Carolina Wren, LP #249 is appearing to be the best spot thus far in this low activity passerine of late season.

Speaking of LP 249, earlier, Anne Murray ( who alerted me to the good birds at LP 249) spotted an adult COOPER's HAWK perched nicely in a big Cherry tree, basking in the sun which i was able to enjoy as well. Later at the feeders, an immature COOPER's HAWK comes flying in and perched, ruffling its feathers abit and looking for prey before taking off thru the woods. The feeders has for some reason not attracted any numbers  ( i have yet to refill them since 11/24) , the strange phenomenon of fewer birds around except the occasional drat squirrel that must have pogo sticks on its legs as it raided one of the mesh feeders.

The lake isn't looking productive for the upcoming count , only 6 NORTHERN SHOVELERS and 3 or 4 PIED-BILLED GREBES to boot. In past years, I think the decade at least , 100's of Shovelers would be on Prospect Lake now. Looks like that trend has ended. I guess this species stripped the underwater plant life clean or maybe the new Lakeside rink construction might be a factor. There's is no certainty why...I guess nothing lasts forever...But then its a another day on December 17th.  We'll see.

--Kingsboider

********************************

Peter's list
Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY


Dec 10, 2011 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Protocol: Traveling

3.5 mile(s)

24 species (+1 other taxa)



Canada Goose 7 lake

Mute Swan 8 lake

American Black Duck 3 lake

American Black Duck x Mallard (hybrid) 1

Mallard X

Northern Shoveler 6 lake

Ruddy Duck 2 lake

Pied-billed Grebe 3 lake

Double-crested Cormorant 1 at 3 sisters

Great Blue Heron 1 Pools isthmus

Cooper's Hawk 2-Adult LP 249;immature Feeders  also obs Anne Murray

Red-tailed Hawk 1

American Kestrel 1 yesterday f/o Litchfiled Villa

American Coot 21

Ring-billed Gull X

Herring Gull X

Rock Pigeon X

Hairy Woodpecker 4 rept by Eni Falci, Michele Dreger  Audubon walk group

Hermit Thrush 1 rept by Anne Murray at feeders

Orange-crowned Warbler 1 LP 249 Well dr picnic tables

White-throated Sparrow 3

Northern Cardinal 5 West Isl sweetgums

House Finch 8 West Isln sweetgums

American Goldfinch 2  ( Lily Pool ; also Obs Anne Murray)
House Sparrow X



This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)

********************************
From Rafael:

Prospect Park, Brooklyn, Kings, US-NY

Dec 10, 2011 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Protocol: Traveling

2.0 kilometer(s)

29 species



Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) X

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) X

Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata) 4

Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) 2

Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) 1

Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) 1

Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) 1

Merlin (Falco columbarius) 1

American Coot (Fulica americana) X

Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) X

Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) X

Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) X

Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) X

Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) 2

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius) 1

Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) 2

Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) X

Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) 3

White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) 1

Brown Creeper (Certhia americana) 1

Winter Wren (Troglodytes hiemalis) 2

European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) X

Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca) 1

Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) X

White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) X

Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) 1

Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) X

House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus) 2

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) X


Brooklyn is good birding!!!

Prospect Park December 8th

Below's post from Larry Zirlin is his last for Prospect for awhile, since he is moving to central New Jersey. We hope he visits much often. Bye Larry !  (and good luck)

You know what the sign on the Belt Parkway says:

From Larry Zirlin:

Hi Peter,


Last walk around the park for a while.

Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY

Dec 8, 2011 12:00 PM - 3:10 PM

Protocol: Traveling

3.0 mile(s)

20 species



Canada Goose 18

Mute Swan 9

Wood Duck 1

American Black Duck 2

Mallard 46

Northern Shoveler 1

Ruddy Duck 11

Pied-billed Grebe 1

Double-crested Cormorant 1

Great Blue Heron 1

American Coot 13

Ring-billed Gull 125

Herring Gull 3

Rock Pigeon 20

Mourning Dove 6

Red-bellied Woodpecker 2

Blue Jay 5

Rusty Blackbird 1--Peninsula near Lullwater terminus

House Sparrow 2


Prospect Park--Feeders, Kings, US-NY

Dec 8, 2011 12:25 PM - 12:45 PM

Protocol: Stationary

8 species



Downy Woodpecker 3

Black-capped Chickadee 1

White-breasted Nuthatch 2

Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1

Yellow-rumped Warbler 1

White-throated Sparrow 1

American Goldfinch 1

House Sparrow 1



 See ya!

Larry

http://birdsandwords-larryz.blogspot.com/

RUSTY BLACKBIRD n penisula near lullwater terminus per larry

Interesting article about acorns/ecology

I picked up on this NY Times story about the oaks acorn "crash" this year ( after 2010's bumper crop) and its effect for wildlife and birds.

Very interesting read.  KB.

http://tinyurl.com/NYtimesAcornsstory

First Sunday bird walk hilight

A female BALTIMORE ORIOLE was reported from Michele's Dreger's walk ( from the Boathouse). Below is a photo taken by Richard Wright  and more pics on his gallery http:vainglory.com/vgallery

( click on Richard's photo to enlarge)

Oriole was seen on the Northwestern side of the lake behind the picnic tables. (Lamppost #249)

From Michele Dreger:

About 40 birders met at the Audubon Center at 10am on Sunday December 4.
Eni, Vinny and I took the group to the Vale via the Midwood. It was a beautiful sunny day and the birds cooperated.
After the walk, a few of us wandered over to the feeders, where we saw the 2nd Oriole of the day.
Then the last of the straggling birders walked to the lamppost 249 where they saw an orange crowned warbler and the 3rd Oriole of the day!
3 orioles in December? Hard to believe but true!!

Remember the First Sunday in January is New Year's Day. The walk is scheduled for 10am.

Here is the list:

Sharp-shinned hawk
Blue jay
Robin
Ring billed gull
Northern Cardinal
American Goldfinch
Mallard
Coot
Downy
Black-capped Chickadee
White-throated sparrow
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Red bellied woodpecker
Mourning dove
Baltimore Oriole
White throated Nuthatch
Song sparrow
Red tailed hawk
Titmouse
Carolina wren heard
Brown creeper
Wood duck
Orange crowned warbler


=

Prospect December 2nd

Hilight is first ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER seen by Mary Eyster at the Breeze Hill dirt mounds. Secondly, RING-NECKED DUCK ,an adult male on Prospect Lake per Adam.

*************************************

From Adam:

Prospect Park, Kings, US-NY


Dec 2, 2011 11:40 AM - 1:30 PM

Protocol: Traveling

2.0 mile(s)

Comments: coolish, still day. Notables: Ring-necked Duck, Winter Wren, NO Canada Goose seen on Prospect Lake (!)

28 species

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) X

American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) 2

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) X

Ring-necked Duck (Aythya collaris) 1 very clean, bright-looking male in breeding plumage

Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) X

Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) 2

Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) 3

American Coot (Fulica americana) X

Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) X

Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) X

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus) 1

Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) X

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius) 1

Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) 2

Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus) 1

Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) 5

Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) 4

Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) 2

White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) 1

Winter Wren (Troglodytes hiemalis) 1 my FoS. Looked like a juv.

American Robin (Turdus migratorius) 3

Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca) 1

Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) 4

White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) X

Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) 4

Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) 5

American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis) X

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) X

This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org)

Upcoming first Sunday Audubon bird walk (from the Boathouse)

Message from Michele Dreger ( leading)

We meet at the Audubon Center at 10am on Sunday, Dec 4. Please bring your own binoculars as the center does not open until noon.


We will be on the lookout for Pine Siskin's - Orange Crowned Warbler - Nashville Warbler


And the feeders are up - so we will be stopping there.


We have been nominated to host a CUNY journalism group while they film a piece on Birders. They will be visiting our tours on both Saturday at Noon and Sunday at 10am. They would like to see what it is like to belong to a bird group and interview some of the participants.


ALSO....Check out the Friday Weekend Section in the NY Times on Dec 2. You may see that there is a story that includes our park.

Photos of OCWA

Peter Colen took these photos of Orange-crowned Warbler near the Audubon Boathouse the weekend before Thanksgiving. (click on photo to enlarge)

http://www.petercolenphotography.com/