Reports today

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 18:51 by Matthew Miller
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311667250
- Comments: "The famous visiting trumpeter swan"

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 18:43 by Caroline Corwin
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311667793
- Comments: "Continuing at the ferry launch"

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 15, 2026 15:28 by Cece Shen
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311659757
- Comments: "Vagrant"

Gadwall (Common) (Mareca strepera strepera) (14)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 17:54 by Ethan Kang
- Brooklyn Bridge Park--Pier 1, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7021612,-73.996524&ll=40.7021612,-73.996524
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311657003
- Comments: "Including one perched!"



Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (2)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 16:31 by Z L
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311650469
- Comments: "Continuing pair of males"

Common Merganser (North American) (Mergus merganser americanus) (2)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 18:27 by Terra Dock
- Prospect Park--Prospect Lake, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6553787,-73.9686421&ll=40.6553787,-73.9686421
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311661401
- Comments: "2 males"

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (7)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 15:47 by Joseph Trezza
- Prospect Park--Prospect Lake, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6553787,-73.9686421&ll=40.6553787,-73.9686421
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311650666
- Comments: "Continuing 6 drakes and 1 female on the lake."

Glaucous Gull (Larus hyperboreus) (1)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 15:22 by Kathleen Toomey
- Bush Terminal Piers Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6541609,-74.0204451&ll=40.6541609,-74.0204451
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311670890
- Comments: "Photo and details, later"

Iceland Gull (Larus glaucoides) (1)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 15:22 by Kathleen Toomey
- Bush Terminal Piers Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6541609,-74.0204451&ll=40.6541609,-74.0204451
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311670890
- Comments: "Photo and details later"

White-crowned Sparrow (Gambel's) (Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii) (1)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 14:05 by Kathleen Toomey
- Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6523083,-73.9904281&ll=40.6523083,-73.9904281
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311668910
- Comments: "Continuing.  Photo"

White-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys) (1)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 14:52 by Terra Dock
- Green-Wood Cemetery--Sylvan Water, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6537472,-73.9986235&ll=40.6537472,-73.9986235
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311657023
- Comments: "3 light streaks down head separated by brown bars. Foraging at bottom of tree by bushes"

Common Grackle (Florida/Purple) (Quiscalus quiscula quiscula/stonei) (1)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 17:54 by Ethan Kang
- Brooklyn Bridge Park--Pier 1, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7021612,-73.996524&ll=40.7021612,-73.996524
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311657003

Common Grackle (Bronzed) (Quiscalus quiscula versicolor) (1)
- Reported Mar 21, 2026 17:54 by Ethan Kang
- Brooklyn Bridge Park--Pier 1, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7021612,-73.996524&ll=40.7021612,-73.996524
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311657003

***********

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--

" Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot,the only home we've ever known"

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

Results of Spring BBC walk Prospect Park March 21

Leader Linda Ewing

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Linda Ewing <>
Date: Sat, Mar 21, 2026, 2:51 PM
Subject: Great walk this morning!
To: Peter Dorosh <prosbird@gmail.com>

We had around 20-25 people join the walk, saw 42 species, and had a lot of fun. The participants were a good mix of old hands (I especially appreciated Rusty's keen eyes) and relative newcomers; several birds were lifers for some, and the osprey (ospreys? seen twice, but most likely the same bird) were FOY for most of us.

Thanks for the opportunity to lead! The list is posted on eBird here:

eBird Checklist - 21 Mar 2026 - Prospect Park - 42 species ebird.org

Let me know if you'd like me to share it with you.

Linda 

Sent from my iPhone

What to expect now going forward

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

eBird Checklist - 20 Mar 2026 - Prospect Park - 44 species (+1 other taxa) wickman chklist

https://ebird.org/checklist/S310970328

Note common mergs 

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

Spring iceland

Iceland Gull (Larus glaucoides) (1)
- Reported Mar 20, 2026 07:57 by Nick Dawson
- Bush Terminal Piers Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6541609,-74.0204451&ll=40.6541609,-74.0204451
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310951775
- Comments: "Again on the broken pier. Photos."

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

the day we are looking for : Spring starts today at 1046 am

🪻🌸🐝🌳🐦🐣🐦‍⬛🦚

When Is the First Day of Spring 2026?

In 2026, the equinox happens on March 20 at 10:46 A.M. EDT. This falls on a Friday and is the astronomical beginning of the spring season in the Northern Hemisphere and the autumn season in the Southern Hemisphere.

Happy Spring!

" Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot,the only home we've ever known"

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

[eBird Alert] Kings County Rare Bird Gambels wasp Sylvan hedges gwc

White-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys) (1)
- Reported Mar 19, 2026 14:09 by Joe Weisbord
- Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6523083,-73.9904281&ll=40.6523083,-73.9904281
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310800950
- Comments: "Gambel's found by MCHL_ large sparrow w clean breast and elongated neck; brown head stripes beginning to molt to black. Subspecies ID based on yellow/orange bill and pale lores (Thx Terry and Kathy who were on it when I arrived)"

White-crowned Sparrow (Gambel's) (Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii) (1)
- Reported Mar 19, 2026 09:00 by David S-
- Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6523083,-73.9904281&ll=40.6523083,-73.9904281
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310808373
- Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Found by Michael on Tuesday. Loosely associating with WTSP's , sparrow with white head stripe, plain grey breast, pale lores and yellow bill. pics" 

" Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot,the only home we've ever known"

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

GWC White crowned sparrow ( Gambles)

White-crowned Sparrow (Gambel's) (Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii) (1)
- Reported Mar 19, 2026 09:23 by MCHL ____
- Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6523083,-73.9904281&ll=40.6523083,-73.9904281
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310711063
- Comments: "Continuing in hedgerows West of Sylvan Water. Better photos in yesterday's checklist."

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

Also still around

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (6)
- Reported Mar 19, 2026 08:19 by Forrest Wickman
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310624484
- Comments: "Continuing all together on the center of the lake. All males width all white sides. Photos available."

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

Still atound

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 19, 2026 09:41 by Mary Ann Zovko
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310623988
- Comments: "With Mute Swan near pier. Continuing"

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

Icgu btpp

Iceland Gull (Larus glaucoides) (1)
- Reported Mar 19, 2026 08:09 by Nick Dawson
- Bush Terminal Piers Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6541609,-74.0204451&ll=40.6541609,-74.0204451
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310595607
- Comments: "One of the individuals that's been around. Photos."

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

Greenwood White crowned sparrow a Gambles subpecies

White-crowned Sparrow (Gambel's) (Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii) (1)
- Reported Mar 18, 2026 15:13 by Casey Ferio
- Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6523083,-73.9904281&ll=40.6523083,-73.9904281
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310436197
- Media: 12 Photos
- Comments: "**rare(?) - status of this subspecies in the east unclear, but perhaps over-represented among wintering birds. Found yesterday by Michael, a bit earlier than eastern leucophrys white-crowned sparrows come through, which makes sense for a vagrant. I went back and forth on this bird based on yesterday's photos; it is a molting SY bird and as expected its facial feathers are a bit scruffy, which gave some ambiguity to the loral pattern, but in person it looked pretty classic for gambelli. The ocular stripe does not appear to continue through the eye, and notably both sides seem to match, which is helpful for ruling out intermediates/intergrades. The bill looks very small and appears to be taking on a schoolbus-yellow color, unlike the deep purplish-red of leucophrys; in addition the pale parts of the face and head are kind of an ashen-gray and the facial striping is a bit sparse. Rather stunning as an individual with its multicolored molty crown pattern and bright rufousy wing coverts. A few prior Brooklyn records exist for this subspecies including one earlier this year, but like all subspecies vagrants, detection rate is probably very low. In fact, in the wake of the january 2026 record (found by Richard Fleming and Jeff Gramm) I pulled up photos of white-crowned sparrow on ebird, sorted for Brooklyn, then sorted for the winter months, and immediately "found" a december bird from a few years ago in prospect park that was seen by a good number of people and rather well-photographed, but had escaped identification. This bird was frequenting the hedgerows immediately north/northwest of Sylvan water. Photos"

White-crowned Sparrow (Gambel's) (Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii) (1)
- Reported Mar 18, 2026 13:00 by MCHL ____
- Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6523083,-73.9904281&ll=40.6523083,-73.9904281
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310423435
- Comments: "Continuing in the hedgerows West of Sylvan Water. More images to be added."

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

GWC White crowned sparrow

White-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys) (1)
- Reported Mar 18, 2026 15:21 by chel sea
- Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6523083,-73.9904281&ll=40.6523083,-73.9904281
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310416398
- Comments: "Continuing, found 3/17 by Michael. Photos TBA, potential Gambel's subspecies."

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

Vale cashmere closure and restoration press conference

https://gothamist.com/news/prospect-parks-secluded-vale-of-cashmere-getting-long-awaited-upgrade

https://edc.nyc/press-release/nycedc-nyc-parks-prospect-park-alliance-break-ground-vale-restoration-prospect-park

https://www.bkreader.com/non-profit-community/major-renovation-starts-at-brooklyns-prospect-park-12015668#google_vignette

--

" Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot,the only home we've ever known"

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

Continuing trumpeter

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 17, 2026 11:41 by Austen McNulty
- Domino Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7138267,-73.9684078&ll=40.7138267,-73.9684078
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310049877
- Comments: "Photo"

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 17, 2026 12:12 by Kenny B
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310049799
- Comments: "Continues

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

Come pplake

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (7)
- Reported Mar 17, 2026 08:25 by Linda Ewing
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310037769
- Comments: "Same composition as the other day: 6M, 1F in a loose group on the lake."

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

COME pplake

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (8)
- Reported Mar 16, 2026 14:50 by Ben Wright
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S309844608
- Comments: "Continuing, sleeping near 3 sisters"

"Lines Written in Early Spring" (excerpt)

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

Sundays hilights

While we are in transition with birds moving in and out, several hilights made Sunday interesting.

On Prospect Lake, a drake Red breasted merganser joined the 7 Common Mergansers still here .Yesterday's Wilson Snipe though went missing ( cause it was in a hurry) despite a prolonged search.

Over Greenwood Cemetery, 3 Bald Eagles were on the move. Meanwhile on the ground , 5 Hooded Mergansers remained on Crescent Water with few Buffleheads on Sylvan Water Otherwise other water stuff left.

In Red Hook, an Iceland Gull occupied a jetty off the Waterfront Museum.

And as it goes for the umpteenth time ,the Trumpeter Swan is long residing at Williamsburgh North 5th Street Pier near the ferry dock.

"Lines Written in Early Spring" Summary

I heard a thousand interwoven notes of birdsong while I lay in a grove, where I was enjoying the kind of mood in which happy thoughts remind you of sad ones.

Nature connected my soul to all the beautiful creatures around me—and I felt terribly sad to think about what humanity has done to itself.

poet William Wordsworth

for full poem , see link below:

https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/william-wordsworth/lines-written-in-early-spring













   

Prospect wilsons snipe

Reported at the west shore yesterday in the phragmites patch between the west island and the wooden gazebo shelter ..sweet gum trees overlook this spot.

Nearest park entrance is greenwood ave.

--

" Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot,the only home we've ever known"

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

First pine warblers of the season

It's early but those beautiful warblers are coming

Greenwood Cemetery is the site of two Pine Warblers this morning reported by Louie Wong. There'll be more but he reported his observation along with at least two golden crowned Kinglets at  40.652537,-73.989811 Dell Ave South of Central Ave.

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Bird-Watcher Captures First-Ever Recorded Sighting Of Gorgeous Swan In New York - The Dodo

https://www.thedodo.com/daily-dodo/bird-watcher-captures-first-ever-recorded-sighting-of-gorgeous-swan-in-new-york

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

PP Black vulture

Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) (1)
- Reported Mar 13, 2026 12:50 by Jeff G
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308816325
- Media: 1 Video
- Comments: "Did not have camera. Short tailed, flappy vulture with silver wingtips. Flying with a TV. Took a cell phone video that I'll post."

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Prospect gets the merg hat trick

I read Forrests prospect checklist and he scored the hat trick with his sighting of Red breasted mergansers joining common and hooded.

That's a rarity for all three on the same pond !

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Iceland gull

Iceland Gull (Larus glaucoides) (1)
- Reported Mar 12, 2026 07:38 by Tom Preston
- Brooklyn Army Terminal Pier 4, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.646519,-74.026074&ll=40.646519,-74.026074
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308481277
- Comments: "Continuing, photos, but where was yer big brother?"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Continuing...

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 12, 2026 12:29 by Alexis Clements
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308549301
- Comments: "Continuing bird, all-black beak, sheltering in a little sandy cove with a mute swan"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Birding and aging

https://www.newscientist.com/article/2516604-birdwatching-may-reshape-the-brain-and-build-its-buffer-against-ageing/?fbclid=IwdGRzaAQgECdjbGNrBCAP1GV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDDM1MDY4NTUzMTcyOAABHjoPkGJp9gm7IJb2axUMpo62kcEncrqxbe73CBdaKoVuo5XBn-6R0dD_I31d_aem__iGh4fMkX-aEZmlJwlwZyA&sfnsn=mo

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Terrific time for duck passage

A work day's end was fruitful witnessing the passage of ducks upon our waters. In Prospect that has plenty of water, that means ducks galore 

A first stop at the Upper Pool now 25% ice free revealed a pair of Wood Ducks that came out from the shore and went back in .

Then after the long walk through the Nethermead I came upon partially iced Prospect Lake  about 65% open ,had nice stuff 

First it was 4 Ring necked Ducks followed by 5 Hooded Mergansers. Very nice to see were the Courtship rituals performed by the Hoodies, the drakes throwing back their heads. There were even clashes by the drakes for the affection of the hens .

Then our long standing species residents of Prospect winter , the Common Mergansers looked gorgeous in the light. First I saw 3, but later coming out of three sisters Islands, 4 more common mergansers sailed out;in the mix ,6 drakes and a lone hen complemented the numerous Northern Shovelers hanging close to 3 Sisters. Two Black Ducks on the ice edge added more diversity.

Not bad for my walk home from work 

https://ebird.org/checklist/S308403837

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Reports for March 11

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 11, 2026 11:25 by Ryan Goldberg
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308290595
- Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing, close to the pier with its Mute Swan companion."

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (7)
- Reported Mar 11, 2026 08:20 by Linda Ewing
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308305392
- Comments: "Continuing presence on the lake; this time saw 6 drakes, 1 hen, actively diving in the center instead of tucked in by 3 Sisters. Also saw a drake in flight, but not counting it, as it may have settled & been counted w the others."

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (8)
- Reported Mar 11, 2026 07:59 by Forrest Wickman
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308292420
- Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing "iconic" species of Prospect Park. Today seven males and one female. Photos."

Great Egret (Ardea alba) (1)
- Reported Mar 11, 2026 07:59 by Forrest Wickman
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308292420
- Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Flagged for date: Early, and I think the first in the county this year, though I've been wondering when these guys would show up. Morning flyover, and weirdly headed southwest out of the park, rather than north. (Gregory, you're going the wrong way!) Photos."


Iceland Gull (Larus glaucoides) (1)
- Reported Mar 11, 2026 17:40 by Nick Dawson
- Bush Terminal Piers Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6541609,-74.0204451&ll=40.6541609,-74.0204451
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308390244
- Comments: "Photos."

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Rusty

Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus) (1)
- Reported Mar 08, 2026 11:00 by matt bourke
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308116843
- Comments: "in the vale, seen by others. looked like a male - pointed bill and a pale yellow eye"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Where does the name Timberdoodle come from ?

If you are wondering about the American Woodcock other nickname here it is:

The American Woodcock is nicknamed "timberdoodle" due to its habitat in young forests/woodlands ("timber") and its, at times, silly or ditsy, rocking, "doodle"-like movement while searching for food. The term originated in the mid-19th century, with one of the first recorded uses appearing in an 1839

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Wills chklist

https://ebird.org/checklist/S307961391

Note both Glaucous and Iceland Gulls 

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

COME stick around

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (4)
- Reported Mar 10, 2026 07:53 by Connor Krist
- Prospect Park--Prospect Lake, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6553787,-73.9686421&ll=40.6553787,-73.9686421
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307924768
- Comments: "Distinct white side and black top with gray tail and orange beak"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Continuing Trumpeter

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 10, 2026 08:28 by Greg Thornberg
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307919362
- Media: 1 Video, 2 Photos
- Comments: "YES! Continuing. Large swan with thick all black bill. Along shore of N5 Pier with Mute Swan and CAGO."

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 10, 2026 08:01 by Caroline Quinn
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307905830
- Comments: "Continuing, preening on the sand in the inlet by the North Williamsburg ferry pier with its Mute Swan partner in crime. Not even a crappy cell phone pic this morning as was running so late to catch my ferry but you know the drill by now - big all white swan with an entirely black sloping bill and black facial skin with straight borders."

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Cackling goose report Prospect lake

Putting it out there ..

Cackling Goose (Branta hutchinsii) (2)
- Reported Mar 10, 2026 07:53 by Connor Krist
- Prospect Park--Prospect Lake, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6553787,-73.9686421&ll=40.6553787,-73.9686421
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307924768
- Comments: "Size, neck length, mixed with Canada geese"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

fos tree swallow prospect

Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor) (3)
- Reported Mar 09, 2026 09:47 by Ant Tab
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307632020
- Comments: "Early-ish; compact white-bellied swallows with slightly notched tails together very high over Nethermead."

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Rusty blackbird pplake

Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus) (2)
- Reported Mar 09, 2026 09:45 by RenX MC
- Prospect Park, New York US-NY 40.65644, -73.96905, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.656443,-73.969053&ll=40.656443,-73.969053
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307604176
- Comments: "Sharp beak and light eyering. Foraging at edge of prospect park lake"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

COME south Prospect lake

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (5)
- Reported Mar 09, 2026 08:02 by Eleanor Kagan
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307596995
- Comments: "Continuing. South side of the lake. At least four males and one or two females. Photos available.

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Cackling goose congress

Cackling Goose (Branta hutchinsii) (1)
- Reported Mar 08, 2026 10:49 by E R
- Congress Street, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6891943,-73.9969754&ll=40.6891943,-73.9969754
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307395106
- Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Having had flyover candidates before that were probably just small Canadas, I'm a little wary, but I think this one looks better -- small-bodied and small-headed and billed, with head looking pretty blocky. Was watching it in real time and trying to get photos, which seem to confirm the impression"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Around the nabe

Interesting stuff to report today briefly .

Both Glaucous and Iceland gulls were at Bush Terminal Pier park before each separately flew off south towards Brooklyn army terminal ,likely to the pier there.

Also at BT Pier park, a Green winged teal floated off at one of the piers.

To the north at Sims Recycling,the SWAINSON Hawk continues its presence.

The Trumpeter Swan sticks around at its favorite Pier North 5th ferry in Williamsburg.

In Prospect Park, a reported Boat- tailed Grackle visited the West shore area of Prospect Lake .This is a rare species account so hopefully it sticks around 

A deceased American Woodcock was found yesterday in Prospect so this species is coming through,one of the earliest special birds of spring .

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Really ducky at greenwood cemetery

After Sunday services and breakfast, we always take a ride through Greenwood to see the "country" . It's a good way to view from the car as my mom doesn't walk too well. But this late morning i noticed how ducky it was.

Passing first by crescent water, it was all hooded.. 6 Hooded Mergansers got the pond for themselves, 3 drakes and 3 hens for the right romantic moment.

Later Sylvan water did better with diversity.Joining more hooded  now 12 so far i counted was a lone Red breasted merganser drake. I read later a Common merganser put in and that's pretty rare for 3 merg species especially for greenwood! Add wood ducks, a bufflehead, a ruddy and the usual mallard and black, we have a great collection! 

You have to love this time of year as migration heats up..🦆

--

" Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot,the only home we've ever known"

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

both whitewinged gulls at BATP4

Glaucous Gull (Larus hyperboreus) (1)
- Reported Mar 08, 2026 14:54 by Ryan McGrady
- Brooklyn Army Terminal Pier 4, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.646519,-74.026074&ll=40.646519,-74.026074
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307340261
- Comments: "Giant all ivory gull, conveniently right near a less giant all white gull"

Iceland Gull (Larus glaucoides) (1)
- Reported Mar 08, 2026 14:54 by Ryan McGrady
- Brooklyn Army Terminal Pier 4, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.646519,-74.026074&ll=40.646519,-74.026074
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307340261
- Comments: "Big all ivory gull, conveniently right near an even bigger all white gull"

Iceland Gull (Larus glaucoides) (1)
- Reported Mar 08, 2026 13:11 by Asher Fusco
- Brooklyn Army Terminal Pier 4, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.646519,-74.026074&ll=40.646519,-74.026074
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307341930
- Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing among ring-billed and herring gulls on the pier, originally found/reported by Casey. First-cycle bird, overall light-colored with all-dark bill. Smaller than nearby American Herring Gulls. Photos

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Triple merganser in GWC!

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (2)
- Reported Mar 08, 2026 11:20 by Daisy Paul
- Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6523083,-73.9904281&ll=40.6523083,-73.9904281
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307340102
- Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "All three mergansers on one checklist in GWC! If not a first, exceedingly rare. Male and female flyover, northbound over Hill of Graves."

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

That time of year for Rusty Blackbirds

Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus) (2)
- Reported Mar 08, 2026 12:38 by Anonymous eBirder
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.652439,-73.970243&ll=40.652439,-73.970243
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307319238
- Comments: "One juvenile and one adult male on lookout hil"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

eBird Checklist - 8 Mar 2026 - North 5th Street Pier and Park - 5 species

https://ebird.org/checklist/S307354733

Well, I finally got around getting the darn Boid...

After over two weeks hearing and reading about that trumpeter swan in upper East River , specifically Greenpoint and Williamsburgh,I figure that I didn't want to torture myself any long for an easy new county bird. So I hopped aboard the F train. The G would've been easier for me but it stops at Court Square with ongoing weekend track maintenance. So it was the F train the long way into NYC then the L train to Bedford Ave;then a long walk.

When I arrived at the North 5th St Pier, I really got lucky.The trumpeter was immediate and on spot..count my lucky stars!

It stuck with a Mute Swan staying close adjacent to the ferry Pier and settling in by the beach with extremely close observation..

It's not often I get after a long birding career a new county life bird.

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson
   

Trumpeter update

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 08, 2026 11:01 by landry birds
- Marsha P. Johnson SP (East River SP), Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7214782,-73.9620551&ll=40.7214782,-73.9620551
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307217931
- Comments: "Continuing with his mute swan friend"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

First spring phoebe

Eastern Phoebe (Sayornis phoebe) (1)
- Reported Mar 08, 2026 08:33 by Peter Paul
- Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6523083,-73.9904281&ll=40.6523083,-73.9904281
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S307190409
- Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Slightly early - Sylvan. Yay! Gray and white flycatcher, tail pumping."

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Pufi in pp

Purple Finch (Haemorhous purpureus) (1)
- Reported Mar 07, 2026 12:42 by Chris Miller
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6680222,-73.96367&ll=40.6680222,-73.96367
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S306897662
- Comments: "Heard it first, then saw it. Stockier finch with slight crest on raspberry colored head. Raspberry colored chest with white belly. Adult male singing in a tree here: (40.6691123, -73.9663513)"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Come update

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (8)
- Reported Mar 07, 2026 10:27 by Radka Osickova
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S306925620
- Comments: "Continuing"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Trumpeter update

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 07, 2026 09:29 by Elias Kotsis
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S306792457
- Comments: "Part of continuing pair with Mute Swan"

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 07, 2026 09:22 by Caroline Quinn
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S306772842
- Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing with its Mute Swan pal in inlet by North Williamsburg ferry dock. Once again being fed bread by very well-meaning people :( - don't miss your chance to educate folks about angel wing today, fellow kids! Crappy cell phone pic as I was heading for the ferry."


Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 07, 2026 14:05 by Kerri McDonald 🐤
- Wallabout Channel, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7050865,-73.9697951&ll=40.7050865,-73.9697951
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S306987312
- Comments: "Ongoing trumpeter swan hanging out with mute swan."

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Bluejays are the Oak builders.

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Trumpeter update

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 06, 2026 11:11 by Melissa Ainley
- North 5th Street Pier and Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7201139,-73.9643432&ll=40.7201139,-73.9643432
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S306479858
- Comments: "Continuing with its Mute Swan companion at the end of N.5th street. Unfortunately someone dumped a TON of bread in the water today, people are constantly feeding them. Can a "Don't feed the waterfowl" sign be made and put here? My heart is breaking as I watch the Canadian Geese and Swans gobble it all up."

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Lake mergansers

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (4)
- Reported Mar 06, 2026 09:07 by Jacob Turetsky
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S306463025
- Comments: "On the main lake, mixed among gulls and ducks. large, white body, crisp transition to a dark head and neck."

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (8)
- Reported Mar 06, 2026 08:03 by Forrest Wickman
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S306451891
- Comments: "Continuing males on the S side of the lake. More photos available."

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Bald eagles prospect lake jollies

Immature bald eagle landed on Prospect lake ice briefly,took off ,flew over circling Hammerhead  and was attacked by an adult bald eagle! Pretty cool.now I'm heading for lunch from my park job.🦅

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

addition to last post Mt Prospect Park skate park , specs

https://www.brooklyncb8.org/docs/260303_MPP_PrelimDesign_CB8_Final.pdf?zlinkid=73194c8c-f344-458b-a786-1c777e912666

--

" Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot,the only home we've ever known"

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

new proposed skatepark in Mount Prospect Park (adjacent to Brooklyn Botanic Garden on Eastern Parkway side

https://www.curbed.com/article/tony-hawk-skate-park-mount-prospect-green-space.html

--

" Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot,the only home we've ever known"

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

Wallabout Trumpeter

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 05, 2026 11:31 by Austin Johnson
- Wallabout Channel, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7050865,-73.9697951&ll=40.7050865,-73.9697951
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S306235271
- Comments: "continuing mega, at the terminus of the channel when i arrived but slowly paddled directly beneath the dead end of division ave for great looks"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Swainsons hawk update

Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) (1)
- Reported Mar 04, 2026 12:30 by Anonymous eBirder
- Sims Municipal Recycling (restricted access), Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6624882,-74.0090782&ll=40.6624882,-74.0090782
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S305992398
- Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing long-winged, dark hawk. Photos"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Trumpeter Swan update today

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1)
- Reported Mar 04, 2026 13:48 by Hazel Court
- Wallabout Channel, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7050865,-73.9697951&ll=40.7050865,-73.9697951
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S305948606
- Comments: "Continuing, hanging out with the mute swan. Floated in from Wallabout Bay and proceeded to sip of the street runoff pipe. Straight black wedge bill with teeny pink line. Photos."

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

Springs show

" Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot,the only home we've ever known"

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

Events for April 2026 – Brooklyn Bird Club

https://brooklynbirdclub.org/events/2026-04/ 

Schedule for spring prospect walks,tradition continues

" Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot,the only home we've ever known"

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

Come on Prospect lake

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (6)
- Reported Mar 03, 2026 16:27 by Brett Graham
- Prospect Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6602841,-73.9689534&ll=40.6602841,-73.9689534
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S305708808
- Comments: "Continuing in open water at South part of Prospect Lake."

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

March 3 wallabout trumpeter

Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 03, 2026 08:59 by Sameer Ajmani
- Wallabout Channel, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.7050865,-73.9697951&ll=40.7050865,-73.9697951
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S305581190
- Comments: "Continuing huge white swan with entirely black bill extending to eyes"

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson














   

It's beginning......

" Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot,the only home we've ever known"

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

Tomorrow morning lunar eclipse

638 am peak 

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson



NOTE: A bust this morning due to overcast clouds










   

Springs woodcocks dance.

For anyone looking to experience this wonderful spring phenomenon, go for it 

Best places are Floyd Bennett field. ( North 40 or the Scout camp near the sanitation complex, Marine Park salt marsh trail or even Jamaica Bay refuge .. look for field edges of hedges or thickets .

Here's a Google search

woodcocks dance for how long

+6

American woodcocks perform their "sky dance" courtship display for approximately 30 to 60 minutes during dawn or dusk, typically starting about 15–20 minutes after sunset. These performances, which involve musical wing chirps and spiral flights, can continue for hours if there is a bright moon. 

This video shows a male woodcock performing its unique sky dance ritual:

49s

Bob Duchesne

YouTube • Apr 17, 2024

Key Details on Timing:

• Duration: The display, often called the "sky dance," typically lasts 30–60 minutes, with the entire ritual often continuing for hours into the night.
• Best Time to View: The best time is during civil twilight, which is about 45 minutes after sunset or before sunrise.
• Moonlight Factor: On bright, moonlit nights, the performance may last all night.
• Seasonal Duration: The courtship displays begin in mid-March and can last into June, with April and early May being prime time.
• Weather Effects: Clear skies can extend the duration of the display, while wind reduces it. 

Do Yourself a Favor This Spring: Go See the American Woodcock's ...

Mar 26, 2021 — The dance usually lasts for half an hour or more, but when the moon is especially bright it can go on all night. If you're a morning person, you can also catch ...

National Audubon Society

The curious courtship of the American woodcock

Mar 22, 2021 — After a round of singing, male woodcocks will launch themselves into the sky and perform a high, twisting aerial display. A musical "twittering" sound is made b...

lakecountynature.com

Dance of the Timberdoodle – Saw Mill River Audubon

Mar 28, 2022 — The American Woodcock (Scolopax minor) is a sandpiper that inhabits the eastern half of the United States. Males of the species perform a memorable courtship di...

Saw Mill River Audubon

Have You Seen the Sky Dance? - American Birding Association

Apr 22, 2025 — The best time to observe their famous "sky dance," a courtship display, is March through April, just after sunset or also before sunrise. Dusk displays often la...

American Birding Association

The woodcock's sky dance - Farm and Dairy

The dance can last for hours between dusk and dawn from early-March through early May. Here's some more information about the woodcock dance: * Displaying male ...

www.farmanddairy.com

Dance of the American woodcock | Mass.gov

Mar 3, 2025 — Finally, the male woodcock lands silently near its original position and waits to see if a female has noticed. This performance may be repeated several times wh...

Mass.gov

Species Spotlight: American Woodcock - New York Breeding Bird Atlas

Mar 9, 2021 — Powerline cuts can be great spots to target. Listen for the peent call (coded S) and the twittering of the bird in flight (coded C). The peent is given from the...

eBird

0:54

What time is it? Woodcock time.

Facebook·Shawn Severance

AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more

"How many lessons of faith and beauty we should lose, if there were no winter in our year!"

-- Thomas Wentworth Higginson