Ice floe eagle

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (1)
- Reported Feb 09, 2026 07:46 by Sameer Ajmani
- 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/S299118643
- Comments: "Juvenile out on the river ice. Huge brown bird, hooked bill transitioning to yellow. Photos TBA.

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Prospect lake common mergs up 1

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (3)
- Reported Feb 08, 2026 13:52 by Matthew Miller
- 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/S298974008
- Comments: "All males, with green heads and red bills. Distinct slender merganser shape and coloration. Swimming in the last patch of unfrozen water with many other birds

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

A cold walk for birds

Yesterday I needed a break from watching the Winter Olympics. So just for an hour or so going out in gusty arctic blasted cold, I went to my patch of woods, Prospect park.

Not wanting to spend too much time in challenging conditions, I set my target the pair of drake Common Mergansers seen next to 3 Sisters Islands. Trudging along on packed down bumpy snow,careful not to fall, I made my way to the viewing area on south shore. At first I didn't see the mergansers among the horde of Canada geese,despite their bright white plumages. But before long,I spotted one merganser; shortly afterwards, the second drake appeared .Furthermore, I was also delighted to see the drake Ring necked Duck very close to me,diving along the open water edge.In fact, given both species' wild disposition, both species were close ,a wonderful view I had. I thought I was satisfied, having accomplished my trip outdoors .

But then, I sort of got greedy.I thought about the American Tree Sparrow I haven't seen yet..So off I went since it was in a homeward direction for me, I headed for the Hammerhead .

While on the Hammerhead, I scoured carefully all the phragmites and recorded zilch. I even waited along the section by the pedestrian path when I saw a few cardinals and white white throated sparrows,hoping maybe the tree sparrow would accompany them,while I was getting buffeted by the strong winds. Then I had a hunch ,and that helped extended my search by heading for the sweetgum grove near the West Island rustic shelter.

From my search of the lake under the shelter, looking at the gulls was fruitless as the gulls were far off, I changed course and searched the phragmites there. 

Patience is a virtue and during my wait I spotted a few white throated sparrows feeding upon the sweetgum seeds on the ice within the phragmites. Even a single dark eyed junco showed up and I thought I was glad to see something . But before I decided to take off, I see a bird to my left- on the ice -come out of the phragmites and I got my mini nemesis bird : the American Tree Sparrow. It sure is a beaut, with the nice buffish flanks , and subtle rustic colors on its uppers, a welcome sight in this winter landscape 

I watched the Tree sparrow as long as I could ,mindful of my cold fingers in my cheep gloves. I was blessed getting at least 5 minutes looking at this handsome sparrow chasing seeds before it scampered back into the phragmites again. So from the Hammerhead to the shelter area, I realized now that birds fly 😂

Now I got to figure out how and when I can get that local Red- shouldered hawk..

-kb

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Amer tree sparrow

American tree sparrow with WT sparrows below sweetgum trees ,within phragmites just south of West Island rustic shelter Prospect lake southwest

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

GWC Bald eagle presence

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (1)
- Reported Feb 07, 2026 08:09 by Elle Auklet
- 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/S298610028
- Comments: "Unmistakable. Large raptor with brown body, white head, and white tail. Will add photos."

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

COME continues at PPLake 3 Sisters

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (2)
- Reported Feb 07, 2026 08:00 by John Gavrity
- 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/S298588258
- Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "In open water east of Three Sisters. Photos."

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

The beauty of dead tree snags

Note the multiple woodpecker holes.  dead trees harbor wood borers and other insects inside that offer critical food sources for winter birds ( like woodpeckers,nuthatches,creepers, especially titmice and chickadees among others)

🪶

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Photographer chases owl around field and refuses to stop. This is why we need to talk more about wildlife photography ethics | Digital Camera World

https://www.digitalcameraworld.com/photography/nature-and-wildlife-photography/photographer-chases-owl-around-field-and-refuses-to-stop-this-is-why-we-need-to-talk-more-about-wildlife-photography-ethics


Although not in NYC, good story 

Hence why there is a silent code among birders ( at least in brooklyn)....about owl locations.

Unfortunately bad behavior has consequences..

-kb

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

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

Hammerhead american tree sparrow

One was reported by John H seen in the phragmites on west hammerhead which is opposite prospect lake west island.

--

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

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

[eBird Alert] Kings County Rare Bird Alert <bald eagles gwc

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (1)
- Reported Feb 06, 2026 16:38 by Angela Panetta
- 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/S298476001
- Comments: "Adult perched"

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (1)
- Reported Feb 06, 2026 12:31 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/S298473351
- Comments: "Distant, but massive bird. Large wings and significant head projection."

*********** 

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

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

Boathouse Rusty

Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus) (1)
- Reported Feb 06, 2026 09:20 by The Big Laskowski
- 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/S298436272
- Comments: "Continuing by boat house, yellow eye with rusty coloring, short tail and bill vs grackle."

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Come to prospect lake

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (2)
- Reported Feb 06, 2026 10:00 by Walter Somerville
- 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/S298440320
- Comments: "Males"

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Fwd: [eBird Alert] Kings County Rare Bird Alert Prospect Canvasback details and photos

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author


Not seen today or this morning...😕

only the likely 14th record for Prospect Park

1958,1960,1989,1997,1998 *(2x) ,2007,2013,2015,2016,2017,2022,2024,2026

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <ebird-alert@birds.cornell.edu>
Date: Fri, Feb 6, 2026, 9:05 AM
Subject: [eBird Alert] Kings County Rare Bird Alert <hourly>
To: <prosbird@gmail.com>

*** Species Summary:

- Canvasback (16 reports)
- Rusty Blackbird (1 report)

---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <hourly> Kings County Rare Bird Alert.  The report below shows observations of rare birds in Kings County.  View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35645
NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.

eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 16:34 by Peter Paul
- 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/S298295209
- Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Pretty uncommon in the park these days. Long awaited park bird :) And apparently the first I've seen anywhere in the county in 7 years."

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 16:20 by Sean Krepski
- 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/S298286928
- Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "First lifer of 2026!"

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 15:20 by Sean Sime
- 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/S298307664
- Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Drake."

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 14:30 by terry VP
- 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/S298299305
- Media: 1 Photo

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 14:00 by Ryan McGrady
- 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/S298278010

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 12:45 by Z .
- 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/S298278645
- Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Nice surprise crammed in the open water moshpit of the lake. Curious whether this might be the same one from last winter (Mid-Dec 2024)"

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 12:11 by MCHL ____
- 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/S298258718
- Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing! Reported by Forrest W. this morning."

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 12:03 by David S-
- 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/S298331181
- Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Lifer. Hat tip to Forrest Wickman for the alert!"

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 11:30 by Anonymous eBirder
- 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/S298267836

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 11:27 by Susie Dippel
- 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/S298263664
- Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Thx Forest for the alert!"

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 10:30 by Anonymous eBirder
- 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/S298240689

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 10:26 by E R
- 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/S298237800
- Comments: "Nice male, continuing by three sisters. Only my second in Brooklyn, after one here in 2022. Surprised it doesn't flag"

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 08:50 by B F
- 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/S298248890
- Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Photos.  Male.  Spotted by another eagle-eyed birder whose name I didn't get (but thank you!) curled up behind a Mute Swan at Three Sisters near the little patch of open water.  We were discussing Redhead vs. Canvasback ID while waiting for it to reveal its head, and it looks like a redhead would have a darker back."

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 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/S298228287
- Comments: "Rare in Brooklyn, though not flagged as such: This seems to be the first eBirded in Brooklyn since almost exactly a year ago. (Apparently they used to be more common.) Hanging around the small pool of open water just east of Three Sisters. Photos. Pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/U319pXvaJpLAiKCm8?g_st=ic"

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 12:40 by Daniel Smith
- Prospect Park, New York US-NY 40.66575, -73.97126, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.66575,-73.971263&ll=40.66575,-73.971263
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S298266430

Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 15:30 by Matt Beck
- 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/S298282524

Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus) (1)
- Reported Feb 06, 2026 06:49 by John Huggard
- 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/S298377292
- Comments: "Rusty blackbird bright eye.  Photo"

***********

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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/

A canvasback visits prospect lake

A most surprising find this morning,Forrest W found a drake Canvasback in the vincinity of Three Sisters Islands, the central South shore islands on Prospect Lake.

Several people saw this rarity ,including one whose snapshot of the duck showed it very close to shore,sitting on ice with so little open water.

Really a out of the blue discovery, rare for kings county.

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Bald eagles over Gowanus...🦅

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (1)
- Reported Feb 05, 2026 07:15 by matt bourke
- gowanus waterfront, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6623966,-73.9966309&ll=40.6623966,-73.9966309
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S298259234
- Comments: "immature , white  head and a tail, guessing maybe a 3rd or 4th year . still some dark immature feathers. flew north east from Gowanus Bay over my house heading towards Prospect Park"

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Lesser black backed gull at BBP

Lesser Black-backed Gull (Larus fuscus) (1)
- Reported Feb 04, 2026 15:44 by MCHL ____
- Brooklyn Bridge Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6996104,-73.9973745&ll=40.6996104,-73.9973745
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S298137527
- Comments: "Medium sized gull with dark back and light head, spotted by Mike Y. in the water a bit past the Marina."

***********

--

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

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

Bald eagles all over the place!

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (1)
- Reported Feb 04, 2026 09:26 by Joseph Trezza
- 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/S298049445
- Comments: "Adult. Low flying between sylvan and valley."

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (4)
- Reported Feb 04, 2026 10:17 by Ryan Treves
- 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/S298061720
- Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Soaring overhead at the flatbush ave entrance."

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (2)
- Reported Feb 04, 2026 09:27 by Jeff G
- 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/S298106367
- Comments: "One adult one immature. Photos. First bird spotted by Josh M"

--Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (1)
- Reported Feb 04, 2026 14:28 by Susie Dippel
- 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/S298134556
- Comments: "Adult, white head and tail."

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

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

Around da nabe

Some stuff reported today

The apparent Red shouldered hawk of Prospect showed up in Greenwood cemetery by the Pierrepont Monument after being seen at Valley Water earlier.

Given raptor popularity there, a Peregrine falcon appeared by Pine Hill.

To the west, Bush Terminal pier park hosted a drake Common Merganser and of interest 3 Horned larks on the mainland.

Some Common Goldeneyes are hanging out in Greenpoint, offshore north of Bushwick inlet park by West Street terminus.

--

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

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

[eBird Alert] Kings County Rare Bird Alert stuff at GWC

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Feb 03, 2026 12:14 by Marleny Rafferty
- 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/S297923628
- Comments: "Fully mature bald eagle sitting in a tree.  I hurried over thru the iced-over snow.  I may have made too much noise because as I raised my camera to shoot, it flew off low towards the catacombs.  &#x1f61e;"

Purple Finch (Haemorhous purpureus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Feb 03, 2026 09:10 by Z .
- 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/S297919785
- Comments: "Female in group of juncos at sweet gum near barney rubble's* tomb. Seen well. Bold white eyebrow. Pik calling. RJ might have a photo. *(duncan fyfe became barney fife which turned into barney rubble) that hollow btwn vista hill and weeping beeches." 

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

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

[eBird Alert] Kings County Rare Bird Alert COME at BTPP

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (1)
- Reported Feb 03, 2026 15:02 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/S297943859
- Comments: "Lone drake preening on the broken pier. Photos." 

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

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

[eBird Alert] Kings County Rare Bird Alert Rusty bb

Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus) (1)
- Reported Feb 03, 2026 13:00 by terry VP
- 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/S297957450
- Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "cont by the boathouse" 

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

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

Cold Rusty blackbird in Prospect

Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus) (1)
- Reported Feb 03, 2026 08:06 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/S297878037
- Comments: "Flagged for date: Scarce in winter, though Prospect Park, anywhere open water, is the place. Continuing individual (?) in Ambergill, with pale eye, Red-winged Blackbird-like proportions. Photos available."

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Happy Groundhog Day!

 

Wishing you a memorable day and watch the movie for laughter..( though seriously I think folks want the shadow which knows...)

Rusty BB report Prospect

Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus) (1)
- Reported Feb 01, 2026 14:05 by A B
- Prospect Park, New York US-NY (40.6598,-73.9679), Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.659804,-73.967929&ll=40.659804,-73.967929
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S297543104
- Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "On path near lake. On the way to the boathouse"

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Glaucous Gull flyby BATP4

Glaucous Gull (Larus hyperboreus) (1)
- Reported Feb 01, 2026 08:04 by Nate L-S
- 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/S297534313
- Comments: "Winter resident returning for a second year. Not detected upon arrival resulting in a very frigid survey of the gulls out on the ice. Later observed flying northwest past the pier (maybe to Bush). Striking bird in flight, immediately distinguished by its large size (as large or larger than nearby Herrings) and white wings."

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Yesterday's BTPP Common mergs

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (4)
- Reported Jan 31, 2026 13:31 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/S297490495
- Comments: "Flock of four flying south in the harbor. Photos."

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

GWC Bald eagle flyover

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (1)
- Reported Feb 01, 2026 09:01 by Angela Panetta
- 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/S297484195
- Comments: "Soaring above main entrance"

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

wandering prospect red shouldered hawk

The Red shouldered hawk continues to hang around in our frigid wonderland of Prospect Park.

A report mid-morning from Chris M found his rare raptor sighting up in the Rose Garden of the Vale OF Cashmere, no problem for distance for this bird that was frequenting the north Nethermead earlier this week.

--

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

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

eBird Checklist - 31 Jan 2026 - Prospect Park - 28 species Goldberg Chklist leading BBC members

https://ebird.org/checklist/S297277875

Note Rusty Blackbird and Red tailed hawk meal

Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus) (1)
- Reported Jan 31, 2026 09:00 by Ryan Goldberg
- 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/S297277875
- Comments: "Most likely a continuing individual. First seen as a flyover near the Maryland Monument, low and northbound toward the pools, and later seen on the Upper Pool foraging on the ice. Blackbird with long, club-shaped tail, pale eye, and rusty feather edges on dark brown-gray body. Was vocalizing too."

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Thorpe BBP chklist

https://ebird.org/checklist/S297248430

Note Iceland gull and first ? record Common merganser 

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (1)
- Reported Jan 31, 2026 11:28 by E R
- Brooklyn Bridge Park, Kings, New York
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&q=40.6996104,-73.9973745&ll=40.6996104,-73.9973745
- Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S297269569
- Comments: "Continuing female-type by pier 3. White chin patch with strong boundary between head and pale chest. Diving and foraging along rocky water edge in patch of open water between pier and uplands"

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Bird List - Prospect Park, Kings, New York, United States - eBird Hotspot. Today's sightings

https://ebird.org/hotspot/L109516/bird-list

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

A Nethermead red shouldered hawk

Reported by Forrest W, the red shouldered hawk continued its second day in prospects Nethermead area , perched above center drive next to the path that leads down to the Nethermead arches bridge path.

A good bird even better perched on good sight .

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

Local good Birds around in the frigid nabe

A Red shouldered Hawk perched at north Nethermead in Prospect Park while nearby a Rusty Blackbird sauntered in the Ravine Ambergill creek.

At Brooklyn bridge park, several uncommon ducks were reported with drake northern pintail ,greater scaup at Pier 4 and hen Common GoldenEye near the Manhattan bridge.

The Freeze opens opportunities as ducks look for open water.

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author















   

[eBird Alert] Kings County Rare Bird Alert GWC Bad eagle

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) (1)
- Reported Jan 29, 2026 14:07 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/S296919997
- Comments: "Immature dark splotchy eagle. Image." 

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

                                                                            --Carl Sagan

A delightful moment during a work break

My crew and I were about to clear snow and ice from the Maryland monument stairs when I noticed three of my crew mates looking at birds. Near the bottom step, my coworker Caitlin started it off with Fox Sparrow on the snow in front of us ( of course she asked me was that a Fox sparrow?)

What followed was a delightful sequence very welcoming for me to relishes the moment.

Soon after the Fox Sparrow, in its colorful plumage against the white background, Caitlin then points out a pair of Red breasted Nuthatches on the log! Sure enough the pair in their colorful plumage as well were working the end of the fallen large log mere feet from us. I marveled at their hyperactivity and their bright colors. They are among my favorites. Then Aidan my other coworker points out a Red bellied woodpecker above us and also Tufted Titmouse in the same locale but lower.

Geez I didn't realized my coworkers could identify birds!

It was a wonderful winter moment,given all the birds we saw were tight knit and right in front of us , a realization that spontaneous moments do happen at times you least expect in a surprising manner 

☃️

"It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it."

--John Burroughs, conservationist and author