Jamaica Bay Walk Recap

by John Gluth

The chapter field trip to Jamaica Bay on August 17th was attended by a very small group of intrepid souls who really wanted to see some shorebirds, terns, and other waterbirds. They got their wish.

The north end of the east pond was the focus of exploration. We were rewarded with sightings of 5 Caspian Terns, an unusually high number. A good diversity of shorebirds was also present, the highlights of which included a Wilson’s Phalarope, 6 Long-billed Dowitchers and 9 Stilt Sandpipers. Other notable sightings included 5 Black Skimmers, a Peregrine Falcon and 1 or two Northern Waterthrush.

It was a fine morning that not even a little drizzle toward the end could dampen. Hoping for a larger turnout for next year’s trip, and at least as many good birds as this year.