Tag: nature
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The Sparrows of April
The month of April could be told in sparrows. That rusty-capped little sparrow you may have seen this past month in the local parks, the Chipping Sparrow, is currently traveling north from Mexico and South America, stopping here on its long migration journey. It breeds in late April and May. The Chipping Sparrow trills loudly,…
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The Return of the Yellow-rumped Warblers
The Merlin app detected Yellow-rumped Warblers in Inwood Hill Park on April 17, 2024. The author also spotted a pair of Palm Warblers and a Hermit Thrush earlier than the previous year. The spring migration seems faster this year but keeping a multiple year diary helps anticipate future arrivals and monitor any decline in bird…
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The Double-crested Cormorants of Spuyten Duyvil
Double-crested Cormorants frequent the waters of Spuyten Duyvil Creek, a turbulent tidal estuary that runs between the Hudson and Harlem Rivers at the top of Manhattan Island. These inky-colored waterbirds possess a strong hooked bill that gives them efficient powers over small fish. While Double-crested Cormorants are large and strong, their impressive feathers lack…
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An Osprey for April Fools’ Day
After researching Osprey migration this morning, I now find that Ospreys may be seen in New York State from April through September, but nevertheless I was surprised to see one in Inwood this morning on April 1. I was alerted to its presence by a birding friend who let me know that it wasn’t a…
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Questions for These Red-tailed Hawks Sitting in a Tree on March 25
On March 25, 2024, I saw two Red-tailed Hawks sitting closely together in a tulip tree, seemingly like old friends. I had seen them separately in the past and now wondered about their relationship. The park was bustling with activity as they sat there, creating an intriguing sight on a pleasant spring day.
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Red-winged Blackbirds Return to the Marsh
Red-winged Blackbirds returned to Inwood Hill Park’s Salt Marsh with the arrival of Daylight Saving Time. Their distinct cries fill the marsh as they claim territory, displaying fiery wing patches. The author observed and painted the birds, preparing for the appearance of the female to choose a nesting site. The marsh’s vitality is crucial for…
Birds of Inwood 