Early Saturday morning I went to Black Rock Forest and hiked up to Jupiter’s Boulder. I was trying for Ruffed Grouse, but unfortunately I had no luck. I did pick up my first Acadian Flycatchers of the year; it’s always nice to see and hear that bird. Afterwards, I went to Newburgh to follow up on an eBird report of a pair of Eurasian Collared-Doves, but again I had no luck. On my way home a played a hunch and went to the OC Airport to see if the Killdeer there had a second brood. They did, there was one young bird with two adults; the bird was so small it kept tipping over, lol.
This morning I went to the south end of the Liberty Loop. I’ve been meaning to get out there to try for Least Bitterns, so I finally did today and they did not disappoint. Once again, the southernmost compound at the loop is loaded with good birds during the summer. Least Bitterns were the big draw, but I also enjoyed seeing a young Pied-billed Grebe, many Common Gallinules, Killdeer, and loads of Wood Ducks.
Great shots!!! I missed the least Bittern, but saw a Woodcock! South western side in the dried up ditch. I usually look in the ditches for Thrushes. What a great surprise. The Grebe was adorable too. Thanks for posting such great shots and sharing where you saw these wonderful Birds.
Thanks Patty! Nice job with the Woodcock, that’s a really good bird. Matt
Awesome Matt I love the ruffed grouse. Reminds me of Maine and pine trees. But most of all it reminds me of my dad
Nice that they remind you of your dad. It’s funny because I’m sort of obsessed with Ruffed Grouse (but for no good reason). I’ll try for those birds again, maybe I’ll get lucky and get a photo.
Wonderful Shots Matt!
Thanks John!