9/10/13

Wilson's Snipe at Wallkill River NWR, 9/10/13.
Wilson’s Snipe at Wallkill River NWR, 9/10/13.

I only have time for a quick post. I met Karen Miller over at Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge yesterday evening where, to me, it was really beginning to feel like fall (in spite of the warm temperatures). We had some good ducks – many Mallards, some Green-winged Teals, and a single northern Shoveler. There were still some shorebirds present, including Greater Yellowlegs, Lesser Yellowlegs, and three Wilson’s Snipes. Green Herons are plentiful at the refuge right now for sure. Last week, we had eight (!) perched in one small tree! Here are some photos from the day, click on them to enlarge:

This looks like a first winter Northern Shoveler to me, as shown on page 58 of The Crossley Guide.
This looks like a first winter Northern Shoveler to me, as shown on page 58 of The Crossley Guide.

 

Green-winged Teal at Wallkill River NWR 9/10/13.
Green-winged Teal at Wallkill River NWR 9/10/13.

 

These Mallards were just packed onto this little island.
These Mallards were just packed onto this little island.

 

One of several Green Herons out at the refuge, 9/10/13.
One of several Green Herons out at the refuge, 9/10/13.

 

This photo did not turn out well, but I thought it was worth showing - eight! Green Herons in one small tree. Wallkill River NWR 8/31/13.
This photo did not turn out well, but I thought it was worth showing – eight! Green Herons in one small tree. Wallkill River NWR 8/31/13.

I have also made it out to the Mt. Peter Hawk Watch after work each night this week. It has been a slow week for me, in three visits I have a total of 4 migrating raptors (2 Sharp-shinned Hawks and 2 Osprey). Here’s a shot of one of the Turkey Vultures that hang out on the cell tower near the watch:

Turkey Vulture NOT migrating. Mt. Peter Hawk Watch, 9/10/13.
Turkey Vulture NOT migrating. Mt. Peter Hawk Watch, 9/10/13.