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In Search of New York’s Breeding Birds

10,000 Birds

As always, the woods around the marsh were busy with breeders setting up shop. I said good-bye to Wurtsboro and headed east and then north, making my way to the Town of Wallkill in Ulster County, in particular, to Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge where I hoped to see Grasshopper Sparrows and other grassland breeders.

Breeding 152
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The Summer Doldrums

10,000 Birds

Nothing is quite as much of a downer to a birder than the summer doldrums. Migration hasn’t really kicked in, the breeders aren’t tied to breeding territories any more, and it is hot and sweaty outside. Uncomfortable weather and a lack of birds make birders grumpy.

Downers 164