10,000 Birds

MARCH 30, 2012

Like several of my favorite NWRs, this one was established as a haven for migratory birds, most notably waterfowl, during the bad old days when uncontrolled hunting and habitat loss had put the future of even species we now think of as common in doubt. At last we plunged into the woods, hoping for Great Horned Owls.

Wildlife 171

Wildlife Montana Geese Bald Eagle 171

10,000 Birds

APRIL 11, 2011

Snowy Owl – This winter turned out to be horrible for birders hoping to see Bubo scandiacus but pretty good for the birds themselves. Short-eared Owl – Finally, a bird that I saw! Harlequin Duck – There were several birds seen in Queens this winter that I either missed or could not get out to chase.

Jamaica 158

Jamaica Owls 2010 New York City 158

10,000 Birds

DECEMBER 30, 2020

So, I could capture it in all its owlish glory, complete with fake eyes at the back and nicely illustrating the capability of the owl to turn its head by almost 180 degrees in each direction. I’d like a beer too, please, as I have never seen a Masked Duck. In a year divided by pre-pandemic birds (travel!),

2020 245

2020 Birds Costa Rica Germany 245