Vigilant volunteers on Connecticut beaches result in successful nesting season for threatened shorebirds.
Season recap reveals new details about where American Oystercatchers migrate, and historically low numbers for Least Terns. November 19, 2019– Thanks to the efforts of almost 100 volunteers on Connecticut’s beaches, two of the state’s most vulnerable shorebirds had highly successful breeding seasons in 2019, reflecting a generally safer shoreline locally for federally and state-threatened birds. The Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds announced that the 57 pairs of Piping Plovers that nested in the state fledged 1.72 chicks per pair, higher than the regional goal of 1.5 fledglings...
Read MoreThe Message of the Monarchs by Becky Nystrom
Nature and her creatures are suffering, and they’re calling for our help. The message of the monarchs (Danaus plexippus), a once widespread and iconic organism now threatened with extinction, is but one of many species in unprecedented decline, pleading for our attention and action. Monarchs have much to teach us, and the plight of this amazing and ancient organism is a warning to us all that an ecological Armageddon may be underway. The eastern monarch’s mind-boggling three thousand-mile multigenerational migration between Mexico and North America is unlike any other in the world. On their...
Read MoreJoin the Great Backyard Bird Count!
In as little as 15 minutes you can help birds by counting the ones you see during February 16–19. Sharing your tally will help scientists track the health of the world’s bird populations. Count as many times as you like, anywhere you like, and send your tallies via the Great Backyard Bird Count website or use the eBird mobile app. It’s as easy as watching your own bird feeder, plus the birds will thank you! Learn more at http://gbbc.birdcount.org/ #birdyourworld #yearofthebird
Read MoreAmerican Tree Sparrow
Here’s a look at a little bit of lingering green, thanks to some holly trees, with a lovely American Tree Sparrow (Spizelloides arborea). This cute bird is one of many on the move to the south right now. We are far enough into the season that these winter residents, along with species like the White-throated Sparrow and Dark-eyed Junco, are beginning to fill up our yards. Be careful not to confuse their rufous caps with the similar Chipping Sparrow. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreSaw-whet Owl Banding
Last night RTPI’s Elyse Henshaw joined US Forest Service researchers in their attempts to capture and band migrating Northern Saw-whet owls. Throughout the evening the researchers captured four birds in their mist nets, and subsequently collected data on each individual including physical measurements, age, sex and overall health. Each owl was then outfitted with a uniquely numbered leg band and then released back into the night. If and when these birds are captured again, the data collected contribute to better a better understanding of the movements and ecology of these charismatic little...
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