tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84425151998225449152024-03-05T10:37:29.717-08:00Rocky Point Marsh MakersLiberating a wetland from five acres of NYC flotsam and jetsamShervin Hess et alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06699932254897398125noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-8447233692245677582018-01-26T14:56:00.001-08:002018-01-28T07:03:02.071-08:00Franks archived post May to August,2015<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 107%;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">This text and photos by Frank V. De Sisto.</span><!--EndFragment--></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 107%;">Spring, Summer and New Life at Rocky Point Marsh, May thru August,
2015.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 107%;">As the months become warmer and the earth
awakens to spring and then summer, new life struggles to establish itself. Here
at Rocky Point, this new life comes in a variety of forms to include creatures
of the land, the water and the air. Insects reproduce and in turn they help plants
to pollinate themselves; many insects then become food for birds. New plants
sprout from the earth, bringing the color green to the fore; later on
wildflowers bloom creating a riot of color for those who observe the small
details. Eventually, the seeds and berries these plants create will find their
way into the food chain as the insect population tapers off and many birds
switch their diets prior to their southern migration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 107%;">Birds carve out nesting territories and then
defend them against other birds, as well as the various predators their eggs
and young attract. Horseshoe Crabs come ashore and lay eggs in their tens of
thousands, further attracting birds who devour them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 107%;">As we will see, there are never any
guarantees that any creature will long-survive the ways of nature. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 107%;">While all these things are going on, the sun,
the earth and the moon still conduct their eternal, mathematically-precise dance.
The resulting tidal actions are vital for the health of a salt marsh as the
photos Tony submitted amply demonstrate. Incoming tides bring in nutrients from
the sea; receding tides help clean out the marsh and if the “system” is
properly-balanced, the sea water is also filtered clean prior to its return
into Jamaica Bay.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 107%;">Aside from natural forces, Rocky Point Marsh
also depends on the work of volunteers to help it recover from human
depredations. Lumber, which clogs the entrance must be removed so that the
marsh can “breathe”. Probably the most insidious presence in the marsh are
plastic products ranging in size from bags, bottles and hygienic supplies, to
construction barriers. These must all be collected and staged for pick-up, all
primarily by hand. In this case, NPS Ranger Brooke has tapped into a local
summer youth employment program for volunteer labor. Again, Tony has sent along
photos to document their endeavors.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">To tell this particular
story, we will jump back and forth between late spring and mid-summer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 107%;">The first three images come from Tony. They
depict young Brooklynites helping to clean out the marsh pond. In the first
image, these workers have stacked various bits of lumber on the inner face of
the dune line, ready for collection. The other two images show them working to
remove vegetable matter, again to help the water flow freely in and out of the
marsh pond. These people are part of a taxpayer-funded NYC Summer Youth
Employment Program. Date: 7/22/2015.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This pair of images, also courtesy of Tony,
show a high tide event, which occurred at approximately 9:23AM, August 1. Note
that the main pond is completely inundated; this action will usually bring in
small “bait fish”, which, when the tide recedes, will often become trapped in
the marsh. This will then attract wading birds, such as Great Egret (see below)
who will hunt for a meal with their long, stabbing mandibles.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicppFLyXQRzLwu1zlLl7CbDeLvUQHe6tvMJbymRVQ34XfqQDcukY2lP-dBYN6erEvqyASZXxL11ImzU_whjwyYFo50unORo7MqYtm9zM_plUx67EYSubaovGoWPFO6j-TBWYvEUbl9Uic/s1600/012-006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="279" data-original-width="654" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicppFLyXQRzLwu1zlLl7CbDeLvUQHe6tvMJbymRVQ34XfqQDcukY2lP-dBYN6erEvqyASZXxL11ImzU_whjwyYFo50unORo7MqYtm9zM_plUx67EYSubaovGoWPFO6j-TBWYvEUbl9Uic/s1600/012-006.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEittadVT_UDYkMPAxhwGYHRqY1P1oT9HDrSyDRJxRfdeamFzzlNGfXN8I2FyAxLhibcl3eBa2EwaFSJvqWHOzPhDMoyGCV6yzQA7WQMAvs23_0rcWgFY9V_7z2LVYNl0AVQtsQSX3TALLc/s1600/012-007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="654" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEittadVT_UDYkMPAxhwGYHRqY1P1oT9HDrSyDRJxRfdeamFzzlNGfXN8I2FyAxLhibcl3eBa2EwaFSJvqWHOzPhDMoyGCV6yzQA7WQMAvs23_0rcWgFY9V_7z2LVYNl0AVQtsQSX3TALLc/s1600/012-007.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">As spring takes hold, the vegetation that
surrounds the marsh begins to show green. It should also be noted that on the
fringes of the woodlands, four swaths of Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) have
begun to show themselves. This is evident when one examines the area at the
edge of the woodlands, from the tree at left, to the group of trees at far
right. Date: 5/7/2015.</span>This detail of our insidious “friend”,
Poison Ivy, shows new growth. This sprout was observed in the area at far right
in the above photo. Date: 5/7/2015.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> A pair of American Oystercatchers (Haematopus
palliates) take a stroll along the shore-line just outside of the marsh. This
species is a frequent visitor to the marsh and the surrounding beaches; it
would appear that this pair found a welcoming environment for their nest as we
shall see. Date: 5/7/2015.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQLBgav618Uf2PrIDzw7LkSrEC5ZJbO-6284lMNnupxMNVpylvikUX-zYAWDPQPAqD6njvfbenU3Zk16lQrZM8Ha6DAp5siKHQ8yojgsPMpB-mJ0SGBJqiX0aja_tyPj1icqm2ZFndoc/s1600/012-009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="378" data-original-width="654" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQLBgav618Uf2PrIDzw7LkSrEC5ZJbO-6284lMNnupxMNVpylvikUX-zYAWDPQPAqD6njvfbenU3Zk16lQrZM8Ha6DAp5siKHQ8yojgsPMpB-mJ0SGBJqiX0aja_tyPj1icqm2ZFndoc/s1600/012-009.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> A typical clutch of eggs for this species
usually numbers three. This nest scrape was observed on the outside of the dune
line in front of the marsh, three weeks after the Oystercatcher pair was
observed. Date: 5/30/2015. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHXhwIkfxOwjOa1fm51zis2YN0dHX0Ln7ssjlHM6Gj_D-PRUExdsjKfPaJWLockIwVUDl_PDLlpUbwzR0Vc3Et5uP84JQncqXyNYwBm5Gk2SgxNTyYlpBuQB1lADaUmV69woUmT3O2v7U/s1600/012-010.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHXhwIkfxOwjOa1fm51zis2YN0dHX0Ln7ssjlHM6Gj_D-PRUExdsjKfPaJWLockIwVUDl_PDLlpUbwzR0Vc3Et5uP84JQncqXyNYwBm5Gk2SgxNTyYlpBuQB1lADaUmV69woUmT3O2v7U/s1600/012-010.jpg" /></a></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Two weeks later, one egg remained in the
scrape, either because it was not fertilized or the parents abandoned it for
some reason. What I found to be puzzling was that the egg was not devoured by
any members of the local mammal population, which includes Raccoons, Opossums,
rodents and feral domestic cats. Date: 6/13/2015.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Also on that day, a single Oystercatcher
chick was observed near the nest site. Date: 6/13/2015.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv4o3Q5AwwTqLPNeECReFbLq7aCL2aEfOLuR3aH5ofhzhT4pDWSEmeMn3gbjdqMFYXXqClUy28DkFuckHVXgfDSc4Rdvcou7AfCQQ_GOuhQDV5IerPNu6U5FAjR1VtLAAXWWPg6UJGQnE/s1600/012-012.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv4o3Q5AwwTqLPNeECReFbLq7aCL2aEfOLuR3aH5ofhzhT4pDWSEmeMn3gbjdqMFYXXqClUy28DkFuckHVXgfDSc4Rdvcou7AfCQQ_GOuhQDV5IerPNu6U5FAjR1VtLAAXWWPg6UJGQnE/s1600/012-012.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Returning to the nest site over one month
later, the “dead” egg was again inspected. This time evidence that a predator
made a meal of it was quite obvious; local insects, in this case a pair of
Green Bottle Flies (Phaenicia sericata) are still on the job. It should be
noted that the rich golden-yellow color of the egg yolk is natural, not a result
of manipulating the finished image. 7/18/2015</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">This beautifully-plumaged Great-crested
Flycatcher (Myiarchus crinitus) perches in foliage that fringes the marsh.
Date: 5/24/2015.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">This American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla)
characteristically flips and fans its tail while perched in a tree. These
warblers are relatively easy to spot because of this behavior; the motion and
the color of the tail being rather distinctive. Date: 5/24/2015.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Probably one of the noisiest of Rocky Point’s
denizens is the Willet (Tringa semipalmata). Frantically and repeatedly
circling the marsh, this individual was quite vociferous in his objections to
my presence. Date: 6/13/2015.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Later, in July, this Willet pair forage in
the surf just outside the marsh entrance. Date: 7/18/2015.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Frequently observed feeding in the marsh pond
or the shallows of Jamaica Bay, the Great Egret (Ardea alba) is also often seen
roosting in this particular tree on the western edge of the marsh. Date:
7/18/2015.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Adult Horseshoe Crabs are a frequent sight at
the marsh, especially during mating season, where they are often seen
copulating on the sands of the beach. Eggs are deposited in their thousands and
eventually, the young who have survived the feeding frenzy carried on by birds,
hatch out and mature. This individual simply didn’t make it much further than
the juvenile stage. Date: 7/3/2015.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">A pair of what appear to be Beautiful Tiger
Beetles (Cicindela formosa) have a tryst on the sand outside the marsh. Date:
6/13/2015.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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unique brand of help to the propagation of the species. Date: 6/13/2015. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</style>shphotographyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16613978495879170267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-63275684044071869872015-07-04T09:43:00.000-07:002015-07-04T09:43:37.183-07:00Life, Death and Protecting the Endangered Piping Plover at Breezy Point; May & June, 2015For this blog entry we will take a little side-trip over to Breezy Point, where we will examine the way in which the nests of the endangered Piping Plover are protected by park employees and local volunteers. At this time of the year, there are other species that also nest in the same area and we will meet some of them as well as their young. While there is much new life during this season, there is also the every-day demise of all sorts of creatures; this too will be seen in some of the accompanying images.<br />
Note that this series of images were made over several visits: May 7, May 16, May 30, June 13 and June 27, 2015.<br /><br />When a clutch of Piping Plover eggs are discovered, what is called an “Exclosure” is erected to protect them from various predators, be they natural or human. The Exclosure is constructed using metal wire-mesh with openings spaced in such a way as to exclude any animals much larger than an adult Piping Plover.<br />
The mesh is unrolled, stood up, and the ends are brought together. The resulting cylinder is closed off with electrician’s plastic wire ties. The top, or “roof”, of what is essentially a four- to five-foot tall cylinder with a ten- to twelve-foot (approximate) diameter is covered by fine plastic netting. The entire construct is anchored by four lengths of steel “re-bar” (reinforcing bar), each of which is hammered into the sand about eight- or ten-inches deep. Wire-ties anchor the mesh to the re-bar, while smaller ties, similar to what seals the bag-end of a loaf of bread, secures the plastic netting for the roof.<br /><br />Most of the construct is assembled away from the nest and then brought over and emplaced. The rods are hammered in, the roof is added and everything is tied-off; the edges of the roof are trimmed away. It is imperative that this final action is done as rapidly as possible in order to produce as little stress as possible for the pair of adult Piping Plovers who guard their nest.<br /><br />While this last step is completed, one or both parent birds will make frantic attempts to distract the erection crew, in order to draw them away from their precious eggs. This includes moving rapidly away from the egg clutch to, hopefully, draw away what the birds can only conceive of as predators. Similar to several other species, the most characteristic motion the parents will make is to simulate an injury, by appearing to have a broken wing. They will shiver somewhat, peep quite a bit, and sometimes flop around, often looking over their shoulders to see where the predator is.<br /><br />In this instance, a clutch of four eggs was discovered on the bay-side of Breezy Point and a volunteer crew, headed by Tony and consisting of Kim-Nora, Lisa and Chuck, took on the job of erecting the Exclosure. I was fortunate enough to be invited to tag along and document the exercise, which enabled me to capture some interesting imagery. Preferring to walk to the site, I left the Potluck gathering (see below) ahead of the rest of the crew. This enabled me to walk the bay-side beach in search of interesting bits of nature, as also documented here. I arrived on-site a few minutes ahead of the crew, who came along in the truck that hauled the construction materials and tools.<br /><br />A second pair of Piping Plovers were observed a little further along the beach. Close observation showed dozens of nest “scrapes” (small depressions) in the sand, along with many, many sets of foot-prints. Apparently, these scrapes were made to provide a choice of spots for the female to lay her eggs. At Tony’s request, I remained behind to make observations while the rest of the crew departed after the erection of the above-mentioned Exclosure.<br /><br /> My observations were inconclusive, although one bird did occupy a scrape for the remaining time I was present. A visit a bit more than a week later revealed no activity, probably because several Great Black-back Gulls were loitering on the exact spot where the plover scrapes had been observed. The gulls love nothing better than to devour any eggs or hatchlings, so it is small wonder the plovers abandoned this particular site at that time. Several days later still, an Exclosure had been erected on the spot, so apparently, things for this nesting pair went well enough.<br /><br />There is also life-and-death drama playing out daily on the beach. Creatures are born, while others die and their remains litter the beach. Many bird species have hatched and the young must be protected by their parents as they grow to a size where they can fend for themselves. There are predators that will easily snap-up a defenseless hatchling if given half a chance. Small dramas play out wherever one cares to look.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMH07QEB3QdFRJGOon3U2AFPyfteKStyLbLrlPyJjrODZLAGD3RvF5L4zODeM3iZrtHxAVUnUmLRtDc9hvl2_0u1bZVvVUFrNxJKrA6FPZFSrjW-VsfBGk2bLyaate5nDAh7_ighHd7F0/s1600/011-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMH07QEB3QdFRJGOon3U2AFPyfteKStyLbLrlPyJjrODZLAGD3RvF5L4zODeM3iZrtHxAVUnUmLRtDc9hvl2_0u1bZVvVUFrNxJKrA6FPZFSrjW-VsfBGk2bLyaate5nDAh7_ighHd7F0/s1600/011-001.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />This pair of Sanderlings (Calidris canutus), a very common local species at various times of the year, was resting in between feeding as I passed them by. What caught my eye was the green “flag” on the left leg of the bird on the right. These flags, as well as the more commonly-seen “bands” are a means that naturalists use to track migration patterns in order to gather conservation data. Date: 05-30-2015.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynOOKdDDaPOC5JMDRugZb0lOWLZzCy12OjN2mkT5pLUnlptNGZn7b_HrgtVPGMjM88BFvW7Tr5DJVHPoqn4wa4chweDucQ5okSSM7iwPz49SYxEII6Pw7-CUY2ASmnusebUQGm4t1Ykw/s1600/011-002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynOOKdDDaPOC5JMDRugZb0lOWLZzCy12OjN2mkT5pLUnlptNGZn7b_HrgtVPGMjM88BFvW7Tr5DJVHPoqn4wa4chweDucQ5okSSM7iwPz49SYxEII6Pw7-CUY2ASmnusebUQGm4t1Ykw/s1600/011-002.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br /><br />This Horseshoe Crab (Limulus polyphemus) is quite large and is probably a female; males are noticeably smaller. She is encrusted in barnacles as she makes her way out of the surf, possibly to lay her eggs. This prehistoric creature is actually related to the arachnid family and is not a crustacean. Date: 05-30-2015.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWd3O9uWMsrTCh2d0TiaQr0HCVTnR2-Whv_CfPK772aQ6vXh4jvAz4ZLu8iIJPCrZP9Rci5IIiXmMhRk9WQbnUb0I4qv9mTiioFd0Gh01BC0nlyYxvaIfieE8z8Lwyo-XFVv7rd1Hs8c/s1600/011-003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWd3O9uWMsrTCh2d0TiaQr0HCVTnR2-Whv_CfPK772aQ6vXh4jvAz4ZLu8iIJPCrZP9Rci5IIiXmMhRk9WQbnUb0I4qv9mTiioFd0Gh01BC0nlyYxvaIfieE8z8Lwyo-XFVv7rd1Hs8c/s1600/011-003.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />I’ve always wondered what the critters that occupy these large snail shells look like “naked”. This poor Hermit Crab had been mangled and killed by a predator, but not completely devoured; I only noticed him when I picked-up this rather attractive shell. He was easily slid out of his apparently ineffective fortress for a portrait. Date: 05-07-2015.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlrfzmqSUs4pz5mcg0lL8wABetrugEOwb6U0kGPJ2CpaE5o1LFd_ihEds1dJgSjjDL8THWVuXRULxtJtNKKiz8M63c3_Cv3mAsv7xs0N3A7QCotfN5JxavvcVZ1qFjV53vhGngc0sx_HI/s1600/011-004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlrfzmqSUs4pz5mcg0lL8wABetrugEOwb6U0kGPJ2CpaE5o1LFd_ihEds1dJgSjjDL8THWVuXRULxtJtNKKiz8M63c3_Cv3mAsv7xs0N3A7QCotfN5JxavvcVZ1qFjV53vhGngc0sx_HI/s1600/011-004.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br /><br />This pair of Sand Sharks was part of a larger group of these creatures that were left high-and-dry in the receding tide. What I find puzzling is that scavengers generally leave the flesh of these carcasses alone, preferring to feast only on their eyes. Date: 05-30-2015<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik3rkZFhSn0h5wjg2Mw71-5Z-XGiEVP-O42YBkD-xZj-ya9XlQ-btFUtLyoaHJ7YWGHQ-gTq9YvIy38RZgvl5slFw9KkSjY_9hU5rNkd62tRNvPNTYeIxiA033FSTBkDSFD5SEbCsDrhY/s1600/011-005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik3rkZFhSn0h5wjg2Mw71-5Z-XGiEVP-O42YBkD-xZj-ya9XlQ-btFUtLyoaHJ7YWGHQ-gTq9YvIy38RZgvl5slFw9KkSjY_9hU5rNkd62tRNvPNTYeIxiA033FSTBkDSFD5SEbCsDrhY/s1600/011-005.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBVuRYtF5gd0BYbPmalIJfRE_DtgdbdFX3yDT_t1HN2PmbxxepKzSgTW252T8xO760rPEICtowIh05fgSLoaj7IKzaw7GfnI03EqSLf99yX1HpEgvQ8OnFjAaa9zW0jSLqAG3haUPrRc/s1600/011-006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBVuRYtF5gd0BYbPmalIJfRE_DtgdbdFX3yDT_t1HN2PmbxxepKzSgTW252T8xO760rPEICtowIh05fgSLoaj7IKzaw7GfnI03EqSLf99yX1HpEgvQ8OnFjAaa9zW0jSLqAG3haUPrRc/s1600/011-006.jpg" /></a></div>
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Sporting a facial expression akin to that of a chagrined cartoon character, this dead and partially decomposed Skate was discovered amongst several others in the mud-flats. The first image shows the creature’s underside, including the mouth and nostrils. These bottom feeders are a common sight on the bay-side beach as they are either stranded by wave and tidal forces, or caught and cast aside by fisher-folk. The lower image was made many weeks later and shows the top-side of another specimen. Although humans consume Skate meat, apparently its eyes were the only things felt to be edible by the local scavengers. Dates: 05-07- & 06-27-2015.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxpbgKe0yYj7QrXco3GB3XQMB1-eMePh2lstOuH0pLTrPzzvJJQogBcIHeTdPNLM6sC6sMVDIK2JYICNzS-Yll_EjbzTSkPgb5U7ePO67Lsfy9J_e7cjbYkvUc7rg1A3Zs3x08YOQmsA/s1600/011-007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxpbgKe0yYj7QrXco3GB3XQMB1-eMePh2lstOuH0pLTrPzzvJJQogBcIHeTdPNLM6sC6sMVDIK2JYICNzS-Yll_EjbzTSkPgb5U7ePO67Lsfy9J_e7cjbYkvUc7rg1A3Zs3x08YOQmsA/s1600/011-007.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />As I walked along the beach at Breezy bay-side a peripheral movement caught my eye. Observing a Great Egret (Ardea alba) that had just taken to the air from behind the dunes, I snapped a parting image. Back behind the dunes and in the general area of the maritime woodlands, are some shallow ponds, which is what may have attracted this species. Date: 05-07-2015.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQpHBqy-eZ6iQKQ7bQYOG1LcMXcAw9Zl9s8nLxVQe-YRYre4tF4JbUcysEktEKLGkFsbI2hymbVsN4Hym3wuLT4DDBOadq0kLsr87ZFKCCTOa6CX85C47DaWW1iMGmBgaIPcpgy6mGHgo/s1600/011-008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQpHBqy-eZ6iQKQ7bQYOG1LcMXcAw9Zl9s8nLxVQe-YRYre4tF4JbUcysEktEKLGkFsbI2hymbVsN4Hym3wuLT4DDBOadq0kLsr87ZFKCCTOa6CX85C47DaWW1iMGmBgaIPcpgy6mGHgo/s1600/011-008.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br /><br />The goal of the exercise on May 7th was to protect this clutch of Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus) eggs. This species commonly produces four eggs per clutch. In this locale, past data has indicated that only one chick (actually 1.1) will survive to migrate south at the end of the season. These eggs are of a shape described as “oval” and “pyriform”; the latter type is more pointed and elongated. They typically measure 24.2-mm wide and 31.4-mm long, which would allow one to fit through the “window” of an old-style 35-mm color slide mount. The incubation period is approximately 28 days. Date: 05-07-2015.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJEDhyphenhyphen8ouFGrK6OB1IRLVY-mKA6O8JKUuNeVHncMGPFWavkHTxb702WjzTq831NlkcgQI_rkq04sLoSMwrvLn8ZeqPDPjGQfY28lZ2omvXZGv_FVjo8zqXtoCxamoM4WQ4CAz1426Y6E/s1600/011-009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJEDhyphenhyphen8ouFGrK6OB1IRLVY-mKA6O8JKUuNeVHncMGPFWavkHTxb702WjzTq831NlkcgQI_rkq04sLoSMwrvLn8ZeqPDPjGQfY28lZ2omvXZGv_FVjo8zqXtoCxamoM4WQ4CAz1426Y6E/s1600/011-009.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />While Tony, Lisa and Chuck begin assembling the Exclosure, Kim-Nora has fun un-tangling a wad of the smaller tie-wraps that are used to secure the roof. When this phase is complete, the structure is moved to the nest, the re-bar stakes are pounded in, the roof is fixed in place and trimmed; the crew immediately departs. The final part of the process is a short period of observation to ensure that the adult birds return to incubate the clutch. Thankfully, this happened rather quickly. Date: 05-07-2015.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWSTJFiMJs-l5Az6q4GQgzuoquLTM-IH384xOa9P8QeBMgG5msswDo_7CgP0fM9B-rFFNDcz0wfxAiLLi-K2kbk615vSC5jVudWUE-XZweuGPVLnTTp2DWDUqK1BiQO-8idHr1I39K0EQ/s1600/011-010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWSTJFiMJs-l5Az6q4GQgzuoquLTM-IH384xOa9P8QeBMgG5msswDo_7CgP0fM9B-rFFNDcz0wfxAiLLi-K2kbk615vSC5jVudWUE-XZweuGPVLnTTp2DWDUqK1BiQO-8idHr1I39K0EQ/s1600/011-010.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />The completed Exclosure in place over the nest site. Date: 05-30-2015.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4D7GUo-98s_yo0IeH0mTV3UtfFtmkhO8Aa2TVu3WOzXy_B5VfmaRHGfpLjen0VA9YZEyzBNQv6ucnhBL9g3cUL9y3aVImsGosnNV7DKYpz58LIfniGthd7QckjHj3QDhrSlrIFJYGwk0/s1600/011-011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4D7GUo-98s_yo0IeH0mTV3UtfFtmkhO8Aa2TVu3WOzXy_B5VfmaRHGfpLjen0VA9YZEyzBNQv6ucnhBL9g3cUL9y3aVImsGosnNV7DKYpz58LIfniGthd7QckjHj3QDhrSlrIFJYGwk0/s1600/011-011.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgV4nBdW4k62OEJkvMMs3zUuH4Po6gEjPRWqoEyg4m-7UfSBbhe_L5PBiEI-8dyqCHqUTeuG554gqNWMzgNMQp_7xAtqqevIHESQx0Y9mNnUH7EOLLjb4IXPLbAMM3LO0pZU_IcnSw8N0/s1600/011-012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgV4nBdW4k62OEJkvMMs3zUuH4Po6gEjPRWqoEyg4m-7UfSBbhe_L5PBiEI-8dyqCHqUTeuG554gqNWMzgNMQp_7xAtqqevIHESQx0Y9mNnUH7EOLLjb4IXPLbAMM3LO0pZU_IcnSw8N0/s1600/011-012.jpg" /></a></div>
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These two images depict the frantic efforts of one of the adult Piping Plovers (Charadrius melodus) to distract us from doing harm to the contents of the nest. In the upper image, the bird is simulating a broken wing, all the while keeping an eye on us. At other times, as seen in the lower image, the bird would peep and kick up some sand. Date: 05-07-2015.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrRMR3xwnXAvGB4BXN09wImek5d2766K4rZS8y_l0I3N84PNFcZ2QegZhmAObCMJ_3vCsOJV8x2bk1s9e8_YA128y7yIaLh2Q3Lf5Pp1gKScMJLvwgxv12j02WXGcyojwhJ0ScjAUI8A/s1600/011-013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrRMR3xwnXAvGB4BXN09wImek5d2766K4rZS8y_l0I3N84PNFcZ2QegZhmAObCMJ_3vCsOJV8x2bk1s9e8_YA128y7yIaLh2Q3Lf5Pp1gKScMJLvwgxv12j02WXGcyojwhJ0ScjAUI8A/s1600/011-013.jpg" /></a></div>
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This Piping Plover was sitting in one of many, many scrapes (potential nest sites) situated about 60- or 70-yards further along the beach from the above described nest; the distance between nests is typical of the species. Eventually, a nest was discovered here and put under the protection of an Exclosure. Date: 05-07-2015.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Xx1_VfkRxcAzPY_5-fGHC6Kwo6kIL1R8gd_QLFoWYkzAQioR8CuD_YekgZZyJrOyptzUXi6rd8AKwpA1RjbknwwxlJzip0WArCuMOqjzRI4hPk2i6wyie8Omns0f6KoMlwBUf6POgUA/s1600/011-014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Xx1_VfkRxcAzPY_5-fGHC6Kwo6kIL1R8gd_QLFoWYkzAQioR8CuD_YekgZZyJrOyptzUXi6rd8AKwpA1RjbknwwxlJzip0WArCuMOqjzRI4hPk2i6wyie8Omns0f6KoMlwBUf6POgUA/s1600/011-014.jpg" /></a></div>
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Several weeks later, while inspecting the previously-described Exclosure, I noted this adult Piping Plover sheltering behind this piece of driftwood as it moved away from the nesting site. Date: 05-30-2015.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsTpxchbWUu46rGSOW8wc1bmgf8rjnb1l92rtDQodoHSYs3JTBCqpDP6cy7hId-vsXMGAyKEFI11Caar2waU8IDFn41ResBXk1z_ba6RsqrnVIFRJVR0QBhmF4P0i0Xf6ivXBvQVd1OtI/s1600/011-015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsTpxchbWUu46rGSOW8wc1bmgf8rjnb1l92rtDQodoHSYs3JTBCqpDP6cy7hId-vsXMGAyKEFI11Caar2waU8IDFn41ResBXk1z_ba6RsqrnVIFRJVR0QBhmF4P0i0Xf6ivXBvQVd1OtI/s1600/011-015.jpg" /></a></div>
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What may be a recently-fledged Piping Plover was doing quite a bit of low flying before it alighted on the shore-line. This behavior was a bit unusual, as these birds generally make a rapid retreat on foot; perhaps this youngster was “feeling his oats”? It was spotted in the general area of the above-described nesting </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvfk-U5yUvhfzc1T8gfyEZMrIwSJc9nBCEL-qVd8uIEcEamJMXyoimTWCd3OQsJqfwkIWMFbwKXVULRp8h8u92OyCayR663b00gCZ3Udf4zhX6kL8iOM3ZzFI40dL-uesLb_wof3lGo7w/s1600/011-016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvfk-U5yUvhfzc1T8gfyEZMrIwSJc9nBCEL-qVd8uIEcEamJMXyoimTWCd3OQsJqfwkIWMFbwKXVULRp8h8u92OyCayR663b00gCZ3Udf4zhX6kL8iOM3ZzFI40dL-uesLb_wof3lGo7w/s1600/011-016.jpg" /></a></div>
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A number of other species nest at Breezy Point, to include Common and Least Terns (Sterna hirundo & Sternula antillarum), Canada Goose (Branta canadensis), and American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus). This clutch of three eggs, typical of the last-mentioned species, was discovered between both of the above Piping Plover nesting sites. These eggs are described as being “oval” and “long oval” in shape, and are approximately 38.7-mm in diameter and 55.7-mm long; incubation is about 27 days. Date: 05-07-20.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiUsKevymDCsZ363WTG0tM_QeHa2KYAFmJowqsfNkA6MufSq8kURrAjtxqR7FzOGwfhcChWYROfxrCYZLLTcKz0XUhWDuGPGmhZ8TnCV9kr4vsEWkbEBc3wA70qydpigcxr-WrKzWOpKc/s1600/011-017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiUsKevymDCsZ363WTG0tM_QeHa2KYAFmJowqsfNkA6MufSq8kURrAjtxqR7FzOGwfhcChWYROfxrCYZLLTcKz0XUhWDuGPGmhZ8TnCV9kr4vsEWkbEBc3wA70qydpigcxr-WrKzWOpKc/s1600/011-017.jpg" /></a></div>
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Approximately five weeks have passed and an adult American Oystercatcher escorts a chick along the outer face of the bay-side dune line, again in the same general area. Date: 06-13-2015.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVnF9qDevVtaZc7PEd0XV-ajbsZAG1gyJk7jhafB1uTWuy242BAAyKN27Z8D_aLuRQu4R6tHXy38XW4Z2YxpQLO8Jiq-MQ01T2KOW4ihg9Tw2yG7Olvt_EJdbzYD7KfD4h74i3Evf5fHE/s1600/011-018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVnF9qDevVtaZc7PEd0XV-ajbsZAG1gyJk7jhafB1uTWuy242BAAyKN27Z8D_aLuRQu4R6tHXy38XW4Z2YxpQLO8Jiq-MQ01T2KOW4ihg9Tw2yG7Olvt_EJdbzYD7KfD4h74i3Evf5fHE/s1600/011-018.jpg" /></a></div>
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On this day, I observed two pairs of Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) parents, each with two young. The second pair had younger, smaller offspring, which attracted a predator in the form of a Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus), below. To counter him, the parents closed in together almost touching, parallel to each other, with the hatchlings between them. This removed them from a clear view and also put a physical barrier in the way of the gull. Date: 05-30-2015.</div>
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Here is the hunter, hovering over his potential prey. The tactic of the parents being quite effective in concealing their chicks, he eventually tired of this fruitless endeavor, and departed. Date: 05-30-2015.</div>
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A couple of weeks later, I observed these much larger chicks in the same area as those above. While still flightless, they are of a substantial size and probably can quite easily stand-up against a gull. Date: 06-13-2015.</div>
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This Common Loon (Gavia immer) provided me with one of my most memorable birding moments, quite simply because it attacked me! Having encountered loons in several Breezy Point locations at different times, while they were seemingly immobilized on the shore, I am used to being able to get close. In this case, the bird gave several of its mournful calls and then launched itself at my left leg and foot, pecking me. Laughing as I hurriedly backpedaled, I quickly put my right foot beneath its rump and gently (but firmly) moved the bird away; no harm done to either party! Date: 06-27-2015.</div>
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This pair of Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) chicks was encountered on the access road which runs from the B222 parking lot to Breezy Point’s ocean-side beaches; I often take this route while hiking completely around the far western tip of the Rockaways. These birds prefer open areas for nesting so they can see predators a long way off. These young consistently retreated before me, never once disappearing into the roadside vegetation; their genetic programming would not allow any other action. In order to relieve them of the stress from what they thought was a hunting predator, I had to run past them. Date: 06-13-2015.</div>
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The final image in this entry depicts a meeting of park staff and volunteers at Riis Landing for a Potluck Lunch on May 7. Such occasional social gatherings help further weld together an already devoted group, who seldom are able to gather together in any significant numbers at any single time. It was also an opportunity to bid farewell to Hanem, who is headed west to the Rocky Mountains, as well as to welcome Tami to Gateway. This “Dirty Dozen” consists of the following individuals. From L to R, top: Eileen, Lisa, Genie, Tami & Russ. From L to R, standing: Jim, Chuck, Kim-Nora, Lisa & Tony. From L to R, kneeling: Ron & Hanem.<br /><br />All text and photos by Frank V. De Sisto.</div>
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References consulted for this entry include the following:<br /><br />“Birds’ Nests, Eastern”, by H.H. Harrison. 1975, Haughton Mifflin. ISBN 9780395092.<br />Part of the Peterson Field Guides series, it details a large number of nests using color photographs and line drawings. An introductory chapter provides a basic overview.<br /><br /> “Fishes”, by M. Filisky & S. Landry. 1989, Haughton Mifflin. ISBN 13-9780395911792.<br /> Peterson First Guides provide an inexpensive introduction to a number of subjects. A color illustration and a block of text details over 200 species.<br /><br />“The Shorebird Guide”, by M. O’Brien, R. Crossley & K. Karlson. 2006, Haughton Mifflin. ISBN 13-9780618432943.<br />Packed with information and filled with excellent photographs, this is the “go-to” guide on the subject, with information on the Piping Plover and American Oystercatcher.<br /><br />“Lives of North American Birds”, by K. Kaufman. 1996, Haughton Mifflin. ISBN 0618159886.<br /> “The Sibley Guide to Bird Life and Behavior”, by C. Elphick, J.B. Dunning, Jr. & D.A. Sibley. 2001, Knopf. ISBN 9781400043866.<br />These two titles, combined, give an excellent overview of what it is to be a bird. Both titles have a distinctly different, yet complimentary point of view, and the graphic presentation also differs.<br /><br />“Field Guide to the Birds of North America, Fifth Edition”, by J.L. Dunn & J. Alderfer. 2006, National Geographic. ISBN 0792253140.<br />A concise, well-illustrated guide, this guide has several means of quickly accessing a species account.<br /><br />“Field Guide to the Natural World of New York City”, by L. Day & M.A. Klingler. 2007, Johns Hopkins. ISBN 13-9780801886829.<br />The informative text provides an excellent starting point for anyone exploring NYC and its environs. Color photographs, illustrations and maps round out the package.<br /><br />Rocky Point needs your help. To volunteer, contact NPS Ranger Tony Luscombe at: <a href="mailto:dcalato6@gmail.com">dcalato6@gmail.com</a><br /><br />For more photos of the various segments of the Gateway NRA complex, visit <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-63131789540820557032015-06-05T16:46:00.000-07:002015-06-05T16:46:53.218-07:00Birds of Rocky Point Salt Marsh, Part Four, August 2014 to May, 2015This is the last installment in this four-part series, which starts at the end of August, 2014, and ends in May, 2015.<br />
<br />As I worked through this project, I was able to observe and photograph three more species: Turkey Vulture, European Starling and Red-throated Loon. This brings the count to 78 species which I have personally observed and photographed in the marsh’s environs.<br /><br />For the purpose of these blog segments, I have very loosely defined Rocky Point Marsh as everything lying within borders defined by Rockaway Park Boulevard and Beach 201st Street, to the south and west, respectively (note that all compass points are “approximate”). The far-east border is delineated by the jetty at that end of the cove; the jetty then runs back into Rockaway Park Blvd. at Beach 193rd Street. The marsh’s northern side is fronted by Jamaica Bay.<br /> <br />For references consulted, please see part one of this series.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFX28a7ARXF8R8DrK8SWR0cgA5jfpnMes15OS3FRaed0FfCtLzHGJ3n5ZgP3LpuyvrDuCP2D91miNKTxkGEXM6BRM3g2yI1sythAewZgAJk0YoW3phWPeFPWFR1RwLPvXvbVUHISrt10/s1600/14-08-23+IMG_2294RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFX28a7ARXF8R8DrK8SWR0cgA5jfpnMes15OS3FRaed0FfCtLzHGJ3n5ZgP3LpuyvrDuCP2D91miNKTxkGEXM6BRM3g2yI1sythAewZgAJk0YoW3phWPeFPWFR1RwLPvXvbVUHISrt10/s1600/14-08-23+IMG_2294RS.jpg" /></a></div>
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08-23-2014, Black-bellied Plover, (Pluvialis squatarola). These two individuals were photographed on the shore directly in front of the marsh. A frequent visitor on both the bay and ocean shores of the Rockaways, this species eats insects, mollusks, various marine creatures and crustaceans. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4H1K4zKZ_Lr8GVn4DhgIeSx_VNVQ19tjWWPEkpcfp_WqXkvbLl-ByZunO3gOzIIlN8dv4oGTTyLR14a7H2InuOhRvb_GqO4X-xR4ubYRtR9frGm-R1_vk5orhD4TWmgjfc82e5UNb2q0/s1600/14-08-30+IMG_2678RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4H1K4zKZ_Lr8GVn4DhgIeSx_VNVQ19tjWWPEkpcfp_WqXkvbLl-ByZunO3gOzIIlN8dv4oGTTyLR14a7H2InuOhRvb_GqO4X-xR4ubYRtR9frGm-R1_vk5orhD4TWmgjfc82e5UNb2q0/s1600/14-08-30+IMG_2678RS.jpg" /></a></div>
08-30-2014, Snowy Egret, (Egretta thula). The smaller cousin of the Great Egret, this species often frequents the marsh pond, especially when a high tide is in effect. This particular individual was extremely successful during the time I observed him, striking prey numerous times.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcIPqcbPTd6__1SJytssBK6O89u2cdHDj5KltzqAoxTV9AF77nVRiz5U6VYeSlyqTZiJDfpa3136zB5J83WMukJFKi8Nsm1CeHpjrDJ9zeoCvvWjZTSOBUtc7kz7OuD4evtrNydp7SJP8/s1600/14-09-16+IMG_3431RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcIPqcbPTd6__1SJytssBK6O89u2cdHDj5KltzqAoxTV9AF77nVRiz5U6VYeSlyqTZiJDfpa3136zB5J83WMukJFKi8Nsm1CeHpjrDJ9zeoCvvWjZTSOBUtc7kz7OuD4evtrNydp7SJP8/s1600/14-09-16+IMG_3431RS.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />09-16-2014, Osprey, (Pandion haliaetus). It has long been the hope of the people working to restore the marsh that this species would choose to make a nest here. In particular, the late summer of 2014 saw frequent sightings of both perching and hunting Osprey, sometimes two at a time. However, comparing photographs made on five separate observations during the months of April and May, 2015, revealed no nest-building activity on the platform.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVIKwIhHj2uK_5M1hVRU20axX2Vxo3EYfMPMIEEiLEMNg8KYj7zkVpLAj6-2i3EnuQi_bKQ6v7tQJetNfcqQuFo32SfJo4uQF57ovU4BVXUpw38bwaS7ywzyowfGMd9V7bNCeYVQsi6pg/s1600/14-09-20+IMG_3908RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVIKwIhHj2uK_5M1hVRU20axX2Vxo3EYfMPMIEEiLEMNg8KYj7zkVpLAj6-2i3EnuQi_bKQ6v7tQJetNfcqQuFo32SfJo4uQF57ovU4BVXUpw38bwaS7ywzyowfGMd9V7bNCeYVQsi6pg/s1600/14-09-20+IMG_3908RS.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />09-20-2014, Northern Mockingbird, (Mimus polyglottos). This handsome and common species can be seen in the Rockaways year-round, the marsh being no exception. This individual appears to be in the final stages of replacing its molting feathers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih9MnYkK4EP_eV5wc-1NvKh55MVw8aLtOE1e1fcMMo1KOYF_V1b-b1rdNintK1_HL5lxLZdkRacSUsqM_Frwfex41D6dPi6Ix3ZIhtmCdD0zBCs6Cfu5xF5h2WcPWzX79KzjNy_5ONkus/s1600/14-10-17+IMG_4299RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih9MnYkK4EP_eV5wc-1NvKh55MVw8aLtOE1e1fcMMo1KOYF_V1b-b1rdNintK1_HL5lxLZdkRacSUsqM_Frwfex41D6dPi6Ix3ZIhtmCdD0zBCs6Cfu5xF5h2WcPWzX79KzjNy_5ONkus/s1600/14-10-17+IMG_4299RS.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />10-17-2014, Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle), (Dendroica coronate). On some days, many dozens of these warblers can be seen in and around the marsh; this is the so-called “Myrtle” form, which is seen in the east year-round. When such prey is available, insects are the preferred diet; in other seasons, waxy berries, including those seen on Poison Ivy are readily consumed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_FrPdmt_7YdNtf6POD46Qwqp8ZdPyV6C3Wz5YFecZsOxlVbzGqr0LBpDaTNkdPdg2Bo_mbtHVQA72JC4BwQ8MzdJwDiFYO4xrZX2ka3HjnacODFSxIXaOrSLwYhUvJ7WMVNq-Syvz4To/s1600/14-10-17+IMG_4369RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_FrPdmt_7YdNtf6POD46Qwqp8ZdPyV6C3Wz5YFecZsOxlVbzGqr0LBpDaTNkdPdg2Bo_mbtHVQA72JC4BwQ8MzdJwDiFYO4xrZX2ka3HjnacODFSxIXaOrSLwYhUvJ7WMVNq-Syvz4To/s1600/14-10-17+IMG_4369RS.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />10-17-2014, Cooper's Hawk, (Accipiter cooperii). This image capture came as I happened to look up while this very agile raptor appeared low overhead from behind; in this case my very flexible camera rig worked as it should. This individual, true to form, disappeared low into the woodlands at the marsh’s western edge, threading its way between the trees in search of a meal.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtkVqwjyi3MDJ42tPQegzij3m-paz1_QAgHS9G3s3KKerWnuvOe2A_ZxbuDJSuwGf3vkOkcuAlS9DNEuPxUFhbVwWmmQ4kBL9TdINsj9W4_6xIlBU466tBtOPH7Xe89ig_ZMCLODVC4I/s1600/14-10-25+IMG_4679RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtkVqwjyi3MDJ42tPQegzij3m-paz1_QAgHS9G3s3KKerWnuvOe2A_ZxbuDJSuwGf3vkOkcuAlS9DNEuPxUFhbVwWmmQ4kBL9TdINsj9W4_6xIlBU466tBtOPH7Xe89ig_ZMCLODVC4I/s1600/14-10-25+IMG_4679RS.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />10-25-2014, Hermit Thrush (Cartharus guttatus). A late south-bound migrant, this species will often raise and lower its tail in a distinct fashion, helping to distinguish it from the less common Wood Thrush. Feeding on insects and berries, this hardy species can sometimes be seen during the winter in the north.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCJ4okOWvdqULRpxwaCLk09EKl1-aGB4P7GIN8D4RE4iG73WoO-sPfu2KmdIK-MaS_B57NKwejav17o_gj4e4rX4Wpup-f9P-8CDaaXjoQLXDCYx_5FcPzOV2XxXepnu9yn8NoJb-__7g/s1600/14-10-25+IMG_4741RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCJ4okOWvdqULRpxwaCLk09EKl1-aGB4P7GIN8D4RE4iG73WoO-sPfu2KmdIK-MaS_B57NKwejav17o_gj4e4rX4Wpup-f9P-8CDaaXjoQLXDCYx_5FcPzOV2XxXepnu9yn8NoJb-__7g/s1600/14-10-25+IMG_4741RS.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br /><br />10-25-2014, White-throated Sparrow, (Zonotrichia albicollis). Another common local sparrow, this species will winter in the NYC area. This particular individual has a tan stipe behind his eye, which is one of two morphs that can be seen on this species; the other has a white stripe.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIzIIPt0KrQ1KX97ws37T-mEf3NgQb_0lMXwzPsPiZv-onueH01PmK6Okbok_VTPmMyM1k0H1mhxL0z4gVGi8z1uFgpVRCsM-t4E9uSY4OkxEriszWWzHXmeXzrzBGosaGBLzvCmylDe8/s1600/14-10-25+IMG_4750RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIzIIPt0KrQ1KX97ws37T-mEf3NgQb_0lMXwzPsPiZv-onueH01PmK6Okbok_VTPmMyM1k0H1mhxL0z4gVGi8z1uFgpVRCsM-t4E9uSY4OkxEriszWWzHXmeXzrzBGosaGBLzvCmylDe8/s1600/14-10-25+IMG_4750RS.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />10-25-2014, Song Sparrow, (Melospiza melodia). Another common species in the NYC area, this New World sparrow is very often observed at the marsh. An insectivore in season and a seed-eater at other times, this species will also feed on small mollusks and crustaceans, making the marsh an ideal habitat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLu6mdIXPZMo-Z9eXrbeJ0REvDxB5ej9o6gyCZ-7hkI2rWG7z8W8TbpxM-I1CFKW4DReIR9nDHxXvNYFLfZDBUHgzHny7GgVMejDufO9ANk4r2CPQh2ZHQZl1MB42zW6hSZO0Q96rdF48/s1600/14-11-08++IMG_5207RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLu6mdIXPZMo-Z9eXrbeJ0REvDxB5ej9o6gyCZ-7hkI2rWG7z8W8TbpxM-I1CFKW4DReIR9nDHxXvNYFLfZDBUHgzHny7GgVMejDufO9ANk4r2CPQh2ZHQZl1MB42zW6hSZO0Q96rdF48/s1600/14-11-08++IMG_5207RS.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />11-08-2014, Northern Cardinal, (Cardinalis cardinalis). A bird that really needs no introduction, the adult male of the species is a striking red color as seen here. Its large, strong bill is ideally suited to cracking open seeds, but it wall also feed on insects of various kinds. It is a permanent resident in the NYC area.<br />
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<br /><br />11-08-2014, Great Blue Heron, (Ardea heridias). Like a sentinel on guard, this stately individual stands tall in the surf just outside the marsh. Its long, sword-like bill is perfectly suited to hunting aquatic prey in shallow water, be it in the marsh pond, or as here, in the shallows of the bay. <br />
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<br /><br />11-08-2014, Dark-eyed Junco, Slate-colored, (Junco hyemalis). A relative of the sparrow, this species if very often seen feeding at ground level. Normally, the breast and sides of this bird are white, but this individual appears to be of the “pink-sided” or “mearnsi” type.<br />
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<br /><br />11-08-2014, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, (Regulus calendula). An extremely active forager, this species rarely stays in any one place for long. Although barely seen here, this little guy has a red crest hidden on the top of his head, which will be deployed if he becomes overly excited.<br />
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<br /><br />11-08-2014, Winter Wren, (Troglodytes troglodytes). Comprised of several “races” this individual is most probably of the “hiemalis” type, common in the east. As its name suggests, it will often be observed in woodlands during the winter months.<br />
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<br /><br />11-29-2014, American Goldfinch, (Carduelis tristis). Seen in the more cryptic winter plumage, this individual still shows some yellow on the throat. This time of the year, seeds make up a large part of its diet, so this individual is searching for a meal on a stand of Seaside Goldenrod.<br />
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<br /><br />11-29-2014, Downy Woodpecker, (Piciodes pubescens). This small, rather common woodpecker is a very frequent visitor, where it will hunt for prey on the thinner trees situated around the marsh. On this particular day in November, this was the dominant species at the marsh, with at least a dozen spotted throughout the area.<br />
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<br /><br />02-28-2015, American Wigeon, (Anas americana). A pair of these dabbling ducks were spotted cruising in Jamaica Bay, in front of the mouth of the marsh. They later alighted, but came back around and landed again, this time slightly closer in.<br />
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<br /><br />02-28-2015, Northern Harrier, (Circus cyaneus). This adult male was briefly sighted flying low over the marsh, prior to winding its way low through the woods. This relatively small, agile hawk will eat other birds, small mammals and small amphibians, making the marsh an ideal hunting ground.<br />
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<br /><br />05-07-2015, European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris). Introduced to the New York/metropolitan area in the 19th-century, this handsome bird is very hearty, thriving in close proximity to humanity. In this image, the bird is apparently gathering nest-building materials.<br />
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<br /><br />05-07-2015, Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura). Not often seen over the Rockaways, I first thought this was an Osprey. This individual made a couple of lazy low-level circles as it worked westwards over the marsh, finally swinging back towards the south-east.<br />
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<br /><br />05-07-2015, Red-throated Loon (Gavia stellate). This photograph was taken in early May and shows an adult in non-breeding plumage; this is likely to change shortly. Note the characteristically, slightly upturned mandibles. This individual was hunting in the shallows in front of the marsh, very close to shore.<br />
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All text and photographs by Frank V. De Sisto.<br />
Rocky Point Marsh needs your help. To volunteer for service contact National Park Services Ranger Tony Luscombe at: <a href="mailto:dcalato6@gmail.com">dcalato6@gmail.com</a><br /><br />For more photos of Rocky Point as well as other locations within the Gateway NRA complex, visit: <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-46677624148792599772015-05-06T16:50:00.000-07:002015-05-06T16:50:03.250-07:00Birds of Rocky Point Salt Marsh, Part ThreeThis, the third installment in this multi-part series starts at the beginning of January, 2014, and ends in mid-August, 2014.<br /><br />For the purpose of these blog segments, I have very loosely defined Rocky Point Marsh as everything lying within borders defined by Rockaway Park Boulevard and Beach 201st Street, to the south and west, respectively (note that all compass points are “approximate”). The far-east border is delineated by the jetty at that end of the cove; the jetty then runs back into Rockaway Park Blvd. at Beach 193rd Street. The marsh’s northern side is fronted by Jamaica Bay.<br /><br />For references consulted, please see part one of this series.<br />
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<br /><br />01-01-2014, Rock Dove (Pigeon) (Columba livia). Seen in urban environments worldwide, pigeons come in a bewildering variety of colors and this example is no exception. This species is extremely adaptable and is a frequent visitor to Rocky Point, often seen foraging along the shore fronting the marsh.<br />
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<br /><br /><br />02-22-2014, Canada Goose, (Branta canadensis). This species is fairly common year-round, with large groups often seen along the shore fronting the marsh. These individuals are foraging within the marsh in the remnant of February snows.<br />
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<br /><br />05-10-2014, Chestnut-sided Warbler, (Dendroica pensylvanica). Seen in the early spring, this is the first recorded observation of this species within the marsh environs. This handsome individual is in full breeding plumage; note the chestnut-colored streak on the side; hence the name.<br />
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<br /><br />05-10-2014, Greater Yellowlegs, (Tringa melanoleuca). In season, this species is common in the Rockaways, both bayside and oceanside. A shallow water forager, the marsh pond, where this individual is located, offers perfect conditions for hunting.<br />
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<br /><br /><br />05-24-2014, Least Tern, (Sternula antillarum). One of two tern species often seen at Rocky Point, this is the smallest member of its family living in North America. It typically hunts by diving into shallow water to grab fish; it will also catch insects in flight and feed on marine worms.<br />
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<br /><br />05-24-2014, American Robin, (Turdus migratorius). This familiar bird is common in the area and is often seen in and around the marsh. It feeds on insects and berries and is noted for pulling earthworms out of the ground; it is also quite fond of bathing, as seen here.<br />
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<br /><br />05-24-2014, Brown Thrasher, (Toxostoma rufum). This species is usually seen on the ground in thickets and underbrush, although it will also perch high on trees to sing. Its diet primarily consists of insects, supplemented by nuts and berries.<br />
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<br /><br />05-31-2014, Semi-palmated Sandpiper, (Calidris pusilla). At certain times of the year, several hundred Semi-palmated Sandpipers have been observed on the shoreline in front of the marsh. Easily confused with the very similar-looking Sanderling (at least by yours truly!), this species has been known to travel up to 2,000 miles non-stop during migration.<br />
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<br /><br />05-31-2014, Spotted Sandpiper, (Actitis macularius). This species is unusual in that it will nest relatively far south of the arctic. It hunts on and below the surface of shallow water and will dine on various fish, mollusks, worms and crustaceans.<br />
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<br /><br />05-31-2014, Semi-palmated Plover, (Charadrius semipalmatus). A very common visitor at Rocky Point, this species has been observed feeding both within and outside the marsh; it favors both environments. It takes a wide variety of prey, including insects, mollusks, worms and crustaceans.<br />
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<br /><br />06-07-2014, Mourning Dove, (Zenaida macroura). An extremely prolific breeder, this species is common and widespread throughout North America. A ground forager, it is often seen below bird feeders picking at seeds that other birds discard.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZVpMjjLHOqytPmTevEzsQAnU0-YeMmNndvCSeIbsfs6RH5DgOIEDvVYgmIV-i3Cdzr4xgTY9HQ1ohvF5gWCKEEn2tbHiwI11Ih4jr9xfSPTuxlWf7EWkn1VFt1mHFIcY_JUeJGH5jO4/s1600/14-06-07+IMG_0080RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZVpMjjLHOqytPmTevEzsQAnU0-YeMmNndvCSeIbsfs6RH5DgOIEDvVYgmIV-i3Cdzr4xgTY9HQ1ohvF5gWCKEEn2tbHiwI11Ih4jr9xfSPTuxlWf7EWkn1VFt1mHFIcY_JUeJGH5jO4/s1600/14-06-07+IMG_0080RS.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />06-07-2014, Ring-billed Gull, (Larus delewarensis). One of four gulls that call Rocky point “home”, this species is an opportunistic scavenger and will steal food from other birds whenever it can. An omnivore, it will eat everything from potato chips to carrion.<br />
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06-07-2014, American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus). Common in the Rockaways, this species nests mostly on the ocean-side of these barrier islands, but is often seen foraging on the shore-line in front of the marsh. As its name suggests, it favors mollusks, which it hunts in the shallows by sight.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaOJpBoJoYhD09uEMiiDinBPOM21OjFIAUbTBk6MuA2zNLmUal8VvQQjWeqCfh0T0s83ekU-5FNwFuLlxQRCZTpTIuxm82tK02riwoUnxwHkJCQUOkR5l-9wQID-4X9AtSG1reJ7A7TWc/s1600/14-06-07+IMG_0127RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaOJpBoJoYhD09uEMiiDinBPOM21OjFIAUbTBk6MuA2zNLmUal8VvQQjWeqCfh0T0s83ekU-5FNwFuLlxQRCZTpTIuxm82tK02riwoUnxwHkJCQUOkR5l-9wQID-4X9AtSG1reJ7A7TWc/s1600/14-06-07+IMG_0127RS.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />06-07-2014, Willet (eastern) (Tringa semipalmata). As many as two pairs of this species have been seen at one time in the marsh, year after year. Despite their noted propensity to nest in salt marshes and their often extremely territorial behavior, no evidence of young has been found here at Rocky Point. On the other hand, the abundance of feral domestic cats noted in the area could be the cause of nest failure.<br />
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<br /><br />06-07-2014, Great Black-backed Gull, (Larus marinus). The largest gull native to North America, this predatory species often feeds on nestlings of other species, making it especially dangerous to the Piping Plover. In this image, an adult is taking flight outside the marsh, while two others, with plumage somewhere between 1st winter and 2nd summer look on; note the drain pipe, at left, which emanates from the marsh pond.<br />
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<br /><br />07-05-2014, Black Scoter, (Melanitta nigra). A sea duck, also known as the Common Scoter, this species nests in the far north. At sea, it feeds by diving for prey such as mollusks; in fresh water small fish, insects and fish eggs are often on the menu. The male is at top of photo, female at bottom.<br />
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<br /><br />07-26-2014, Black Skimmer, (Rynchops niger). An extremely specialized hunter, the skimmer’s lower mandible is longer than the upper, allowing it to be deployed to catch fish by touch as it flies low over shallow water “skimming” the surface for prey. Its long, thin wings, with their high aspect ratio (ratio of length to width), allow it to glide some distance, further helping it skim the waves for prey. Often seen in good numbers, in this area it prefers to hunt on the bayside of the Rockaways, where it is seen flying past the marsh.<br />
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<br /><br />08-13-2014, Black & White Warbler, (Mniotilta varia). Unique in its family, this warbler behaves like a creeper or nuthatch as it travels up and down tree limbs in search of prey. It feeds exclusively on insects, unlike some warblers that switch to seeds and berries in colder months.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2ZCdCkwXu3zKObQ9F3E1nTw-OACdHMyFkYiCNUFlNMS28YyMDjaLEErreSllPwV8GA838Kdjayz0gPyMv-RssiPLAN2wXful7-jVg2kOOHsopJsq_WDNrioc0rYSRGuuDu3KwbeMSQM/s1600/14-08-13+IMG_1390RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2ZCdCkwXu3zKObQ9F3E1nTw-OACdHMyFkYiCNUFlNMS28YyMDjaLEErreSllPwV8GA838Kdjayz0gPyMv-RssiPLAN2wXful7-jVg2kOOHsopJsq_WDNrioc0rYSRGuuDu3KwbeMSQM/s1600/14-08-13+IMG_1390RS.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />08-13-2014, Great Egret, (Ardea alba). Salt marshes with their shallow ponds are perfectly suited to the foraging style of this large, elegant bird. The Great Egret is often seen at Rocky Point, with this particular individual being photographed flying low over the pond.<br /><br />All text and photographs by Frank V. De Sisto.<br /><br />Rocky Point Marsh needs your help. To volunteer for service contact National Park Services Ranger Tony Luscombe at: <a href="mailto:dcalato6@gmail.com">dcalato6@gmail.com</a><br /><br />For more photos of Rocky Point as well as other locations within the Gateway NRA complex, visit: <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a><br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-2974460119326818972015-04-26T08:24:00.003-07:002015-04-28T15:59:05.338-07:00Birds of Rocky Point Salt Marsh, Part Two: October, 2012 to December, 2013.<br />
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We are continuing with a survey of birds that I have photographed at the marsh since late 2011. In this installment we begin in October of 2012 and wind up at the end of December, 2013. It must be appreciated that these sightings are by no means a complete record of bird species that have visited the marsh. Certainly others have made observations that include species not seen here; I am also certain that I have had fleeting glimpses of species that I have not been able to identify. Finally, a common species, such as the European Starling has been seen in the area in question with some regularity, but as yet, I simply have not photographed one!<br />
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For the purpose of these blog segments, I have very loosely defined Rocky Point Marsh as everything lying within borders defined by Rockaway Park Boulevard and Beach 201st Street, to the south and west, respectively (note that all compass points are “approximate”). The far-east border is delineated by the jetty at that end of the cove; the jetty then runs back into Rockaway Park Blvd. at Beach 193rd Street. The marsh’s northern side is fronted by Jamaica Bay. <br />
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For references consulted, please see part one of this series.<br />
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10-06-2012, Common Yellow-throat, (Geothlypis trichas). The male of this species, with its black face-mask, is one of the most distinct of the warblers; this example is most probably a female. In addition, this species is the only warbler that prefers to nest in marshlands. <br />
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10-06-2012, Swamp Sparrow, (Melospiza georgiana). As its name might imply, this species favors swamps and marshes, where it will nest. Because its preferred habitat is often developed for human use, this species has become vulnerable to a decline in numbers.<br />
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10-06-2012, Mallard, (Anas platyrhynchos). Mallards are an extremely common dabbling duck and can be seen anywhere there is water in the New York/metropolitan area. This individual, a male, was photographed in the marsh pond.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8sOtxwPYyXzfw5jXQ3VoO_GuwIo-6QBhzN_K_Dxz-EGn9sF2cZMKkK9VUOKAqcOexMhWi_zN1-zKGAKO3KgWahAlGzUUVVFmazPPpBTBk-l-7_lC_L3D7GpozRchiKes-dHKd4iuNkL4/s1600/12-10-06+IMG_4925RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8sOtxwPYyXzfw5jXQ3VoO_GuwIo-6QBhzN_K_Dxz-EGn9sF2cZMKkK9VUOKAqcOexMhWi_zN1-zKGAKO3KgWahAlGzUUVVFmazPPpBTBk-l-7_lC_L3D7GpozRchiKes-dHKd4iuNkL4/s1600/12-10-06+IMG_4925RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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10-06-2012, Double-crested Cormorant, (Phalacrocorax auritus). Photographed a few yards off-shore from the marsh, this individual is beginning its take-off run from the water’s surface. Dozens of these birds can be seen off-shore during certain times of the year, hunting for prey or perched out of the water with their wings spread out to dry.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2pfUqhRKtolxYgkLdB8HQyYsFu104yMiZ-1E3NVvZjLury2PBVn26FGedw5abLaJmBDYqhhVY6zvFJMd37VlDRbNjwofLHGngMNH5aMnFZ09YWxJSpkM6e9t6JtiR_qZd1YaxVXe7xY/s1600/12-10-06+IMG_4958RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2pfUqhRKtolxYgkLdB8HQyYsFu104yMiZ-1E3NVvZjLury2PBVn26FGedw5abLaJmBDYqhhVY6zvFJMd37VlDRbNjwofLHGngMNH5aMnFZ09YWxJSpkM6e9t6JtiR_qZd1YaxVXe7xY/s1600/12-10-06+IMG_4958RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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10-06-2012, Eastern Phoebe, (Sayornis phoebe). A flycatcher, this species feeds mostly on insects, but will adapt its diet to the climate by eating fruits and berries in cooler months. It will nest on human-made structures and is rather common in the New York/metropolitan area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CBaKrzwdhU8be2PN-K40bHR9jsGWlloJcJbVr0tsPthBZQ5eFChpsedx7eBSoNyOSsBECePVDwsT6kJfUTptns4LcSO_TakzYWZ9uEwfjXvns8azZzOEYqj9uosuFwRn5FVozQJoZs8/s1600/12-10-13+IMG_5363R.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CBaKrzwdhU8be2PN-K40bHR9jsGWlloJcJbVr0tsPthBZQ5eFChpsedx7eBSoNyOSsBECePVDwsT6kJfUTptns4LcSO_TakzYWZ9uEwfjXvns8azZzOEYqj9uosuFwRn5FVozQJoZs8/s1600/12-10-13+IMG_5363R.JPG" /></a></div>
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10-13-2012, Brown Creeper, (Certhia americana). This secretive little guy was spotted in the woods on the western edge of the marsh, which were fairly easily accessible prior to the advent of Super-storm Sandy (which came a couple of weeks after this image was made). This species has been observed several times since then, again in the same general area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioDjkXGYI1X_d0n6_yP0k0nRbTnU-Ib-7XGiicM9k3GR-fqnatbGZR7y_lMiuQhIJttv4fIdZ_LhkTAoPJfkyEOEN4lvMCq_01H90BxggEdBpqktL_4I8LCTNOFxv-jjdE5kiEhp394KM/s1600/12-10-13+IMG_5472RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioDjkXGYI1X_d0n6_yP0k0nRbTnU-Ib-7XGiicM9k3GR-fqnatbGZR7y_lMiuQhIJttv4fIdZ_LhkTAoPJfkyEOEN4lvMCq_01H90BxggEdBpqktL_4I8LCTNOFxv-jjdE5kiEhp394KM/s1600/12-10-13+IMG_5472RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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10-13-2012, Chipping Sparrow, (Spizella passerina). Originally not averse to nesting near human population centers, this species has in many cases been displaced by the introduced House Sparrow. An insect eater in warm weather, it will eat seeds when its favorite prey is suppressed in cold weather. In this image, the wind has caused the head of this individual to appear as if it has a crest.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgVedh-AO4U7rRPXvAXmNoRQEAdauXqRlBEhobJsljoC9amrA53jKB0cFdef0zh_6sd3WWyRNmlUWVHEKh17_FasvhZWzPqpZZD9a1VsIXPnqTgXMJL2Uo3YHIXFy39-52SQfI2veNv58/s1600/12-10-13+IMG_5832RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgVedh-AO4U7rRPXvAXmNoRQEAdauXqRlBEhobJsljoC9amrA53jKB0cFdef0zh_6sd3WWyRNmlUWVHEKh17_FasvhZWzPqpZZD9a1VsIXPnqTgXMJL2Uo3YHIXFy39-52SQfI2veNv58/s1600/12-10-13+IMG_5832RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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10-13-2012, Golden-crowned Kinglet, (Regulus satrapa). On the day these two individuals were photographed, they were part of an amorphous group of about eight or ten. Their distinct black, white and yellow heads are unmistakable and the reason for their name.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxPhTmYu6cJFz0VH38zr0xtyvYtkddT8kQYXTWc11hrFermyxYvRZsR0EsG8yzlvWM5Y9kzs0HZuW-yn1UypX2pihTp22jSAEd8O3RDdBFHYt4cr0nkgWzWdAZflg-xsQHR96YNP0e2Y/s1600/12-10-13+IMG_5911RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxPhTmYu6cJFz0VH38zr0xtyvYtkddT8kQYXTWc11hrFermyxYvRZsR0EsG8yzlvWM5Y9kzs0HZuW-yn1UypX2pihTp22jSAEd8O3RDdBFHYt4cr0nkgWzWdAZflg-xsQHR96YNP0e2Y/s1600/12-10-13+IMG_5911RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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10-13-2012, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius). Probably one of the oddest named birds, this species will eat insects, fruit and berries. It will also feed on tree-sap.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsAOA4_-6J_eSNBd-4YVAa6otM3VWC6qoSTTsCuAIZdzYZ6jQhe42R1TEta9DCOActflvqYTWNv3Jzf1O8lu-Jmi153ZJVGSQhsY9V02ATjIz_DCy-ZdoqvxDgUL-tb1Z833jetcidQRU/s1600/12-11-11+IMG_6680RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsAOA4_-6J_eSNBd-4YVAa6otM3VWC6qoSTTsCuAIZdzYZ6jQhe42R1TEta9DCOActflvqYTWNv3Jzf1O8lu-Jmi153ZJVGSQhsY9V02ATjIz_DCy-ZdoqvxDgUL-tb1Z833jetcidQRU/s1600/12-11-11+IMG_6680RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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11-11-2012, Brant Goose, (Branta bernicla). A stout, relatively small goose, the Brant is very common in the New York /Metropolitan area. This species is sometimes seen in great numbers near the marsh, throughout Jamaica Bay, and in the NY harbor area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7YamrXm4ek2CCfKt2msFE5QT-2aWdiGDgdDaz4-SaNTu-j1Cn7kGWHkiKB03YvzEYeVz6Zodp7zexW5jfhXs4dW3xg77i4geDxJA_1mU5dfX7W4QLn3juq3VmS478pwd2uYL2o03q9Es/s1600/13-03-23+IMG_9940RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7YamrXm4ek2CCfKt2msFE5QT-2aWdiGDgdDaz4-SaNTu-j1Cn7kGWHkiKB03YvzEYeVz6Zodp7zexW5jfhXs4dW3xg77i4geDxJA_1mU5dfX7W4QLn3juq3VmS478pwd2uYL2o03q9Es/s1600/13-03-23+IMG_9940RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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03-23-2013, Piping Plover, (Charadrius melodus). Census data tells us that there are somewhere around 6,000 Piping Plovers on the entire planet, a woefully low number. Although they have not nested at the marsh, they are occasional visitors as they forage. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnaQt46VofCu-RpXvFjN0ErK2bmfA8gak8BQJwJwQQpeusfq8JrtEzLt5Ilp8kjPGSjtK8Yp7Ktg0wo0gYzE5C7KYPY-cW1HZKkknazJH8H9xq0G0aq80JEju4aFvDzH-018UqgQhMJk/s1600/13-05-04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnaQt46VofCu-RpXvFjN0ErK2bmfA8gak8BQJwJwQQpeusfq8JrtEzLt5Ilp8kjPGSjtK8Yp7Ktg0wo0gYzE5C7KYPY-cW1HZKkknazJH8H9xq0G0aq80JEju4aFvDzH-018UqgQhMJk/s1600/13-05-04.jpg" /></a></div>
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05-04-2013, House Sparrow, (Passer domesticus). An example of the remarkable vision birds are said to possess was presented by this common House Sparrow. From out of nowhere, this male caught my eye as he landed on the beach in front of the marsh, immediately plucked a feather from the sand, and almost as quickly departed with his prize, probably for his nest.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0HEFP5Yf5EyMxTHuZ_MiiedtYOLRKx7nY0P7b5ozDwZjOzaVLRbT8O7hgYLAnZ4zFRf5PjfUp1V_Y5Fx9KYTSUBbZ8LDGnzT-KST_L4IekQs9ZR4mb9nNKksE-LIbjXMwafamfEGiRhw/s1600/13-06-01+IMG_3064RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0HEFP5Yf5EyMxTHuZ_MiiedtYOLRKx7nY0P7b5ozDwZjOzaVLRbT8O7hgYLAnZ4zFRf5PjfUp1V_Y5Fx9KYTSUBbZ8LDGnzT-KST_L4IekQs9ZR4mb9nNKksE-LIbjXMwafamfEGiRhw/s1600/13-06-01+IMG_3064RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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06-01-2013, American Black Duck, (Anas rubripes). Numerous and familiar, this species can easily be mistaken for the very similar female Mallard.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO9o4EsLXdj43kaxtUjddbpRPo7RCr28hGUY1yro7hm7_hDuiqjaoVqn2wYDNa5rhe9BUDsnl8B2THwIgYpyo-q0MzbeoeIzHc81P0Ux2gjnU97MUM9IpsH8qnaloGMIp-hj0ZlMF61TI/s1600/13-06-09+IMG_3404RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO9o4EsLXdj43kaxtUjddbpRPo7RCr28hGUY1yro7hm7_hDuiqjaoVqn2wYDNa5rhe9BUDsnl8B2THwIgYpyo-q0MzbeoeIzHc81P0Ux2gjnU97MUM9IpsH8qnaloGMIp-hj0ZlMF61TI/s1600/13-06-09+IMG_3404RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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06-09-2013, Common Loon, (Gavial immer). On several occasions, I have encountered molting Common Loons on the shore outside the marsh’s entrance; in this state they are essentially flightless. However, this individual was photographed in full adult plumage, and could presumably have easily taken flight; yet he did not, despite my relatively close proximity.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxeyft_72DwS6A0kpG2YpItOPQ3nld5lgdLfm63Ii1QS_tIgoYNDaNb98aq7IlrAd3lZbdbhG07I7EVtODxxlgtute1PIXkr5Rhr5IWwPy3eHC2OmDeMJHgraMp48D7iLe_2aOGeFQMg/s1600/13-07-06+IMG_5493RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxeyft_72DwS6A0kpG2YpItOPQ3nld5lgdLfm63Ii1QS_tIgoYNDaNb98aq7IlrAd3lZbdbhG07I7EVtODxxlgtute1PIXkr5Rhr5IWwPy3eHC2OmDeMJHgraMp48D7iLe_2aOGeFQMg/s1600/13-07-06+IMG_5493RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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07-06-2013, Long-tailed Duck (Oldsquaw), (Clangula hyemalis). Often seen hundreds of yards off-shore in Jamaica Bay, this individual was first seen lounging on the beach in front of the marsh. As I approached, it took to the water but still remained close to shore.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcm9tRwvF5XOLjgMd3zAx1bRmInmleo3KwAIyVuvo1IPnUirlXKsyWqkDRJA4SZTSDCNJpTZwc6YBNHujWz9YOnhRD76PJKP9t-WRc1evFFSsrGm53LQQf7E9apaqoLgUWPqipJuT_Lp4/s1600/13-07-13+IMG_5845RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcm9tRwvF5XOLjgMd3zAx1bRmInmleo3KwAIyVuvo1IPnUirlXKsyWqkDRJA4SZTSDCNJpTZwc6YBNHujWz9YOnhRD76PJKP9t-WRc1evFFSsrGm53LQQf7E9apaqoLgUWPqipJuT_Lp4/s1600/13-07-13+IMG_5845RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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07-13-2013, Red-winged Blackbird, male, (Agelaius phoeniceus). Often associated with wetlands, this male is seen perched on a branch at the western edge of the marsh. A relatively aggressive bird, I have witnessed this species do mass aerial battle with American Crows in defense of its nesting territory.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ0fBgqGoQ9FLRlZEx-QenjTAdi31waNSa5nama9n-pDzQnYyvMSFNo4M-ceyG7KRBDGhynNe-63RMgohJwmNwoKc0MbmLUE5l9RZs5SCGOSDDJHxa1P_QSY45tNIYynKaVY_j2gU4kgM/s1600/13-08-31+IMG_9093RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ0fBgqGoQ9FLRlZEx-QenjTAdi31waNSa5nama9n-pDzQnYyvMSFNo4M-ceyG7KRBDGhynNe-63RMgohJwmNwoKc0MbmLUE5l9RZs5SCGOSDDJHxa1P_QSY45tNIYynKaVY_j2gU4kgM/s1600/13-08-31+IMG_9093RS.jpg" /></a></div>
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08-31-2013, Northern Waterthrush, (Seiurus noveboracensis). This species favors wetlands and has a diet that includes crustaceans and small fish. It is known to hunt on the ground and even in shallow water.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcFocNEqPTbqweVxJgezkuTLkL2N10Oyu4bx_4g_tpOb0COfcyiOBVrZ07MPC4fFTwh0a3VmV4clZWnA3i93smVLe3YXEFmgh3lFD-RLXYkiilfMOirSWn-W10daYIjFFuxcdOLfkkXM/s1600/13-09-14+IMG_9587RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcFocNEqPTbqweVxJgezkuTLkL2N10Oyu4bx_4g_tpOb0COfcyiOBVrZ07MPC4fFTwh0a3VmV4clZWnA3i93smVLe3YXEFmgh3lFD-RLXYkiilfMOirSWn-W10daYIjFFuxcdOLfkkXM/s1600/13-09-14+IMG_9587RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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09-14-2013, Northern Flicker (yellow-shafted), (Colaptes auratus). Although part of the woodpecker family, this species often hunts on the ground for its favored prey, ants. It also prefers open, wooded areas; the particular topography of Rocky Point suits it quite well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2paarzblCrThIb01ugy0tsEFyollwF5jjhEKs9M-WbuSDULIYJ70ZgVPn0blQ8i4UDKEJ05_6XZ8mH9dZwacZEyrDscMtzn1ryCg8x6cew9CeSFG5-y9_SAjiWHaXRf1JyWeDLhjsmn4/s1600/13-12-22+IMG_5816RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2paarzblCrThIb01ugy0tsEFyollwF5jjhEKs9M-WbuSDULIYJ70ZgVPn0blQ8i4UDKEJ05_6XZ8mH9dZwacZEyrDscMtzn1ryCg8x6cew9CeSFG5-y9_SAjiWHaXRf1JyWeDLhjsmn4/s1600/13-12-22+IMG_5816RS.jpg" /></a></div>
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12-22-2013, Sanderling, (Calidris alba). A common shore bird, the Sanderling is very often seen foraging on the shore outside the marsh. It normally breeds in the far north, where it eats a varied diet that includes insects, algae and seeds.<br />
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All text and photographs by Frank V. De Sisto.<br />
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Rocky Point Marsh needs your help. To volunteer for service contact National Park Services Ranger Tony Luscombe at: <a href="mailto:dcalato6@gmail.com">dcalato6@gmail.com</a><br />
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For more photos of Rocky Point as well as other locations within the Gateway NRA complex, visit: <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-76986131672040727112015-04-03T08:37:00.000-07:002015-04-03T08:37:36.927-07:00Birds of Rocky Point Salt Marsh, Part One: September 2011 to September, 2012.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Although I am familiar with the Breezy Point segment of Gateway since the late 1960s, I began visiting Rocky Point Marsh only in 2011, shortly after I became an NPS Volunteer. My original focus on photographing birds is what drew me to the marsh. As I came to understand the function of a tidal salt marsh, I also began to pay attention to the landscape, the tides, local weather events, flora, fauna and insects. Birds are not the only thing of interest in such a fascinating, multi-faceted environment!<br /><br /> Yet, my interest in birds is still my overriding reason for visiting Rocky Point. What follows is the first in a multi-part series of photo essays, each with the goal of presenting an image of every bird species I’ve encountered in, above, and around the marsh. As of February 2014, the number of species I have encountered and photographed stands at 75, nearly half of the species presently on my modest Life List.<br /><br /> For the purpose of these blog segments, I have very loosely defined Rocky Point Marsh as everything lying within borders defined by Rockaway Park Boulevard and Beach 201st Street, to the south and west, respectively (note that all compass points are “approximate”). The far-east border is delineated by the jetty at that end of the cove; the jetty then runs back into Rockaway Park Blvd. at Beach 193rd Street. The marsh’s northern side is fronted by Jamaica Bay.<br /><br /> Of necessity, some images may not be of a presentable quality; they are included here to complete the historic record. The images will be presented in chronological order, rather than in a species-by-species fashion. Anyone with a field guide will know the proper order of the presentation of species and their accounts. In this instance, it is hoped that a chronological order will better inform the viewer as to what species may be encountered at a particular time period, here at Rocky Point.<br /><br />What follows is part one.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLyCyTYmUTPUqJdxnmi9LhU6pm-NDNykmUQGluZ-FFX-CrjFbRXERvKXeMZ-1FKo4q3LDO7E4-PduTNMFum4H217obzMAruJc4rZGGYnJtoGTE3PrtZ1rsUXvxTpXu0RlwJdFEDx9o2Vw/s1600/11-09-17+IMG_5000RS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLyCyTYmUTPUqJdxnmi9LhU6pm-NDNykmUQGluZ-FFX-CrjFbRXERvKXeMZ-1FKo4q3LDO7E4-PduTNMFum4H217obzMAruJc4rZGGYnJtoGTE3PrtZ1rsUXvxTpXu0RlwJdFEDx9o2Vw/s1600/11-09-17+IMG_5000RS.jpg" /></a></div>
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09-17-2011, Red-breasted Merganser, (Mergus serrator). This bird dives beneath the water’s surface for its food. Its legs are set relatively far back on the body which enhances its diving ability in its preferred environment. On land, however, this fellow is rather clumsy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOS4tF9w4KtIHPoUUajm59DAb12BNYtx9lUEYsmGpt8F8AFrVfUN0vjnTV8oZwxFhCULHw_6c7dFx4uCvxS7piOEsZBSPMHv6Yq5iIbDnYEfGnbXXKyiJTMy1bgz39MQzwxFHsIh7rDlI/s1600/11-09-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOS4tF9w4KtIHPoUUajm59DAb12BNYtx9lUEYsmGpt8F8AFrVfUN0vjnTV8oZwxFhCULHw_6c7dFx4uCvxS7piOEsZBSPMHv6Yq5iIbDnYEfGnbXXKyiJTMy1bgz39MQzwxFHsIh7rDlI/s1600/11-09-17.jpg" /></a>09-17-2011, Belted Kingfisher, (Ceryle alcyon). An extremely skittish bird, the Belted Kingfisher is very difficult to approach. Their nervous flight antics had prompted me to name one repeatedly-observed individual, “Frantic the Kooky Kingfisher”. I have observed this species several times over the years, in widespread intervals, at Rocky Point.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rN-ujgFNum8EdXLgD_ja48S22aAL4BFh2pbX80IH9OQ7Y6N_2G-pFWyL-5LQDxV1WWugm6AIFO359hK0v52akOsUwaOHxH0AqYCHe0AfhVnlbHMSHojOfCtNGB2ixVweUTp_zYzQWT4/s1600/11-11-05+IMG_7858RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rN-ujgFNum8EdXLgD_ja48S22aAL4BFh2pbX80IH9OQ7Y6N_2G-pFWyL-5LQDxV1WWugm6AIFO359hK0v52akOsUwaOHxH0AqYCHe0AfhVnlbHMSHojOfCtNGB2ixVweUTp_zYzQWT4/s1600/11-11-05+IMG_7858RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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11-05-2011, American Crow, (Corvus brachyrhynchos). An extremely common sight throughout the NY City area, this species is a daily, year-round denizen of Rocky Point. This species is an omnivore, which aside from its acknowledged intelligence (it is known to use “tools”), is a major reason for its ability to flourish alongside humans.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXcbNDrYFmaFUmVswLDODtanzcXQQREP1Mmm1CtfVMa2gVLQhW7YiLvOy3e6tHZOG-SKIoBTfCBS-wcTIM9I4EJLjz_Flrz1-camvqq8TqkezobtmM2W8iRb69yn7BFTsdHqsI5dFeGDE/s1600/12-05-05+IMG_4122RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXcbNDrYFmaFUmVswLDODtanzcXQQREP1Mmm1CtfVMa2gVLQhW7YiLvOy3e6tHZOG-SKIoBTfCBS-wcTIM9I4EJLjz_Flrz1-camvqq8TqkezobtmM2W8iRb69yn7BFTsdHqsI5dFeGDE/s1600/12-05-05+IMG_4122RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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05-05-2012, Black-billed Cukoo, (Coccyzus erythropthalmus). This is quite probably the most unique species identified here at Rocky Point. The marsh is well within the established range of this species, which is attracted to the woods encompassing the marsh. I must apologize for the quality of this photograph; this bird was far beyond the limits of my lens/camera combination’s ability to adequately resolve a detailed image. It’s included here for the historic record.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzOnCsdIW_H6IGPtC1O4H6yUAZIS-OtBLeNd4tJ4Nrpvqp8UmaU7j65GIrTAxvvBPVaDyeAWEn7zwV-FiExdwPk5kKX5_9kmIRvc1fSBrae66d_0pn2ociEpE-xXnshb0vaCMuo3NOiM/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_4965RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzOnCsdIW_H6IGPtC1O4H6yUAZIS-OtBLeNd4tJ4Nrpvqp8UmaU7j65GIrTAxvvBPVaDyeAWEn7zwV-FiExdwPk5kKX5_9kmIRvc1fSBrae66d_0pn2ociEpE-xXnshb0vaCMuo3NOiM/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_4965RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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05-12-2012, American Redstart (male), (Setophaga ruticilla). This handsome and very active bird is easy to spot as it opens and closes its wings and tail feathers. This species favors an insect diet when available and will switch to seeds, like so many others, when the seasons change.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhossgCcPqU44KZMUok6xzqTa0f7T7XxGWnHc-7E5X3seDiLFtBvZqbH4iSBB-pjVWpSQanufcCqDJxl8uT2sKV-shSastfjjCzS_6ZnAV9NvMIj3reOYXIiSXSZe1v3hxirW-CYXUp6g/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_4986RSa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhossgCcPqU44KZMUok6xzqTa0f7T7XxGWnHc-7E5X3seDiLFtBvZqbH4iSBB-pjVWpSQanufcCqDJxl8uT2sKV-shSastfjjCzS_6ZnAV9NvMIj3reOYXIiSXSZe1v3hxirW-CYXUp6g/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_4986RSa.jpg" /></a><br /></div>
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05-12-2012, Eastern Towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus). From this odd angle, the field marks that identify this species are the white patches on the wings and the white belly, turning rusty on the flanks and towards the tail. A ground forager, this species is also known to eat small reptiles.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuf81yFj9v4WgOp0Q9r65q3NMzGWirJ5fi-0DAjxfx-kyG4onz_8vOmzjwqKSMbu7zrGxe95r06w5SOh34jxr6QLvDP6BW2-frt0MyMLZIaC0hNQnCrrJBrNSozz2lo5OzPuJr-bhFVDQ/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_5020RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuf81yFj9v4WgOp0Q9r65q3NMzGWirJ5fi-0DAjxfx-kyG4onz_8vOmzjwqKSMbu7zrGxe95r06w5SOh34jxr6QLvDP6BW2-frt0MyMLZIaC0hNQnCrrJBrNSozz2lo5OzPuJr-bhFVDQ/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_5020RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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05-12-2012, Black-throated Green Warbler, (Dendroica virens). Caught in the act of feeding, this was one of several warbler species spotted during a single amazing day. This species favors caterpillars, but will eat other insects as well as waxy berries. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRuVktSZ-hIz06IMSJhs1GJtDed-5ms5bHe55_35kyTmLFDESOQhqq3YyhETfZ-Az0MIoItHAH-EuwYP2yakn8q2SF8R0wTBWu-ZHARoR_LW4w_gH3VefVGAxK1XuYlxGlGhIkbIx8VGc/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_5076RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRuVktSZ-hIz06IMSJhs1GJtDed-5ms5bHe55_35kyTmLFDESOQhqq3YyhETfZ-Az0MIoItHAH-EuwYP2yakn8q2SF8R0wTBWu-ZHARoR_LW4w_gH3VefVGAxK1XuYlxGlGhIkbIx8VGc/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_5076RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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05-12-2012, Yellow Warbler, (Dendroica petechia). In full adult plumage, this handsome fellow casts a curious glance at the photographer. Although insects make up most of its diet, it will also berries out of necessity.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioWbZDN9oUepAZ7kV-h3byRj5WSES4r1Ahofmf7hvi4J-xl5Y7oOniD_4gUpagb6umiYU5Q_j_Omc6r-HQAP8AeKM9S5qmOXxX2ga_Tsl82S0Amh7P0XjVjCI__6AFthd2-bkdPgCwHmw/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_5230RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioWbZDN9oUepAZ7kV-h3byRj5WSES4r1Ahofmf7hvi4J-xl5Y7oOniD_4gUpagb6umiYU5Q_j_Omc6r-HQAP8AeKM9S5qmOXxX2ga_Tsl82S0Amh7P0XjVjCI__6AFthd2-bkdPgCwHmw/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_5230RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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05-12-2012, Common Tern, (Sterna hirundo). This species nests in the Rockaways and is often seen outside the marsh, bathing or feeding in the surf. Very aggressive during nesting season, here a trio quietly rests while perched atop pilings in Jamaica Bay.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnkFu7y0MqVmxzpMD5d3aGVH9HxCwRrjgG50hnqiQRNggZZkK5OztCWr6NZXtDzOxcgqOICqNrfi0CY9uO6YhdSnMBco4YNXCEL_YbbyZPuFUROHjVf7rK4XMCdJ6DWa6b2pBB4NRM7aI/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_5255RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnkFu7y0MqVmxzpMD5d3aGVH9HxCwRrjgG50hnqiQRNggZZkK5OztCWr6NZXtDzOxcgqOICqNrfi0CY9uO6YhdSnMBco4YNXCEL_YbbyZPuFUROHjVf7rK4XMCdJ6DWa6b2pBB4NRM7aI/s1600/12-05-12+IMG_5255RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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05-12-2012, Magnolia Warbler, (Dendroica magnolia). Seen in breeding plumage, this was one of several new species observed at the marsh on this particular day. One characteristic foraging method is the feeding on insects gleaned from the undersides of leaves.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAO-vXHbCe9SvEbjSQ-juG4nCtApMha59KVQsZDvVP9_5aJQ5gb6ThiVQ0my-wH1ZMxiF1DjeAhcFZQ3KG71H_HLdbfB2jfNSEyJOPANZUh-TGcuVX7xL4gqMUreN7wP3IIJ9KiJezWRA/s1600/12-05-26+IMG_6109RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAO-vXHbCe9SvEbjSQ-juG4nCtApMha59KVQsZDvVP9_5aJQ5gb6ThiVQ0my-wH1ZMxiF1DjeAhcFZQ3KG71H_HLdbfB2jfNSEyJOPANZUh-TGcuVX7xL4gqMUreN7wP3IIJ9KiJezWRA/s1600/12-05-26+IMG_6109RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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05-26-2012, Grey Catbird, (Dumetella carolinensis). At certain times of the year, this species will be observed in relatively large numbers at Rocky Point. The fact that this individual is seen in the shade, accounts for its decidedly blueish tone; this is a trick of the light.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovBd2ttF4G4vQXHwcSgBiKZDVB5vJKHjiS4ZueZTwCJCYQSD9TAT0r9SCXPU2_WMryTxYZDvKQQci_uDlUaArJfFkreGdvDaMFT3hXWtrtBp8mC6F94YNoWe4EFXdeoL2-dvJ7lzjSqA/s1600/12-05-26+IMG_6116RSa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovBd2ttF4G4vQXHwcSgBiKZDVB5vJKHjiS4ZueZTwCJCYQSD9TAT0r9SCXPU2_WMryTxYZDvKQQci_uDlUaArJfFkreGdvDaMFT3hXWtrtBp8mC6F94YNoWe4EFXdeoL2-dvJ7lzjSqA/s1600/12-05-26+IMG_6116RSa.jpg" /></a></div>
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05-26-2012, Great Crested Flycatcher, (Myiarchus crinitus). A salt marsh, with its thriving insect population, provides flycatchers with ample food, particularly in the spring. In other seasons, it will eat fruit, berries and sometimes small reptiles.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mOduFpNnHY_MBjZU7VByQ4FQ-ecJBiZRVEiiAzPE4JKHlHBrkfq2XS-c7vtzq4IunksWeXxP-hOIUVdeVcd-u38bthyphenhyphenlCkc_k8PbshUMFP85cfEqySu2Xt64SIpsmldGg-gEbCjK5rA/s1600/12-06-30+IMG_8354RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mOduFpNnHY_MBjZU7VByQ4FQ-ecJBiZRVEiiAzPE4JKHlHBrkfq2XS-c7vtzq4IunksWeXxP-hOIUVdeVcd-u38bthyphenhyphenlCkc_k8PbshUMFP85cfEqySu2Xt64SIpsmldGg-gEbCjK5rA/s1600/12-06-30+IMG_8354RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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06-30-2012, Laughing Gull, (Larus atricilla). This species is one of four gull types routinely seen in the NY City/metropolitan area. This group was spotted taking a break along the shore. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwSD1z2o7zFZ7XgjYGLSgpcK7m-APRaUd66LyO0jJ7qRrfT8VMD5tU0wqNxH6sx6umi9osrIaqeJPs4yajEn-W6cfkByJzgn6PgasAzFmY4Z32n38hXw5WD05fFJ8z5NY2cxK_9mMOpU/s1600/12-08-05+IMG_1861RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwSD1z2o7zFZ7XgjYGLSgpcK7m-APRaUd66LyO0jJ7qRrfT8VMD5tU0wqNxH6sx6umi9osrIaqeJPs4yajEn-W6cfkByJzgn6PgasAzFmY4Z32n38hXw5WD05fFJ8z5NY2cxK_9mMOpU/s1600/12-08-05+IMG_1861RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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08-05-2012, Ruddy Turnstone, (Arenaria interpres). This pair was spotted foraging along the shore, just in front of the marsh. A very distinctly-plumaged shore-bird, I am always reminded of a pudgy human (perhaps a banker?) wearing a black vest!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmuumfljO4EJNekaYvmsECZAVcT9iOaXt6dbptUM7J1cezaH852r0OW3icWjLUoJFR4W2V0UPCXVEqAh1L0n-S9R34PDHB-TUicBkeporbeNe4vijI2-Ny6_81X9zLOo_iiqoIoJBvAiU/s1600/12-08-24+IMG_2830RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmuumfljO4EJNekaYvmsECZAVcT9iOaXt6dbptUM7J1cezaH852r0OW3icWjLUoJFR4W2V0UPCXVEqAh1L0n-S9R34PDHB-TUicBkeporbeNe4vijI2-Ny6_81X9zLOo_iiqoIoJBvAiU/s1600/12-08-24+IMG_2830RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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08-24-2012, Green Heron, (Butorides virescens). Observed on several occasions (including pairs), this species is also rather skittish and difficult to approach. The wooden platform it is climbing was taken away by Super-storm Sandy and deposited in the woods on the western edge of the marsh pond, a journey of nearly 100 yards.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg59rNpIR71V3-0lwOCe4QCKaBFzvZSxwhH143OCDhRhZyUIaBPXrSRYsLZk-zJRsxs5cAGt1zLwxdqrlFpWoUW0kOL0WmT4y4q7gvaDx0_204K0-lqW_A7HO1sHp_9gWOcL1AgVUuQwwo/s1600/12-08-24+IMG_2986RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg59rNpIR71V3-0lwOCe4QCKaBFzvZSxwhH143OCDhRhZyUIaBPXrSRYsLZk-zJRsxs5cAGt1zLwxdqrlFpWoUW0kOL0WmT4y4q7gvaDx0_204K0-lqW_A7HO1sHp_9gWOcL1AgVUuQwwo/s1600/12-08-24+IMG_2986RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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08-24-2012, Herring Gull, (Larus argentatus). Yet another common species in the NY/metro area, here we see a pair of adults perched on the stone jetty at the western edge of the marsh. An omnivore, like many other gulls, this species thrives in human-altered environments.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejmFXN0nVvGyMPjXzl8bhrkVCSSYV_260Cjq5nUtg8aHbVdeAbc3oXZyoa0KCaEJf4jkAuh2ZgpFUlU9gJ7C_hosVvTmQP_COyCuUPfLATptCCkvkPuz7TohvdxiovFz_kfCYnhJ12Zk/s1600/12-09-15+IMG_3947RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejmFXN0nVvGyMPjXzl8bhrkVCSSYV_260Cjq5nUtg8aHbVdeAbc3oXZyoa0KCaEJf4jkAuh2ZgpFUlU9gJ7C_hosVvTmQP_COyCuUPfLATptCCkvkPuz7TohvdxiovFz_kfCYnhJ12Zk/s1600/12-09-15+IMG_3947RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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09-15-2012, Least Sandpiper, Calidris minutilla. This individual was photographed in the warm light of early morning, somewhat distorting the true color of its plumage. Preferring a diet of crustaceans, snails and insects, it is foraging within the marsh pond, a familiar haunt of this species.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ7N2rnp5BXMRQOeQAo68HBN8ttsdFTqll28es2QAoZgv_E5peCUGR-c5sB4-N5SnNdJ0dOcU6LNZK-6LAbP5x_1J16sqqT095RUdFiZOaIut7NLOGLPUetsy2NuPcWo-OHLjPW_oAt2E/s1600/12-09-15+IMG_4046RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ7N2rnp5BXMRQOeQAo68HBN8ttsdFTqll28es2QAoZgv_E5peCUGR-c5sB4-N5SnNdJ0dOcU6LNZK-6LAbP5x_1J16sqqT095RUdFiZOaIut7NLOGLPUetsy2NuPcWo-OHLjPW_oAt2E/s1600/12-09-15+IMG_4046RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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09-15-2012, House Finch, (Carpodacus mexicanus). A relative of the sparrow, finches have heavier bills optimized for eating larger seeds. This specimen is beginning to turn red, a characteristic of this species. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaWYGqBL5oaHxYGrWCFBWq0b4r9U1gBKVZS0WxX5qZ-rkaiWjvFWYwN_olAWXWYzc8lIufhjgUCc01aLS-NAV336cHVy8DWOUHK4zVT92-0MiNjPcid_62owyCAP_OxqCM-lrwiceqNYg/s1600/12-09-15+IMG_4071RS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaWYGqBL5oaHxYGrWCFBWq0b4r9U1gBKVZS0WxX5qZ-rkaiWjvFWYwN_olAWXWYzc8lIufhjgUCc01aLS-NAV336cHVy8DWOUHK4zVT92-0MiNjPcid_62owyCAP_OxqCM-lrwiceqNYg/s1600/12-09-15+IMG_4071RS.JPG" /></a></div>
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09-15-2012, Eastern Kingbird, (Tyrannus tyrannus). Seen along the edge of the dune line, this individual is foraging for its dinner. This species is common in the Rockaways and is also often seen at the Jamaica Bay National Wildlife Refuge.<br /><br />Credit where it’s due: For invaluable help in identifying some of the sparrows, I’d like to send special thanks to Paul Sweet, and to Tony for bringing Paul on board.<br /><br />Publications referred to for this series of blogs include, but are not restricted to, the following:<br /><br /> “Lives of North American Birds”, by K. Kaufman. 1996, Houghton-Mifflin, ISBN0618159886. This book picks up where the typical field guide leaves off, concentrating on how and where birds live. It is illustrated with color photographs and range maps. Taking each North American species in turn it details such things as habitat, diet, behavior, migration, and conservation status, all in layman’s terms. It is the primary behavioral data source for this series of blog postings.<br /><br />“Field Guide to the Birds of North America, 5th Edition”, edited by J. Dunn & J. Alderfer. 2006, National Geographic, ISBN 0792253140. This book is based on full-color paintings, as are many other such titles. What sets this apart and which I find most useful, is that in many cases plumage, age and sex variations are shown, sometimes resulting in a single species described by eight or more illustrations.<br /><br />“The Shorebird Guide”, by M. O’Brien, R. Crossley & K. Karlson. 2006, Houghton Mifflin, ISBN 9780618432943. This book covers shore birds seen in North America, but does not include Gulls, Terns, Skimmers or pelagic species. All species illustrations are photographic, starting with a general image, followed by as many plumage, age and sex variations as possible. Also included are range maps and silhouettes by Kenn Kaufman and Michael O’Brien, respectively, while a separate section at the rear of the book contains detailed species accounts.<br /><br />“Smithsonian Field Guide to the Birds of North America”, by T. Floyd, P. Hess & G. Scott. 2008, Harper Collins, ISBN 9780061120404. This is a photography-based guide, which includes range maps, brief species accounts and extensive photo captions. Each section has a separate general intro, while there is an included CD with nearly 600 bird sounds from over 130 species.<br /><br /> “The Warbler Guide”, by T. Stephenson & S. Whittle. 2013, Princeton University Press, ISBN9780691154824. A relatively new title, this book should prove to be indispensable to students of the subject. It provides detailed descriptions, schematic artwork, a guide to interpreting songs and a vast amount of excellent photographs.<br /><br /> All text and photographs by Frank V. De Sisto.<br /><br />Rocky Point Marsh needs your help. To volunteer for service contact National Park Services Ranger Tony Luscombe at: <a href="mailto:dcalato6@gmail.com">dcalato6@gmail.com</a></div>
For more photos of Rocky Point as well as other locations within the Gateway NRA complex, visit: <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a><br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-69260106346867516642015-03-14T10:32:00.000-07:002015-03-14T10:35:59.969-07:00Winter Interlude at Rocky Point, January and February, 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The winter of 2014-2015 brought lots of days featuring relatively cold temperatures, often accompanied by high winds. A series of snow storms also left their accumulated marks on the landscape. My ability to visit the marsh was severely restricted, not by the cold weather, but by my lack of any desire to continually dig my vehicle out of its parking spot in the morning, and then dig a new one to put it back into upon my return in the afternoon. As a result, I was only able to visit only once in January and once in February.</div>
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Naturally, the marsh was fairly quiet, with a paucity of wildlife and drab colors. Once the snow started accumulating, it appeared yet more desolate, as well as more pristine. Regardless, the careful observer will always be rewarded, as I hope these images will show. In addition, a few hardy bird species were also observed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3h_ZuFL9bOPd3XiebHVjZSmeJ-E3Psq4npLLAWhLuNpVBMH17ymuBYBSNoxOqIZKpzTJPCaR0yq1PpFvAsfKjZvNsUNavLXib6RYX4p-4FU60D3Mu4LAy53CpSIzUsihIIDuL8AfuZfU/s1600/006A-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3h_ZuFL9bOPd3XiebHVjZSmeJ-E3Psq4npLLAWhLuNpVBMH17ymuBYBSNoxOqIZKpzTJPCaR0yq1PpFvAsfKjZvNsUNavLXib6RYX4p-4FU60D3Mu4LAy53CpSIzUsihIIDuL8AfuZfU/s1600/006A-001.jpg" /></a></div>
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This image was made at the far eastern edge of the cove that fronts the marsh. Note the snow and how the grass stubble is almost all covered in a sheath of ice. Date: 01-17-2015.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj48blXiPKq4fdQDvR0OPjOBvZfRXeBBlNjf0hyphenhyphenf_0lT6YBe2D8LXUZdSGZyotj8Rr_qLM0FjNicXZo9Xa7TvkZt8W_tQ7Q0XZHhqnKIW_lLRTdRrsxU7xlTvVdR47B2E2zCVZE1L2QUAU/s1600/006A-002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj48blXiPKq4fdQDvR0OPjOBvZfRXeBBlNjf0hyphenhyphenf_0lT6YBe2D8LXUZdSGZyotj8Rr_qLM0FjNicXZo9Xa7TvkZt8W_tQ7Q0XZHhqnKIW_lLRTdRrsxU7xlTvVdR47B2E2zCVZE1L2QUAU/s1600/006A-002.jpg" /></a></div>
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The rock jetty on the east end of the cove also exhibited the effects of the freezing temperatures, as seen here. Date: 01-17-2015</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8GDFGy0sRq5Tw8s9MaZY4BeLi1uTKR61tts2Od78QsMB05wtSqAx-vsOge7_cKZPY_fzWV-3s33WTQl9LO6hBKvRbKzkL08AJbLAXK2x_3SRr30MlEjFVlCpvvXlDEvQdT4PgJvH5-0/s1600/006A-003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8GDFGy0sRq5Tw8s9MaZY4BeLi1uTKR61tts2Od78QsMB05wtSqAx-vsOge7_cKZPY_fzWV-3s33WTQl9LO6hBKvRbKzkL08AJbLAXK2x_3SRr30MlEjFVlCpvvXlDEvQdT4PgJvH5-0/s1600/006A-003.jpg" /></a></div>
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A view back towards the west, with the marsh entrance at the upper left in the image. What appears to be snow, running in from the lower right, is actually frozen sea foam. Note the horizon, which shows the Manhattan skyline. The discolored band just above it, a temperature inversion, is caused by colder temperatures above pushing down on the warmer air, with its pollutants, which is rising from the city. Date: 01-17-2015</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBeJnY77rB7iHfLyQeke-o82lTjvzDrtq7clqJwOHp_pMq_EVHGMIwEVf3br8G6bBcfF9tvotE16_1aGWzOHwSl0G_J5nF5D5jCPxUm1qYQGzoOo8gq6tsuZy1Pf44UErWOUgkP5qd-OM/s1600/006A-004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBeJnY77rB7iHfLyQeke-o82lTjvzDrtq7clqJwOHp_pMq_EVHGMIwEVf3br8G6bBcfF9tvotE16_1aGWzOHwSl0G_J5nF5D5jCPxUm1qYQGzoOo8gq6tsuZy1Pf44UErWOUgkP5qd-OM/s1600/006A-004.jpg" /></a></div>
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With the tide way out, I was able to move relatively far from the normal shore line in order to get a more unusual view of the marsh. Note the gulls on the mud flats in the foreground and the dune in the center of the image; the marsh entrance is to the left. Date: 01-17-2015</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsNYBwiYduxn8Oy4NSxAqw3oH5NKP17GTPF3eQ6ZeMBaTSwbhPDZX3RsSMhJtXF-GuJqHZLOgFLLdkKf0dmrH-_PncNklPsr7V0DIMwe8cL8g5mnWgy1Nj0cBM6Eq-UcLKyaQ40RZU2s/s1600/006A-005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsNYBwiYduxn8Oy4NSxAqw3oH5NKP17GTPF3eQ6ZeMBaTSwbhPDZX3RsSMhJtXF-GuJqHZLOgFLLdkKf0dmrH-_PncNklPsr7V0DIMwe8cL8g5mnWgy1Nj0cBM6Eq-UcLKyaQ40RZU2s/s1600/006A-005.jpg" /></a></div>
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This close-up shows how well-encased in ice the grass stubble was. Date: 01-17-2015</div>
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Five weeks later and not too much has changed. The ice and snow build-up on the shore has increased in this eastward-facing image. Date: 02-28-2015<br />
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Probably brought in from Jamaica Bay on the tides, the remnants of a pair of small icebergs quietly deteriorates in the sun. Date: 02-28-2015<br />
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Looking west, one can see the snow that has accumulated in the mudflats. Date: 02-28-2015<br />
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The main pond in the marsh was completely frozen over and covered with a layer of snow. Note that the ice and snow covers a bit more than half of the drainage culverts that feed the marsh from inland. Date: 02-28-2015</div>
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The dune line on the western end of the marsh provides a platform from which to look east along the beach front. These dunes have self-repaired well enough since Superstorm sandy flattened them in October of 2012. Date: 02-28-2015</div>
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The new inlet created by Superstorm Sandy is cluttered with shattered chunks of snowbound icebergs. </div>
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The first image is looking to the east while the second looks directly into the pond; note the Osprey nest box, center left. Date: 02-28-2015</div>
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American Wigeon, male and female, (Anas americana). This pair was spotted initially about 50 yards off-shore in front of the marsh, calmly cruising in Jamaica Bay. For no apparent reason, they suddenly took-off and headed east. Date: 02-28-2015</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGnGCoT6LWffH6SfMuM-6IKfME9bwMthviedVBkz8V9GmxEd0frS_etquJiJFtjF0-WaE-v84qNUaPmYSJU1mU24cpZEb-wqeOAFcO616EWLQZemkoSaVo7ukcb395gtdDjxgl18R6Hs/s1600/006A-014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGnGCoT6LWffH6SfMuM-6IKfME9bwMthviedVBkz8V9GmxEd0frS_etquJiJFtjF0-WaE-v84qNUaPmYSJU1mU24cpZEb-wqeOAFcO616EWLQZemkoSaVo7ukcb395gtdDjxgl18R6Hs/s1600/006A-014.jpg" /></a></div>
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Downy Woodpecker, (Piciodes pubescens). Recently, this species has been observed with great frequency in and around the marsh. Tolerant of the winters in the north-east, his individual was foraging in the woods directly behind the dune line, east of the marsh entrance. Date: 02-28-2015</div>
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Northern Harrier, male, (Circus cyaneus). A chance glance over my shoulder brought this agile raptor into view. A quick image was captured, and just as quickly, the subject wound its way into the trees and disappeared. This Northern Harrier, along with the previously pictured American Wigeon pair, are, as of the publication of this blog installment, the 74th and 75th species I have photographed at Rocky Point. Date: 02-28-2015.</div>
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All text and photos by Frank V. De Sisto.<br />
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Published works consulted for this posting included the following:<br />
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“The Peterson Field Guide to Birds of North America”, by R.T. Peterson. 2008, Houghton Mifflin, ISBN9780618966141. This is THE classic work by the legendary Roger Tory Peterson. I have two versions; the cited volume includes both east and west field guides between the covers of an enlarged-format book. Simply stated, no serious birder should be without a copy.<br />
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“Clouds and Weather”, Peterson First Guides, by J.A. Day & V.J. Schaefer. ISBN 9780395906637. It’s nice to know how to “read” the sky when in the field. This compact booklet is packed with 128 pages of text, diagrams, excellent color photography and a handy index.<br />
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Rocky Point Marsh needs your help. To volunteer for service contact National Park Services Ranger Tony Luscombe at: <a href="mailto:dcalato6@gmail.com">dcalato6@gmail.com</a><br />
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For more photos of Rocky Point as well as other locations within the Gateway NRA complex, visit: <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-65679224468813693652015-02-08T13:47:00.000-08:002015-02-08T13:47:01.657-08:00Autumn Migration at Rocky Point Marsh, October & November, 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rocky Point Marsh, like so many of nature’s oasis’ serves as a way-point for migrating birds. The Rockaways, where the marsh is located, are barrier islands situated within the so-called Atlantic Flyway and are a convenient navigational aid as birds make their way down the East Coast, to, and past, Cape May, New Jersey. </div>
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The importance of a salt marsh’s varied habitat becomes as critical at this time of the year as it would be during nesting season. Birds will stop to feed and fatten-up for the next leg of their energy-consuming journey. Seeds and berries, as well as insects and fish offer convenient access to those birds with peculiar diets. Raptors will follow avian prey during migration so that they can also add more calories to their body mass for the continuation of their annual southern excursion. <br />
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The advent of autumn brings shorter periods of daylight. Being hard-wired into nature’s grid, birds take note of this; when the time is right they head south. Weather patterns this time of year often produce winds from the north; birds habitually take advantage of the free ride a tail-wind offers. Many bird species fly at night during migration; it is thought that they may do so to avoid predators or to use the stars as navigational aids. Raptors migrate mostly by day when the heating of the earth’s surface creates thermal air masses, which ease their passage. Birds will stop to rest in welcoming areas, such as salt marshes; most will forage early in the day and then again late in the afternoon.<br />
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Not all birds of the same species will begin migration at the same time. The sex and the age of the birds seems to play a role in determining precisely when migration will begin for an individual. In addition, certain birds, which will winter locally, merely disperse in order to ensure that adequate food resources are obtainable.<br />
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Habitats also undergo a metamorphosis; leaves change color or drop away as the weather cools, altering nature’s color palette. Summer’s greens give way to yellow, orange and red, then tan and gray as autumn turns into winter. Decaying plant matter fertilizes the earth adding nutrients for next spring’s explosion of new life. Many plant species (with the help of birds and insects) disperse their seeds into this mix, adding to a salt marsh’s inherent ability to support a rich biodiversity.<br />
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The following images and observations were made during the months of October and November, 2014.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihInEm33_fq4ZxiYDVNEqYOADhHU7m1Rr5DtvcX41XcyDlX5PMN7bGOcnlCAXvqKMLkdZo5tHn8UCPGo-qR3yu2EoPwbAZ6UOg48GCEURbXj5Jj9-PxBIuXNv9vwVhh2CA-8wQRY-0EP0/s1600/006-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihInEm33_fq4ZxiYDVNEqYOADhHU7m1Rr5DtvcX41XcyDlX5PMN7bGOcnlCAXvqKMLkdZo5tHn8UCPGo-qR3yu2EoPwbAZ6UOg48GCEURbXj5Jj9-PxBIuXNv9vwVhh2CA-8wQRY-0EP0/s1600/006-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihInEm33_fq4ZxiYDVNEqYOADhHU7m1Rr5DtvcX41XcyDlX5PMN7bGOcnlCAXvqKMLkdZo5tHn8UCPGo-qR3yu2EoPwbAZ6UOg48GCEURbXj5Jj9-PxBIuXNv9vwVhh2CA-8wQRY-0EP0/s1600/006-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihInEm33_fq4ZxiYDVNEqYOADhHU7m1Rr5DtvcX41XcyDlX5PMN7bGOcnlCAXvqKMLkdZo5tHn8UCPGo-qR3yu2EoPwbAZ6UOg48GCEURbXj5Jj9-PxBIuXNv9vwVhh2CA-8wQRY-0EP0/s1600/006-001.jpg" /></a><br />
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It’s still mid-October and the weather has been relatively mild. So, at this point in time, colors have not yet changed in any dramatic way. This view looks towards the western end of the marsh; compare to similar images in the previous blog posting. Date: 10-17-2014.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8AB1eEvcqmXAgCAyBAT-NCyAclLCUTeCFnftiU6bBU1wCYrAfSbu60I15CcLELS6qwfk7nuR-QoW7J-waQVMkWxVMTaD85rzPnt9-CWKF1FMeMCOPrkgh4rdN83JN16mh4iDuGCBGE0U/s1600/006-002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8AB1eEvcqmXAgCAyBAT-NCyAclLCUTeCFnftiU6bBU1wCYrAfSbu60I15CcLELS6qwfk7nuR-QoW7J-waQVMkWxVMTaD85rzPnt9-CWKF1FMeMCOPrkgh4rdN83JN16mh4iDuGCBGE0U/s1600/006-002.jpg" /></a></div>
In the calm waters of the eastern edge of the marsh pond, these shoots of grass were surrounded by tiny gas bubbles. This was a consistent phenomenon over an area of many square yards. Date: 10-17-2014.<br />
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One week later, the tide came in fully, completely flooding the marsh. The camera is pointed slightly north of east, at the entrance formed by Super-storm Sandy. In fact, the image was made almost two years to the day that the storm devastated the northern east coast. Date: 10-25-2014.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsQh7jXGuva8gG8KtDf96veeSRD1t8jd26kxTAwM4E2wN39QI2ZRT1lhrjuZkvICJvMcTB87eF7KTVFPsXctnu54XUha-tC_0w5YHsRoOtmGRRjDVhJclIY_A8X9E7yCJc1CgN7obaR8/s1600/006-004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsQh7jXGuva8gG8KtDf96veeSRD1t8jd26kxTAwM4E2wN39QI2ZRT1lhrjuZkvICJvMcTB87eF7KTVFPsXctnu54XUha-tC_0w5YHsRoOtmGRRjDVhJclIY_A8X9E7yCJc1CgN7obaR8/s1600/006-004.jpg" /></a><br />
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Another interesting phenomenon seen in a quieter flooded segment of the western edge of the marsh, were these gas bubbles. They covered many square yards of the marsh’s substrate, a few inches below the water’s surface. The remains of a Ribbed Mussel (Geukensia demissa) is seen at upper right. This bivalve helps filter the water, leaving fecal matter behind, which helps provide nitrogen as a plant nutrient. It is also a food source for birds that frequent the marsh, such as the Willet. Date: 10-25-2014.<br />
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Looking like extra-thin string-beans with warts, this Saltwort (Salicornia) lies entangled in grass just behind the dune line at the marsh’s western edge. Green throughout the summer months, a close look at some of the plant’s shoots will reveal that they are typically beginning to turn orange-red as autumn takes hold. Date: 10-25-2014.</div>
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Although this image was made one week prior to the one above, his bit of Saltwort (Salicornia) has already turned completely red. Date: 10-17-14.<br />
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This stand of American Beach Grass (Ammophila breviligulata) appears to be in seed. A dominant species on the Atlantic coast down to North Carolina, this hearty and rapidly-growing plant is vital for the stabilization of the dune line. Date: 10-25-2014.<br />
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A clammy, rainy day greeted your humble narrator on the first day of November. The marsh pond is filled and one can also see how most of the trees in the background have become completely denuded of foliage. Yet, there are still bits of color here and there. In this image the camera faces south. Date: 11-01-2014.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /><br /><br /><br />A few minutes later, anchored in the same location, the camera faces east. Date: 11-01-2014.<br />
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<br /><br /> <br /><br />What a difference a week makes! As the camera faces west, on this beautiful, yet “crisp” morning, it provides a view along the dune line behind the beach that fronts Jamaica Bay. These dunes were completely flattened two years ago by Super-storm Sandy, but have re-built themselves quite handily, probably because most of the “rhizomes” (lateral root systems from plants) remained intact below the surface. Date: 11-08-2014.
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<br /><br />This appears to be a Red-tailed Bumble Bee (Bombus ternarius), which is common in the east from Nova Scotia to Georgia. It was observed at close quarters as it went busily about its business atop this Seaside Goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens). Date: 10-25-2014.
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<br />What is most probably a juvenile Coopers Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) surveys the marsh from a low altitude. A hunter of birds and small mammals, this raptor’s wing and tail shape assures it of maneuverability as it stealthily pursues prey through the woods. Illustrating how Hawk identification can be a challenge, particularly for less-experienced birders such as I, this could also be a Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus). Date: 10-17-14.<br />
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This Golden-crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula) perches in a thicket along the edge of the marsh. With a diet consisting almost exclusively of insects, this small bird seems quite resistant to autumn’s cooler temperatures. Date: 10-25-2014.<br />
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<br />The Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Regulus satrapa) also feeds mostly on insects, but will also eat berries and seeds; in this image this little fellow has just launched itself from the branches of Poison Ivy. Although unseen here, there is a red crest hidden on top of its head, which will be deployed if the bird becomes overly excited. Date: 10-25-2014.<br />
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The most often seen Warbler at Rocky Point, the Yellow-rumped Warbler (Dendroica coronate) comes in two main forms; this one is seen in the east and is a “Myrtle”. The “butter-butt’s” diet consists of insects and berries, with the latter being consumed in winter months. Date: 11-08-2014.
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The vociferous Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) perches on a tree branch. Its diet consists mostly of insects and seeds, but it will sometimes eat small crabs and mollusks. Song Sparrows are common visitors year-round at Rocky Point. Date: 10-25-14.<br />
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This rather handsome White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) struts his stuff for the camera. Another common species at Rocky Point, its diet consists of insects and seeds, as well as berries; it will also eat snails and is well served in a marshy habitat. Date: 11-08-14.<br />
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A cousin to the sparrow, the Dark-eyed Junco, Slate-colored (Junco hyemalis) is most commonly seen hunting for seeds on open ground. It supplements seeds with insects and berries. On this day, it was the predominating bird species at Rocky Point. Unusually, this individual seems to be of the “pink-sided” or “mearnsi” race; if this is so, he is far from his normal range. Date: 11-08-14.<br />
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A ground forager, the Winter Wren (Troglodytes hiemalis) is most often observed in tangled undergrowth. An insectivore, it will also occasionally dine on small fish and some berries. Date: 11-08-14.<br />
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The Hermit Thrush (Cartharus guttatus) often lingers for a time in the north, beginning its migration late in the autumn. Feeding manly on insects, it will also eat a large variety of berries. Date: 10-25-14.<br />
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The Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens), which is very similar in appearance to the Hairy Woodpecker (Picoides villosus), can be differentiated by its much shorter mandibles as well as its smaller size. Its main meal consists of insects, but it will eat seeds and suet from bird feeders, as well as berries. Date: 11-29-14.<br />
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A pair of Northern Flickers (Colaptes auratus), perch on one of the supports of the marsh’s Osprey nest platform. This is the so-called “yellow-shafted” form seen in the eastern parts of North America. Primarily an insect-eater, Flickers are often seen feeding on the ground in all seasons. Date: 11-29-2014.<br />
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A relatively late autumn migrant and an early spring migrant, the Eastern Pheobe (Sayornis nigricans) is a so-called “Flycatcher”. It feeds mostly on insects, but will also eat berries and some fruits. Date: 10-25-14.<br />
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<br />A year-round resident in New York, there is no mistaking the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), either by sight or by sound. Its large, powerful mandibles are equally at home devouring insects and vegetable matter; snails are also on its menu, making a salt marsh an ideal habitat. Date: 11-08-14.<br />
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This trio of American Goldfinches (Corduelis tristis) are feeding on a stand of Seaside Goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens). They are in their more cryptic winter colors but still retain their black wings and white wing bars. Like many birds, they eat mostly insects in the warmer months, switching to seeds during colder months. Date: 11-29-14.<br />
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These two images were made in the center of the western part of the marsh. The first one looks south-east, while the second looks north-west. Note that the trees are denuded of their leaves and most of the grasses are showing very little green. Date: 11-29-14.<br />
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As the weather cools, some plants prepare to spread their seeds around in preparation for spring, as this Common Reed (Phragmites australis) is doing. The seeds shown are ready for distribution by the wind, using their silken bristles as parachutes. However, this plant’s main form of reproduction is through its rhizomes (lateral underground root systems). Date: 11-19-14.<br />
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<br />These two images were made from virtually the same view-point. The upper image has the camera facing north-east, looking out towards Jamaica bay. The lower image is looking almost directly north, with the Manhattan skyline on the far horizon. Difficult to tell from this angle, the surface of the water in the marsh sports a thin layer of ice, indicating that it is of relatively low salinity. Date: 11-29-14.<br />
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Probably one of the most devastating consequence of human ecological ignorance is the presence of feral domestic cats throughout the Rockaways. Often abandoned or simply let loose for the night by their owners, these predators have a profound effect on bird populations; it is estimated that millions of birds are killed each year by this completely preventable man-made scourge. This rather fat creature is crossing the entrance to the yacht club on his way to hunt in the marsh; the presence of your narrator did not disturb him in the least. Date: 11-29-2014.<br />
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New York City’s Police Department has an Aviation Unit based at Floyd Bennett Field, part of the Gateway NRA complex, located in Brooklyn. The NYPD is in the process of replacing their helicopter fleet with the Bell Model 429 (upper left); the Bell Model 412 (bottom right) will be retired. Both of these rotary-wing aircraft are outgrowths of designs that made their first flight in 1956 (the 412) and 1966 (the 429). These two helicopters were photographed over Jamaica Bay, from the marsh. Date: 10-17-14. <br />
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<br /><br /> I will close this entry with an image made in August, 2014, at Fort Tilden. Almost two years after Super-storm Sandy, most of the dune line that was eradicated has still not begun to repair itself. Likewise, the maritime forest still plainly exhibits the effects of the devastation wrought by the storm. <br />
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All text and photographs by Frank V. De Sisto unless otherwise indicated.<br /><br />Credit where it’s due:<br />This time around I’d like to thank Genie for help in confirming the identity of some vegetation.<br /><br />Sources consulted for this blog included:<br /><br />“The Warbler Guide”, by T. Stephenson & S. Whittle. 2013, Princeton University Press, ISBN9780691154824.<br />A relatively new title, this book should prove to be indispensable to students of the subject. It provides detailed descriptions, schematic artwork, a guide to interpreting songs and a vast amount of excellent photographs. Disclaimer: I had met Mr. Whittle some years ago when I first became hooked on birding; he proved most gracious in answering some questions from this novice at the time and many times since.<br /><br />“The Stokes Field Guide to the Birds of North America”, by D. Stokes & L. Stokes. 2010, Little, Brown & Co., ISBN9780316010504.<br />This highly-regarded volume is one of many titles by this acclaimed husband and wife team. Profusely illustrated with photographs, it also includes a handy CD with recordings of over 600 bird sounds.<br />
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“Kaufman Field Guide to Birds of North America”, by K. Kaufman. 2000, Houghton Mifflin Co., ISBN9780618574230.<br />
Laid out in the typical compact format of classic field guides, this volume is set apart from some by the use of photographs instead of paintings. What differentiates it from other photo-based offerings is that the images are digitally manipulated to show only the bird, from several angles, without any distracting background.<br />
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“Hawks in Flight”, by P. Dunne, D. Sibley & C. Sutton. 1988, Houghton Mifflin Co., ISBN9780395510223.<br />
This unique and slim volume takes a different approach to identifying the subject while in flight, using line drawings and B&W photographs. This is extremely useful when all the observer can see is the underside of a bird in flight.<br />
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“Hawks from Every Angle”, by J. Liguori. 2005, Princeton University Press, ISBN 0691118256.<br />
Another helpful book for Hawk watchers, this title is based on using color and B&W photographs. It also has information on where to go and when to be there in order to observe Hawks, as well as tips on optics and photography.<br />
“Lives of North American Birds”, by K. Kaufman. 1996, Houghton-Mifflin, ISBN0618159886.<br />This book picks up where the typical field guide leaves off, concentrating on how and where birds live. It is illustrated with color photographs and range maps. Taking each North American species in turn it details such things as habitat, diet, behavior, migration, and conservation status, all in layman’s terms.<br />
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“The Sibley Guide to Bird Life & Behavior”, Edited by D.A. Sibley, C. Elphick & J.B. Dunning, Jr; illustrated by D.A. Sibley. 2001, Knopf, ISBN9781400043866.<br />With a similar goal to the title listed above, this weighty volume compliments Mr. Kaufman’s effort quite nicely. This book is divided into two main parts, the first of which details many facets of bird biology and behavior, as well as external factors that affect them. The second part contains details on the specific habits of various species broken down into family groups.<br /><br />Rocky Point Marsh needs your help. To volunteer for service contact National Park Services Ranger Tony Luscombe at: <a href="mailto:dcalato6@gmail.com">dcalato6@gmail.com</a><br /><br /> For more photos of Rocky Point as well as other locations within the Gateway NRA complex, visit: <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-25349380012758025392015-02-08T12:39:00.001-08:002015-02-08T12:39:50.059-08:00Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-10500639373632712832015-02-08T12:28:00.001-08:002015-02-08T12:28:25.012-08:00Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-34349223642734084602014-11-09T12:58:00.000-08:002014-11-09T12:58:11.555-08:00Late Summer Creatures of Rocky Point Marsh, August & September, 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Salt marshes, with their varied habitats, host a wide variety of life forms. Rocky Point Marsh is no exception. Dozens of bird species have been observed over the years and they are by far the most visible of the marsh’s visitors. Insects abound and quite a few are easily visible, particularly butterflies, dragonflies and grasshoppers. Smaller insects will reveal themselves to close observation; disturbances in the water’s surface will also reveal fish going through their daily survival routines. Various crustaceans and mollusks are also to be seen.</div>
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For the purpose of this blog segment, I have very loosely defined Rocky Point Marsh as everything lying within borders defined by Rockaway Park Boulevard and Beach 201st Street, to the south and west, respectively (note that all compass points are “approximate”). The far-east border is delineated by the jetty at that end of the cove; the jetty then runs back into Rockaway Park Blvd. at Beach 193rd Street. The marsh’s northern side is fronted by Jamaica Bay.</div>
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A variety of conifers and broadleaf trees, most relatively young, surround the marsh on the higher elevations. Everything from algae to seaweed can be seen in wet and muddy areas, while a variety of wildflowers can be seen in the meadows. Grasses and vines abound with some rather tangled areas on the western fringes.</div>
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At the end of October 2012, a large amount of driftwood and manufactured lumber was deposited on the western edges of the marsh as a result of Super-storm Sandy. With two years of natural growth added, formerly interesting areas such as these are extremely treacherous and are best avoided.</div>
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Mammal signs have been observed, but most are nocturnal types and rarely seen during the daytime. Aside from natural residents such as the Northern Raccoon and Eastern Cottontail, invasive feral cats, irresponsibly released into the wild by humans, are also on the prowl for a meal.</div>
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These images were created during August and September, 2104. I must also apologize for not being able to identify some of the creatures shown here.</div>
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A European Cabbage Butterfly (Pieris rapae), pauses on a leaf. One of the most common butterflies in North America, it is not a native species, being introduced here about 125 years ago. Its caterpillar is considered an agricultural pest, known to ravage crops such as broccoli and cabbage; thus its name. Timestamp: 08-19-14, 0930.<br />
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The Primrose Moth (Schinia florida) is rarely seen, but when it is seen, here is where to look. Tony found this tiny treasure recently and was kind enough to forward the image and some information regarding this little guy from Mr. John Himmelman. Timestamp: 08-21-14, 0955. </div>
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One of the most common and beautiful of all butterflies is the Monarch (Danaus plexippus). The Monarch has been known to fly 2,000 miles or more during migration from North to South America and has also been seen in Hawaii and Australia. This specimen was photographed in the woods on the western edge of the marsh. Timestamp: 09-20-14, 0811. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-UUeIBv2mN0JuQIOU6RjTUyjUJ_JUx02dx9rcSSglpqGLE3-q2Me8A8gsnHnTBx_rY7qjiLAONtkyEPh5M3XImdtBvow-nEIJk3mY1TAzEieUNIwOL-iKerF4f4AX01WEfDRuctOQQ4c/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-UUeIBv2mN0JuQIOU6RjTUyjUJ_JUx02dx9rcSSglpqGLE3-q2Me8A8gsnHnTBx_rY7qjiLAONtkyEPh5M3XImdtBvow-nEIJk3mY1TAzEieUNIwOL-iKerF4f4AX01WEfDRuctOQQ4c/s1600/004.jpg" /></a></div>
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A Rubbed Dart (Euxoa defers) perches atop Seaside Goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens) on the far western extremes of the woods that enclose the marsh. Seaside Goldenrod is part of the Aster family, one of the world’s two largest plant families. Timestamp: 09-26-14, 1221. </div>
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This stand of Seaside Goldenrod is also host to two different insect species (aside from the two seen in the upper left of the image, note the smaller one at right), both of which remain unidentified. Timestamp: 09-26-14, 1407. </div>
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This odd-looking fellow is also among the unidentified. Aside from using its legs to move from place-to-place, this little guy also “hopped” about 8-inches as I approached closer. Note how well his color helps him blend into the sand. Timestamp: 08-09-14, 0910. <br />
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Here we see a Harlequin Cabbage Bug (Murgantia histrionica). This tiny insect attempted to hitch a ride on one of my camera’s straps, when his movement caught my eye. I deposited him in the sand, where he is seen attempting to make his getaway. Also called Calico Bug and Firebug, it is often seen in crop fields and is considered an agricultural pest. Timestamp: 09-20-14, 0900. </div>
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Another insect perfectly-colored to blend in with his surroundings presented himself for a portrait. This Grasshopper was flushed ahead of me as I walked through some tall grass just behind the dune-line. Using an internet source, it is tentatively identified as a Mottled Sand Grasshopper (Spharagemon collare). Timestamp: 09-20-14, 1056. </div>
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This school of Striped Killifish (Fundulus majalis) is seen feeding on the carcass of a defunct Horseshoe Crab (Limulis polyphema). The crab was situated in the flooded section of the marsh. Timestamp: 08-09-14, 0914. <br />
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Strike!! A Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) takes prey from inside the marsh pond. It is quite probable that the fish he has taken is a Striped Killifish, as seen in the image above. It is not impossible that one of the fish seen above, feeding on the Horseshoe Crab, is now a meal for the Snowy Egret. If so, this is an excellent example of the “food chain” in action. Timestamp: 08-30-14, 1411. <br />
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Snowy Egrets also feed in the surf, within a few feet of the water’s edge. This bird was seen one week prior to the bird above, on August 23. Timestamp: 08-23-14, 1124. <br />
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The Great Egret (Ardea alba) is also a frequent marsh denizen. Egrets as well as Herons are often seen roosting in trees. Snowy Egrets, in particular, are often seen in relatively large groups as are various Night Herons. Timestamp: 08-13-14, 1016. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinZqa7IStv7VXI-XYf0DUG1LraVDmxgRpT3qztnmRnPRxAjxbc0Cu2HwP0pAEvKlzjMm4wmPsv6tcfYVEOmZaVN1D9Y7ih7w31WrWTsEwI2hxn1-_sWAJtDY9pbAyD_m3l6DopRnCWZ6M/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinZqa7IStv7VXI-XYf0DUG1LraVDmxgRpT3qztnmRnPRxAjxbc0Cu2HwP0pAEvKlzjMm4wmPsv6tcfYVEOmZaVN1D9Y7ih7w31WrWTsEwI2hxn1-_sWAJtDY9pbAyD_m3l6DopRnCWZ6M/s1600/013.JPG" /></a></div>
This Great Blue Heron (Egretta caerula) was seen in the surf just outside the marsh’s old entry. Similar in size to the Great Egret, as a wading bird, the Great Blue is also attracted to water of a low depth, where it will stalk game. Timestamp: 09-16-14, 1237.<br />
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The Long-tail Duck (Clangula hyemalis), previously referred to as an Oldsquaw, is a frequent visitor to Jamaica Bay, which fronts the marsh. This example is still molting, which accounts for its extremely scruffy appearance. Timestamp: 08-09-14, 0829. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0iMeEMdR_CHtgTlK29CIoC4s18iCoqCIZbldip5kVttOqS09M0qzGYEJ-66fWdICVZ6zTp3H1nSn4xLEevVsBsD5i1IUpG72rNAhJcKO_lTBrsdIxtz7TcWYnbi2mbFjAfKmEKMhL7o/s1600/015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0iMeEMdR_CHtgTlK29CIoC4s18iCoqCIZbldip5kVttOqS09M0qzGYEJ-66fWdICVZ6zTp3H1nSn4xLEevVsBsD5i1IUpG72rNAhJcKO_lTBrsdIxtz7TcWYnbi2mbFjAfKmEKMhL7o/s1600/015.jpg" /></a></div>
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Gulls are by far the most common birds seen at Rocky Point Marsh. Greater Black-back, Ring-bill, Laughing and Herring Gulls are often seen, sometimes in relatively large numbers. Here we see a specimen of the latter bird (Larus argentatus), casting a wary eye at the photographer. Timestamp: 08-23-14, 1107. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fXnEiquGp3eiO31PTITMcdo0eQ4wI_IFjMqoTCVfbrA-4E2Pe8zTQO8GdV17Z3x1G8qAx7pSsbrBCf6QXcOrU8p80Xgw3Q3MlKnD7UYzAjosnDSusTUsOZMSDJxj2GhknYqySYirs9Y/s1600/016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fXnEiquGp3eiO31PTITMcdo0eQ4wI_IFjMqoTCVfbrA-4E2Pe8zTQO8GdV17Z3x1G8qAx7pSsbrBCf6QXcOrU8p80Xgw3Q3MlKnD7UYzAjosnDSusTUsOZMSDJxj2GhknYqySYirs9Y/s1600/016.jpg" /></a></div>
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One of the larger Plovers, these Black-bellied Plovers (Pluvialis squatarola) were part of a group of three photographed in the surf, just outside the marsh. Note the bird at right, which is more mature and therefore sports a partial black face. Timestamp: 08-23-14, 1111. </div>
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A fairly secretive bird, this Black and White Warbler (Mniotilta varia) was seen in the woods on the western edge of the marsh. This particular bird appears to exhibit the plumage of the female of the species. Timestamp: 08-13-14, 0831.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8epSiRSyVOcY-jBdYF3sD9CMV_XOeWb1nQYR_2-Q7YQByaCbmnKezNE61-SfByFUtCBjiz4PaMhnxV04dvdk4zQXTK_sKm9oVB4_yyBQe75bu-hh0USdzw7r9zsDvmJuxRf0LWEX9CI8/s1600/018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8epSiRSyVOcY-jBdYF3sD9CMV_XOeWb1nQYR_2-Q7YQByaCbmnKezNE61-SfByFUtCBjiz4PaMhnxV04dvdk4zQXTK_sKm9oVB4_yyBQe75bu-hh0USdzw7r9zsDvmJuxRf0LWEX9CI8/s1600/018.jpg" /></a></div>
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As recently noted on this blog, there has been a surge in Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) sightings throughout August and into September. This handsome fellow was observed and photographed on the morning of August 9, 2014. Timestamp: 08-09-14, 0938. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_aTokD6jAHVQBGu5TDJlQEB2oimV1NDEwS1jNmry4qbfwgTRcXdMzVaAQ9JzeDzbUD9-wSNIVlZ8lNSbSX2aW98-Zgz5h9_j8z_KMVLOqCysMEYHqfA61Yb_p1f1jPw48EPuWoL7jPEc/s1600/019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_aTokD6jAHVQBGu5TDJlQEB2oimV1NDEwS1jNmry4qbfwgTRcXdMzVaAQ9JzeDzbUD9-wSNIVlZ8lNSbSX2aW98-Zgz5h9_j8z_KMVLOqCysMEYHqfA61Yb_p1f1jPw48EPuWoL7jPEc/s1600/019.jpg" /></a></div>
This Common Loon (Gavia immer) was “caught” on the beach just to the west of the marsh. Loons and other waterfowl will molt their flight feathers prior to migration; this essentially immobilizes them, making them vulnerable to predation. The placement of the legs is optimized for diving for prey, but these birds are extremely ungainly on land. Loons can only move by using their legs to push themselves along on their bellies, as seen here. Timestamp: 08-09-14, 0856. <br />
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Another bird species recently seen at Rocky Point is the Black Scoter (Melanitta nigra). They have been sighted at least three times off-shore in Jamaica Bay by this observer. Timestamp: 08-30-14, 1455. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIV9AjB6pwUAufQhSeHJiHgC_fX-0mNtUnOigmuiQOiWKaDp4TjqHQJCkH0jHvextYsGBYYXM6929IjLno8VsZuWjtwJWRerYk9Ck04YeD5SGKGA8mBgJavBEiFTDnpiAvt-KADA97gQ4/s1600/021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIV9AjB6pwUAufQhSeHJiHgC_fX-0mNtUnOigmuiQOiWKaDp4TjqHQJCkH0jHvextYsGBYYXM6929IjLno8VsZuWjtwJWRerYk9Ck04YeD5SGKGA8mBgJavBEiFTDnpiAvt-KADA97gQ4/s1600/021.jpg" /></a></div>
The Semipalmated Plover (Charadrius semipalmatus) is a frequent marsh visitor, with up to a dozen seen at any one time along the shore, or inside the marsh proper. Timestamp: 08-13-14, 1125. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij32ysHFi9RQXzskmR9dVCW7rs1TFG_HcVFtFdC5gQbQzHOx-RV4gSyUTzmr7YGXT0Q5MFTJc0cbcMQ_GwvCR8mSExHuFLKnrjywbpsP0VPDM_jbpa9oEWDWqL-n5FjzM52C9logasUh0/s1600/022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij32ysHFi9RQXzskmR9dVCW7rs1TFG_HcVFtFdC5gQbQzHOx-RV4gSyUTzmr7YGXT0Q5MFTJc0cbcMQ_GwvCR8mSExHuFLKnrjywbpsP0VPDM_jbpa9oEWDWqL-n5FjzM52C9logasUh0/s1600/022.jpg" /></a></div>
Mammals inhabit the marsh and its surrounding area. These are the very distinct fore-prints of the Northern Raccoon (Procyon lotor). They are the most common prints yet encountered, although their nocturnal owners have never been seen by this observer. Timestamp: 08-23-14, 0852. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixy3t-Xg2SyUM2Vw8kULwoIWSd2m1kXC3fAHIMva96C_iYAZNYtBYJS-lT-pXYeFz4WI2WoOA9x1aEW2WStDTa4kWWVp8m2ubj5iiGjucVZvsPphw0PKErCOMXRmToRsDEELEw6RClGGE/s1600/023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixy3t-Xg2SyUM2Vw8kULwoIWSd2m1kXC3fAHIMva96C_iYAZNYtBYJS-lT-pXYeFz4WI2WoOA9x1aEW2WStDTa4kWWVp8m2ubj5iiGjucVZvsPphw0PKErCOMXRmToRsDEELEw6RClGGE/s1600/023.jpg" /></a></div>
Rabbits are also denizens of Rocky Point, with the Eastern Cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus) representing the species. Note the distinct pattern of the wind-worn prints, which will easily reveal the direction of travel; in this case it is from right-to-left in the image. The other marks at lower right are a bit of a puzzle as they are the only ones seen and therefore do not seem to represent a “trail”. Timestamp: 09-20-14, 0916. <br />
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At certain times of the year, Jamaica Bay and the beaches that border it are teeming with Horseshoe Crabs (Limulis polyphema). The nearly intact remains of a juvenile was seen inside the dune line which borders the marsh. Timestamp: 09-26-14, 1224. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_9q0KG7Kh_eFegqOUV2S89vyy_PNZ2Niw17pyds97zbPJqd_ivpUPpdzxvFpOILMw6JR2yoYXDSQzH84ec4ECXqA9kib4noDGEpqRPRzrKZpOwhsHG-6i04DAjprCkdToCL9jMYZ1_WQ/s1600/025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_9q0KG7Kh_eFegqOUV2S89vyy_PNZ2Niw17pyds97zbPJqd_ivpUPpdzxvFpOILMw6JR2yoYXDSQzH84ec4ECXqA9kib4noDGEpqRPRzrKZpOwhsHG-6i04DAjprCkdToCL9jMYZ1_WQ/s1600/025.jpg" /></a></div>
This headless mammal skeleton is probably the remains of a domestic pet, either a dog or cat. Feral cats continue to be a hindrance to the natural reproductive process of birds throughout the Rockaways, with as many as a half-dozen observed in a single day. Although Superstorm Sandy in October 2012 saw the virtual extermination of feral domestic cats, in the last few months of 2014 they appear to be making a comeback. Timestamp: 09-26-14, 1251. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxV3TyGtu4kztpPqNcJZi1wGbTmuuwID3Z_L5D0jf0Dx4iHNCE5QdtfomeXF0_HTX4b32J7AzQJC17zmECZthgJjL8rEPqF-UAzmbXYvtZTQ3fyIbeqhlC29HsVgdrbveVD804AmR2M1E/s1600/026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxV3TyGtu4kztpPqNcJZi1wGbTmuuwID3Z_L5D0jf0Dx4iHNCE5QdtfomeXF0_HTX4b32J7AzQJC17zmECZthgJjL8rEPqF-UAzmbXYvtZTQ3fyIbeqhlC29HsVgdrbveVD804AmR2M1E/s1600/026.jpg" /></a></div>
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These two images depict the western fringe of the marsh, approximately one month apart. The upper image was captured on August 23rd at 854AM, with that on the bottom being made on September 20th 1105AM.<br />
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Probably the largest avian entity to pass over Rocky Point is the enormous Airbus A-380 commercial airliner. Weighing 1.25-million pounds at take-off, it can carry 525 passengers 8,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 587 mph. Up to 853 passengers can be carried on considerably shorter flights. This one is in the landing pattern for Kennedy International Airport, with its landing gear in the process of being deployed and locked. Timestamp: 08-23-14, 0946. <br />
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This US Air Force Boeing C-17 Globemaster III is in the landing pattern for JFK as part of the support flight for the President of the United States, during a recent visit to NY City. The C-17 weighs 585,000 pounds at takeoff and can carry 102 paratroops, or up to 80-tons of cargo. Since it can refuel in the air and land on short runways, this aircraft can deploy nearly anywhere in the world. Timestamp: 09-20-14, 1039. <br />
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Rocky Point isn’t the only section of Gateway NRA meriting special attention from birders and students of the natural world. This White-eyed Vireo (Vireo griseus) was spotted for just a few seconds, while the camera laid in wait at the pond below Battery Harris East, in Fort Tilden. It was my first sighting of this species. Timestamp: 08-31-14, 1558. </div>
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One week later, on September 6, a walk along the shore in Fort Tilden revealed another new species for my life-list. This Whimbrel (Numinius phaeopus), with its distinctive downward-curved bill was observed closely for nearly half-an-hour. Timestamp: 09-06-14, 1048. </div>
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A very common year-round resident at Gateway NRA is the Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos). This particular specimen is in the final stages of molting, which accounts for its very disheveled and scruffy appearance. He is perched on the guard rail that sits atop the casemate at Battery Harris East. Timestamp: 09-06-14, 0915.<br />
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Credit where it’s due:<br />
Special Thanks to Tony for the photo of the Primrose Moth and to Mr. John Himmelman for the accompanying information. Thanks also to Rich for helping with the identification of the Rubbed Dart. Any errors of fact or omission are mine alone.<br />
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Published works consulted for this posting included the following:<br />
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“The Peterson Field Guide to Birds of North America”, by R.T. Peterson. 2008, Houghton Mifflin, ISBN9780618966141. This is THE classic work by the legendary Roger Tory Peterson. I have two versions; the cited volume includes both east and west field guides between the covers of an enlarged-format book. Simply stated, no serious birder should be without a copy.<br />
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“The Sibley Guide to Birds”, by D.A. Sibley. 2000, Knopf, ISBN 9780679451228. Building on Peterson’s work, David Allan Sibley took the idea a step further and this wonderful title is the result. This enlarged volume also covers eastern and western North America, combining two existing field guides. If you have Peterson, you should also have this!<br />
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“Mammals of North America”, by F.A. Reid. Peterson Field Guides, 2006 Houghton Mifflin, ISBN 9780395935965. Roger Tory Peterson started something that spawned dozens of field guides for the student of nature, including this title. Profusely illustrated, it also features images of mammal tracks.<br />
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Peterson First Guides: “Butterflies & Moths”, by P.A. Opler. 1994, Houghton Mifflin, ISBN9780395906651.<br />
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Peterson First Guides: “Wildflowers”, by R.T. Peterson. 1986, Houghton Mifflin, ISBN9780395906675.<br />
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Peterson First Guides: “Fishes”, by M. Filisky & S. Landry. 1989, Houghton Mifflin, ISBN9780395911792. All of the above titles are small primers on their respective subjects and are by no means comprehensive. They are extremely economical, although narrowly-focused.<br />
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“Field Guide to Insects and Spiders”, by L. Milne & M. Milne. 1980, Knopf, ISBN9780394507637. A fine guide covering only a small portion of a vast subject, this book should be one of several on the subject in the naturalist’s library.<br />
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“Field Guide to Wildflowers, Eastern Region”, by N.C. Olmstead, W.A. Niering & J.W. Thiret. 1979, Knopf, ISBN0375402322. In the same style as the book above, this title only scratches the surface. Regardless, as a novice I have found this a useful addition to my reference library.<br />
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“The Sibley Guide to Trees”, by D.A. Sibley. 2009, Knopf, ISBN9780375415197. Mr. Sibley doesn’t only paint birds! This beautifully-illustrated and hefty tome has helped me solve a mystery or two.<br />
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Except where noted, all text and photos are by Frank V. De Sisto.<br />
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Rocky Point Marsh needs your help. To volunteer for service contact National Park Services Ranger Tony Luscombe at: <a href="mailto:dcalato6@gmail.com">dcalato6@gmail.com</a><br />
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For more photos of Rocky Point as well as other locations within the Gateway NRA complex, visit: <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-36670491795638854112014-09-21T15:03:00.000-07:002014-09-22T15:44:05.874-07:00“Super-Moon”, High Tides and Visiting Osprey at Rocky Point Marsh.Salt marshes depend on external forces to flush them and provide an exchange of nutrients. The ocean’s tides are the prime means to do so, with rising tides bringing more new water in; receding tides then drain it out. Tidal dynamics on the East Coast of North America cause “spring tides” to predominate. These types of tides are caused when the sun and the mood exert gravitational force at the same time, from the same direction. August and September saw the so-called “Super-Moon” cause these high tides to be as much as 6.9-feet in Jamaica Bay, which fronts Rocky Point. Several visits to the marsh by Tony and I resulted in the photographs seen here.<br />
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First in order of appearance are these three images made by Tony. They show an inundated marsh as the result of a 6.3-foot morning high tide, which occurred at 0941, on August 12, 2014. The image files are time-coded between 0931 and 0933. These images were made looking westwards (top), then slightly north of west (middle). The bottom image depicts a detail on the marsh’s western verges. </div>
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August 13th saw clouds subsiding as recently deposited rainwater dripped from marsh vegetation. The high tide, again 6.3-feet, was due at 1035. <br />
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Various fixed reference points were photographed in order to convey the visual impression of the rising of the tides in a still photography medium. Here are the twin culverts on the inner edge of the marsh. Time: 0932.<br />
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Vegetation has been inundated, with the direction of water-flow clearly indicated as their stalks are pushed towards the right of the image, or into, the marsh. Time: 0939.<br />
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The surface of the marsh is covered in water, as the tide continues to rise. At center, background, are the twin culverts; note also the branch in the water to the left. Both items were used as measuring instruments. Time: 0942.<br />
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Just a couple of minutes have passed as more of the branch is submerged. Time: 0944. <br />
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By far the most visually dynamic event of this high tide was the foaming, bursting seawater, as it flooded into the marsh’s entry. It should be noted that this breach was made when Super-storm Sandy crashed through the area in October of 2012. As the beach naturally migrates inland, and vertical growth takes place, the original entrance to the marsh has become much less efficient at admitting water. So, in a sense, Sandy may have extended the natural life of the marsh. Time: 0948.<br />
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A mere four minutes later, the camera pivots 180-degrees, towards the area where the marsh’s original entry point lies. While the new entry is admitting copious amounts of seawater, barely a trickle has made its way through the original entrance. Some of the water is detoured by the sand-bar; the remainder by the depth and steepness of the migrating beach. Inland, the direction of migration, is to the right. Time: 0952. <br />
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This is the western-most extent of the inundated marsh, looking east. The new entrance is to the left, the old to the right. The flow of the water could be seen to come from left-to-right, further evidence that little water comes in via the old entrance. Time: 1014. <br />
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The twin culverts are now almost completely under water. The time of this photo was 1037, two minutes after high tide. <br />
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Compare this image to the one taken at 0952, above. Note how the sandbar has been covered and how some water is entering the marsh via the old entrance at the far left. Time: 1042<br />
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Turning the camera 180-degrees again, the new marsh entrance, just above the vegetation at right, is level with the sea. Time: 1043.<br />
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Our old friend, the tree branch, is fading fast, as is the vegetation above it. Note also that the sand-spit visible in the photo above at 0944, has gone underwater. Also to consider is this: the tide began receding 13 minutes prior to this photo, which was made at 1048. <br />
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The water-flow within the marsh has reversed to right-to-left as the tide recedes, as indicated by the direction in which the inundated vegetation points. Time: 1057.<br />
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Still under threatening skies, the camera takes in an overall view of the shore-line, looking east. Note how the sand-bar begins to re-emerge as the tide continues to recede. Time: 1133.<br />
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One would think that the marsh in this condition presents a perfect opportunity for wading birds to get a meal; that would be correct. Seen here is a Great Egret on the prowl. Time: 0937.<br />
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The smaller cousin of the Great Egret, this Snowy Egret also made continued life a precarious prospect for the local fish. Time: 1053. <br />
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The marsh is also home to an extraordinary variety of creatures, such as mammals, insects, fish, crustaceans and birds. An Osprey nesting box was installed in the hopes that one of these predators would take up residence. Although this has not happened, recent observations have seen an apparent up-tick in visits by these birds; I have observed five appearances in four visits. The good hunting in the area, as well as the ready availability of a custom-built home may yet see the Osprey choose to settle at Rocky Point.<br />
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The morning of August 9, 2014 saw two Osprey perched on the upper-most branches of a dead tree. One eventually flew off, while the other stayed, but only a bit longer. <br />
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The same tree on August 30, hosted an Osprey. Note that the tree is located within just a few dozen feet of the water’s edge, making it an ideal perch for an avian hunter who may wish to conserve precious energy, while still searching the waters below for prey. <br />
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On September 16, two separate Osprey sightings were recorded. This was the second one, at 1425. Like the first sighting earlier, this fellow flew from west-to-east, with a slight detour above the marsh. The most recent sighting was on the morning of September 20; a single Osprey was spotted perched in the usual tree.<br />
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Speaking of the Osprey, this particular one, part of a trio seen on September 20, is flown by the US Marine Corps as part of the presidential air transport fleet.<br />
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Except where noted, all photos and text are by Frank V. De Sisto. Special Thanks to NPS Ranger Tony Luscombe for the use of his photographs.<br />
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Published works consulted for this posting include the following:<br />
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“Salt Marshes, A Natural and Unnatural History”, by J.S. Weiss & C.A. Butler. 2009, Rutgers University Press, ISBN 9780813545707.<br />
The go-to book on the subject of the salt marsh, this title is a must for students of the subject. Among its many nuggets is a small schematic drawing that accompanies a brief description of what causes tides.<br />
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“Field Guide to the Water’s Edge” National Geographic, by S. Leatherman & J. Williams. ISBN 9781426208683.<br />
A broad, basic and well-illustrated guide to our nation’s beaches, shorelines and riverbanks, this book also details the various flora and fauna that populate such places. Aside from a concise fully-illustrated section describing the workings of tides, it also has a section on marshlands.<br />
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Tony also recommended this web-site to find local tide information. For locations, heights and times of the tides see: <a href="http://www.noreaster.com/">www.noreaster.com</a>.<br />
An excellent, easily-accessed resource for precise locations, dates and times of tides. Click on “Tides” in the header bar. Fill in the required fields. Note the red dots in Jamaica Bay. For Rocky Point Marsh, click on the left-most one, “Barron Island-Rockaway Inlet”.<br />
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“Clouds and Weather”, Peterson First Guides, by J.A. Day & V.J. Schaefer. ISBN 9780395906637.<br />
It’s nice to know how to “read” the sky when in the field. This compact booklet is packed with 128 pages of text, diagrams, excellent color photography and a handy index.<br />
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Rocky Point Marsh needs your help. To volunteer for service contact National Park Services Ranger Tony Luscombe at: <a href="mailto:dcalato6@gmail.com">dcalato6@gmail.com</a><br />
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For more photos of Rocky Point as well as other locations within the Gateway NRA complex, visit: <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a> <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-13709994558886209752014-08-11T11:24:00.001-07:002014-08-11T11:24:58.676-07:00Summertime at Rocky PointWhile I was only able to visit the marsh once during the month of June, on the 7th, there was much to see. Notably, the flora seen in various locations was in full bloom. Almost one month later, on July 5th, I was able to make an appearance after too long an absence; my final appearance was on the 26th of July. Notable in early July was a fair amount of dragonflies as well as bees and other insects. <br /><br /> Note that for this entry I am including a bibliography listing some of the published works that were consulted during my fact checking. Any errors of interpretation are mine alone.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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These handsome violet-colored flowers were seen in the western edge of the marsh within the tree-line, which borders that area. Genie identifies these as Bluejacket (Tradescantia Ohiensis) <br />
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In the meadows to the east of the marsh, small patches of Lanceleaf Tickweed (Coreopsis Lanceolata) could be seen. This section was the largest of them all, providing a colorful counterpoint to the new greenery seen throughout the area. <br />
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<br /><br /> <br /><br />Seen throughout the Rockaway division of Gateway NRA, Hedge Bindweed flourishes. This group was found at the western edge of the marsh in front of the tree-line. <br />
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Some pretty little buds of the Bristly Locust (Robinia Hispide) were beginning to sprout. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The vibrant yellow and white Multiflora, or Japanese Rose (Rosa Multiflora) was spotted here and there on the western edge of the woods surrounding the marsh. <br />
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<br /><br /> <br /><br />What is probably a Jersey Pine flourished at the east end of the woods behind the marsh. <br />
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Seen on the beach in front of the marsh’s inlet on June 7th, previous tidal and weather action revealed peat deposits. These deposits are essentially compressed vegetation from a previous time, covered by sand and new vegetation. Peat deposits tens of millions of years old have been found on the Atlantic coast. <br />
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Although an apparently relatively uncommon Dragonfly, the Painted Skimmer, seen here, prefers marshy areas and coastal plains, making Rocky Point an ideal habitat. <br />
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This tiny Sand Fiddler Crab caught my eye, but only when it moved. At first, because of its size (about 1.5-inches wide), I thought it was an insect. <br />
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This young Common Loon was observed on the beach, just outside the marsh. These creatures are designed to dive underwater for their prey, which is why their legs are positioned so far back on their bodies. This makes for very efficient diving but also makes them extremely ungainly when on land. When these birds molt their flight feathers, their mobility is further inhibited. Regardless, they often come up on the shore, which makes them vulnerable to predators. <br />
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The Least Sandpiper, shown here foraging along the marsh pond’s edge, is, as its name implies, the smallest Sandpiper. Its characteristic slightly downward curved bill and greenish yellow legs set it apart from other “peeps”. <br />
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The Great Egret is a common visitor at Rocky Point. This graceful bird is seen on the beach just outside the marsh entrance. <br />
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Black Skimmers are also seen this time of the year, hunting along the surf. Their long, thin wings allow them to glide some distance as they deploy their larger, lower mandible in order to catch prey in shallow water. <br />
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Over the past few years, the marsh has hosted as many as four Willets at one time. Often a pair and an individual are seen, sometimes two pairs. With all of this activity, and the vociferous territorialism displayed by these birds, curiously, no young have as yet been observed.<br />
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Several Black Scoters were encountered about 100 yards east of the marsh inlet on July 5th. I counted at least six on that day, including this pair, which includes an adult male and female (foreground). <br />
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A trip to West Beach to check on the progress of the Piping Plover chicks, found this adult. Although no chicks were observed, this adult continued to do a “broken wing” dance, in order to distract from the young. A careful look in all directions, starting where the adult was first observed, did not reveal any chicks. <br />
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Later on June 7th, a visit to Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn resulted in a hike along a small section of the nature trail within the “North Forty”. This Eastern Cottontail was so intent upon feeding that my close proximity to him (less than 30 feet) did not disturb him in the least. He only moved as I proceeded along the trail and then he returned to his favorite spot immediately after I passed. <br />
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Books consulted for this entry included:<br /><br /> “Atlantic Coast Beaches, A Guide to Ripples, Dunes and Other Natural Features of the Seashore”, by W.J. Neal, O.H. Pilkey & J.T. Kelley. 2007, Mountain Press, ISBN 9780878425341.<br /><br />“Salt Marshes, A Natural and Unnatural History”, by J.S. Weiss & C.A. Butler. 2009, Rutgers University Press, ISBN 9780813545707.<br /><br />“Dragonflies Through Binoculars, A Field Guide to Dragonflies of North America”, by S.W. Dunkle. 2000, Oxford University Press, ISBN 9780195112689.<br /><br />“The Sibley Guide to Birds”, by D.A. Sibley. 2000, Knopf, ISBN 9780679451228.<br /><br />“The Sibley Guide to Trees”, by D.A. Sibley. 2009, Knopf, ISBN 9780375415197.<br /><br />“Mammals of North America”, by F.A. Reid. Peterson Field Guides, 2006 Houghton Mifflin, ISBN 9780395935965.<br /><br />Extra Special Thanks to Genie Gregor for her help in identifying some of the wildflowers and trees, as well as the crab depicted in this posting.<br /><br />Text and photos by Frank V. De Sisto<br /><br />Rocky Point Marsh needs your help. To volunteer for service contact National Park Services Ranger Tony Luscombe at: <a href="mailto:dcalato6@gmail.com">dcalato6@gmail.com</a><br /><br />For more photos of Rocky Point as well as other locations within the Gateway NRA complex, visit: <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-50711030362102349372014-06-29T09:08:00.001-07:002014-06-29T10:00:45.937-07:00MARSH DOINGS, MAY 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The month of May finally brought spring to the marsh. I was able to get there on four consecutive Saturdays (the 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st). On my first visit of the month I observed and photographed several pairs of birds as they appeared to make a go of nesting in the area. A pair of Greater Yellowlegs, and a pair of Green Herons were seen foraging within the marsh itself, while on the beach a pair of Common Terns were seen, along with a fairly large number of Brant Geese. The Willets (a pair and an individual) were back and causing their usual uproar when they saw me. Although I managed to photograph every pair noted above, a glitch in the system saw me lose most of the images.<br />
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The tenth began as an extremely foggy morning with the sun finally beginning to burn through at about 9:30AM. As the sun made its appearance, the temperature rose quickly causing me to shed a couple of layers of clothing. A view out towards the Gill Hodges-Marine Parkway Bridge depicts the fog as it dissipated. <br />
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Heading east through the brush, there are several spots that appear to be completely undisturbed by human activity. Here we see the back-side of the dunes at the extreme eastern end of the cove that fronts the marsh.<br />
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This view looks west along the cove, with the marsh situated where the shore-line curves inwards towards the center of the image. Compare the clear blue skies to the first image in this post to see just how much things cleared up; the time was about 11:00 AM. <br />
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The marsh is often full of Warblers in the spring, and on this day I managed to get some good images of a Chestnut-sided Warbler, which, according to Tony is the first time this species has been seen in the marsh. This one appears to be a male in full breeding plumage.<br />
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Fairly common residents of the marsh and the surrounding woods include the Mourning Dove...<br />
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... and the White-throated Sparrow. <br />
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On the 10th of May, the most numerous bird species was the Grey Catbird, with dozens spotted flitting through the woods.<br />
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The following Saturday, May 17th, saw NPS Volunteers Genie and her children, Becky and Danko, making observations in the marsh. While Genie made notes and collected samples, the remarkably devoted youngsters did some clean-up of man-made debris.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtJtnLMy4bH3dQdXMozTzDrYDUOEokxWWZU3VRxEhIiZkFgVXn2lI5l4_TGTCmSbgrkShd5_v1ZDj6x2BOQ2NVU_-LW6RPscZPS3fYm61FJjdukpOkiMzhWYUQCzqjuILu2I4vuQhuw5Q/s1600/002-009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtJtnLMy4bH3dQdXMozTzDrYDUOEokxWWZU3VRxEhIiZkFgVXn2lI5l4_TGTCmSbgrkShd5_v1ZDj6x2BOQ2NVU_-LW6RPscZPS3fYm61FJjdukpOkiMzhWYUQCzqjuILu2I4vuQhuw5Q/s1600/002-009.jpg" /></a></div>
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Meanwhile, along the beach, Horseshoe Crabs have returned for their annual rites of reproduction. Here we see a couple, caught in the act, with the typically much smaller male atop the female. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcFmzI0uT8vskOVOslFKNVElZdc1GNZ22ra677ZJTLNtBJIyAdTQzsrfVxvcHvQzU1jeiJ_cNUEdm1py3xPhAoFeIXsWgjtMSjyOwJH7fAECcM4SI2tddhSFgY11SpY4yfQdYR91QdUXk/s1600/002-010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcFmzI0uT8vskOVOslFKNVElZdc1GNZ22ra677ZJTLNtBJIyAdTQzsrfVxvcHvQzU1jeiJ_cNUEdm1py3xPhAoFeIXsWgjtMSjyOwJH7fAECcM4SI2tddhSFgY11SpY4yfQdYR91QdUXk/s1600/002-010.jpg" /></a></div>
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All along the beach several other couples were observed, as were their tracks. This rather confused Horseshoe Crab trail was left in the sand.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBH9VQSPNFZMf0aHTbtYNviu4-Tu3im9b5TeBInSlLug6wkTwZ5PJR2vTPqJfWxo8CVul8PIm__H8aDlL9MvZjURxc8r2RotE-vBTITwd_LwEoYYe6g9X5cpc5t8Yu4jAc1DNfzq_egE/s1600/002-011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBH9VQSPNFZMf0aHTbtYNviu4-Tu3im9b5TeBInSlLug6wkTwZ5PJR2vTPqJfWxo8CVul8PIm__H8aDlL9MvZjURxc8r2RotE-vBTITwd_LwEoYYe6g9X5cpc5t8Yu4jAc1DNfzq_egE/s1600/002-011.jpg" /></a></div>
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Horseshoe Crabs are tracked by government agencies, using white-painted metal disks attached to their carapace. This example, numbered 780371, was found along the beach just outside the marsh’s entrance.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49R2lYx-ueYGrDJGDTQL7d_9vjG285GQ2S9sW-r2LHzK3FDb-o8hRMka0SaAk3L0ebOhVSJUo2rGJY3qxY59HWB5S2DllhMQGcDPF_2Mfqz_aYMY2bLlk31XPQBs5HWaA2ZC1pKBnA5A/s1600/002-012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49R2lYx-ueYGrDJGDTQL7d_9vjG285GQ2S9sW-r2LHzK3FDb-o8hRMka0SaAk3L0ebOhVSJUo2rGJY3qxY59HWB5S2DllhMQGcDPF_2Mfqz_aYMY2bLlk31XPQBs5HWaA2ZC1pKBnA5A/s1600/002-012.jpg" /></a></div>
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Also seen on the beach were many, many Semi-palmated Sandpipers, including this group. In some situations they can be confused with Sanderlings, although a close look will reveal the variety in their plumage; this is not seen on Sanderlings. <br />
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On May 24th, Michael Christopher, from NYC Audubon, returns along the beach-front while conducting his migratory bird-count. Michael has been doing this for several years and has a good handle on trends in the area surrounding the marsh. On this day, he noted the paucity of species. The following week he counted a group of over 300 Semi-palmated Sandpipers, the largest number he’d ever seen at this location.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Z9BGJMfu21JP25qUxx9Cp9J4gd-UhXugof1YbDZ_2mipZCoR5NnkFL9wMsxP2DkfPeIPfroemkM_RumxcyVIYS207Xk7anGYC72Ej78DE3xDcW8oAMa0gcJLR1Gu3RTdK1hJD1m2rAc/s1600/002-014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Z9BGJMfu21JP25qUxx9Cp9J4gd-UhXugof1YbDZ_2mipZCoR5NnkFL9wMsxP2DkfPeIPfroemkM_RumxcyVIYS207Xk7anGYC72Ej78DE3xDcW8oAMa0gcJLR1Gu3RTdK1hJD1m2rAc/s1600/002-014.jpg" /></a></div>
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Five Semi-palmated Plovers pose for the camera while foraging in the marsh. There were more than a dozen of these small plovers ranging inside and outside of the marsh on May 31st.<br />
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One of my favorite shore-birds, the Ruddy Turnstone, is often seen as an individual amongst a larger group of other shore birds. On May 31st, there were more than a dozen in the area, concentrating on the far East end of the cove where the marsh is situated.<br />
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This pair of Least Terns take a break in foraging along the shore, immediately in front of the marsh, on May 24th. Very similar in appearance to the Common Tern (see next image), they are smaller, have differently-colored mandibles and feature a small triangular patch of white between their eyes. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNpg5b2UYwI9Kglc64IrXfUwZdQArsCGsm2s0dI4eUDuxU5N4TeJ-3xhtzRE6KvxPEgFgpuug0dk1SZ4K4Dmyz-6Qsi7HCG4qsEHUxy7HJgVIBx-mw68ggmn1C7jSVleS9KVZWQVuLjL8/s1600/002-017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNpg5b2UYwI9Kglc64IrXfUwZdQArsCGsm2s0dI4eUDuxU5N4TeJ-3xhtzRE6KvxPEgFgpuug0dk1SZ4K4Dmyz-6Qsi7HCG4qsEHUxy7HJgVIBx-mw68ggmn1C7jSVleS9KVZWQVuLjL8/s1600/002-017.jpg" /></a></div>
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Also on May 24th, this common Tern perches on a sheet of barnacle-encrusted fiberglass, just outside the marsh. Note his mandibles, which are a deeper red and have more black on the tip than the Least Tern.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOEkEWFp-QRx6YIKauq9RFoTvfJIwMPK-j2j3ar50Ht3hgeIwQm8QCV_IAX8XTada4a184gfXVDPMQjd1W0cH44-1sDwo0lSh73poSu66vVtsuHb9lhUGlhESUoc_SzWU0BHvKFxGBfsQ/s1600/002-018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOEkEWFp-QRx6YIKauq9RFoTvfJIwMPK-j2j3ar50Ht3hgeIwQm8QCV_IAX8XTada4a184gfXVDPMQjd1W0cH44-1sDwo0lSh73poSu66vVtsuHb9lhUGlhESUoc_SzWU0BHvKFxGBfsQ/s1600/002-018.jpg" /></a></div>
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The pond inside the marsh hosts all sorts of avian visitors. On May 24th this American Robin decided to stop for a bath in between his other daily survival tasks. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTlcTaSfg_Txfn65s7YMcEDds6CZHmCoXSv3DdXx6cz5OlyiUnYAm96oSBIFawnap8TRaVlM2lbXLTvwiA6HFTRR9cpzDc5WQwKNsEvZyaVcue9-NrMrwKOmXP_qoNspGEQiVb6CA0bA/s1600/002-019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTlcTaSfg_Txfn65s7YMcEDds6CZHmCoXSv3DdXx6cz5OlyiUnYAm96oSBIFawnap8TRaVlM2lbXLTvwiA6HFTRR9cpzDc5WQwKNsEvZyaVcue9-NrMrwKOmXP_qoNspGEQiVb6CA0bA/s1600/002-019.jpg" /></a></div>
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On May 24th, a grey sky greeted me when I came into the marsh. One can see how the marsh is becoming greener as spring takes hold in earnest.<br />
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Along with the “greening” of the woodlands within the marsh, flowers also began to add their little spots of color. This flower was photographed on May 24th, inside the woods at the far western corner of the marsh. Unfortunately, it remains unidentified.<br />
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Also on the 24th, another plant that caught my eye was this blooming nemesis of all hikers, Poison Ivy. Genie explains that due to deforestation, Poison Ivy flourishes where it normally would not, becoming as common as a weed.<br />
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A side trip over to West Beach in mid- April, revealed that the Piping Plovers were hunting for nesting territory.<br />
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Several weeks later, this recently hatched chick (one of four observed) was photographed scurrying about.<br />
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Although the marsh features a nesting box suited to the Osprey, they appear not to have taken much notice. The Osprey is often seen hunting along the shore next to the marsh, or passing overhead with its catch, but is rarely seen in the interior. This “Osprey” is actually a Bell-Boeing MV-22 Osprey belonging to the United States Marine Corps. The MV-22 is a hybrid “tilt-rotor” aircraft, with the vertical landing capabilities of a helicopter and the speed of an airplane. It was photographed on May 31st as part of the Fleet Week visit to New York City over the Memorial Day weekend.<br />
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Rocky Point Marsh needs your help. To volunteer for service contact National Park Services Ranger Tony Luscombe at: <a href="mailto:dcalato6@gmail.com">dcalato6@gmail.com</a><br />
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For more photos of Rocky Point as well as other locations within the Gateway NRA complex, visit: <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a><br />
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Text & Photographs by Frank V. De Sisto<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07274769931863778897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-8819999661724421692014-05-27T21:55:00.001-07:002014-05-27T21:55:26.430-07:00May marsh visitI visited the marsh on May 7 - I hadn't been for more than a year, and was very curious. May had always been a good time to be here: Horseshoes and birds were legion, the spartina was profuse, everything was having babies and eating each other, tides were extreme, the weather was ideal. In fact, the <a href="http://marshmakers.blogspot.com/2011_05_01_archive.html" target="_blank">May of 2011</a> was probably the most exciting month I ever spent in the marsh. Not this time, except for the weather part. Amazing what a difference five days can make.<br />
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Tony tells me the herons and willets have since returned. He also reports a highly-anticipated osprey-on-the-platform sighting. We're all waiting for the day a young osprey couple starts up a family here.<br />
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Upon composing this before-and-after, I realized that much has changed on the marsh horizon since we started this project five years ago, thanks to Hurricane Sandy and the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere:<br />
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A few notable observations: the marsh's eastern boundary is now covered in grass where it was once covered in very uninviting black algae and unidentifiable slime:<br />
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And near the main channel, many small sprouts appeared. No doubt they're easier to ID now, but any help from the botany experts here would be much appreciated:<br />
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After our brief visit we joined Tony in setting up five exclosures for piping plovers. Here's wishing them a productive, disturbance-free season.<br />
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High of 69, 4.4 high tide @ 3:05 PM. <br />Water level unrecorded.<br />Birds seen in marsh: red winged blackbird<br />Birds seen in bay: black brant, Canadian geese, oystercatcherShervin Hess et alhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06699932254897398125noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-38490516143177717112014-05-11T13:59:00.001-07:002014-05-27T20:21:41.294-07:00Winter Retrospective, December 2013 - April 2014The New York winter of 2013-2014 was rather rough, with relatively low temperatures and well over four feet of accumulated snow. Road conditions were a deterrent, keeping me from visiting Gateway NRA as much as I would have liked. Yet, I still managed the occasional trip.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl3Z8Lu_iY2jCJlbbhRGfq4GfaQYLPJIyZkIjRsEvrM2_O6vg4op76fRZDj17zA3xL8k0e5S_77mweSteyrCzrmX_NROacyyciBJINENoP2g1Mzx1RrWjqFoqd_9VU_4nI4l2Ob0Jj8sg/s1600/001-001.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl3Z8Lu_iY2jCJlbbhRGfq4GfaQYLPJIyZkIjRsEvrM2_O6vg4op76fRZDj17zA3xL8k0e5S_77mweSteyrCzrmX_NROacyyciBJINENoP2g1Mzx1RrWjqFoqd_9VU_4nI4l2Ob0Jj8sg/s1600/001-001.jpg" /></a><br /><br />
At the end of 2013, on the afternoon of December 22nd, several Sanderlings were seen foraging along the shore, just outside the marsh. This fellow decided to change location and was kind enough to pose for an in-flight photo. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN9YWx_eHo-ap5sycXIK_2WD_p8ysUgVDfW7uXHwIzF6C-YJCuuTX_bSNIo41AK-QWPR_6PGWBVLId_ikjtn6rVfF5EiB8RL53LyAcO4Bxt57hub83SXhyphenhyphenuzMrbJ-REDoGnt0QumLto9Q/s1600/001-002.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN9YWx_eHo-ap5sycXIK_2WD_p8ysUgVDfW7uXHwIzF6C-YJCuuTX_bSNIo41AK-QWPR_6PGWBVLId_ikjtn6rVfF5EiB8RL53LyAcO4Bxt57hub83SXhyphenhyphenuzMrbJ-REDoGnt0QumLto9Q/s1600/001-002.jpg" /></a><br /><br />
A group of Canada Geese, which are rather common in the area, do not appear in the least bit disturbed by the elements as they forage in the marsh on February 22, at 11:28 AM. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsi8us8ow66_fXsdbgB5DKm0vmOjxnepbqiRVwr7xC-qx__uPYJQXGjryH7iUOUNK4HW16ON8EPsshuFdMav2zOrvbgglafSS09SA_UgTKhzVqVu5giqmXpIJ806W37v5szq7c50SNrk/s1600/001-003.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsi8us8ow66_fXsdbgB5DKm0vmOjxnepbqiRVwr7xC-qx__uPYJQXGjryH7iUOUNK4HW16ON8EPsshuFdMav2zOrvbgglafSS09SA_UgTKhzVqVu5giqmXpIJ806W37v5szq7c50SNrk/s1600/001-003.jpg" /></a><br /><br />
Meanwhile, later that same day, just after 2:00 PM, at Breezy Point bay-side, this Snowy Owl was observed and photographed. Its visit was part of a large-scale irruption, which has seen these beautiful predators come further south than is usual and in fairly substantial numbers. Several were also observed over at Floyd Bennett airfield over the preceding and following weeks; I personally saw three in one afternoon.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQtUKE2mtQc1vNd4TW5BUqsqYgWYhAZGmeGJLPF98f-KRtKgM2ctwK18OZuxuLsSMORZIR4uq-rdkhFCzuUW44xVQl_dboUKDM4gFel4waoi5cLKbp0YoGjtXqxr9Ln-E0IKHaillfmI/s1600/001-004.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQtUKE2mtQc1vNd4TW5BUqsqYgWYhAZGmeGJLPF98f-KRtKgM2ctwK18OZuxuLsSMORZIR4uq-rdkhFCzuUW44xVQl_dboUKDM4gFel4waoi5cLKbp0YoGjtXqxr9Ln-E0IKHaillfmI/s1600/001-004.jpg" /></a><br /><br />
An early morning visit to the marsh on March 22 revealed the characteristically “toed-in” tracks of a Piping Plover, just to the east of the estuary. It would appear that a feral cat was following along, perhaps in search of a meal. Abandoned domestic pets are a constant man-made threat to nesting birds throughout the Rockaways.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiescOVAegm7S_tFa5dkMGCp2GF9dm1dHpvfy7bfzddAZK4sUI9L1frGah3h9GHsHhtwJCQI4FExWVYRVU-IP7inpm-GbpEjGKhJZ-EXxJyLtShjXG8pYG68cznEBxbCOgN3kF3vGNQXzs/s1600/001-005.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiescOVAegm7S_tFa5dkMGCp2GF9dm1dHpvfy7bfzddAZK4sUI9L1frGah3h9GHsHhtwJCQI4FExWVYRVU-IP7inpm-GbpEjGKhJZ-EXxJyLtShjXG8pYG68cznEBxbCOgN3kF3vGNQXzs/s1600/001-005.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Still appearing to be a bit barren, one can readily see evidence of the movement of the tides into and out of the marsh, in the attitude in which the vegetation has been laid. This image was made on March 22nd. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXyJqc4wv1iojC-Nfw9_6ORvk0DVQrpsMfimtbdG-B7ZQq3gcj0hYFtS-HojqLcf2VvQDfaQkWSL9YDDoIu5s6Q0F9XTbv5rFxyGPX4JnEOHQoZffOQn9pSJxbbBoBX0KeXCsvSoooBXQ/s1600/001-006.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXyJqc4wv1iojC-Nfw9_6ORvk0DVQrpsMfimtbdG-B7ZQq3gcj0hYFtS-HojqLcf2VvQDfaQkWSL9YDDoIu5s6Q0F9XTbv5rFxyGPX4JnEOHQoZffOQn9pSJxbbBoBX0KeXCsvSoooBXQ/s1600/001-006.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Later on the same morning, a pair of American Oystercatchers, along with a flock of Herring Gulls, forages at the beach in front of the marsh. The American Oystercatcher is a constant presence near the marsh during breeding season. The four species of Gulls most often observed in this area also include Ring-billed Gulls, Laughing Gulls and Great Black-backed Gulls.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitnp3I-yhxmcKNXCgJaxZN84a0QykI4-WVvpYlq43NuZtlwxxIdA2x1dH7K9-RjobiK6BTxAZ0vWf9BIunXX9K84Oo8TgjKVNe9xvoTz-1huFutKp2qMXEfXgWVjmsmo9Q-w6T69mN7eI/s1600/001-007.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitnp3I-yhxmcKNXCgJaxZN84a0QykI4-WVvpYlq43NuZtlwxxIdA2x1dH7K9-RjobiK6BTxAZ0vWf9BIunXX9K84Oo8TgjKVNe9xvoTz-1huFutKp2qMXEfXgWVjmsmo9Q-w6T69mN7eI/s1600/001-007.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Meanwhile, at West Beach on the morning of April 12th, Piping Plovers had already arrived in their search for nesting territory. These endangered birds are ideally camouflaged for an environment that includes sand, shells and other natural debris. They are often difficult to spot until they move. This particular stretch of beach later revealed at least two nests.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGOVbEd-CknS9w9dgq-QZY8wUgDYulZrrd7Rvqw5Up8IPKTeFGfwH9ccCCJIr0EAExoT8iI1OovDkNZgZujQpI-_pzjrzQPphnZRVVn9HnKG_ThvUFkOIDY9EX8wUSGvxYsGwHRncZOlQ/s1600/001-008.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGOVbEd-CknS9w9dgq-QZY8wUgDYulZrrd7Rvqw5Up8IPKTeFGfwH9ccCCJIr0EAExoT8iI1OovDkNZgZujQpI-_pzjrzQPphnZRVVn9HnKG_ThvUFkOIDY9EX8wUSGvxYsGwHRncZOlQ/s1600/001-008.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Prior to a visit to the marsh on April 26, I took a walk towards Breezy Point. This Eastern Towhee was one of several observed along the vehicle access road.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsjo7NBXXHfxuVnIhuLkJ555BdBU8YJmEM2fqO-WSiy4TVpMk2gpfm1GT-2Rn-v0Oks3J5wyLejq25AaRPJgidwBN2DhovgYun7QMmfisgImLTr5ny3AmpZVACikDfeTVpp2YyNDwO_6A/s1600/001-009.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsjo7NBXXHfxuVnIhuLkJ555BdBU8YJmEM2fqO-WSiy4TVpMk2gpfm1GT-2Rn-v0Oks3J5wyLejq25AaRPJgidwBN2DhovgYun7QMmfisgImLTr5ny3AmpZVACikDfeTVpp2YyNDwO_6A/s1600/001-009.jpg" /></a><br /><br />
Arriving at the marsh later that afternoon, evidence of unsettled weather was seen. Although rain threatened, the skies cleared shortly afterwards.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinoslixAH8oTXc6gyzphIYeooI8XzrqDTb9ylR-sRX68wIIkzajYFBrtcjCyw10YDaplHjIIC14luN217EdIiL8SXiZwfAVS0md-0BmNgnbW0qjwCMEJeo-nO7uH4-EPI4ehFeFAsoH88/s1600/001-010.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinoslixAH8oTXc6gyzphIYeooI8XzrqDTb9ylR-sRX68wIIkzajYFBrtcjCyw10YDaplHjIIC14luN217EdIiL8SXiZwfAVS0md-0BmNgnbW0qjwCMEJeo-nO7uH4-EPI4ehFeFAsoH88/s1600/001-010.jpg" /></a><br /><br />That same day, having been forewarned by Tony, I came upon a small group of young volunteers, who live nearby in the Breezy Point Co-Op, doing their bit to restore the marsh. Undeterred by the threatening weather, the group set about their task.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGtLHt-Jk5iQH9q7DYkn6sjhRdwRiCXr992c59DH_qc8Z3L7F_L0mAc0Xh7eqiXnRrOUBinUmO1tEeA7Ej3Q_DtVGYU40jgEi8MUTaO3HEQlkC-rgUZDhnByaLjDCuJeSkKalY0LC4h3s/s1600/001-011.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGtLHt-Jk5iQH9q7DYkn6sjhRdwRiCXr992c59DH_qc8Z3L7F_L0mAc0Xh7eqiXnRrOUBinUmO1tEeA7Ej3Q_DtVGYU40jgEi8MUTaO3HEQlkC-rgUZDhnByaLjDCuJeSkKalY0LC4h3s/s1600/001-011.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Led by Mr. Robert Espinoza, the group proudly displays their “catch-of-the-day” in the form of bags filled with plastic refuse, as well as the remains of a hobbyist’s remote-controlled model airplane. Aside from the large and small bits of human-altered timber brought in by the tides, plastic, in the form of various containers, construction materials and especially bags, is a major eyesore. Small groups of young people are ideally suited to the task of clearing this light-weight material from the marsh and its environs.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSDe5AnmZ7Fk1L_bVT0cpfc5_5C_eFVcL8rEvb05iGuSqzRW3CQVGIP63GZhe1ngDSW6dgrpONkH7MrUSi9u9wmplI4CKaGSFlbqu-OsKwBjL2hNKxfc4aNZSq-ewpTBLBEGmerhhzFs/s1600/001-012.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSDe5AnmZ7Fk1L_bVT0cpfc5_5C_eFVcL8rEvb05iGuSqzRW3CQVGIP63GZhe1ngDSW6dgrpONkH7MrUSi9u9wmplI4CKaGSFlbqu-OsKwBjL2hNKxfc4aNZSq-ewpTBLBEGmerhhzFs/s1600/001-012.jpg" /></a><br /><br />As the youngsters proceed with the task at hand, a Laughing Gull looks on. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVLuftvbObFN-y0Sl94LiYeTEOzD5lgTSct-3gSuINa0Z1Aw3wOHTK7CN8RXBfyp6gnH4839q3vohLpPjmqFec_ZdVDNMnOTVKsoZOvBXJPzt9eJN2aXz2syQMtubjiOOM-sLBxjnsfW8/s1600/001-013.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVLuftvbObFN-y0Sl94LiYeTEOzD5lgTSct-3gSuINa0Z1Aw3wOHTK7CN8RXBfyp6gnH4839q3vohLpPjmqFec_ZdVDNMnOTVKsoZOvBXJPzt9eJN2aXz2syQMtubjiOOM-sLBxjnsfW8/s1600/001-013.jpg" /></a><br /><br />
Then, just to prove that one never knows what will be witnessed in and around the Gateway complex, during an April 27th walk along West Beach, this fishing trawler was photographed high and dry on the shore in front of the Breezy Point Co-Op. Anchored close in-shore, it had been caught unawares when the tides receded. When queried, a crewman shrugged his shoulders and simply stated that, “I guess we were not paying attention.” One wonders what the vessel’s owners thought!<br /><br />Rocky Point Marsh needs your help. To volunteer for service contact National Park Services Ranger Tony Luscombe at: dcalato6@gmail dot com<br /><br />For more photos of Rocky Point as well as other locations within the Gateway NRA complex, visit: <a href="http://www.frankdesisto.com/">www.frankdesisto.com</a><br /><br />Text and photos by Frank V. De Sisto<br /><br />
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Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">University of Scranton students came from Scranton, Pennsylvania to lend their muscle to the ongoing post-Sandy cleanup effort at Rocky Point Marsh. They endured cold temperatures and wind while carrying out large pieces of wood debris that can prevent the marsh from flooding during high tides. Marty facilitated the process by cutting wood into manageable pieces.</span><br />
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High of 34°F | Humidity (avg) 30% | Wind 11 mph (NNE) | High Tide 5.2 ft. @ 08:58 | Moon 100% visible.</div>
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Kim-Norahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00195756774119849072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-70701924154491180932013-12-21T10:32:00.000-08:002014-03-26T13:40:22.397-07:00The big strainer<span style="font-family: ArialMT;">On this sunny day, we went out with the aim of taking care of the old culvert under the entrance trail. </span><br />
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It sits at the edge of the main pool, and leads into the pit on the other side of the trail. By and large, having water reach the area is a good thing. Unfortunately, high tides regularly bring with them urban rejects in the form of plastic bags, plywood boards, and anything in between. The said rejects then tend to settle and accumulate there, clogging the potentially fertile ground. </div>
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Also, for some reason, this pit has a propensity for making me feel small and lonely any time I go in there; so, naturally, I have always had hard time remembering to check out the place. And, since it has traditionally been neglected, despite its proximity to the main marsh, I suspect, it has a similar psychological effect on other mortals.</div>
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So, after the people from Recovery and Resiliency (see the October 29 entry) had helped us to clean the spot - in fact, it took no more than half an hour, we were determined to partially cover the culvert openings, in order to prevent new debris from coming in. </div>
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The sun was not cooperating, but I managed to take a few snapshots of the historic moment.</div>
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Here, Tony is contemplating the scenery, while Danko is removing the most unsightly pieces of trash, choosing a more hands-on approach.</div>
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—by Genie Gregor</div>
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We have planted poles and are ready to attach wire mesh to them.</div>
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A piece of burlap, thrown onto the construction, is supposed to sieve away those offensive bottle caps and the like.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Zh7TiEhs_zSm4gxZJAg7ZRdRd2M8yu0pdpmJNRWHDAm9vpXWk8qRjLyZVtzLjlYQydV7Cq5Y2xGQNe1yzbnncznaR3VtLIczd8SOnuOYGDIE32W5W4h-YdnwSvcpQluCo6X36LdRZ3_d/s1600/d_014_640w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: ArialMT; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Zh7TiEhs_zSm4gxZJAg7ZRdRd2M8yu0pdpmJNRWHDAm9vpXWk8qRjLyZVtzLjlYQydV7Cq5Y2xGQNe1yzbnncznaR3VtLIczd8SOnuOYGDIE32W5W4h-YdnwSvcpQluCo6X36LdRZ3_d/s1600/d_014_640w.jpg" /></a><span style="clear: left; color: black; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Looks neat.</span></span></div>
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Tony gives final instructions.</div>
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Becky adds last touch ups.</div>
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Time to go home. </div>
Will our plan work as expected? We shall see...<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">High of 55°F | Humidity (avg) 84% | Wind 6 mph (S) | High Tide 4.9 ft. @ 09:51 | Moon 84% visible.</span></div>
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Kim-Norahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00195756774119849072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-73192589254184476152013-11-20T09:49:00.001-08:002014-02-26T13:13:25.726-08:00Student Conservation Association (SCA) – Sandy relief for the Marsh<div style="font-family: Arial;">
In July, a Student Conservation Association crew descended upon the marsh. <br />
— by Genie Gregor<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5RnSG-SePUPN4ybaXO-XT_nW4RaSxxcfEZduhc5Kw9Eg_mOUq4jooPwEeZ3014a0cIPm3H3QFN_q22SGY_SyJAlVjETgae-xulyMVbQ2_Ib45hJ515XONbMp3lNCLvvOuSHrcSpZljo4/s1600/2013_0800_a_SCA_Genie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; font-family: Times; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5RnSG-SePUPN4ybaXO-XT_nW4RaSxxcfEZduhc5Kw9Eg_mOUq4jooPwEeZ3014a0cIPm3H3QFN_q22SGY_SyJAlVjETgae-xulyMVbQ2_Ib45hJ515XONbMp3lNCLvvOuSHrcSpZljo4/s1600/2013_0800_a_SCA_Genie.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For three consecutive weeks Ashley, Deina, Crystal, Michelle, Stephanie, Tyler, Tajiana, Angerie, Alaywa, Shameek and Ethan had been hauling and lugging...</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvVLSdpFAPT-tTvdPCRzNtIxMlHpn9n1kSNmgNKjhIn46dU-unWKwQ7wBwgbxSAPXvDt-FYDXaAIEnsTPvMX-1nqiW62vvlT0_5F4s6yTOt6ZCNwSTIdblVT5wx7s1LyWq732V3aQmXdQ/s1600/2013_0800_b_SCA_Genie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvVLSdpFAPT-tTvdPCRzNtIxMlHpn9n1kSNmgNKjhIn46dU-unWKwQ7wBwgbxSAPXvDt-FYDXaAIEnsTPvMX-1nqiW62vvlT0_5F4s6yTOt6ZCNwSTIdblVT5wx7s1LyWq732V3aQmXdQ/s1600/2013_0800_b_SCA_Genie.jpg" /></a></div>
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Puffing and laughing...</div>
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Raking and piling, rain or shine...</div>
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Cutting wood...</div>
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This pile is part of debris brought to the marsh by mighty Sandy and removed by united efforts of the stalwart team.</div>
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Thank you, gals and guys!</div>
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Kim-Norahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00195756774119849072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-5866634750175936172013-10-29T11:55:00.000-07:002014-03-06T11:13:27.948-08:00Marsh Makers do some heavy liftingOn the anniversary of "Superstorm" Sandy the Student Conservation Association worked together with Recovery and Resilliency to carry out some heavy debris that had been waiting in large piles for removal.<br />
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Student Conservation Association members visited Rocky Point Marsh regularly during the summer months. The result of their hard work has allowed the marsh to flourish in a way that it probably hasn't in several decades. The native grasses are thick and tall, high tides are flooding the marsh, and wading birds are frequent visitors, and some may have even nested there this summer.</div>
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Rocky Point Marsh is a fringe marsh on the bayside of Rockaway peninsula in the Gateway National Recreation Area. This important habitat progressed from looking like a landfill full of decades worth of debris (natural and unnatural) to looking and functioning more like a healthy ecosystem that supports native plants and animals.<br />
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We are not only cleaning up the marshland. We are also conducting plant and animal surveys to find out who and what lives there. Most of our work is organized by volunteers and facilitated by the National Park Service.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">High of 58°F | Humidity (avg) 48% | Wind 7 mph (NNE) | High Tide 4.7 ft. @ 16:17 | Moon 25% visible.</span></div>
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Kim-Norahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00195756774119849072noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-59464398614762526262013-07-18T06:48:00.000-07:002013-07-18T06:48:36.234-07:00Before and after Hurricane Sandy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Updated images from Google Earth show the marsh before and after Hurricane Sandy. Notice in the 2012 image the new channels into the marsh, just another opportunity for natural flooding to take place. Also the absence of debris is remarkable.</div>
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Kim-Norahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00195756774119849072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-32808454703186152302013-07-12T10:58:00.000-07:002013-07-18T06:17:34.461-07:00Your Park Your Health interns show their strengthOne of the most highly motivated group of awesome human beings I have had the honor to work with during a much-needed cleanup day.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">High of 79 °F | Humidity (avg) 77% | Wind @ 12 mph (NE) | High Tide 4.9 ft. @ 11:21 AM | Moon 17% visible.</span></div>
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Kim-Norahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00195756774119849072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-26624161665032124552013-06-18T09:25:00.000-07:002013-07-15T11:38:02.026-07:00Nesting willets make sure they're noticed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Story by Genie Gregor</span></h4>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4;">I went to the Marsh today, having in mind to do some phragmites cutting and collecting specimens of the plants that might be in bloom now. As I was approaching the site from the bay, I noticed a willet - he made sure he does not go unnoticed - making circles above my head and giving out piercing calls.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although I knew it was the nesting season for <i>Tringa semipalmata,</i> <span style="line-height: 1.4;">or the eastern Willet, and they are known to be very defensive parents, I was hoping that their nest was away from my path and, if I have a friendly face and move forward at a leisurely pace, they would let me do my stuff... Not even close! With every new step I took, the willet - it was, probably, the male - grew angrier and more feisty, flying closer to me, his screams more and more offensive.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Then his spouse joined in... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4;">I retreated. The willets stayed. When I looked back, they were sitting on the osprey platform, shouting unpleasant remarks to me.</span></div>
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Kim-Norahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00195756774119849072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-28821974813612298432013-03-28T10:40:00.000-07:002013-06-26T09:22:51.601-07:00A group effort opens a channel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihAc914_OpyJKLPGZ_gpJghkHExxod49Of_e59ZDVRuTinuEM8szynzIx8nJFvIVA8iYx4E24B-JScenixjzNM7xOOC_E9qOgjnruhcxhni25CqZWojoiMZeCrSAB4nnqxAz7P5V2BT4Fs/s1600/IMG_3724_640pxw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihAc914_OpyJKLPGZ_gpJghkHExxod49Of_e59ZDVRuTinuEM8szynzIx8nJFvIVA8iYx4E24B-JScenixjzNM7xOOC_E9qOgjnruhcxhni25CqZWojoiMZeCrSAB4nnqxAz7P5V2BT4Fs/s1600/IMG_3724_640pxw.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hurricane Sandy casualty. Many of the flags along the main road were found crumpled, ripped and covered in dried mud.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Becky and Danko tackle the big stuff before the job of clearing organic matter (mostly dead reeds) to create a channel. This will encourage water flow and natural flooding.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Genie and Kim-Nora continue the ongoing effort to remove dead organic matter, which contains millions of plastic fragments.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Danko attends to the matter of trash removal from the marsh to the truck, not a thankless job.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">High of 53 °F | Humidity (avg) 52% | Wind @ 15 mph (NW) | High Tide 5.5 ft. @ 9:05 AM | Moon 99% visible.</span><br />
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Kim-Norahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00195756774119849072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8442515199822544915.post-53436233754716261442013-03-24T08:48:00.000-07:002013-04-08T12:49:51.119-07:00CUNY oceanography students learn by doing<span style="font-family: Arial;">Dr. K. Schnaars Uvino’s CUNY Oceanography students visit the Marsh to observe and record what they see in the wrack line along the shore. Then they get their hands dirty to help with the clean up effort, a project which will be ongoing for many years to come. I was heartened that the students noticed the huge amounts of plastic and polystyrene debris in the environment. Perhaps seeing the human refuse that clogs the planet's natural systems will lead to revised consumption habits...like trying to avoid [as much as possible] buying products that are packaged in one-use plastics.</span><br />
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All but the last four images are a photo essay created by Erin Rodriguez (third from the right).</div>
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Fredericka Dauvergne, Tyerence E. Brown, Ozana Gutierrez, Rachel Brander, Erin Rodriguez, Julia Marrone, and Rob Casimiro (left to right).</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Kim-Nora explaining where to look for the wrack line and how to log observations of what’s found there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Tyerence E. Brown doing a stellar clean up job in Rocky Point Marsh.</span><br />
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Rob Casimiro focuses on the small details of liberating the Marsh from human debris.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4kgUWWXSI8s6wEBSJ7gamhDtielixNcEvQEQydmHColM2OMVpEghZI4Itrm2uQTvPH2RwpCikJ3P15Hd13jjdLQ3HZ8uILFVeruM9mdbp7XV5snZE6ihyZsoO8zc0iMDMjgvK0dDCBZc0/s1600/IMG_3705_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; font-family: Helvetica; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4kgUWWXSI8s6wEBSJ7gamhDtielixNcEvQEQydmHColM2OMVpEghZI4Itrm2uQTvPH2RwpCikJ3P15Hd13jjdLQ3HZ8uILFVeruM9mdbp7XV5snZE6ihyZsoO8zc0iMDMjgvK0dDCBZc0/s1600/IMG_3705_640.jpg" /></a>Fredericka Dauvergne…probably wondering which of the thousands of pieces of plastic to pick up first.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Fredericka Dauvergne, Tyerence E. Brown, and Rob Casimiro (left to right).</span></div>
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High of 47 °F | Humidity (avg) 48% | Wind @ 9 mph (NW) | High Tide 4.9 ft. @ 6:14 AM | Moon 88% visible.</div>
Kim-Norahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00195756774119849072noreply@blogger.com0