Annotated Checklist

When I first wrote this page many moons ago, I used the following abbreviations: (W - winter, Sp - spring, S - summer, F - fall). However, in researching an upcoming trip, I have found these designations to only be moderately useful. For example, Spring in California begins in February and lasts until June. So, does the same hold true for WNY? Likewise, both Canada Geese and Connecticut Warblers are spring migrants. Can you find the both in mid-Spring during the month of April? Thus, this page will be updated to accomodate more information.

Non-Passerines

Loons and Grebes

Red-throated Loon: (Sp, F) Common migrant on Lake Ontario, much rarer inland. Otherwise, they can be found March Through early May, with peaks in April. The first fall arrival is late Sep, last during December with the peak flights for the year in November at Hamlin Beach State Park. During Nov, most birds are seen flying west. Ask the resident Lake Watch observer for identification tips to separate this species from Common Loon. Regular but rare overwintering bird. Much rare inland.

Common Loon: (Sp, rare S, F) Common migrant on Lake Ontario, less common inland. They can be found March Through early May, with peaks in April. The first fall arrival is Sep, last during December with the peak flights for the year in November at Hamlin Beach State Park. Commonly found in migration at the smaller inland ponds and lakes, but not in larger numbers. Regular but uncommon overwintering bird and rare summering bird with most summer reports from the uninhabitated "Little Lakes".

Pied-Billed Grebe: Can be found all year round. Fairly common migrant in spring and fall. Uncommon local breeder and overwintering bird. Often seen in migration in bays, rivers and inlets into Lake Ontario. Uncommon in the warmer months and even rarer in winter, but sometimes can be found on the unfrozen lakes and ponds. Spring in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or in early December on Conesus Lake is but some of the many places to find good numbers. Most migrants from March to late April, and from mid-Oct to late December. Peak counts in April and November /December.

Horned Grebe: (Sp, F) Common migrant on Lake Ontario. Best seen in November at Hamlin Beach State Park. Most migrants from March to late April, and from mid-Oct to late December. Peak counts in April and November /December. Sometimes can be found on the unfrozen lakes and ponds in winter.

Eared Grebe: It probably has been found every month of the year, and almost annually. No pattern exists to indicate the best time or place to look but most birds are seen in migration or overwintering; most along Lake Ontario. BEWARE of molting spring Horned Grebes as they look like Eared Grebes in mid- to late-Spring.

Red-necked Grebe: (Sp, F) Common migrant on Lake Ontario. Records numbers for NYS (over 2500) have been seen in April at Hamlin Beach State Park. Uncommon fall migrant, but peak counts during the day have benn up to 25 birds. Most migrants from March to late April, and from mid-Oct to late December. Rarer in Winter.

Gannets

Northern Gannet: (F, immatures only) Rare to very rare vagrant on Lake Ontario. Because they seldom linger, they remain as fly-bys and are seldom seen as a 'staked-out' bird. They are rare, but annual in fall/early winter at Hamlin Beach State Park. They have been seen in September, and have lingered into late December, but peak time is from the third week in October to mid-November, especially after back-to-back nor'easter storms.

Cormorants

Great Cormorant: This species is being found with increasing frequency inland. It is expanding its range nationwide and has been found (or suspected) breeding on Little Galloo Island in eastern Lake Ontario. Most of the regional records are September or October birds (perhaps post-breeding dispersals. All records are on Lake Ontario or one its larger bays. It is becoming an annual overwintering species at Oswego Harbor in Kingbird Region 5.

Double-crested Cormorant: Common on Lake Ontario in the warmer months and fairly common in spring migration often seen over the west spit of Braddock Bay. Uncommon in winter, but sometimes can be found on the unfrozen lake.

Herons

American Bittern: Uncommon summer resident of the marshes. Even then, more often seen than heard. It has been regularly seen and heard in the marshes in Braddock Bay and Round Pond near Island Cottage Woods. Most birds are heard in late April and May, but sometimes seen into early October. It has overwintered in our region at Mendon Ponds but is not to be expected then.

Least Bittern: Uncommon summer resident of the marshes. Even then, more often seen than heard. It has been seen and heard in the marshes in Braddock Bay and Round Pond near Island Cottage Woods. The best bet for finding one is during late May and early June while establishing territories, or July when nestling and fledgling feeding increases and the adults become more "visible". Rarely seen past July and most probably leave by mid-September.

Great Blue Heron: Common permanent resident (although seen much more frequently in warmer months). Some heronries where numbers can be seen in breeding season are Oak Orchard, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, and the Nations Road area. They start standing on nests duringthe first week in March with numbers rising into mid-April. Commonly seen on most waterways until late October. Uncommon but regular during winter.

Great Egret: Uncommon summer visitant. Usually best seen (because it is more sedentary) from mid- to late- summer in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard. Largest numbers in first half of September. Lingers at those places into October, and rarely into November and very rarely December. More sporadic from May to mid-August.

Snowy Egret: Rare spring (early May) or summer visitant best seen in marshes that attract good numbers of long-legged birds, such as in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard. Sometimes wanders in late Aug or early Sept.

Cattle Egret: Rare to uncommon spring (mid-April to mid-May) or summer visitant best seen in marshes that attract good numbers of long-legged birds, such as in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard. Sometimes wanders in late Aug to early Oct. It has been recorded in November.

Green-backed Heron: A common summer resident most often seen in marshy habitats and near open water. Most arrive in early May and depart late August. A few arrive in April and some (perhaps injured birds) have lingered into November. The last week in August at the Conesus Inlet often stages up to 35 birds at dusk.

Black-Crowned Night Heron: Uncommon summer resident (early April to mid-Sep). Most often seen after young have fledged. Often seen in mid- to late- summer Braddock Bay, Irondequoit Bay, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Tifft Nature Preserve. Rare inland away from Lake Ontario. It has been recorded in this region in all months, excepting perhaps February.

Glossy Ibis: Seen by chance (rare) as a migrant in May, or sometimes Sept to mid-Oct (but has been recorded in summer months, Nov and Dec). More often seen in habitat such as Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Oak Orchard or Braddock Bay.

"Southern" Herons: Little Blue Heron, and Tricolored Heron: These birds are likely annual somewhere in Kingbird region 1, 2, 3, or 5. The birds are most often found in May and late August, but are likely present throughout the summer. Check appropriate habitat where other waders gather and near heronries.

Waterfowl

Trumpeter Swan: A recent introduction program in Ontario, Minnesota, Ohio and other states has brought the possibilities of seeing one of these birds in our area. Trumpeter Swans have been seen (although rarely) in late fall or early spring along the lakeshore, and some have recently nested at undisclosed locations, and at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Origin of these birds is still under speculation.

Tundra Swan: (Mar-Apr, Nov-Dec) Uncommon migrant seen on the West Lakeshore. Often seen in larger numbers in fall at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and, in early December, at Conesus Lake. The Conesus birds often linger into winter until the lake freezes. Large numbers also appear at Chautauqua Lake. Some birds linger into summer (June).

Mute Swan: Local introduced permanent/year round conspicuous resident. They can be seen at Irondequoit Bay, sometimes over 50 or 75 (even 100) birds in winter.

Greater White-fronted Goose: Rare migrant (sometimes) often found intermixed among the large numbers of Canada Geese, such as those seen on the West Lakeshore near Hamlin, or Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard. Most often seen in spring goose flights mid-Mar to mid-Apr, but fall birds can be located (Oct). Identification to race is discouraged.

Snow Goose: (both morphs): (Sp, F) Uncommon migrant seen on the Lake Ontario lakeshore. Often found in large numbers (greater than 3000) at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge in the spring. Estimates of up to 100,000 have been made here. Peak numbers are found mid-Mar to early April. Far fewer are found in the fall, but they can rarely linger into summer and winter months providing the outside possibility of being found during any month of the year. Most funnel throught he MNWR corridor with fewer being found the further west one travels.

Ross' Goose: (Sp, F) Rare migrant - now annual, at least in Spring. It is most often found among the large numbers of Snow Geese, such as the spring gathering (Mar, early-Apr) at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Rarely found during the fall (Oct, Nov) at the same locations.

Brant: Fall numbers are much better than spring. Found off lakeshore waters, such as Hamlin Beach State Park. This is a "feast or famine" bird - either it is a migration day or not. For example, in 1999, over 10,000 passed in 3 different days, but less than 11,000 were recorded for the season. Most Hamlin birds are seen flying east, but it is suspected that they turn south and head over land near Nine Mile Point. Rarely seen inland away from this overland migration corridor. Fall birds are in late Oct to mid-Nov. Spring birds are mostly May. It has been recorded during every month of the year (but not every year), being the most rare during the summer months.

Canada Goose: Most everywhere throughout the year. Common to abundant migrant and resident bird. Found in large numbers at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard in the spring.

Wood Ducks: (S) Common summer resident of quiet waters throughout the region. One good spot (of many) is Quaker Pond or Hundred Acre Pond in Mendon Ponds Park, or farther away at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard. Large numbers gather as the Conesus inlet just before waterfowl hunting season opens in fall. Arrive in Mar, larger numbers in Apr, dispersing summering unitl gathering in Sep for fall flight. It can be found every monthof the year being most rare during the winter months. Regular, but uncommon in winter.

Mallard Ducks: Everywhere. It would take some effort not to see these birds. Perhaps more difficult when the water's freeze, but should be at Russell Station at that time. Be careful not to slip on the discarded bread.

Black Ducks: Common in migration. Breeding numbers have plummetted in recent years (now uncommon, perhaps rare, from May to Sep). It now takes considerable effort to see these birds in the warmer months. Oak Orchard, perhaps, is one of the better places to try for one in summer. Commonly found in Mar, Apr, Oct and Nov.

Northern Pintail: Uncommon to common migrants seen in ponds, bays and marshes. Try good duck locations, such as Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard or open fields, such as on the West Lakeshore, in migration. On of our first puddle ducks to return - usually starting in mid to late Feb and lasting until April. Fall birds primarily in Oct an Nov. Rare in winter (but regular) and summer (sporadic).

Gadwall: Fairly common to common migrants seen in ponds, bays and marshes. Try good duck locations, such as Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard in migration. Sometimes nests at either place. Commonly found in Mar, Apr, Oct and Nov.

Northern Shoveler: Fairly common to common migrants seen in ponds, bays and marshes. Found in large numbers in fall (up to 300 birds) at wastewater plant at Batavia. Otherwise, try good duck locations, such as Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard in migration. Rarely nests at either place. Commonly found in Mar, Apr, Oct and Nov. Rare (but regular) in winter. Found annual during every month excepting perhaps February.

Eurasian Wigeon: Rare migrant. Sometimes seen in migration on the West Lakeshore, or more regularly at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard. Most often associates with large numbers of other wigeons. Best months to try are Mar, Apr and Oct. Much rarer during the other months.

American Wigeon: Common migrants seen in ponds, bays and marshes. Try good duck locations, such as Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard in migration. May nests at either place. Seen every month of the year with far fewer numbers in Jun, Jul, Aug, Jan and Feb.

Green-Winged Teal: Uncommon to fairly common migrants seen in ponds, bays and marshes. Try good duck locations, such as Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard in migration. Best seen in Apr and Oct. Seen every month of the year with far fewer numbers in May, Jun, Jul, Aug, and Feb. May nest.

Blue-Winged Teal: Uncommon migrant seen in ponds, bays and marshes. Try good duck locations, such as Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard in migration. Formerly a fairly common nester in the region, now much harder to find nesting. Most seen in April, altho a few in March. Summering birds found May, Jun and Jul. Eclipse plumaged birds harder to find. A few found in fall (Sep, Oct). Uncommon in Nov, rarely occurs into Dec or very rarely Jan.

Canvasbacks: Uncommon migrant through the area often seen at the bays and river mouths into Lake Ontario. In early December, check Conesus Lake or Honeoye Lake for these birds. Rare nester at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Peak winter count in numbers (3000+ birds) may be at the Niagara River. Can be found as migrant Mar, Apr, late-Oct, Nov and Dec. Rare in May, Jun, Jul, Aug and Sep. Off Niagara River, rare in Feb.

Redheads: Fairly common to common migrant through the area often seen at the bays and river mouths into Lake Ontario. It can be found in early December and in large numbers (2500+ birds) through the winter at Conesus Lake. Rare nester at Oak Orchard and may be found there in late Spring. It winters in numbers at the Niagara River. Can be found as migrant Mar, Apr, late-Oct, Nov and Dec. Rare in May, Jun, Jul, Aug and Sep.

Ring-necked Ducks: Common migrant through the area. Often seen at the bays and river mouths into Lake Ontario. It should be fairly easy to find. Peak numbers in spring late Mar through April, some linger into May or even June. Very rare in July or Aug. Fall birds arrive in late Sep and peak in Nov, falling to uncommon status in Jan. Stays on in winter until waters freeze. Fall numbers far fewer than spring.

Common Goldeneye: Common migrant and vistant through the area. Often seen in spring migration doing its head dance just offshore into Lake Ontario. It should be fairly easy to find from mid-Oct to mid-Apr. Much rarer after mid-May and before mid-Sep. A few summer records, but it does not nest.

Barrow's Goldeneye: Nearly annual migrant somewhere in Kingbird Region 1, 2, 3 or 5. Often seen in intermixed in flocks of Common Goldeneye on open bays (such as a href="sites/sodusbay.htm">Sodus Bay) and river mouths. Be sure to check for females and immature birds. Do not expect this one.

Bufflehead: Common migrant and winter vistant through the area. It should be fairly easy to find from Mid-Mar to mid-April and from mid-Oct, peaking in Nov and tapering off through December and January. Can be found in summer months in some years, although not to be expected from mid-May to mid-Sep.

Greater Scaup: These birds winter in varying numbers on Lake Ontario. By far, Greater Scaup are more numerous on Lake Ontario than Lesser. However, beware that large numbers of Lesser Scaup sometimes linger on Lake Ontario. Can easily be found from Oct to mid-April. Much rarer from May thru Sept.

Lesser Scaup: More often found on inland waters than on Lake Ontario. As a general rule, Lesser Scaup are more numerous than Greater inland. Can be found from Oct to mid-April. Much rare from May thru Sept, although wintering numbers fewer than peak spring and fall migrants. Much rarer from May thru Sept.

Common Merganser: These birds winter in varying numbers on Lake Ontario, but are more common in migration. Check likely places, such as Irondequoit Bay in the spring. It has been recorded as a rare but regular nester in Letchworth. Can easily be found from Oct to mid-April. Much rarer from May thru Sept.

Red-breasted Merganser: These birds winter in varying numbers on Lake Ontario. Red-breasted Merganser can number in the thousands in Irondequoit Bay in the spring. Can easily be found from Oct to mid-April. Much rarer from May thru Sept.

Hooded Merganser: In early December, check Conesus Lake for rafts of 60 or more of these splendid ducks. Often seen in many other places in migration. Uncommon nester at quiet backwater places such as in Oak Orchard or Beaver Meadow. Can be found during every month of the year, most common in Nov, Dec and April. Unlike most ducks, more common at inland lakes than on Lake Ontario.

King Eider: Rare but more common than Common Eider. Not often found, and not every year either. Lake Ontario is a likely spot. Most birds are in the female/immature plumage and most are found in Nov and early Dec. It has been recorded from Oct to April,

Common Eider: Very Rare. Not often found, and not every year either. Lake Ontario is a likely spot. Most birds are in the female/immature plumage and most are found in Nov and early Dec. Do not expect this one.

Harlequin Duck: Off rocky, churning waters, such as Sodus Bay or on the Niagara River, and sometimes seen flying past Hamlin Beach State Park, or on the Niagara River. Most birds are found Nov through Feb. Much rarer in Oct and Mar. It might be found every year, but never more than two birds, and seldom lingers long... so do not expect this one.

Oldsquaw: Lake Ontario is a likely spot for these migrating, such as Hamlin Beach State Park, or wintering birds (up to 30,000 on the Lake), such as Irondequoit Bay. Often found mid-winter with close-up views in the channel at Sodus Bay. Much rarer inland. Most birds occur from mid-Oct to mid-April.

Black Scoter: Uncommonly seen in migration (or wintering) over Lake Ontario such as at Hamlin Beach State Park. Seldom fly in close for a good look, and more often than not, a scope is needed to identify these birds. Least common of all three scoters. Most birds are found mid-Oct through the end of Nov, and in early April, although can be found anytime from Oct to end of april. Much rarer inland and in winter.

Surf Scoter: Uncommonly seen in migration (or wintering) over Lake Ontario such as at Hamlin Beach State Park. Seldom fly in close for a good look, and more often than not, a scope is needed to identify these birds. Less common than White-winged, but more common than Black Scoter. Most birds are found mid-Oct through the end of Nov, and in early April, although can be found anytime from Oct to end of April. Much rarer inland and in winter.

White-winged Scoter: Often seen in migration (or wintering) over Lake Ontario such as at Hamlin Beach State Park. Seldom fly in close for a good look, and more often than not, a scope is needed to identify these birds. White-winged are the most common of all the scoters and should be expected on any fair fall migration day. Sometimes found mid-winter with close-up views in the channel at Sodus Bay. Most birds are found Oct through mid-Dec, but has been recorded every month of the year. Much rarer inland.

Ruddy Ducks: Uncommon migrants through the area. Some may summer/breed in Oak Orchard. The wastewater plant at Batavia is a good place to check throughout the year. Over 1100 have been recorded there in a recent fall. Large numbers may be present in fall migration at Silver Lake, Chautauqua Lake or Honeoye Lake. Oak Orchard and Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (Main Pool) are good sites in migration. Often seen in muted/eclipse plumages. Peak counts most often seen in Oct and April but can be found during any month of the year.

Hawks

A Note on Hawks: In the spring, forget any spots mentioned below and go to the hawk watchers platform at the Braddock Bay. Anything is possible !!!

Turkey Vulture: Often seen in migration over Braddock Bay and a common sight in summer. Several usually try to overwinter at Inspiration Point near the Castile entrance at Letchworth State Park. Spring migrants now appear in Feb and peak in April. Commonly seen anywhere in armer months. They become much harder to find from Nov Through Mar.

Osprey: Often seen in spring migration over Braddock Bay. May nest in (or near) Oak Orchard and has been annual and expanding nester near Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and Allegany State Park. Migrants appear late-Mar through April. A few summer. Late lingerers have been recorded into Nov and even Dec, albeit very rarely.

Bald Eagle: (Sp) It can be seen any month of the year. Uncommon migrant through the area. Best seen in May migration at Braddock Bay. A pair has had an active nest on Hemlock Lake since the mid 1970's. Hacking programs at Oak Orchard (seen on a TV monitor in the headquarters building) and Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (Tschache Pool) provide regular summering birds there as well.

Northern Harrier: It can be seen any month of the year. Often seen in spring migration (early Mar - early May) over Braddock Bay. It is an increasinly uncommon breeding bird of marshy habitat, and can sometimes be found summering or wintering in fair numbers in the area, such as Nations Road.

Accipiters It can be seen any month of the year. (Sharp-shinned (common), Cooper's (uncommon), Northern Goshawk) (even more uncommon): Most often seen in spring migration (Mar and Apr) over Braddock Bay. Some are resident and some are attracted to feeders in winter.

Red-Shouldered Hawk: (Sp, rare S) It can be seen any month of the year. Uncommon migrant throughout most of the area. Best seen in late-March migration at Braddock Bay. A few breed in the areas to the south, such as Beaver Meadow, Letchworth State Park, or Rattlesnake Hill and the LittleLakes region. It may overwinter in these areas as well, or elsewhere (like Durand-Eastman Park).

Broad-winged Hawk: Abundantly seen in kettles over Braddock Bay in the end of April and early-May. Sometimes they fly so high that they looks like dirt specks or eye-floatees. A few breed in the areas to the south, such as Beaver Meadow, Letchworth State Park, or Rattlesnake Hill and the Little Lakes region. Do not expect this bird from Oct thru end of Mar.

Swainson's Hawk: (Sp, rare) Single birds are annually found among the kettles of Broad-winged Hawk at Braddock Bay or Derby Hill from mid-April to early May. Very, very rare at other places or other times. Most are light-phase, most are immatures. Not to be expected at any time of the year.

Red-tailed hawk: It can be seen any month of the year. Common in many places. Included here because of a seldom documented/lesser-known event of a post-fledgling dispersal north in mid-August of immatures which can be witnessed over Braddock Bay. Some alternate races/morphs, such as Dark-morphs, Rufous-morphs and Krider's may show up during the spring migration at Braddock Bay as well, but are not to be expected.

Rough-legged Hawk: Uncommon to common winter visitant. Best seen in the February or March migration at the hawkwatch platform on Braddock Bay or on its wintering grounds (Dec-Mar) in Nations Road or Retsof. I has been recorded from Sep through mid-June, but much rarer outside (late-Nov to early May).

Golden Eagle: (Sp) Uncommon migrant on through the area. Best seen in migration at the hawkwatch platform on Braddock Bay.

American Kestrel: A summer/year-round resident that is often seen on back roads in the area. Often seen in migration at Braddock Bay as well.

Peregrine Falcon: Rare migrant through the area. Seen by the lucky few in April to May at Braddock Bay. Sometimes seen migrating through in the Fall (Sep and Oct)where there are shorebirds (Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge). Increasing number of reports of recent years perhaps due to a one-year hacking program in Rochester. It has recently nested in downtown Rochester at the Kodak Tower (see the Falcon Cam), and also in Buffalo and the Niagara Gorge. Syracuse has had a pair residing in downtown although nesting has not occured there (yet).

Merlin: Rare migrant through the area. Seen in April to May at Braddock Bay. Sometimes seen migrating through in the Fall (sep and OCt) where there are shorebirds (Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge). Increasing as a Winter visitant (Nov to Mar).

Gyrfalcon: (W) Very Rare - not annual. Consider yourself lucky to see one. They seldom linger for any extended period of time. Most are seen on a single day only. Not to be expected.

American Swallow-tailed Kite and Mississippi Kite: (Sp, S) Very Rare - not annual. Seen by the lucky few in mid-April to late-May or early June at Braddock Bay or Derby Hill. Sometimes found in mid-August in association with movements of large numbers of dragonflies or grasshoppers. Never to be expected.

Gamebirds

Ring-necked Pheasant: Uncommon introduced permanent resident seen in tall grassy fields, such as Nations Road near Avon. More often found in fall or early winter after DEC release programs have occurred.

Ruffed Grouse: Uncommon permanent resident seen in woods and forested regions. Not often seen along the lakeshore, but in the southern parts of this region in the higher elevations, such as in the Little Lakes or Letchworth State Park region. Easy to hear drumming in spring in teh southern areas (and sometimes in the fall as well).

Wild Turkey: Common permanent resident most often seen in cornfields. Fewer numbers are seen along the lakeshore as in the southern parts of this region in the higher elevations. Increasing everywhere.

Northern Bobwhite/Chukar: Introduced and probably escapees from a game farm. Not expected, nor believed to be wild sustainable populations.

Rails

King Rail: Rare. It has been recorded during every month of the year at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and Oak Orchard. In the recent past, it has been recorded calling in late-May and early June at Brush Creek on (Hamlin-Parma) Townline Road out on the West Lakeshore and Mendon Ponds Park. But, it was not recorded as a Confirmed breeder in the last NYS breeding bird atlas project (nor the Ontario BBA). Do not expect this one.

Virginia Rail: Uncommon to common summer resident of the marshes - more often seen than heard from late Apr to late June. Sometimes may try to overwinter - annually at Mendon Ponds Park in that season. Very rare from Nov to early April.

Sora Rail: Uncommon to common summer resident of the marshes - more often seen than heard from late Apr to late June. Sometimes may try to overwinter - annually at Mendon Ponds Park in that season. Very rare from Nov to early April.

Common Moorhen: Uncommon to common summer resident of the marshes. Check Round Pond or Braddock's Bay. Very rare from Nov to early April.

American Coot: Present all year. Uncommon summer resident (but common migrant and common wintering bird) of the marshes and ponds. Check Oak Orchard in the summer or Irondequoit Bay in winter. Large numbers (1200+) have been recorded at Conesus Lake in recent Decembers.

Cranes

Sandhill Crane: Rare migrant. It has been annually recorded at Braddock's Bay during the hawk migration, and sometimes at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Most sightings are in March or April but it has been recorded in the months Mar-June, Sep-Dec.

Shorebirds

Shorebirds: No specialties occur in any regular accord anywhere in the region. Birds that breed here include Killdeer (common), Common Snipe (uncommon), American Woodcock (common), Upland Sandpiper (uncommon to rare) and Spotted Sandpiper (uncommon). The rest are only found here (sometimes) in migration.

The species that travel through the area do so in small numbers (as compared to the tidal flats of the oceans). The most commonly seen birds are found along the lakeshore, or in the larger and more predictable habitats of Batavia WWTP, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard.

Black-bellied Plover: (Fairly Common) A bird which favors mud. Most often seen in fall (Sep, Oct) along recently plowed farm fields on the lakeshore, or on drained mudflats of Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard. Rarely seen in Aug or Dec. In spring, most birds seen in May.

Lesser Golden-Plover: (Uncommon). A bird which favors mud. Most often seen in fall (Sep, Oct) along recently plowed farm fields on the lakeshore, or on drained mudflats of Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard. Seldom seen in spring and not every year. In spring, most birds seen in Apr.

Semipalmated Plover: (Common) Often seen on drained mudflats of Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, or along the lakeshore beaches in late-Apr thru mid-May and from Aug thru mid-Oct. Rarely recorded into Dec.

Killdeer: (S, rare W) It has been recorded every month of the year. Rural areas. These two-banded plovers return early. They are usually first spotted on the lakeshore in early March. Soon afterwards, it is hard to find an open area without one calling overhead or stumbling over one underfoot. Hard to find after mid-Nov. Definitely rare in winter.

Greater Yellowlegs: (Common) More often seen along the lakeshore or at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Arrives in early Apr. Peak in late April. Rare after mid-May until they arrive in July, peak in Sep and leave by Nov. Some recorded late into Dec.

Lesser Yellowlegs: (Common) Commonly seen in migration near water. Arrives in spring before Greater. Most often arrives in early Apr. Peak in late April. Rare after mid-May until they arrive in July, peak in Sep and leave by Nov.

Solitary Sandpiper: (Uncommon) Uncommonly seen in migration near small ponds. Arrives in Apr. Peak in late April. Rare after late-May until they arrive in late Jun, peak in Aug/Sep and leave by Oct. Seldom recorded late into Oct.

Willet: (Rare) Not often found and not found every year. Generally only found on the lake edge. Do not expect this one. Very rare inland.

Whimbrel: (Rare to uncommon) Recorded annually. Sometimes found, sometimes not. Generally only found on the lake edge. Most often found in May and Oct. Very rare inland.

Hudsonian Godwit: (Rare) Recorded annually but only in the fall (usually first in Oct). Not often found every year at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, but that site is better than most. Very rare inland. Do not expect this one.

Ruddy Turnstone: (Uncommon) If found, it is usually found along the lake edge at places such as the outlet at Irondequoit Bay or at the beach or pier at Charlotte. Nearly annual at Batavia WWTP. This species is becoming more difficult to find in recent years. Most often found May and Aug/Sep. Very rare inland.

Red Knot: (Uncommon to rare) Usually found at the lakeshore, such as at the beach or pier at Charlotte or more uncommonly at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. This species is becoming more difficult to find in recent years. Most often found May and Aug/Sep. Very rare inland.

Sanderling: (Common) Most often seen peddling along the beaches on the lakeshore, such as at the outlet at Irondequoit Bay or at the beach or pier at Charlotte. Much rarer inland, but nearly annual at Batavia WWTP.

Semipalmated Sandpiper: (Common) Often seen in spring and fall, such as at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

Western Sandpiper: (Uncommon to rare). Sometimes seen in fall at places like at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Rarely seen in spring, but the window of migration upstate is small - only a few days centering around June 1.

Least Sandpiper: (Common and widespread) Often seen in spring and fall, such as at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

White-rumped Sandpiper: (Uncommon) Often seen in spring (June) and fall, such as at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

Baird's Sandpiper: (Uncommon) Not seen in spring, but sometimes seen in fall at places like at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

Pectoral Sandpiper: (Common) Often seen in spring and fall, such as at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

Dunlin: (Fairly Common) Commonly seen in migration near water.

Stilt Sandpiper: (Fairly Common) Seen in fall, especially at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

Buff-breasted Sandpiper: (Rare to very rare) Not seen by many birders. They seem to prefer rich soil that has been plowed and disc'd flat. If it has lumps or rocks bigger than golfballs, it probably isn't flat enough. A few of the more regular places for them have been out on the West Lakeshore off Route 18 west of Hamlin Beach and north of Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge on Route 31 in the potato flats (mucklands), or the Clarence Turf Farms. Generally found in a small time frame from late August to mid-September. It is seldom seen as a single bird as it prefers 'company' of Killdeer and other plovers.

Ruff: (Rare to Very Rare). Not seen every year. Do not expect this one. Most recently seen at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

Short-billed Dowitcher: (Fairly Common) Seen in fall, such as at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, and sometimes seen in Spring. Studies have shown that of the three races, two occur here: L. g. griseus occurs in the spring and L. g. hendersoni occurs in fall. Fall adults may be seen in July, whereas fall juveniles occur from mid-August through September or so.

Long-billed Dowitcher: (Uncommon to rare) Sometimes seen in late fall (October), such as at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. This species is the commoner of the dowitchers after September.

Common Snipe: (Fairly Common) Often seen in migration probing into muddy flats. Check the West Lakeshore or Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Sometimes found summering in the area, such as at Mendon Ponds Park. or Letchworth State Park.

Wilson's Phalarope: (Rare to Uncommon) Formerly (even a decade ago) considered uncommon and regular. Now, considered rare and hard to find.

Red-necked Phalarope: (Uncommon to Rare) Sometimes seen in fall migration (late August), such as at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Nearly annual at Batavia WWTP. Very rare in spring.

Red Phalarope: (Rare) Annual, but in very small numbers. Do not expect this one. Found almost exclusively on Lake Ontario or on the lake edge.

American Woodcock: Although present for a large part of the year, these camoflauged birds are difficult to find, except during the breeding season when their breeding songs ("Peenting") and aerial displays make them obvious. My rule of thumb of when to look for the timberdoodle is: when the robins start returning to the lawns in search of worms (snow or no snow in March), the woodcock has returned. The first few weeks may be difficult to find one, but their crepuscular prenuptial flights become more apparant and cease in mid- to late- May. Preferred habitat is open meadows near damp dark woods. One such place is Mendon Ponds Park.

Spotted Sandpiper: (Sp, S, F) Uncommon summer breeder and discrete about its location. Usually found in near farm ponds throughout the region during breeding season or during migration.

Upland Sandpiper: An often sought after, but not often found, species. It prefers short grasses and can sometimes be found in likely habitat. Recent sightings include breeders (although decreasing in numbers) in Nations Road and around Lakeshore Road on the West Lakeshore. Also it might be found near Beaver Meadow at Minkel Road or near Tillman WMA .

Purple Sandpiper: (uncommon F, W) This bird is uncommon in the region and is most often found on one of the rock jetties into Lake Ontario during its migration through the area in mid- to late- November. Most often found (probably because most often birded) in places such as Hamlin Beach State Park, Charlotte, Irondequoit Bay or Sodus Bay. During the winter, a few linger at the Niagara River, often near Goat Island.

Gulls and Terns

A Note on Gulls: In November and December, most birders go to the gull watcher's paradise at the Niagara River. Anything is possible !!! However, most anything is possible along the lake edge, although the gulls are not as concentrated as at Niagara. Near Rochester, Irondequoit Bay and the Perinton Ponds offer some better gull-watching opportunities.

Parasitic Jaeger: (F) Fairly common to common migrant on Lake Ontario. Best seen in October at Hamlin Beach State Park, but have been recorded from the last week in August into mid-November. Local bird lore suggested that they were best seen during strong (and cold) NW winds (making it miserable to be out watching for them). However, they can be seen in all sorts of weather and at all times during the day. Most birds are quite distant and a scope is necessary to see them.

Pomarine Jaeger: (F) Uncommon to rare migrant on Lake Ontario. Best seen in November at Hamlin Beach State Park, but have been recorded from late September into January. This is the rarer of the two expected species. Most birds are quite distant and a scope is necessary to see them.

Long-tailed Jaeger: Very, very Rare. It is suspected that they migrate through Western New York in early to mid-August, when observers are few (if any), migration is at a trickle, and birding is slow, at best. Don't count on it.

Bonaparte's Gull: These birds are common along Lake Ontario during the colder months with the largest numbers in spring and fall. Gazillions of them can be found in late fall at the Niagara River.

Ring-billed Gull: These birds are common all year along Lake Ontario. Ring-billed being common inland during the warmer months, but harder to find in winter when water freezes.

Herring Gull: These birds are common along Lake Ontario during the colder months, but harder to find (but findable) in the warmer months. Large numbers can be weeded through for vagrants at the Niagara River.

Great Black-Backed Gull: These birds are common along Lake Ontario (and Niagara River) during colder months. They are much harder to find in the month of June.

Lesser Black-backed Gull: (rare Sp, rare F) Increasingly reported. A few are reported locally during the colder months. A peculiar occurence is a single bird that has appeared at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge in both spring and fall migrations for the past several years.

White-winged Gulls: (Glaucous, Iceland, Thayer's) (W) Uncommon visitants along Lake Ontario in winter. Check the bays, rivers and open waters, such as Irondequoit Bay, Charlotte or Sodus Bay. Or, go to the gull watchers paradise in November and December at the Niagara River. Not found inland.

Little Gulls: (W) Regular, but rare (now uncommon?). Some are seen passing through the area. A few seem to spend part of the winter (at least December and January) off Lakeshore Blvd across from the (Frank E.) Van Lare WasteWater Treatment Plant near Durand Eastman Park. Or, go to the gull watchers paradise in November and December at the Niagara River.

Caspian Tern: (Sp, F) Common migrant on Lake Ontario. Best seen in migration along the lakeshore, or Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge in the fall.

Common Tern: Fairly common migrant on Lake Ontario which has nested in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

Forster Tern: Uncommon migrant on Lake Ontario. Rare inland. Best seen along the lakeshore such as at Hamlin Beach State Park or Braddock Bay.

Black Tern: (S) Uncommon resident in the Lake Ontario marshes. Some have nested recently in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, but larger population bases exist in Oak Orchard and in the Braddock Bay region. The Braddock bay population has crashed in recent years and the colonies may have but a few years before disappearing (as breeders) from the region entirely.

Doves and Cuckoos

Doves: (Rock, Mourning) Common and prevalent. Look in urban areas.

Cuckoos: (Black-billed, Yellow-billed) Uncommon summer resident which are seen skirting in the shadows and lurking in the treetops. Often seen near water, such as along the Genesee River. More common in years of tent caterpillar outbreaks. Often found in Letchworth State Park. Black-billed is more common.

Owls

Resident Owls: As many travelling birders know, owls are typically the most sought after, yet the hardest family of birds to find on a trip, common as they may be. Recordings are usually best bet for a reaction from owls, if you are prone to use such devices. Eastern Screech Owls and Great-Horned Owls are common, but often unseen residents in the area. Most any place is as good as the next.

Common Barn-Owl: Forget it. It is rare here and the word is "mum" when people find one. Breeding bird atlas shows them on the west side of the Genesee River just west of Avon area. But, that was years ago.

Snowy Owl: Rare to common winter visitant on Lake Ontario shoreline (and even more rare inland). Most often found in places like Braddock Bay, or the various jetties jutting into Lake Ontario or Lake Erie.

Barred Owl: It is an uncommon resident. It has been known to reside in the Bergen Swamp and the hillier mixed deciduous/conifer stands in the southern reaches of the Genesee region, such as at Letchworth State Park or in the Little Lakes area. Rare to uncommon migrant through the area and is rarely sometimes seen migrating through Braddock Bay.

Long-Eared Owl: Uncommon migrant through the area and is best seen migrating through Braddock Bay in late-March and April. It is also an rare resident throughout the region and has been known to reside in the Bergen Swamp.

Short-Eared Owl: This is an uncommon to common winter visitant (and a very rare summer resident). It is best seen at dawn or dusk on the lakeshore, or on its wintering grounds in Nations Road, Retsof or Doran Road in Lima.

Saw-Whet Owl: Uncommon migrant through the area and is best seen migrating through Braddock Bay in March and April, or sometimes in Island Cottage Woods. It is also an rare resident and has been known to reside in the Bergen Swamp.

Goatsuckers, Swifts, Hummingbirds and Kingfishers

Common Nighthawk: A bird that doesn't live up to its name (but that is another story). It is a decreasingly uncommon migrant (and formerly common resident). Seen along the lakeshore, and (sometimes) over the Genesee Valley Park during the fall.

Whip-poor-will: Rare to uncommon migrant, but chances are much greater on the lakeshore, and often only heard at night. Sometimes, you just gotta be lucky.

Chimney Swift: (S) Common resident seen swooping and diving over rooftops in small towns and urban area alike. Often seen and heard overhead in the cooler evenings.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird: A common summer resident often arriving in late April or early May when it is seen in flower beds or at feeders.

Belted Kingfisher: A common summer resident seen over small streams,or at the edges of lakes and ponds. Uncommon winter resident as well.

Woodpeckers

Resident Woodpeckers: Many woodpeckers exist in the area and can be found throughout the region. Downy (common), Hairy (fairly common) and Red-Bellied (fairly common) are the most seen birds. Pileated, Red-Headed and N. Flicker are also resident, but described below.

Red-Headed Woodpecker: Uncommon permanent resident in the area. It can also be found migrating through the area in spring. A permanent colony has existed for years in the large oak woods in the Nations Road area, and recently at Lakeside Beach State Park.

Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker: (Sp, S) Common migrant through the area and is best seen migrating through Island Cottage Woods in April and early May. A few birds summer in the area, and rare numbers stay the winter. Summering birds are best seen in the cooler higher elevations in the south part of the region, such as at Letchworth State Park or in the Little Lakes area.

Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted race): This bird is resident in the area, but can be more difficult to find in the winter months. Numbers of birds always seem to migrate through Braddock Bay and are frequently heard in Island Cottage Woods during the spring months.

Pileated Woodpecker: Uncommon resident in the area, but can be rather difficult to see (easier to hear). Older growth forest with larger trees seem to support these birds.

To find Passerines, songbirds, dickey birds ..., go to that page.

Rarities and Accidentals

Quite a variety of species of birds have been recorded in the years past. Many species are rare, or accidental, and either not to be expected to be reported again, or if they are, are not going to be predictable as to when or where they may show up. No hints are given for these unusually occurring birds with one exception: birds are lovers of habitat. You are more likely to find an oddity in likely habitat than unlikely habitat. For example, one would expect a Tufted Duck in a bay or river on Lake Ontario, but not in the woods and forests in Letchworth State Park. Water birds (waterfowl, herons, larids, terns) are most likely to be found on the lakeshore and vagrant hawks are most likely to be found in spring migration on the lakeshore. Determined birders should use common sense when trying to locate any of the following birds that have been recorded in upstate NY. And of course, please record (see Reporting Rarities) and report the rarity to the local hotline for the amusement of local birders.

Rarities and Accidentals (very rare and not likely to be seen or maybe even to occur again)

Pacific Loon, Western Grebe, Great Cormorant, Brown Pelican, Ivory Gull, Ross's Gull, White Ibis, Arctic Tern, Least Tern, Royal Tern, Roseate Tern, Sooty Tern, White-winged Tern,Little Blue Heron, Tricolored Heron, Yellow-crowned Night Heron, Wood Stork, Northern Hawk Owl, Great Gray Owl, Boreal Owl, Chuck-Will's-Widow, Fulvous Whistling-Duck, Ross' Goose, Barnacle Goose, Cinnamon Teal, Tufted Duck, American Swallow-tailed Kite, Mississippi Kite, Swainson's Hawk, Gyrfalcon, Yellow Rail, Black Rail, Purple Gallinule, American Avocet, Black-necked Stilt, Piping Plover, Marbled Godwit, Curlew Sandpiper, Long-tailed Jaeger, Arctic Tern, Least Tern, Three-toed Woodpecker, Black-backed Woodpecker, Bewick's Wren, Say's Phoebe, Western Kingbird, Fork-tailed Flycatcher, Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, Gray Jay, Black-billed Magpie, Boreal Chickadee, Varied Thrush, Northern Wheatear, Townsend's Warbler, Dickcissel, Harris' Sparrow, Yellow-Headed Blackbird, "Audubon's" Warbler, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Swainson's Warbler, Summer Tanager, Western Tanager, Blue Grosbeak, Painted Bunting, Green-tailed Towhee, Lark Sparrow, Lark Bunting, LeConte's Sparrow, Dark-Eyed Junco (Oregon race), European Goldfinch, Boat-Tailed Grackle.

Exotics (not expected to occur again)

Any pelagic bird (such as Wilson's Storm-Petrel or Great Skua), any alcid, Ferruginous Hawk, Silver Gull, Sooty Tern, Black Skimmer, Sage Thrasher, Kirtland's Warbler

Extinct or Extirpated

Eskimo Curlew, Passenger Pigeon

(Author's Note: I found this task much harder than it first appeared. Oddly enough, the "Most Wanted" birds and hard-to-find birds were easier to detail than the more commoner species. Where does everyone in WNY find a Prothonotary warbler? Easy: Swallow Hollow Trail in Oak Orchard. Where does everybody find Chipping Sparrow? Hmmm ... I can't give exact details, but they just find one. If you would like shed some light on any of these birds and where to find them in this region, please feel free to contact me at the email addresses below.)

This page was last updated on 18 April 2001.

Comments or questions regarding this page should be sent to Webmaster.
Copyright, © Kurt Fox, 1999-2001.
Return to main page