An often seen topic among the various electronic forums across the world is:
Passerines, songbirds, dickey birds ...
Abbreviations: (W - winter, Sp - spring, S - summer, F - fall)
Passerines, songbirds, dickey birds ...
Trivia Time: The reference to "Dickey-bird" is from "The Mikado", an opera by Gilbert and Sullivan, first performed in 1885, in London:
Olive-sided Flycatcher: This uncommon migrant is sometimes heard and seen along the lakeshore, such as Island Cottage Woods, Durand Eastman Park, or Dewey-Latta in late-May or early June and returning mid- to late-August. They prefer to sit in semi-open locales, atop dead snags overlooking an open field or pond.
Eastern Wood-Pewee: This bird is common as a migrant and as a summer resident. Often heard pee-o-wee'ing through the canopy of older growth forests, such as Island Cottage Woods and behind Cavalry Lodge in Mendon Ponds Park or in Letchworth State Park.
Yellow-bellied Flycatcher: This uncommon migrant is sometimes heard and seen along the lakeshore, such as Island Cottage Woods, Durand Eastman Park, or Dewey-Latta in late-May or early June and returning mid- to late-August.
Acadian Flycatchers: (Sp, rare S) Rare to uncommon migrant in spring through the area. Often difficult (some say impossible) to find. In recent years, a few have been regularly found in the Dishmill Creek area on the East side of Letchworth State Park. Other spots to check might be the Hemlock Knoll at Bergen Swamp and Onondaga Trail at Oak Orchard.
Alder Flycatcher: This bird is fairly common as a migrant and as a summer resident. As a summer resident, it is easily found throughout the southern portion of the region at the higher elevations. It might be found in migration at Island Cottage Woods.
Willow Flycatcher: This bird is fairly common as a migrant and as a summer resident. As a summer resident, it is easily found throughout the northern portion of the region and at the lower elevations. It might be found in migration at Island Cottage Woods.
Least Flycatcher: This bird is fairly common as a migrant and as a resident. Its dry "che-bek" call aids not only in its identity, but also its location. It is likely to be stumbled upon when searching for something else.
Eastern Phoebe: Common as a migrant and as a summer resident, this early migrating flycatcher is regularly seen by April. It is usually bringing in nesting material by the end of the month and is commonly seen thereafter. In May or June, it is likely to be stumbled upon when searching for something else. It prefers to buils its mossy nest on ledges, such as exposed eaves, bridges with little traffic, and cliff faces in sheltered glens. It is a rather rare wintering bird.
Great Crested Flycatcher: This bird is fairly common as a migrant and as a breeding resident. Often heard in the canopy of older growth forests, such as Island Cottage Woods and behind Cavalry Lodge or Hopkins Point in Mendon Ponds Park.
Eastern Kingbird: This bird is common as a migrant and as a breeder. It is likely to be stumbled upon in fields when searching for something else.
Western Kingbird, Fork-tailed Flycatcher, Scissor-tailed Flycatcher: Very rare, and certainly not annual. Most records of these species in upstate New York occur in late-September and October. Be especially watchful of all flycatchers after mid-September.
Lark
Horned Lark: Uncommonly found summering in grassy areas, such as farmer fields, it is often easier to spot along roadsides and in snowy fields during the winter months, such as Nations Road and Retsof. Commonly heard flying overhead in migration at places such as Hamlin Beach State Park.
Swallows: Several swallows are resident in the area: Purple Martins, Barn, Tree, Rough-Winged, Bank, and Cliff and are often seen migrating through the area. In April on the west spit of Braddock Bay, all six of these species have been seen sitting on the same telephone line. The birds are found in appropriate areas, with the more difficult bird being the Cliff Swallow. Enormous swarms (some estimates of up to one million birds) of these birds (mostly Tree) are found in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge in late-summer/early fall.
Purple Martin: (Sp, S, F) Fairly common migrant and resident. It nests along Lake Ontario, especially in/near the larger bays, such as Braddock Bay. Inland, it can be found on Conesus Lake or in the Little Lakes Region.
Rough-Winged Swallow: (Sp, S, F) Fairly common migrant and uncommon resident. In recent years, this bird has bred in the Jaycox Creek area on Nations Road.
Cliff Swallow: (Sp, S, F) Uncommon migrant and uncommon resident. In recent years, this bird has bred in the area of the west spit of Braddock Bay. The NYS BB Atlas shows this bird as more common in the hillier regions to the south of Rochester, such as in the Little Lakes region.
Corvids
Blue Jay: This is a common bird seen throughout the region, but is quiet during its June breeding season. Sometimes, large numbers of small flocks are counted past the spring hawkwatch platform in Braddock Bay.
American Crow: Abundant year round. This species gathers in large flocks (around 20,000) in winter roost near the inner-loop (490) and St. Paul Steet area and is often observed in long streaming lines into and out of the city at dawn and dusk. Hard to miss at any time of the year.
Common Raven: No dependable place exists in the Genesee region, but can often be recorded in Allegany County. Southern expansion may prove to place some in our region near Rattlesnake Hill near Nunda (southeast of Letchworth), or in the Little Lakes region. It is sometimes recorded along the lakeshore, perhaps during migration. It is not likely to be expected.
Parids, Nuthatches and Creeper
Black-capped Chickadee: Although abundant throughout the region and likely to be seen during any weather in any region, it is made a species of note because wintering birds will feed from your hands (or shoulder or head or ...) on black sunflower seeds at Mendon Ponds Park on Bird Song Trail, or at Tifft Nature Preserve or Stiglmier Park in Cheektowaga. Absolutely charming.
Boreal Chickadee: Very Rare. Not even close to annual. Many of the records are from fall and spring migrations when lots of chickadees are moving through. A few winter records exist. Do not count on it.
Tufted Titmouse: Uncommon to common permanent resident. Dependable locales seem to be Durand Eastman Park and Mendon Ponds Park.
Red-breasted Nuthatch: An uncommon permanent resident. This bird is most often seen when wintering (or migrating) birds increase the local populations. If one is around, they may feed from your hands on black sunflower seeds at Mendon Ponds Park on Bird Song Trail. Some consider large numbers of this species as a harbinger of a "winter finch" year.
White-breasted Nuthatch: A common permanent resident. If one is around, it may feed from your hands on black sunflower seeds at Mendon Ponds Park on Bird Song Trail, or at Tifft Nature Preserve or Stiglmier Park in Cheektowaga.
Brown Creeper: This is an uncommon to fairly common bird. Mixed wintering flocks of chickadees, titmice, and nuthatches usually has a creeper in the crowd. Difficult to see as it is not very vocal (and light and high-pitched when it is) and blends in against the tree trunks so well. It summers regularly in the Little Lakes region, Letchworth State Park, or Bergen Swamp, or Oak Orchard on Sour Springs Road near Oatka Creek.
Wrens
Carolina Wren: This more southerly bird has populations which fluctuate locally depending on the previous winters conditions. The birds are permanent residents and are often found in protected suburban areas and park. Sometimes can be found in the gulleys and glens of Durand Eastman Park and Irondequoit Bay.
House Wren: A common summer resident. If one is around, you will hear it. If you are having trouble finding one, they are often found intruding in one of the bluebird boxes behind the Nature Center in Mendon Ponds Park in May, June and July.
Winter Wren: This uncommon migrant has the "longest song in the world." It is often found along the lakeshore in April, such as in Island Cottage Woods. It is an uncommon summering bird in the higher hills to the south.
Sedge Wren: This is often called a late arrival. But that name implies that this bird arrives, which is not always the case. It is often not found until late June or early July and traditionally found in places like Beatty Point off Long Pond Road near Braddock Bay. Sometimes it can be found in the same location in mid-August returning back south, or near the headquarters at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.
Marsh Wren: This is a fairly common bird of the marshes. It can be found throughout the lakeshore marshes such as Braddock Bay, or at the edges of Round Pond. Also commonly heard and seen in places like Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or Oak Orchard. It is rarely found trying to winter in the area.
Old World Warblers
Golden-crowned Kinglet: This is a fairly common migrant and winter visitant. It is an uncommon summer resident in the conifers tands in the southern parts of the region. Often seen migrating through Island Cottage Woods in the spring, or in mixed flocks (BC Chickadees, et al) in winter.
Ruby-crowned Kinglet: This is a fairly common migrant, but a rare winter visitant. It is often seen migrating through Island Cottage Woods in the spring.
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher: This is a fairly common migrant and uncommon summering bird. Its buzzy song can be found along the lakeshore in Island Cottage Woods.
Eastern Bluebird: Permanent resident, although much more difficult to see during the winter months. Extensive bluebird trails exist in the Nations Road area in Avon. Some birds are seen in nesting boxes in and around the area during spring and early summer.
Veery: (Sp, S, F) Common migrant and a fairly common summering bird. Often seen in Island Cottage Woods or Durand Eastman Park in the spring (May) and fall (September). Breeding birds can usually found near the Lookout shelter area in Mendon Ponds Park.
Gray-cheeked Thrush: (Sp, F) Uncommon migrant sometimes seen in Island Cottage Woods or Durand Eastman Park in the spring (late May) and fall (late-September). It is most often recorded in the dawn/dusk hours as a passing migrant as its flight calls are heard overhead.
Swainson's Thrush: (Sp, F) Fairly common migrant sometimes seen in Island Cottage Woods or Durand Eastman Park in the spring (late May) and fall (September).
Hermit Thrush: (Sp, rare S, F rare W) Common migrant and rare summering and wintering bird. Often seen in Island Cottage Woods or Durand Eastman Park in the spring (May) and fall (September). Sometimes can be found summering in the southern parts of the region, such as in Little Lakes region, Letchworth State Park, or Bergen Swamp. It is annual as a wintering bird in the orchards at Durand Eastman Park.
Wood Thrush: Common summer resident heard singing through the woodlots in the area.
American Robin: Permanent resident, although scarcer in the winter months. Easily found in warmer months on any lawn. Winter finds this bird communally roosting in places like Mendon Ponds Park (sometimes numbering into the 1000s), or eating from the berry bushes in Durand Eastman Park.
Varied Thrushes: (W) Very rare. Certainly not annual. Do not count on it. However, more than half of the regional records come from Durand Eastman Park in winter (November to March).
Northern Wheatear: One record from 1934. Do not count on it. If one were to look for this species, most vagrants found along the east coast are from about 20 September to 07 October.
Gray Catbird: (S, rare W) Common. At least heard, if not seen, everywhere there is a bush come warm weather (May to September). If you are having trouble, try the Quaker Pond trail in Mendon Ponds Park. It sometimes tries to winter here as well.
Brown Thrasher: (S, rare W) Uncommon resident throughout the area. Look for brushy habitat. One must weed out the double mimid calls from the single mimid calls of the catbird (to which it often shares an area).
Northern Mockingbird: Uncommon permanent resident near hedge rows and multi-floral rose (the ones with the nasty thorns and tiny berries, called rose hips). Some reliable spots are near the Jaycox Creek area in Nations Road, and the southern edge of the loop in Retsof.
Pipits and Waxwings
American Pipit: More often heard than seen as it passes overhead. Implying that they are seldom seen and hard to spot, a birder once said, "If you can hear the bird and see it, then you are looking at the wrong bird." It is often found flying over farmers fields on the West Lakeshore in both spring and fall migrations and is commonly reported over Hamlin Beach State Park.
Waxwings
Bohemian Waxwing: This winter visitant can be found in great numbers or not at all. The first reports usually come from the Lake Ontario Parkway, or Hamlin Beach State Park or Fort Niagara and typically stick to within a few miles of the lakeshore. The berry bushes near the orchard in Durand Eastman Park is another good place to check.
Cedar Waxwing: Commonly found nesting in June all over the region. In winter, the berry bushes near the crab apple orchard in Durand Eastman Park is another good place to check for these birds.
Shrikes
Northern Shrike: This winter visitant can be found in good number or poor numbers depending upon fate. The West Lakeshore and Lake Ontario Plains usually has a few. Or, one can try the raptor wintering grounds in the Nations Road and Retsof areas. These birds seem to prefer perching on small shrubs, such as in hedgerows neighboring weedy fields.
Loggerhead Shrike: It was formerly found in the area, but is no longer around. It is rumoured to be found on the West Lakeshore orchards near the "borrow pits", but this could be one of those modern techno-myths to make a birder "do" the West Lakeshore in a vain but valiant attempt.
Starlings
European Starling: Do you really want to know?
White-eyed Vireo: Unlike many vireos and warblers, this bird is seldom seen during migration. Perhaps the better places is where waves of warblers and vireos pass through, such as the lakeshore, namely Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . Recently, it has been nearly annual in the fall at the Kaiser-Manitou banding station.
Solitary Vireo: It is most often seen and heard in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . This is an uncommon breeder in the area and can sometimes be found summering in the southern parts of the region, such as in Little Lakes region.
Yellow-throated Vireo: It is most often seen and heard in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . This is an fairly common breeder in the area and Mendon Ponds Park usually has a few near Hopkin's Point. It might also be found at Norway Road, Powder Mills Park, or in the cottonwood trees at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.
Warbling Vireo: This is a fairly common bird throughout the area. It is often seen and heard in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve .
Philadelphia Vireo: It is most often seen and heard in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve .
Red-eyed Vireo: This is a common migrant and summer resident. Do not worry if your miss the spring migration as this bird has been proclaimed by some as the most common forest dwelling bird. For those having trouble finding this bird, it can be commonly found in Letchworth State Park in the woods (one of the commonest bird of Letchworth). For those who wish to find one in Monroe County, Mendon Ponds Park usually has a few behind Calvary Lodge or near Hopkin's Point.
Blue-Winged Warbler: This fairly common bird is found in long fallow fields in which successional shrubs and trees are more numerous than open fields. On the east side of Quaker Pond in Mendon Ponds Park from the irrigation pond to the outlet stream is a prime habitat location. Also, the north end of Letchworth State Park on the west side is good habitat, as is Oatka Creek Park, Northhampton Park, or Norway Road.
Golden-Winged Warbler: This bird seems to be losing ground to the Blue-winged to which it seems to be genetically inferior. It seems to prefer higher and drier grounds than the Blue-winged, but is being pushed out of that habitat as well. Northhampton Park, or Norway Road is good habitat, but finding this bird elsewhere or in migration takes a little luck.
"Brewster's Warbler": This Blue-Winged cross Golden-Winged hybrid seems to be more common than its parental heritage Golden-Winged. For the past few years, one or two have been found on the east side of Quaker Pond in Mendon Ponds Park near the irrigation pond or near the outlet stream, or in Letchworth State Park.
"Lawrence's Warbler": This Blue-Winged cross Golden-Winged hybrid is rare. For the past few years, one has been found on the Mumford Nature Center Nature Trails and has also been recorded recently in Letchworth State Park.
Tennessee Warbler: As with many warblers, it is most often seen May migration through the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . But, it is more often heard than seen as it blends so well with the emerging treetop leaves. Thus, good advice is to learn its song.
Orange-crowned Warbler: This species is easier to be found in the fall migration than spring. Along the lakeshore is better than inland. Check weedy fields with goldenrod and hedgerows. It is one of the latest fall warbler migrants, often not appearing until mid-September.
Nashville Warbler: As with many warblers, it is most often seen May migration through the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . For those that miss the bird in migration, it is an uncommon nester in Bergen Swamp and an irregular, rare nester in Letchworth State Park.
Northern Parula: As with many warblers, it is most often seen in May migration through the region near the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Cobbs Hill Park.
Yellow Warbler: This common bird is found throughout the area. Almost everywhere that is not wooded has one or two. If you haven't found one in late May or early June, then you must ask yourself if you are trying. If hard-pressed, the east side of Quaker Pond area in Mendon Ponds Park is usually competitive and has a quite a few nesters that engage in singing and territorial bouts.
Chestnut-sided Warbler: It is most often seen in May migrating through the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . For those that miss the bird in migration, it is a fairly common nester throughout the region. The Quaker Pond area in Mendon Ponds Park and Letchworth State Park usually has a few nesters.
Magnolia Warbler: As with most warblers, it is most often seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . For those that miss the bird in migration, it is an uncommon nester in Letchworth State Park or the Little Lakes region.
Cape May Warbler: As with most warblers, it is most often seen in May migration through the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . These birds seem to have a preference for conifers during migration, such as the SW corner of Cobbs Hill
Black-throated Blue Warbler: As with most warblers, it is most often seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . For those that miss the bird in migration, it is an rare nester in Letchworth State Park but fairly common in the Little Lakes region.
Yellow-rumped Warbler: It is most often seen migrating through the region. Anywhere is a good place to be. In fact, this warbler seems to overwhelm all other warblers and one is constantly "weeding out" the "butter-butts" in attempt to find other interesting migrants. The "Myrtle" race is most common, but the "Audubon's" race is found on very, very, very rare occasions. This bird is always found overwintering (once up to 300 birds) at Caledonia Fish Hatchery, and sometimes found overwintering in berry (Myrtle?) hedges, such as in Mendon Ponds Park. For those that miss the bird in migration, it is an uncommon (becoming common?) nester in Letchworth State Park but especially in the Little Lakes region.
Black-throated Green Warbler: As with most warblers, it is most often seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . For those that miss the bird in migration, it can be commonly found in Letchworth State Park in the woods (one of the commonest bird of Letchworth). For those who wish to find one in Monroe County, Mendon Ponds Park usually has a few behind Calvary Lodge.
Blackburnian Warbler: It is often seen in May migration in the region migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . For those that miss the bird in migration, it is an common nester in Letchworth State Park and several others areas.
Yellow-throated Warbler: Unlike many warblers, this southern bird is very rare during spring migration and unlikely to be found. Put bluntly, "Don't count on it."
Pine Warbler: It is most sometimes seen by the diligent few in late April or early May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . For those that miss the bird in migration, it is an uncommon nester in Letchworth State Park or the Little Lakes region in mature pine stands, and more recently at Hamlin Beach State Park.
Prairie Warbler: It is sometimes seen by the lucky few in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . For the past few years, it has been found near the north end of Letchworth State Park on either the west side Mt. Morris entrance or east side by the dam. It is also found at a few select sites in the Little Lakes area.
Palm Warbler: It is most often seen in late April to early May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . It can sometimes be found during fall migration as well.
Bay-breasted Warbler: As with most warblers, it is most often seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve .
Blackpoll Warbler: As with most warblers, it is most often seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . This is a paradoxical bird as birders are delighted to see this colorful bird but are dismayed as some consider this bird to signal the end of the warbler migration.
Cerulean Warbler: It is most often seen migrating through the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . Some have found this (back-breaking) bird in the tall cottonwoods near the visitor's center in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge or out on Norway Road.
Black-and-white Warbler: As with most warblers, it is most often seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . A few might be found nesting in Letchworth State Park.
American Redstart: It is often seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . It is a fairly common nester and can be found with little searching in wetter places such as Norway Road, or Onondaga Trail in Oak Orchard.
Prothonotary Warbler: This southern bird is rare during spring migration and unlikely to be found during migration. If you are one of the unfortunate birders, you can be relieved that a pair is usually found nesting on the Swallow Hollow Trail, plus an additional pair on Sour Springs Road in Oak Orchard. If tendencies lean towards the east, this bird has been found in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge near May's Point Pool, or nearby on Armitage Road by the bridge. Listen for the song that describes the bird "sweet, sweet, sweet, sweet, ...."
Worm-eating Warbler: This southern bird is rare during spring migration and unlikely to be found. In recent years, it is increasingly seen along the lakeshore or Cobbs Hill . It has been found expanding its range in Southern NYS, and may be found on sunny south-facing slopes with mixed conifer and deciduous stands. But, do not expect this one.
Ovenbird Warbler: It is most often seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods. For those that miss the bird in migration, it can be commonly found in Letchworth State Park in the woods (one of the commonest bird of Letchworth). For those who wish to find one in Monroe County, Mendon Ponds Park usually has a few behind Calvary Lodge.
Northern Waterthrush: As with most warblers, it is most often seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods. The edges of the "ponds" in the woods are likely candidates. Seeing a nesting one can prove to be difficult, but can be accomplished by the diligent at places such as Norway Road.
Louisiana Waterthrush: Unlike most warblers, this early migrating bird is most often seen by Rochester birders in late April (if seen at all), but seldom in May. For those that miss the bird in migration, it is an uncommon bird found in Letchworth State Park in the steeper slate and shale glens with running water, such as Wolf Creek.
Kentucky Warbler: Unlike many warblers, this bird is seldom seen during migration. Perhaps the better places is where waves of warblers pass through, such as the lakeshore, namely Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve .
Connecticut Warbler: Unlike many warblers, this bird is seldom seen during migration. Perhaps the better places is where waves of warblers pass through, such as the lakeshore, namely Island Cottage Woods, but is generally not found until the last week in May.
Mourning Warbler: It is most often seen in spring migration in late May in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . For those that miss the bird in migration, it is a fairly common breeder in Letchworth State Park.
Common Yellowthroat: Found in many places in migration and during the breeding season. If you are really hard-pressed to find one, listen for the "witchity, witchity" song near the irrigation pond by Quaker Pond in Mendon Ponds Park. Chances are that you'll find one before you leave your car in the Lookout Shelter parking lot (and a half dozen along the way). It sometimes overwinters in swampy areas.
Hooded Warbler: It is sometimes seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . For those that miss the bird in migration, it can be commonly found in Letchworth State Park in the woods (perhaps the commonest breeding bird of Letchworth). For those who wish to find one in Monroe County, Mendon Ponds Park usually has a few behind Calvary Lodge.
Wilson's Warbler: As with many warblers, it is most often seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve .
Canada Warbler: As with many warblers, it is most often seen in May migration in the region along the lakeshore such as Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . Sometimes found breeding in Letchworth State Park or in the Little Lakes region near the steeper gorges.
Yellow-breasted Chat: This is a rare breeder and rare migrant through the area. It is most often found in June in its breeding grounds while singing in the briars is untrodden areas in Letchworth State Park gorge during their warbler bird survey (most often on Trail 15). It has also been found in Mendon Ponds Park and in the recent past on Norway Road on the West Lakeshore.
Tanagers
Scarlet Tanager: This fairly common bird is often heard when trampsing around looking for other more difficult-to-find birds. As it prefers large trees and canopies, it can be found in migration (and summering) at Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve or breeding in the Hopkins Point area of behind Calvary Lodge in Mendon Ponds Park.
Grosbeaks, Sparrows, and Buntings
Northern Cardinal: As a common permanent resident, this colorful bird is welcome at most feeders in which it takes the opportunity and frequently is found there. Easy to spot in winter as bright color contrast to newly fallen snow. Bird Song Trail in Mendon Ponds Park and Zoo Road in Durand Eastman Park usually has a few birds for those in a desperate search of one.
Rose-breasted Grosbeak: This fairly common summering bird is often seen when trampsing around looking for other more difficult-to-find birds, such as in Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve .
Indigo Bunting: This common summering bird is often seen throughout the region when looking for other more difficult-to-find birds.
Dickcissel: Very rare to rare. Not quite annual. It is regularly recorded along the east coast in fall. It suspected to fly over our area. A pattern is emerging showing that they pass over the lake shore in late-August. Sometimes they linger to be recorded as feeder birds. It has been found summering in the grassier areas holding grassland birds. Not to be expected.
Eastern Towhee: The ground robin is often heard singing its "drink your tea" song or repeating its "chewink" or "tow-hee" call and is easily heard in the warmer months, especially in the dawn or evening. If hard-pressed, try the trail to Quaker Pond at Mendon Ponds Park.
American Tree Sparrow: This bird is found in hedgerows, rural road sides and feeders during the winter. No particular spot is favored and the bird is usually easily found.
Chipping Sparrow: No particular spot is favored and the bird is usually easily found when looking for something else during the warmer months. It is rather rare and unexpected in winter.
Clay-colored Sparrow: Not often found around here. One local birder has had luck in the Allegany County area to the south. Unexplored regions in the Little Lakes or south of Conesus Lake may prove fruitful. It has been irregularly recorded east of Quaker Pond at Mendon Ponds Park. It is not to be expected.
Field Sparrow: This common bird is often found when looking for Henslow's, Grasshopper and Vesper Sparrows. Any grassy field will do, but better places are Nations Road, Retsof, Doran Road in Lima and the east side of Letchworth State Park. The birders born in greener pastures may find it in winter.
Vesper Sparrow: This uncommon (but becoming (is?) rare) bird is found in specific habitat. It prefers nesting in/along hedgerows in sparse, grassy fields with patches of dirt (like wheat fields). Good places to check are Nations Road, and the east side of Letchworth State Park.
Savannah Sparrow: This fairly common bird is usually found when looking for Henslow's, Grasshopper and Vesper Sparrows. Nations Road, Retsof, Doran Road in Lima and the east side of Letchworth State Park, the West Lakeshore, or just about any grassier open field, are good places to check.
Grasshopper Sparrow: This uncommon bird is found in grassy fields. Good places to check are Nations Road, Retsof, Doran Road in Lima and the east side of Letchworth State Park, or near Tillman WMA .
Henslow's Sparrow: This uncommon to rare bird sets up local, yet loose, colonies. And after a few years, the colony can no longer be found. It appears to be fickle about its habitat requirements and likes wetter, sparsely vegetated fields in higher elevations. Good places of late have been Nations Road, Ganondagon in Victor and River Road (and Dygert Road) on the east side of Letchworth State Park.
Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow: Annual, but very rare and specific to habitat. This sparrow is regularly found from about the last week in September to mid-October. It prefers damp, sedge/weedy field edges adjacent to cattail marshes. The fields should not be overly grassy, or matted with goldenrod, nor contain woody plants (shrubs or trees). A slow, almost snail-like pace through the habitat is needed to see the bird as it is a skulker and seldom is seen after being flushed. Places to check are ditches and small, manageable chunks of habitat in early October at the fields at Hogan Point Road, at Beatty Point, or in or near Hamlin Beach State Park, perhaps in Yanty Creek at Hamlin.
LeConte's Sparrow: Very rare and unlikely. Not to be expected. Like the Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow, it has a narrow window of migration, and prefers a specific habitat. The time frame is about October 10 through the end of October. The habitat is identical to Nelson's mentioned above. Since the migration window overlaps with that species, great care should be taken in identifying these species.
Fox Sparrow: This somewhat difficult to find bird can be found at feeders during migration, or scratching low in the bushes in April in lakeshore areas, such as the west spit of Braddock Bay, and Island Cottage Woods. It is more easily found in fall at the campground loops at Hamlin Beach State Park.
Song Sparrow: Commonly found singly wildly about the area. Fields are fine spots to check for this constantly singing bird. It is uncommon in winter, yet can still be found frequenting feeders and swampy areas.
Lincoln's Sparrow: This shy and secretive bird lives up to its reputation even in migration. It can be found low in the thick in mid-May in lakeshore areas, such as the west spit of Braddock Bay, and Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve . It migrates back through in September and October, but be careful not to confuse it with other immature sparrows.
Swamp Sparrow: A fairly common bird that is difficult to see as is skulks in the reeds and cattail marshes. Best sightings occur in spring as the bird is defending its territory and singing from exposed perches. Good places to find it are swampy areas such as Braddock Bay, or the boardwalk at the Thousand Acre Swamp. It can be found in winter with a little determination in nearly any swampy location.
White-throated Sparrow: This sparrow is commonly found in migration in brushy habitats and at feeders. Uncommonly, the bird winters in the region at feeders and brushy habitats. Spots often checked when looking for this bird are on birdsong trail in Mendon Ponds Park or in Durand Eastman Park. Sometimes, it can be found nesting at Harriet Hollister in the Little Lakes region.
White-crowned Sparrow: This sparrow is commonly found in migration in brushy habitats, roadsides in rural areas and at feeders. Uncommonly, the bird winters in the region at feeders, especially at the south end of the loop in the Retsof area.
Harris' Sparrow: Very Rare. Certainly not annual. This sparrow is might be found in migration in brushy habitats, along with other Zonotrichia sparrows. Sometimes, the bird winters in the region at feeders. Do not expect this species.
Dark-eyed Junco: This sparrow is commonly found in migration at feeders and roadsides in rural areas. The bird summers in the higher elevations in the south end of the region, such as Little Lakes or Letchworth State Park.
Lapland Longspur: This winter visitant is often found with Horned Larks and Snow Buntings in open fields and grassy areas and often along the roadsides. Seldom travelled backroads in farm country are best bets. Try the manure spreads on Nations Road, or in the Retsof area or the West Lakeshore. Sometimes seen and/or heard migrating across the lake at the Hamlin Beach State Park Lakewatch.
Snow Bunting: This winter visitant is often found with Horned Larks in open fields and grassy areas and often along the roadsides. Seldom travelled backroads in farm country are best bets. Try the manure spreads on Nations Road, or in the Retsof area or the West Lakeshore. Sometimes seen and/or heard migrating across the lake at the Hamlin Beach State Park Lakewatch.
Bobolink: This bird is commonly found in open fields and grassy areas, often perched upon fenceposts. Nations Road and Retsof are likely spots in spring and early summer.
Red-winged Blackbird: A "can't miss" bird from March through September if you are anywhere near water or marsh habitat. Super abundant in fall flocks, especially in and near Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Numbers have been estimated in the millions. Sometimes, they might be found trying to winter here in the same areas, or with roosts of other blackbirds and starlings.
Yellow-Headed Blackbird: Rare, not annual. This species often occurs in the very large flocks of blackbirds that pass through the region in spring or the fall. Searching for this species can be a chore. Rarely, it lingers at a feeder as a 'staked-out' bird. Not to be expected.
Eastern Meadowlark: This bird is often found in open fields and grassy areas, often perched upon fenceposts. Nations Road and Retsof are likely spots. Sometimes, they might be found trying to winter here in the same areas, or with roosts of other blackbirds and starlings.
Western Meadowlark: This bird is not often found as it is normally a western breeding bird. In Western New York, it is on its very extreme edge of its breeding (yet expanding) range. A finger of breeders is north over Lake Erie and that may extend into the Lake Ontario floodplain. If found, it will probably be found in habitat similar to its eastern cousin - in open fields and grassy areas, often perched upon fenceposts. Sometimes, they might be found trying to winter here, but wintering meadowlarks are rare and distinguishing them without their songs to help is tricky and not often attempted. In other words, "Possible, but don't count on it."
Rusty Blackbird: This bird can be found in many places during migration. One of the better places is in communal roosts during the migration south in the fall. They are easier to find with their fall rusty coloration, and a favorite locale is any of the swampy wooded areas, such as the Quaker Pond area of Mendon Ponds Park.
Common Grackle: Abundantly found at feeding stations during migration. It is one of the first migrants to return and can be easily found in March at feeders. They are quite common and one is likely to stumble across them in any habitat during the warmer months. Sometimes found in blackbird (and starling) roosts in winter.
Brown-headed Cowbird: Abundantly (and unwanted) found at feeding stations during migration. It is one of the first migrants to return and can be easily found in March at feeders. They are pretty common and one is likely to stumble across them during the warmer times. Sometimes found in blackbird (and starling) roosts in winter.
Orchard Oriole: Some local birders tally this bird in migration in patchy wooded areas out past Hamlin Beach State Park (Point Breeze), such as Lakeshore Road. It might be found in orchards along the West Lakeshore, or for the lucky, migrating past the west spit at Braddock Bay. Recently, it has been an annual nester at the Roemer Arboretum in Geneseo, and at Nations Road.
Northern Oriole: This common bird is often found in migration along the lakeshore and can usually be tallied in Island Cottage Woods or Tifft Nature Preserve along with the warblers. It summers throughout the region in parks and suburbia.
Pine Grosbeak: This bird is erratic during its winter vagrancy. As it feeds on or near conifers, it is likely to be found in conifer stands. The most dependable place in recent years is the campground area at Webster Park, and the pines and campground area in Hamlin Beach State Park, or in Durand Eastman Park.
Purple Finch: This bird is more difficult to find lately. One place to try is at feeders in winters or during migration. During summer, it breeds in rural regions to the south, such as in the Little Lakes area or Beaver Meadow, usually in association with conifers.
House Finch: A common bird year round. Try a local feeder in a suburban neighborhood.
Red Crossbill: This bird is erratic during its winter visit. It is most often recorded as a heard-only passing migrant, thus it is wise to learn its flight song. As it feeds on conifers, it is likely to be found in conifer stands, such as in the pines and campground area in Hamlin Beach State Park or in Durand Eastman Park. Another place to check is Webster Park. It is regularly found nesting in Allegany County.
White-winged Crossbill: This bird is erratic during its winter visit. (even more erratic than the Red Crossbill). It is most often recorded as a heard-only passing migrant, thus it is wise to learn its flight song. As it feeds on conifers, it is likely to be found in conifer stands, such as in Durand Eastman Park. Other decent places to check are Webster Park and the pines and campground area in Hamlin Beach State Park.
Common Redpoll: This bird arrives as a winter visitant, or sometimes only as a fall and spring transient. Thistle feeders is one place to find these birds. The other option is open fields, such as Nations Road, Retsof or along the West Lakeshore, feeding on seed heads of weeds poking up through the snow.
Pine Siskin: This bird is a fairly common migrant, and can sometimes be found at feeders or in conifer stands (such as in Durand Eastman Park or Hamlin Beach State Park) during migration and in winter. It is most often recorded as a heard-only passing migrant, thus it is wise to learn its flight song.
American Goldfinch: Try any local thistle feeder. This is a common bird. Many open fields and fallow places should have them around.
Evening Grosbeak: This bird is erratic during its winter stay. They usually come in flocks and may stay for a meal, or all winter. As difficult to predict as lightning. Beaver Meadow is one of the more dependable spots in winter to check for one.
House Sparrow
House Sparrow: Abundant. If hard pressed to find one, try any McDonald's Parking Lot.
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 rare 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.
(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.
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Copyright, © Kurt Fox, 1999-2001.
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