Winter Birding

February 24, 2025

What to do for two months when snow cover persists? There are many productive jobs to complete around the farm in the winter, but one of my favorite pastimes is birding.

Even in the middle of winter there are some hardy birds that we see around the farm. Black-capped chickadees, blue jays, and mourning doves are some of our most frequent visitors.

One of the more exciting species we saw this winter was a pair of bald eagles. Thanks to the New York State Bald Eagle Restoration Program, which was active between 1976 and 1989, more than 100 bald eagles were transported into New York from other states. The project was considered a success and contributed to more abundant sightings of bald eagles.

If interested in seeing bald eagles in the Catskill region, I recommend taking a drive on state route 7 along the Susquehanna River or on state route 10 along the West Branch Delaware River. Wintering bald eagles concentrate during the months of January and February around open bodies of water looking for food. My favorite viewing spot is further south near Port Jervis at the Mongaup Valley Wildlife Management Area, where several public eagle-viewing blinds are available.

If anyone wants to be a participant in birding, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation organizes an I BIRD NY challenge. Starting March 1st, log the birds you see online and get a commemorative patch. Happy birding.

Last week: Piglets on the farm

Next week: Four consecutive days above freezing – maple syrup tapping, round two

Fun fact: New York state is ranked second in the nation in maple syrup production.