April

​Waders & Waterfowl
In the beginning of April, the final push of waterfowl migrates through York, heading north.  In addition to those species that were seen on and off during the winter, look for Blue-winged Teal, Pied-billed Grebes, Caspian Terns passing through in April.  While any body of water should be checked at this time for waterfowl, Lake Redman Boardwalk and Pinchot SP are best for the three species mentioned.  
During the first week of April, Black-crowned Night Herons and Great Egrets arrive at their traditional rookery in the middle of the city to build their nests in the trees surrounding Kiwanis Lake.  By mid-April, some shorebirds and waders such as Solitary and Spotted Sandpipers, Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Green Herons, Virginia Rails, and Sora arrive. The Lake Redman Boardwalk is a great spot to find most of these birds, as well as the wetland area at Nixon Park. 
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Songbirds
April marks the beginning of spring songbird migration, with Eastern Phoebes, Chipping Sparrows, House Wrens, Chimney Swifts, and swallows beginning to arrive in early April. In the warbler category, Yellow-rumped warbler numbers continue to build while Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, Louisiana Waterthrush, Pine Warblers, and the ‘Yellow’ subspecies of Palm Warblers (with entirely yellow underparts) arrive and become abundant, paving the way for the wave of warblers to come later on. Warblers and other songbirds can be found in a variety of habitats.  Look for “Edge Zones” where forest meets field meets water.  Most of our State and County Parks are excellent habitat for songbirds.  Waterthrush are typically found in small, forested streams such as those present at Spring Valley SP, Nixon Park, Pinchot SP, Lock 12, and along Muddy Creek.  Two of the best spots for Pine Warblers are the Lake Williams Boat Launch area and Pinchot SP.   

In late April, the floodgate of migrants begins to open up with Hummingbirds, Vireos, Common Yellowthroat, Parula, Yellow, and Black-and White Warblers leading the charge.  This is a great time to see birds because the trees are typically still largely barren of leaves, so getting binoculars on songbirds is at its easiest now.  Rocky Ridge, Spring Valley, Nixon Park, Pinchot SP, Lock 12, Mary Ann Furnace Trail at Codorus State Park, and Lake Redman are all great spots to find most of these species.

Wintering Birds Depart:
Most of the birds that migrated "south" to York to spend the winter will be leaving to head back north by the end of April.  Enjoy your last looks of species such as Hermit Thrushes, Winter Wrens, Pine Siskins, Purple Finches, White-throated Sparrows, and Juncos.   For some of these species, you may notice a building of numbers of during April as they gather to make their way northward.  

May

Songbirds
May is the magical month of birding in Pennsylvania.  Songbird migration is at its peak and all birders dream of finding that “fallout”;  when bevies of songbirds, having been coerced out of the sky during their nightly flight by inclement weather, can be found in a feeding frenzy the next morning.  If you are so lucky, you could witness an amazing number of birds and a large variety of species ‘dripping’ out of the trees as they refuel on insects and recharge on this unscheduled stopover during their journey. Of chief interest among these travellers are the warblers.  Known for their bright colors, mixed species flocks, active feeding style, and interesting songs; warbler migration is the highlight of the year for many birders.  Over 30 species of warblers are possible to see in York during May. The first three weeks of May are when most of the migrants move through.  By the end of the last week of May, almost all of the migrant species of songbirds will have passed through York on their way to their breeding grounds.   

Some of the more common migrants to look for in May that can only be found in York during migration time are: Northern Waterthrushes, Black-throated Green, Black-throated Blue, Chestnut-sided, Nashville, Blackburnian, Cape May, Magnolia, Tennessee, Bay-Breasted, and Canada Warblers.  You may also find some Palm Warblers in May; but at this time, they will most likely be the ‘Western’ subspecies (with a mix of white and yellow underparts) as opposed to the ‘Yellow’ subspecies that is seen in April.  Other types of migrants passing through at this time include Blue-headed Vireos, Swainson’s Thrushes, and Least Flycatchers.  Bringing up the rear for the migrants is the Blackpoll Warbler.  More often heard than seen, listen for their high-pitched “squeaky brake” call coming from the treetops during the last 2 weeks in May, mournfully announcing the end of migration.    

Even if you don’t experience a fallout, some migrating songbirds can be found in about any area of suitable habitat in the county on any given day in May. Most warblers, vireos, and thrushes are not seen at feeders, so many casual bird observers are not even aware of what they are missing.  One must go out and  get into the woods with binoculars and look and listen. Rocky Ridge, Spring Valley, Nixon Park, Pinchot SP, Lock 12, Mary Ann Furnace Trail at Codorus State Park , and Lake Williams/Redman are some of the best spots for finding migrating songbirds.
 
Shorebirds
Shorebirds are also passing through Pennsylvania in May, but the water levels are usually too high at most of the bodies of water in York to have the exposed mudflats necessary for shorebirds; so they don't usually stop in York in significant numbers at this time. Occasionally, a lake will have its water levels drawn down far enough in May for mudflats to be exposed.  If this is the case, be sure to check that spot regularly for shorebirds. Typically, Lake Redman Boardwalk is the best spot to see the shorebirds during this month, especially those with longer legs.
Links for More Information

RECENT EVENTS

Christmas Bird Count 2022
December 17 marked the 123rd time that a CBC was held, making it the nation's longest-running community science bird project. York’s CBC again centered on Lake Marburg in Codorus State Park. On this partly cloudy day, 24 birders composed of 8 teams set out to count the number of birds and species within our 7.5 mile radius. At the end of the day, we tallied 73 species and 7,069 birds. The number of species has been fairly consistent over the last four years ranging between 72 and 75. Unusual birds included Wilson’s Snipe and an Osprey. Not found on this day were Wild Turkeys. Most of the birders met around noon for a break at the Codorus Park Office for a chile lunch and a discussion of what we found. The results of our CBC will be included with the data base with Audubon National covering North and South America, which will be analyzed for trends, now especially a concern with climate change.


Gettysburg Field Trip 2023
The birds were scarce but the stories were fascinating as licensed Gettysburg guide Dave Weaver led 19 YAS members and guests in a carpool caravan through the Gettysburg battlefield.
Don't Forget!

WINGS OVER WATER

Whitaker Center - November 17, 2022 - July 30, 2023

As the glaciers retreated at the end of the last ice age, they left an astounding gift of connected rivers, lakes and wetlands across the heartland of North America. Today, these largely unknown water highways remain an oasis for sustaining wildlife. From the herds of bison that still roam the Great Plains to the vital honeybees that pollinate our crops and especially for the millions of magnificent birds that migrate along these “flyways.”

Wings Over Water tells the story of the epic journeys of three amazing bird families – the Sandhill Crane, the Yellow Warbler and the Mallard Duck – with extraordinary footage of their fascinating behaviors. 

Audiences will be captivated by the triumphs and challenges of these remarkable creatures that defy all odds and soar across mountains, deserts, cities and forests as they head home to raise their young.

for tickets or more info:
https://www.whitakercenter.org/events/detail/wings-over-water
The Birds say - 2022 Bird Seed Sale a Success!!!

If you happen to see a bunch of overweight birds around this winter, it probably has something to do with the 20,000+ pounds of bird seed that was distributed at the York Audubon Society's recently held 2022 Bird Seed Sale.

Pickup day was Saturday, October 29. The sale was  orchestrated by Kyle Groft, who has assumed responsibilty for the sale from long time leader of 38 years, Dick Humbert. (Dick will be around for at least the next 38 years, in case Kyle needs some assistance). A motley crew of volunteers ran the efficient pickup operation, loading the bird seed orders into customers vehicles in very efficient fashion. The only delays were caused when old time friends would meet, and find it necessary to engage in some friendly banter, briefly holding up the line!

 
Bill DelGrande

We say goodbye to York Audubon Society's Bill Del Grande, who spent most of his 85 years immersed in the world of birding. Bill joined a bird club as a young sixth grader, fascinated by feathered beauties. As a young adult, he joined the York County Bird Club in the 1960's, where he met life-long birding friend Dick Humbert. When the club transitioned into York Audubon Society in 1977, he and Dick took active roles in the organization, Bill became vice-president for a term, and he coordinated the annual Christmas Bird Count for 30 years.

Bill's passion for birds, combined with his friendship with Dick Humbert, became a fascinating adventure! With their wives' blessings, they traveled all over North America for many years, tallying common and rare birds while sharing unforgettable experiences. Bill's record revealed more than 740 North American bird species. They both agreed that their favorite trip was also the most rugged...the 1998 trip to Attu Island, Alaska. That year ("The Big Year") brought strong winds and rare birds across the Bering Sea from Siberia, thrilling all of the birders, making them forget about the very primitive living conditions on Attu. 

Bill's interests also led him to become a Penn State Master Gardener. He volunteered countless hours at Rudy Park's trial gardens, planted beautiful gardens at his home in York, and attracted a wide variety of birds to his neighborhood. His gardens were selected to be on the native plant tour sponsored by Penn State Master Gardeners. Bill introduced friends to the love of birding and gardening, including his next-door neighbor Carolyn Mathur.

Though Bill is gone from our sight, his legacy will always be a part of all of us.
Rest easy, friend.
CHUCK KLING

York Audubon Society's Chuck Kling left us so suddenly on Wednesday, October 5, perhaps to find the elusive Ivory-billed Woodpecker and the long-extinct Passenger Pigeon. Ever the birder, we fondly remember Chuck with binoculars around his neck wherever he happened to be. The former Marine from Oregon found his way to York, and eventually to the love of his life, Darlene. Chuck's life journey seemed to take him to exciting places for birding, including Jamaica, Costa Rica, Galapagos, Magee Marsh, and countless other destinations.... always with his eyes to the sky.

Chuck volunteered for York County Parks for years, handling tasks like clearing trails at Nixon Park and monitoring a bluebird trail along the rail trail. Chuck also participated in York Audubon Society's annual Christmas Bird Count. In his quiet, friendly manner, Chuck helped other birders to spot rarities like the Dickcissel and Northern Waterthrush.

Chuck's vital information may appear like this.....1945-2022....., but he fit so many fascinating adventures between those two dates, living a life he chose. We will think of Chuck when our eyes are on the sky. Safe journey, our friend! ♥

View a copy of our Spring 2023 newsletter and 2022 - 2023 calendar of events
2023_spring_newsletter.pdf
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2022_2023_yas_calendar.pdf
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WEEKLY Bird Walks in York County!

Join us for an outdoor adventure at different locations in York County each week as we explore to see what birds are in the area.  These are informal walks and anyone with an interest in nature is welcome to attend, regardless of skill level or membership status.  In fact, these walks are an excellent opportunity to learn about birding and nature. There are always some more experienced members on the walk who are  eager to share their knowledge.  No registration required. Click below for details.
A hummingbird gathers nesting material at the Lake Redman boardwalk.
(photo by Michelle Wittig)

Need something to do? Try out a new birding area!
The York County Birding Trail Map was an initiative long considered, but made a reality by former vice-president Andrew Wolfgang. yorkaudubon.org 
provides detailed information on 20+ locations including directions, unusual birds, best times of year, trails and other useful information.

York County Birding Trail Brochure - (printable PDF)
click the button to go to the map!

York County Bird Trail Project:  Signs have been placed at most of the 20+ birding sites that are identified and described on our web site. Thanks to financial support from National Audubon and York County Parks and Recreation, signs have been procured and located so that the visitor will know they are at a special birding site and that more information can be found on our website about their location and other sites. 


york_county_birding_trail_brochure.pdf
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York Audubon recent activities have included a visit to Gardener of the Owl Valley, a Go Green in the City event, ECO event at Codorus state park, and birding on the Lake Redman Boardwalk, where we met up by chance with the 4-H Wildlife Watchers.
In a replay of our February 2022 meeting, Master Gardener Deb Carman covers the habitat elements necessary for the survival of butterflies from egg to adult. The important ecological role that our native plants and butterflies play in food webs, especially concerning nesting birds, are highlighted. Multiple species of butterflies commonly occurring in PA are profiled.

(Click below to view the recording of the meeting)

drive.google.com/file/d/1zd_W8MyuS_7aO95I-Bg4TJ_e_HRjdmG5/view?usp=sharing
Re-live recent presentations

View "SAMBURU SAFARI: A Stunning Side of Kenya" presented by  Adrian Binns, of Wildside Nature Tours. Just click on the button below!
View the entire  webinar from Wildside Nature Tours, titled "Trinidad and Tobago: A Relaxed Introduction to South America". Just click on the button below!
 
View "Birding in Big Bend National Park" presented by Lee Hoy via Wildside Nature Tours by clicking on the following button.

View "U.S. National Park Treasures: Yellowstone, Tetons, and Glacier" presented by Kevin Loughlin, president and owner of Wildside Nature Tours by clicking on the following button.

View " Botswana: Okavango Delta Wildlife" presented by  Adrian Binns, of Wildside Nature Tours. Just click on the button below!

Garden Day at John Rudy County Park

York Audubon's first foray of the new season was the annual Garden Day at John Rudy County Park, when the public can tour the pollinator gardens, vegetable gardens, listen to seminars, get free plants, taste garden delicacies, and visit booths. The York County Master Gardeners play a huge role in this yearly venture, volunteering many hours of planting, tending, and harvesting. We all enjoyed the fruits of their labor today. Dick Humbert, Michelle Wittig, Bill del Grande and I spread the word about the York Audubon Society!




Neither rain, nor snow, nor heat of day shall deter us from watching birds!

Our 4 scheduled walks for the spring have been completed. They were very well attended, even though we endured a snow squall while walking amidst early spring wildflowers at the river, and showers on the boardwalk at Lake Redman, followed by an early taste of summer heat at Hopewell! What could Mother Nature possibly have in store for us next!
Don't forget to visit the York Audubon feeders at Pinchot Park
(photos courtesy Sherry Lookofsky)

Have an unusual bird sighting?

An unusual bird for the area, an unusual time of year for a bird to be seen, or maybe the first of the season as the migration season begins!
Report it on our new Birding Blog!
Members can enter their sightings (text only) on the blog for other members to read and comment on.
Click the button below to check it out!
Baltimore Bird Club's Martin Brazeau has created a new website! If you loved his bird identification video quiz, and enjoyed his presentation at our December meeting, you will love this!

Birding videos and quizzes, topics on bird songs, warblers and more! Check it out! Thanks Marty!

What to do if you find an injured bird ?

Try contacting Pennsylvania Association of Wildlife Rehbilitators
https://pawr.com/

To contact us by email, or to unsubscribe from our email list, send a note to:

audubonyorkpa@gmail.com

Still need something to do? Try out the wealth of resources available from the American Birding Association (ABA) website, including tips on birding from home.

https://www.aba.org/
Please Note Our NEW MEETING LOCATION 

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH of YORK,
925 S. GEORGE ST, YORK, PA
(just north of York Hospital)

Regular Monthly Meetings are free and open to the public - Come join us!

 



Peter Kaestner shared some of his marvelous worldwide adventures at our March York Audubon Society meeting. The audience loved listening to his near-death experiences of birding in many remote and beautiful places! His life list is at 9,450 so far, with a goal of an unfathomable 10,000 birds! Peter is pictured here with Tish Swam and Carolyn Mathur.
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Our February 2020 meeting featured Mark Kocher, veteran volunteer for local raptor rehabilitator Mitzie Eaton. He wowed the  crowd tonight with live raptors and his many colorful stories about them. We got up close with a beautiful Red-tailed Hawk, a cute little Screech Owl and a handsome Barred Owl!





The crowd was huge for the York Audubon January meeting, when George Schardt presented "The Desert Southwest~ A Birder's Paradise". His photos and stories were spellbinding, and humorous parts were charming! We applauded a spectacular program! Pictured are George and his wife Darlene.

Images from the Desert Southwest
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Our November 19 meeting featured the very talented photographer Bob Anderhalt (right), show here with York Audubon vice-president Andrew Wolfgang. Bob narrowed over 17,000 pictures down to his 100 best in order to present "The Birds of Magee Marsh". The photographers in the audience were enlightened on some of the techniques used to shoot the pictures, while the bird lovers were just "wowed" by the gorgeous photos. Thanks Bob for a great evening!
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York County geologist Jeri Jones (left) enlightened us about the many fascinating geological features of our county. He will lead a field trip to the Chickies Rock area on Saturday, Oct. 26. If you're interested, call him at 717-887-7103. Jeri is pictured here with our Audubon vice-president Andrew Wolfgang.

http://www.jonesgeo.com/


At our September 2019 meeting, Cliff Beittel, acclaimed bird photographer who now lives in Sanibel, Florida, offered tips on capturing the best possible nature photos. He revealed secrets about lighting, timing, subjects, equipment, and more. Check out his amazing photos at:

https://www.cliffbeittel.com/index
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Cliff Beittel, shown here with Program Director extraordinaire Tish Swam, and the York chapters own photography buff, Bob Anderhalt.
Shown above are just some of Cliff's cover photos found on several national magazines.
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Guest speaker Doc Schoch with YAS President Carolyn Mathur following Doc's extremely interesting and informative presentation entitled

“Damsels and Dragons—Flies, that is!”

at the May 2019 chapter meeting.
Membership application for York Audubon Society - print and mail
york_audubon_membership_application.pdf
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York Audubon Society is a tax-exempt charitable organization under IRS regulations [section 501(c)(3)]
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