This morning I went with some friends to Long Island's Great River, New York "Timber Creek Golf course" to see a Dovekie. Typically this tiny bird is seen only at sea, as I did very briefly about two weeks ago during the pelagic trip out of Freeport.
However last week's storm resulted in several regional reports of these birds being found inland, including the one at the Golf Course. The Dovekie was staying inside a marina, perhaps attracted to the bubblers used there to prevent the water from freezing. Whatever the reason for his weeklong stay here, the bird was no more than 6-8 feet from the dock wall which resulted in the best views one could ever have of this tiny alcid.
Credit: http://www.youtube.com/user/birder2010
After the Dovekie, we looked at the Tundra Swan who is on another pond at the golf course. Next we visited Capri Lake is West Islip and enjoyed the diversity of ducks there. Although not as many species as typical, we did see Redhead, Canvasback, Shoveler, Greater Scaup, Black Duck & Mallard, and Common Meganser.
Our final stop today was the Hunter Island section of Orchard Beach, which is located in Pelham Bay Park. Here we were able to view a Northern Saw-Whet Owl, however we dipped on spotting a reported Long-Eared Owl.
Overall a fantastic day, and my friend John got to enjoy a life bird in the Dovekie.
sharing with you what my eyes see