December 21 - New York Golden Eagle

Today started with an attempt for Golden Eagle.  This species has been over-wintering annually along the Hudson River and surrounding area for many years now.  One of the most reliable spots for viewing the Golden Eagle is the Storm King State Park parking area on Route 9W North in the town of Cornwall-on-the-Hudson (41.423057, -74.000846).

Fortunately for us we waited just over 30 minutes for the Eagle to make its appearance, which happened shortly after 08:15 am.
I first spotted the bird over a distant saddle and the bird continued coming closer, finally perching on the rock face to the north of the parking area.  This spot offered spectacular views of the Golden Hackles.
We then watched the bord for several minutes as it flew around gaining altitide before flying overhead westerly to the Storm Kink area.

 

December 15 - Bergen County Round-Up

Today's birding was brief but successful. We got the three county targets we were after.  First up was the Greater White-Fronted Goose at Overpeck.

next we stopped in Ridgewood at the Duck Pond for the adult Red-Headed Woodpecker.


Finally we stopped at the Celery Farm to get a look at the Rufous Hummingbird coming to a private feeder.

December 8 - State Rarities Chase Day

Today we went all the way south to chase the rarities in Cape May.  Our first target was the Mountain Bluebird, however we did not see it. Later we found the reason..evidently the Bluebird was predated last evening and all that was left was a file of feathers !

We also made a stop in the Villas to have a look at Harvey's special guest...a Black-Chinned Hummingbird !

Fortune gave us another chance as a male Painted Bunting was reported at a nearby home.  While the bird was not there when we arrived, after a short wait I spotted the bird coming into the feeder:

On our way back north we cut across the state westward and made a stop at Burlington County's Croft Farm.  Here we joined outher birders and quickly relocated the cooperative Le Conte's Sparrow which had been found here last weekend.
This is just the second time I've seen this species, with my last view back in 2009 !