Bird number 3 for my Onondaga County big year
Red-tailed Hawk
1/1/2025
#birds #birding #birdwatching

Earlier today I heard a rare bird alert for a Eared Grebe not too far from were I was, luckily it was still there when I arrived and was able to get some nice looks at this unexpected bird. #birds #birding #syracuseny

Snowy Owls seem to have irrupted into New York! These owls are very sensitive so it is important to keep your distance. This gal didn’t appreciate the large tractor trailer that zoomed behind us while we were on the side of the road. #birds #birding

For a long time I have wanted to do a New York big year. Unfortunately, do to several reasons I don’t know if that will ever be truly feasible.

So instead, next year I will be doing a county big year! I hope to reach 230, which will be quite the challenge! Excited for this new year and many birds!

If you see a brown-backed thrush in NY in the winter months, chances are it’s a Hermit Thrush, a species who tends to be hardier and fine with switching to a berry and fruit based diet. Look for their rusty rump and tail to confirm their id!
#birds #birding #birdwatching #newyork

While New York is out of the typical range of this Yellow-throated Warbler, there are several doven reports of this species throughout the state, predominately in the New York City/Long Island area.
#birding #birds #birdwatching #warblers

This isn’t a bird you would typically find anywhere in New York, the Cave Swallow! Weather and wind patterns are a good thing to pay attention to, as certain conditions are known to push certain birds into an area, like what happened with this bird.
#birding #birdwatching #birds