Four TUNDRA SWANS were along Horsemill Lane on the north side of Mecox
Bay (Suffolk Co.) on Saturday afternoon.
I have been meaning to mention to Region 10 folks to keep an eye
skyward for the first returning TURKEY VULTURES, but I received word
today that Mary Laura Lamont saw two in Northville on Jan 26. This
species has been appearing on Long Island in late January-early
February in recent years and I believe these are north-bound birds and
not merely winter wanderers. That would make this species the earliest
spring migrant, about 1-3 weeks ahead of Red-winged Blackbirds. I'd
love to hear from other observers who can corroborate or refute this
hypothesis of early migration by Vultures.
Sunday is the last day of duck-hunting season on much of Long Island,
although the Snow Goose, Canada Goose and, believe it or not, American
Crow season continue for a while in many places. I mention this
because I have noticed that after hunting season waterfowl change
their local distribution and daily activity patterns.
Good birding to all, Hugh
Hugh McGuinness
The Ross School
18 Goodfriend Drive
East Hampton, NY 11937
[email protected]
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