This morning (6/2/2012), Della and I led the annual Rockland Audubon trip to Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge (Ulster Co.) and vicinity. The early morning rain discouraged all but four birders. But despite the poor turnout and soggy start, it turned out to be a productive day. The trip highlight was the five Upland Sandpipers in view at one time. All were located along the fence line at the back of the second paddock east of the Bates Ln and Hoagerburgh intersection (near the first barn on the right). We felt bad for the young woman who had been searching for Uplands all morning. She left about 5 minutes prior and our search to find her was unsuccessful.
Overall, 64 species were seen. In addition to the Upland Sandpiper, highlights include: Eastern Meadowlark, Bobolink, American Kestrel, Northern Harrier, Greater Yellowlegs, Brown Thrasher, and a colony of Bank Swallows. Most of the birds seen were along Bates Lane and the Wallkill River. The Shawangunk Refuge itself is now open, at least partially, after the restoration work but we found limited access and few birds. Currently, access is only to the point along the refuge entrance road just past the pond, and at the Galeville town park. According to a local birder we met at the town park, the new 3-mile walking trail around the perimeter should be open soon. Alan & Della Wells Rockland Audubon Society -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/[email protected]/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
