Sunday, December 16, 2012

Carolina vs. Black-capped Chickadee

by Vincent Smith


One bird that almost all easterners recognize and enjoy is the Chickadee. What some people in our locale do not know is that it is possible to have two Chickadee species stopping by our feeders in winter. People frequently assume that the Chickadees observed around SE Pennsylvania are Black-capped. In truth most of our local chickadees are Carolina. Black-cappeds come south in what is called irruptive years. Irruptive years occur when a lack of food forces Black-cappeds south.

How do you tell the Black-capped from the Carolina? First clue is geography. The soft dividing line between Black-capped and Carolina runs from Palm, PA in northern Montgomery County through Doylestown, PA. Any bird in the Appalachian mountain zone is most likely a Black-cappped. Birds within 12 miles north or south of the intersection line are possible hybrid between the two.

A second clue is song. Black-cappeds tend to have a slower, deeper chickadee song. The fee-beeyee call is also slower. Carolinas tend to have rapid and incessant chickadee song. The call is more fee-bee-fee-bay.

A third clue is size. Black-capped Chickadees always look to me like a Chickadee on steroids. Their head and necks look huge. Their tails are longer. To me the Carolina looks dainty and small headed.

A fourth clue is markings. Black-capped Chickadees have a white hockey stick that seems to border the outer primary feathers (flight feathers) that run into the primary coverts (the feathers that cover the start of the primary feathers). The outer tail feathers many also show a white tone. Black-cappeds in general are much more contrasting, especially from the back. I have a tendency to look for contrast between the white at the cheek (auricles) and the black crown and nape (back of neck). Black-cappeds usually show a sharp demarcation between the black nape, white cheek, and brownish or olive-gray mantle. Carolinas have less white along primary feathers, show a gray mantle that seems to seep into the white cheek (auricles). You can also look to see if the black bib is clean (Carolina) or messy (Black-capped).

So when I am walking into the woods trying to figure out what Chickadee I have, I think: What time of year is it? (Most Spring, Summer, and Fall birds are most likely Carolina); Where am I at? (Geography); What song do I hear? (fast or slow). When I see the bird, I look for the size; how much contrasting I see from the side and the back; and does it have a white hockey stick at the flight feathers. So the next time you are in the woods or checking birds at your feeder see if you can see the difference between these two delightful little species.

In the pictures below see if you can see the differences.

Carolina Chickadee 
Carolina Chickadee
Black-capped Chickadee
Black-capped Chickadee
Black-capped Chickadee

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Community Kids Connecting to Heinz Refuge

by Debbie Beer

John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, the largest urban wildlife refuge in the 550+ refuge system, is not only an Audubon Important Bird Area (IBA), but a critically important resource for hundreds of urban Philadelphia youth who otherwise have little opportunity to experience nature.  Refuge staff and volunteers renew their commitment to environmental education with increased outreach to nearby Eastwick schools, to strengthen community connections, and inspire stewardship of the public lands in their own backyard.

 Eastwick community teachers, mentors, and leaders are embracing the environmental education opportunities at Heinz Refuge, and working hard to develop processes and programs to engage as many children as possible.  PA Young Birders [www.payoungbirders.org] has partnered with the Refuge to help provide bird/nature programming and hands-on leadership with students.  On a crisp Autumn day in mid-November 2012, over 35 fifth-grade science-class students walked over to the refuge from nearby Pepper Middle School, to take their science lessons outside!  Mariana Bergerson, Deputy Refuge Manager, led a program about solar energy, and I led a bird-nature walk.  The students were divided into groups of girls and boys, respectively, and each group experienced both activities.



 On the bird-nature walk, we observed with eyes and ears, encountering many experiences to hold our attention, while learning how the refuge's natural habitats provide important resources for a wide variety of wildlife.  The girls found a dead mouse on the trail, and after a few initial shrieks, were completely fascinated by the creature, and listened closely as Refuge Manager, Gary Stolz, explained how it might've landed there (likely by a predatory raptor that had caught it, and then dropped it).  They observed a Great Blue Heron at close range, marvelling how it stood shock-still for a long time, patiently hunting for fish in the impoundment.  The boys discovered several nests visible in the bare trees, including a robin's nest and squirrels' nests made of leaves.  They saw pairs of Mallards feeding a few yards away, noting the difference between male and female.  A nearby dead Snapping Turtle, with partially exposed shell, sparked an interesting discussion about turtles hibernating in mud; it was likely this individual did not get down deep enough before a cold snap, and it froze to death.  Fuzzy poison ivy vines were identified on many trees, and Stinging Nettle plants shown, with their tiny thorns that cause an itch.  




 All the students collected colorful autumn leaves, mostly Sweet Gum and maple types, and put them into their field journals to make leaf rubbings.  The students asked great questions, made astute observations, penned interesting notes and drawings in their journals, and showed great enthusiasm for learning about nature.





I'm amazed by the students' energy, enthusiasm and appreciation for birds, turtles, snakes, trees, plants and habitats.  I've heard children say, "I've never been in the woods before," and "this is the best nature walk ever!"  I'm delighted to play a role in connecting Eastwick community kids to Heinz Refuge, and inspiring the next generation to be good stewards of our precious public lands, particularly those in urban areas.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Field Report: Welkinweir, October 20, 2012

On Saturday, October 20, Rick Keyser lead a bird walk at Welkinweir that saw 42 species, including great views of a Blue-Headed Vireo that was voted "bird of the walk". The complete list, as submitted to eBird, follows:

Canada Goose  25
Great Blue Heron  1
Black Vulture  2
Turkey Vulture  13
Red-tailed Hawk  1
Mourning Dove  7
Red-bellied Woodpecker  2
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1
Downy Woodpecker   3
Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted)
Eastern Phoebe  3
Blue-headed Vireo 1
Blue Jay  2
American Crow  4
Tree Swallow  2
Carolina Chickadee  2
Tufted Titmouse  2
White-breasted Nuthatch   3
Carolina Wren  4
Ruby-crowned Kinglet  4
Eastern Bluebird  10
American Robin  25
Gray Catbird  2 
Northern Mockingbird  1 
European Starling  7
Palm Warbler  1 
Palm Warbler (Western)  1
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle)  40
Eastern Towhee  1
Chipping Sparrow  8
Field Sparrow  1
Song Sparrow 7
Swamp Sparrow  1
White-throated Sparrow  10
Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored)  2
Northern Cardinal   5
Red-winged Blackbird  8
Common Grackle  3
Brown-headed Cowbird  5
Purple Finch   1
House Finch  3
American Goldfinch  9


Also spotted: a possible Orange-crowned Warbler, Red Admiral, Red Squirrel

Monday, October 22, 2012

Field Report: Exton Park, October 21, 2012

On Sunday, October 21, Brian Henderson lead a bird walk at Exton Park that saw 54 species. A good number of waterfowl, raptors, sparrows, and finches were spotted. The complete list, as submitted to eBird follows:


Canada Goose  170
American Black Duck  3
Mallard  36
Northern Shoveler  1
Ruddy Duck  1
Great Blue Heron  2
Black Vulture  1
Turkey Vulture  6
Sharp-shinned Hawk  2
Cooper's Hawk  1
Red-shouldered Hawk  1
Red-tailed Hawk  8
Killdeer 1
Rock Pigeon  1
Mourning Dove  1
Belted Kingfisher  1
Red-bellied Woodpecker  2
Downy Woodpecker  1
Hairy Woodpecker  1
Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted)  1
Peregrine Falcon  1
Blue Jay  2
American Crow  100
Fish Crow  17
Tree Swallow  20
Carolina Chickadee  3
Black-capped Chickadee  1
Tufted Titmouse  3
Red-breasted Nuthatch  1
Carolina Wren  3
Ruby-crowned Kinglet  3
Eastern Bluebird  13
American Robin  24
Gray Catbird  2
Northern Mockingbird  4
European Starling  40
Cedar Waxwing  55
Palm Warbler (Yellow)  3
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle)  6
Chipping Sparrow  1
Field Sparrow  3
Savannah Sparrow  2
Song Sparrow  30
Swamp Sparrow  11
White-throated Sparrow  25
White-crowned Sparrow  6
Northern Cardinal  4
Red-winged Blackbird  40
Brown-headed Cowbird  10
Purple Finch  9
House Finch  3
Pine Siskin  3
American Goldfinch  15

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Field Report: Black Rock Sanctuary, October 20, 2012

On October 20, Vince Smith lead a bird walk at Black Rock Sanctuary that saw 40 species. The highlight was spotting seven sparrow species. The complete list, as submitted to eBird, follows:

Canada Goose  28
Wood Duck  1
Mallard  1
Black Vulture  8
Turkey Vulture  1
Sharp-shinned Hawk  2
Cooper's Hawk  1
Red-tailed Hawk  1
Red-bellied Woodpecker  5
Downy Woodpecker  3
Blue Jay  4
American Crow  5
Carolina Chickadee  6
Tufted Titmouse  1
White-breasted Nuthatch  2
Carolina Wren  7
Ruby-crowned Kinglet  5
Eastern Bluebird  2
American Robin  7
Gray Catbird  3
Northern Mockingbird  4
Brown Thrasher  1
European Starling  8
Common Yellowthroat  2
Palm Warbler  2
Yellow-rumped Warbler  6
Eastern Towhee  5
Chipping Sparrow  1
Field Sparrow  2
Song Sparrow  12
Swamp Sparrow  4
White-throated Sparrow  30
White-crowned Sparrow  2
Dark-eyed Junco  1
Northern Cardinal  8
Red-winged Blackbird  4
Common Grackle  1
Purple Finch  1
House Finch  3
American Goldfinch  1

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Eastwick Community Partners with John Heinz NWR to Preserve Green Space - Stand Up for Eastwick on October 9

In Spring 2012, the Friends of Heinz Refuge joined with Eastwick residents in southwest Philadelphia to form the Eastwick Friends & Neighbors Coalition.  This unprecendented partnership of community stake holders came together in response to a high-density apartment construction proposal threatening 128 acres of green space adjacent to Heinz Refuge - one of the largest tracts of open land in Philadelphia still available for development.  The Korman Company has proposed to build 722 rental apartment units with 1,034 parking spaces on 35 acres; the fate of the remaining 93 acres is hinged on this project, as the result of a 2006 settlement agreement between Korman and the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority (PRA).  

The community commitment to opposing this development and preserving Eastwick's environmental resources reflects tremendous resilience amidst historical hardship and injustice.  In the 1950's, the PRA seized 2500 acres, including these lands, by condemnation and eminent domain. 10,000 residents were displaced from one of the most peacefully-integrated, culturally-diverse urban communities in the country.  Residents resettled elsewhere while new homes were built by Korman on swamps filled in by silt, cinder and river dredge spoils.  Homes have subsided due to unstable foundations, and residents endure significant, consistent flooding.  Additionally, Eastwick is home to the Clearview Landfill, a yet-unremediated superfund site which operated for two decades through the 1970's, emitting unknown quantities of toxic contaminants into Darby Creek and adjacent lands. 

The Eastwick Friends & Neighbors Coalition is committed to advocating for environmentally, economically and socially sustainable future for Eastwick, preserving maximum contiguous green space within the 128-acre parcel.  Korman's development proposal lacks community input, sustainability, innovation and stormwater management plans.  It is inconsistent with Philadelphia's progressive initiatives promoting smart green development, sustainability, and naturally-based stormwater management techniques.  A development of this magnitude would severely undermine Heinz Refuge ability to mitigate flooding, absorb ground pollutants, enhance clean air, and protect natural resources. 

The Eastwick Friends & Neighbors Coalition, with broad support from John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, Audubon PA, Sierra Club, Delaware Riverkeeper Network, Clean Air Council and others, urges all supporters to Stand Up for Eastwick, and attend a critically-important City Council Hearing on Tuesday, October 9, at 10 AM, in 4th floor Philadelphia City Hall.  Your presence will show city officials the importance of green space in our city, for the health of Eastwick residents as well as our entire city.  For more information, check website:  www.eastwickfriends.wordpress.com.


Sunday, September 30, 2012

Ursinus Students Help with Invasive Plant Removal at Meng


Valley Forge Audubon Society would like to give a special thanks to Ursinus College's Professor Patrick Hurley and his Environmental Science class. On September 27, the group, under the supervision of VFAS' Phil Smith, worked to remove invasive plants from the Eva R. Meng Bird Sanctuary and Wildlife Preserve. Among the invasives removed were Multi-flora Rose, Oriental BitterSweet, Japanese Honey Suckle, and Russian Olive.

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

"Open Air" a Possible Danger to Migrants and an Opportunity to Learn More

Open Air is a public art display by Canadian artist Raphael Lozano-Hemmer that will be presented September 20 through October 14. The main feature of this display is a series of powerful robotic searchlights that will respond to input from people's mobile devices to create light sculptures that will illuminate the night sky over the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia. But, despite the artist's and his backers' best intentions, the timing of this display could not be worse. Late September is the peak of fall migration, when thousands of birds will be flying south through the night sky. Recent evidence has shown that migrating birds can become severely disoriented, even to the point of exhaustion and death, by artificial lights on their migration, and Open Air presents a danger to these birds. Upon learning of Open Air, Audubon Pennsylvania has been working with Lozano-Hemmer to lessen its impact, and in the process has been given an opportunity to further study the effects of artificial light on migrating birds.

Science is just beginning to understand how birds navigate during their complex migration. Songbirds and other smaller species of birds migrate at night (as opposed to raptors and waterfowl, which can be seen migrating during the day). When flying at night, birds use the light from the setting sun, moon, and stars as reference points. They are instinctively drawn to sources of light, including the artificial lights of cities and urban areas, and become reluctant to leave these areas. Floodlights and searchlights can be especially dangerous to migrating birds. The birds fly into the lights and, driven by instinct, refuse to leave, essentially becoming "trapped" in the light. The birds will continue flying, often to the point of exhaustion. Disoriented birds also run the risk of dying from collisions with windows and buildings. This was seen in New York City at the Tributes in Light display at the Ground Zero Memorial in 2004.

There is still a lot to learn about the dangers artificial lights pose to migrating birds and most people are completely unaware of it. In fact, most people are unaware of the fact that birds fly at night during migration. The artist Raphael Lozano-Hemmer was among them when he created Open Air. By the time Audubon Pennsylvania learned of the display, it was already too late to reschedule it to a time after the peak of fall migration. Since then Lozano-Hemmer has been working with Audubon to lessen Open Air's impact on birds, and Audubon has taken the event as an opportunity to learn more about artificial light's impact on bird migration.

Working with three scientists who have extensive experience researching how birds respond to light, Dr. J. Alan Clark (Fordham University), Dr. Susan Elbin (NYC Audubon), and Dr. Chris Sheppard (American Bird Conservancy), Audubon Pennsylvania will have a three pronged monitoring system in place during Open Air's displays. Volunteers and birders will be on the ground looking for birds through their binoculars and spotting scopes, keeping a close eye for any birds trapped in the beams of light. Acoustic recorders will also be in place to track any of the calls birds use when migrating. A small-scale avian radar system, MERLIN XS25200e Avian Radar System, will also be used to track the movement patterns of individual migrants, including altitude and flight direction, as well as the total number of migrants passing through its radar beams. The objective of using this radar equipment is to quantify the magnitude, direction, and altitude of migrants over Philadelphia. In addition to the possibility of helping understand any potential impact of the Open Air installation on migrating birds, this deployment will be one of the very first studies showing how birds respond to urban landscapes during migration and help understand the magnitude of migration through a major metropolitan area. Such information is sorely needed to help scientists and urban managers understand and mitigate the impacts urban landscapes have on migrating birds.

Following Audubon Pennsylvania's recommendations, Lozano-Hemmer has planned several precautions that should lessen the impact Open Air will have on migrants.  The light show will feature regular black-out periods when no lights are lit, so that any trapped birds have an opportunity to fly away. The display will also refrain from using static light beams since birds are probably less likely to become trapped by moving lights. The light beams will also avoid buildings and other structures that birds could collide with. The engineers operating Open Air will be in contact with the Audubon staff and volunteers on the ground so the display can be shut down if any birds are reported as being in danger.

Hopefully these measures will prevent any birds from dying. But at least the situation has given scientists a unique opportunity to study artificial light's impact on birds and a chance to better understand what happens when birds migrate through urban landscapes. The information these scientists hope to gather during this project may lead to significant advancements in the field – and the stakes are very high for migrating birds and for people, plants, animals, and ecosystems that depend on the birds.

You can help. Audubon Pennsylvania is looking for volunteers who will be able to monitor the area for birds during Open Air. They are also seeking donations to cover the costs of the radar and sound equipment. You can learn more on their website.



Tuesday, September 4, 2012

2012 Spring Bird Count Results


Vincent Smith, Compiler

On June 2, 2012 Valley Forge Audubon Society conducted it’s 27th Spring Bird Count. I would like to thank each of the 11 Section Leaders and 63 Volunteers for making 2012 a major success. The weather was great and the birds came in with a good showing. This year brought in 94 species which is slightly higher than the 27 year average of 92 species. The total number of birds counted was the second highest on record with 11,299 birds (previous high total was 2008 with 11,497). Most exciting is that our volunteer numbers have been 60 people or more since 2008, (average is 50 volunteers).

This year demonstrated some of the highest totals ever counted for some species. Some of those increases reflect real increases in birds, but some is probably attributed to the hard work and commitment of our section leaders and volunteers. We have more eyes and ears out there finding the birds in their territories. In my time as compiler, I have been amazed to see the consistency of our leader reports. For many, the species numbers for each section are within few of years past (exceptions are species that have large fluctuations such as Canada Geese and American Robin).

First the good news. Numerous species observed this year were the highest counts ever recorded. The chart listed below shows the numbers for each species and the average over the 27 year count.

Species2012Average
Great Blue Heron4011
Black Vulture8912
Turkey Vulture14354
Cooper's Hawk92
Red-tailed Hawk6732
Belted Kingfisher2912
Hairy Woodpecker2410
Pileated Woodpecker7 (ties with 2011)1
Eastern Phoebe5929
Great-crested Flycatcher5730
N. Rough-winged Swallow13354
Barn Swallow166101
Tufted Titmouse226110
White-breasted Nuthatch8426
Song Sparrow422245
Indigo Bunting10655
Red-winged Blackbird627273
Baltimore Oriole184103

Species that appear to be trending up are as follows:

Species2012Average
Double-crested Cormorant6 (late migrants- since 2003)3
Common Merganser2 (Present last 4 years)(Has bred)1
Bald Eagle2 (Present since 2006)0 (Breeds in our area)
Ruby-throated Hummingbird12 (double digits since 2007 - except 9 birds 20106
Fish Crow197
Blue Gray Gnatcatcher6123 (50 range last 4 years)


Now the bad news. Field nesting species, secondary growth species and warblers seem to be in decline. Field and secondary growth nesters appear to be trending down due to either natural succession or changes in habitat. Field nesters like Eastern Meadowlarks have few large expansive meadows left in our area. Any hayfields or meadows are either succeeding to brush or the mowing cycle prevents a successful nesting (Hayfields managed for birds should not be mowed until Mid-July to allow meadow species to nest. Unfortunately, in todays world, most farmers are mowing in June to get extra fodder). Successional species like Yellow-breasted Chat, Field Sparrow, Blue-winged Warbler and White-eye Vireo are losing habitat as brush returns to forest through natural succession (Valley Forge Audubon has recently received a grant to create early sucessional scrub habitat at three locations in the Ridely/Crum Creeks IBA). Wood Warblers appear to be in decline due to a combination of factors such as, broken forested areas, over-development, suburban sprawl, invasive species (plants and animals) people and their pets. Keep those kitties inside and dogs on leash. Common Grackles are in significant decline. Their decline may be tied to threats on their wintering grounds, namely the use of avian controls of blackbirds. Unfortunately, Common Grackles appear to be following the same trend as Rusty Blackbirds did in the 1990’s.

Here is a list of species either in decline or trending down:

Species2012Average
American Kestrel126 (In decline since 1995)
Ring-necked Pheasant05 (In decline since 1995)
Veery710
Blue-winged Warbler510
Kentucky Warbler02 (Not observed since 2009)
Yellow-breasted Chat01 (Not observed since 2003)
Eastern Meadowlark48
Common Grackle173345


Two of the rarer species observed on this year’s count were 2 Broad-winged Hawks, (Section 1 & 4) and a late White-throated Sparrow observed at a feeder in Section 5.

Again, I would like to thank all the section leaders (Mike Coulter, Rick Keyser, Bruce Piecukonis, Jan Gordon, Barbara Hiebsch, Debbie Beer, Lynn Roman, Tom Reeves, Joe Hudson, Edie Parnum ) and volunteers for making this year’s count a success.

Pencil into your calendars the Christmas Bird Count which will take place on December 22, 2012 this year.

Click here to download the complete 2012 Spring Bird Count stats.

Monday, September 3, 2012

Field Report: Bombay Hook NWR, August 26, 2012

On Sunday August 26, VFAS held a special birding trip to Bombay Hook NWR in Delaware. 43 species were spotted, including some good shorebirds such as Black-bellied Plover and American Avocet. The complete list, as submitted to eBird, follows:


Canada Goose  100
Wood Duck  3
Mallard  35
Blue-winged Teal  2
Northern Shoveler  12
Green-winged Teal  12
Double-crested Cormorant  2
Great Blue Heron  3
Great Egret  4
Snowy Egret  5
Glossy Ibis  1
Turkey Vulture  12
Osprey  1
Northern Harrier  1
Bald Eagle  4
Clapper Rail  2
Black-bellied Plover  1
Semipalmated Plover  12
American Avocet  36
Lesser Yellowlegs  8
Semipalmated Sandpiper  50
Western Sandpiper  1
Dunlin  1
Short-billed Dowitcher  25
Laughing Gull  25
Herring Gull  6
Great Black-backed Gull  4
Caspian Tern  1
Forster's Tern  7
Ruby-throated Hummingbird  2
Downy Woodpecker  1
Eastern Wood-Pewee  1
Eastern Phoebe  1
Eastern Kingbird  4
Tree Swallow  8
Carolina Chickadee  4
Carolina Wren  2
Northern Mockingbird  2
European Starling  20
Northern Cardinal  2
Blue Grosbeak  7
Red-winged Blackbird  4
American Goldfinch  6

Field Report: John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, August 25, 2012

On Saturday August 25, Vincent Smith lead a bird walk at the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove. 43 species were spotted, the highlight being four Red-breasted Nuthatches that were seen and heard in the same Norway Spruce at the same time. This is one of the earliest sightings of the species, which have recently been spotted in good numbers throughout the area The complete list, as submitted to eBird, follows:


Canada Goose  2
Mallard  5
Double-crested Cormorant  4
Great Blue Heron  2
Great Egret  1
Green Heron  6
Turkey Vulture  2
Spotted Sandpiper  1
Least Sandpiper  1
Mourning Dove  4
Chimney Swift  6
Ruby-throated Hummingbird  1
Belted Kingfisher  1
Red-bellied Woodpecker  1
Downy Woodpecker  4
Hairy Woodpecker  2
Northern Flicker  4
Eastern Wood-Pewee  5
Eastern Phoebe  1
Great Crested Flycatcher  1
Warbling Vireo  1
Red-eyed Vireo  1
Blue Jay  12
American Crow  4
Carolina Chickadee  6
Tufted Titmouse  3
Red-breasted Nuthatch  4
White-breasted Nuthatch  4
Carolina Wren  7
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher  1
Eastern Bluebird  3
American Robin  5
Gray Catbird  15
Black-and-white Warbler  2
Common Yellowthroat  2
American Redstart  1
Chipping Sparrow  3
Northern Cardinal  8
Rose-breasted Grosbeak  1
Common Grackle  25
Baltimore Oriole  2
House Finch  1
American Goldfinch  12

Sunday, August 19, 2012

Field Report: Exton Park Pond, August 19, 2012

Valley Forge Audubon Society holds a bird walk at Exton Park in West Whiteland Township on the morning of the third Sunday of every month. On August 19, Vincent Smith lead a group that saw thirty species of birds. The complete list, as submitted to eBird, follows:

Canada Goose  2
Great Blue Heron  1
Great Egret  1
Green Heron  1
Cooper's Hawk  1
Red-tailed Hawk  1
Mourning Dove  2
Ruby-throated Hummingbird  1
Belted Kingfisher  1
Downy Woodpecker  3
Eastern Kingbird  3
White-eyed Vireo  3
American Crow  34
Barn Swallow  9
Carolina Chickadee  2
House Wren  11
Carolina Wren  4
Eastern Bluebird  2
American Robin  2
Gray Catbird  22
European Starling  13
Cedar Waxwing  4
Common Yellowthroat  5
American Redstart  2
Song Sparrow  4
Northern Cardinal  3
Indigo Bunting  3
Red-winged Blackbird  10
Baltimore Oriole  2
American Goldfinch  21

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

VFAS Awarded Grant to Promote and Restore Early Successional Scrub Habitat

We're excited to announce that Valley Forge Audubon Society has received a $20,000 grant through Toyota's and the National Audubon Society's Together Green initiative. We'll be using this money in partnership with Audubon Pennsylvania, the Willistown Conservation Trust, The Achievement Project (TAP - a nonprofit after-school enrichment program from the city of Chester),  and the Charles A. Melton Arts and Education Center to promote the importance of early successional scrub habitat and to restore this habitat in areas of the Ridley/Crum Creek Important Bird Area.

While the environment of the northeastern United States is most often associated with forest and woodlands, fields and meadows are also an important habitat in the area. When forest trees are cleared by fire, flooding, weather, or age, the open spaces become fields and meadows. Eventually, these areas will turn back into forest as new plants begin to colonize the land. Early successional scrub habitat is the transition stage between meadow and forest.

Common Yellowthroats are one of many warbler species
that depend on scrub habitat. Photo by Vincent Smith
Characterized by low woody vegetation and herbaceous plants, early successional scrub habitat is extremely beneficial for juvenile survivorship of an extensive variety of bird species. The “Early Successional Scrub Habitat Awareness Initiative” will be an Innovation Grant-fueled effort to resuscitate the image of these vital natural areas, often disregarded and cleared, to produce a model that will provide an example and motivation for spreading the habitat. The plan will initially involve the development of early successional scrub habitat demonstration areas at three different sites in the Ridley/Crum Creek IBA: Ashbridge Preserve, Rushton Woods Preserve, and Ridley Creek State Park. Hands-on activities will include the removal of invasive plants and the addition of native shrubs, the mowing of grassland plots to make room for more native species, and fencing plots for deer protection. Bird surveys and banding will be an additional and critical component of the habitat restoration, and community engagement and education will occur throughout all stages of the initiative.

Brown Thrashers are another species associated
with scrub habitat. Photo by Vincent Smith
“The volunteers from the Melton Center and TAP, representing a broad range of ages, races, and backgrounds will be a revolutionary force with which to restore and raise awareness of early successional scrub habitat,” said Audubon Pennsylvania Important Bird Area Coordinator Brian Byrnes. “By involving urban and suburban volunteers and landowners in the creation of this model and by actively promoting its importance and replicability though workshops, brochures, and self-guided tours, we hope to shift area residents’ suburban mentality to a mindset that allows them to see the natural and ecological beauty of early successional scrub habitat.”

As part of this project, we'll be posting regularly to update our members and the community on its progress. We'll also be posting articles detailing the importance of early successional scrub habitat and the birds and other wildlife that depend on it for their survival. Anyone wishing to volunteer their time  for this project can contact VFAS through the contact page on our website or by calling us at 610-666-5593.

Since 2008, over $5.5 million in Together Green Innovation Grants funding has been awarded to more than 200 environmental projects nationwide. This year’s grant projects will receive over $1 million in funding and will involve more than 500 partner organizations nationwide. Many of the projects focus on engaging audiences that have traditionally been under-served by the conservation movement, from landowners to religious institutions to inner city students. For more details about the 2012 Audubon Toyota Together Green Innovation Grants projects, visit: www.togethergreen.org/grants.

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Field Report: John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, July 29, 2012

On Sunday, July 29, Vince Smith and Dan Sullivan lead a bird walk at the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove that saw 34 bird species. Here's the complete list, as submitted to eBird:

Canada Goose  5
Mallard  3
Great Blue Heron  1
Green Heron  3
Bald Eagle  1
Cooper's Hawk  1
Ring-billed Gull  1
Mourning Dove  4
Chimney Swift  5
Belted Kingfisher  3
Red-bellied Woodpecker  1
Downy Woodpecker  2
Northern Flicker  2
Eastern Phoebe  3
Eastern Kingbird  2
Blue Jay  3
American Crow  1
Barn Swallow  6
Carolina Chickadee  4
White-breasted Nuthatch  2
Carolina Wren  2
House Wren  2
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher  2
Eastern Bluebird  10
American Robin  6
Gray Catbird  9
European Starling  10
Common Yellowthroat  3
Chipping Sparrow  6
Northern Cardinal  3
Indigo Bunting  3
Common Grackle  1
House Finch  8
American Goldfinch  9

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Field Report: John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, July 14, 2012

On Saturday, July 14, Vince Smith lead a bird walk at the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove that counted 35 species. The complete list, as reported to eBird follows:


Canada Goose  24
Mallard  16
Great Blue Heron  2
Green Heron  5
Cooper's Hawk  3 (Adult male carried a bird to juvenile)
Killdeer  1
Chimney Swift  4
Downy Woodpecker  3
Eastern Wood-Pewee  2
Eastern Phoebe  3
Warbling Vireo  1
Red-eyed Vireo  3
Blue Jay  2
American Crow  2
Northern Rough-winged Swallow  1
Tree Swallow  1
Barn Swallow  10
Carolina Chickadee  2
Tufted Titmouse  3
White-breasted Nuthatch  2
Carolina Wren  4
House Wren  3
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher  3
Eastern Bluebird  4
Wood Thrush  3
American Robin  11
Gray Catbird  7
Common Yellowthroat  4
Chipping Sparrow  5
Song Sparrow  11
Northern Cardinal  7
Indigo Bunting  4
Common Grackle  1
House Finch  3
American Goldfinch  5

Monday, June 25, 2012

Field Report: Exton Park, June 17, 2012


On June 17, 2012, Vince Smith lead a bird walk at Exton Park in West Whiteland Township. 37 species were spotted including Willow Flycatcher, White-eyed Vireo, American Redstart, and Orchard Oriole. The complete list, as submitted to eBird follows:
Wood Duck  2
Great Blue Heron  1
Green Heron  1
Turkey Vulture  6
Rock Pigeon  20
Mourning Dove  4
Chimney Swift  1
Belted Kingfisher  1
Downy Woodpecker  4
Willow Flycatcher  5
Great Crested Flycatcher  1
Eastern Kingbird  1
White-eyed Vireo  3
Warbling Vireo  2
American Crow  3
Fish Crow  1
Northern Rough-winged Swallow  1
Tree Swallow  3
Barn Swallow  5
Tufted Titmouse  4
Carolina Wren  1
House Wren  3
American Robin  10
Gray Catbird  12
Northern Mockingbird  2
European Starling  40
Cedar Waxwing  1
Common Yellowthroat  7
American Redstart  1
Yellow Warbler  10
Song Sparrow  6
Northern Cardinal  6
Indigo Bunting  2
Red-winged Blackbird  36
Common Grackle  7
Orchard Oriole  3
American Goldfinch  3

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Eva R. Meng Sanctuary Breeding Bird Census Results

Valley Forge Audubon Society would like to thank all the volunteers who came out for the first Eva R. Meng Bird Sanctuary and Wildlife Preserve Breeding Bird Count.  We observed 34 species at the preserve on June 9 from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Three species which stood out were (12) Ovenbirds, (17) Woodthrush and (4) Pileated Woodpeckers. We had wonderful looks at a juvenile Pileated Woodpecker perched on branch in clear view.  Of course anytime one sees and hears Scarlet Tanagers there is never a complaint. If you want to participate in next years count look for the listing in our Calendar of Events. The complete list of birds, as reported to eBird follows:


Great Blue Heron  3
Black Vulture  2
Turkey Vulture  3
Red-tailed Hawk  2
Mourning Dove  2
Red-bellied Woodpecker  10
Downy Woodpecker  5
Hairy Woodpecker  2
Northern Flicker  3
Pileated Woodpecker  4
Eastern Wood-Pewee  4
Great Crested Flycatcher  3
Red-eyed Vireo  2
Blue Jay  10
American Crow  3
Barn Swallow  1
Carolina Chickadee  12
Tufted Titmouse  7
White-breasted Nuthatch  7
Carolina Wren  3
House Wren  1
Wood Thrush  17
American Robin  12
Gray Catbird  18
Northern Mockingbird  1
European Starling  1
Ovenbird  12
Common Yellowthroat  2
Field Sparrow  1
Scarlet Tanager  4
Northern Cardinal  5
Red-winged Blackbird  3
Brown-headed Cowbird  1
House Finch  2

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

A New Home for Chimney Swifts at the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove


On your most recent visit to the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, you may have noticed the tall, white structure pictured above located by the new parking lot to the cottage. Though it may look a little strange, this structure plays an important part for conservation. It's the new chimney swift tower, built as an Eagle Scout project by Mark Frederick and designed to provide a place for chimney swifts to roost and nest.

Chimney swifts are known in the birding community as “flying cigars” that buzz our cities and waterways. They arrive in our area in late April and can be observed flitting through our skies catching insects on the wing. It is presumed that before European settlers, these delightful birds nested and roosted in old hollowed out trees. When the Europeans brought with them the architectural structure of the chimney, chimney swifts found these stone “hollow trees” perfect for nesting and roosting. Over time they became dependent on these chimneys and, in turn, became more urban. Today chimney swifts are in decline due to changes in chimney management. Chimneys are increasingly being capped to prevent “critters” access and chimney swifts are finding fewer sites to meet their needs. That is why the installation of chimney swift towers is so important. By placing these towers in correct locations we are trying offset the decline of chimney swifts by providing new nesting and roosting sites.

Chimney swifts are fascinating birds that spend a great deal of the day on the wing and spend their evenings attached to the interior wall of a chimney or other dark crevice. They are insectivores and capture their prey in mid-air. Chimney swifts winter in South America along the upper Amazon Basin of Brazil, Peru, Columbia, and Ecuador, and arrive in Southeastern Pennsylvania in late April and early May for breeding. Chimney swifts build a half cup structure on the interior wall of the chimney with small sticks that are glued together with sticky saliva. Both parents build the nest where the female lays  4-5 eggs. Incubation is shared by both parents, and starts after the 2nd to last egg is laid. The eggs hatch after about 19 days and the youngsters are born naked and blind. Once the eggs hatch, the parents get busy catching insects to feed the babies. After two weeks the baby birds may move out of the nest and attach to the interior walls of the chimney. After 30 days they are ready to fledge and directly fly out of the chimney. One fascinating aspect of Chimney Swifts is that only one breeding pair may nest in a chimney with numerous other roosting swifts. Some of the non-breeding birds may help feed the breeding pairs’ young. After the young fledge they catch their own insects and can be seen flying with the other adult birds. A trick you can use to tell adults from juveniles in summer is to look for missing feathers at the first or second primary feather on the wing (primaries are the last 10 feathers at the end of the wing; the ones in question are closest to the bird’s body). Adults start their molt after breeding while recently fledged birds are not missing any flight feathers.

The John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove and the Valley Forge Audubon Society would like to thank Mark Frederick for taking on this challenging project. We hope the Chimney Swift Tower will provide a nesting and roosting site for many years to come.

You can read more about chimney swifts at allaboutbirds.org or at chimneyswifts.org

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Field Report: International Migratory Bird Day Bird-a-thon at the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, May 12, 2012



Valley Forge Audubon Society celebrated International Migratory Bird Day at the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove with a bird-a-thon. Vincent Smith, Joe Hudson, Dan Sullivan, and Rob Evans searched the grounds of the historic property and wildlife sanctuary looking for birds and raising money for VFAS. The event included bird walks open to the public, and four other birders joined them. Over the course of four hours, a total of 62 bird species were spotted. The complete list of birds follows this post.

Some of the birds seen, such as Magnolia Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, and Swainson's Thrush, breed north of our area and are only seen here for a few weeks in May as they migrate to their nesting grounds, and then again in the fall when they return south to their wintering grounds. In fact, both Blackpoll Warblers and Swainson's Thrushes make incredible, long-distance migratory journeys from South America to the forests of Canada and back every year. International Migratory Bird Day highlights the important role conservation plays in the lives of these birds. On such long, arduous journeys, birds need safe places to rest and feed on their way to their breeding grounds and back. Suitable habitat with protection and a good food supply is critical for these birds to survive migration.

It also goes without saying that birds need a safe place to breed as well. Chimney Swifts, Great-crested Flycatchers, Tree Swallows, Barn Swallows, Northern Rough-winged Swallows, Northern Parulas, Scarlet Tanagers, Baltimore Orioles, and Orchard Orioles are all examples of birds that return to our area each spring to breed and then leave in the fall after their next generation have fledged. Again healthy habitat is needed to provide these birds and their young with shelter, a place to nest, and enough food for them and their new nestlings.

So our conservation areas need to contain enough healthy habitat to support migratory birds that use it as a rest stop on longer migrations, migratory birds that come in the spring to breed, and our native birds, such as Cooper's Hawks, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, Blue Jays, Carolina Chickadees, and Northern Cardinals, that live in the area throughout the year. With 62 species of birds observed at Mill Grove in four hours, you can see how diverse healthy habitat can be and the need to conserve that habitat and keep it healthy.

Here's the complete list of birds observed:

Canada Goose  12
Wood Duck  8 (Female with 7 fledglings)
Mallard  5
Common Merganser  1, These birds have started nesting in our area over the last 2 years.
Double-crested Cormorant  2
Great Blue Heron  2
Turkey Vulture  3
Osprey  1
Cooper's Hawk  1
Red-tailed Hawk  2
Mourning Dove  1
Chimney Swift  8
Ruby-throated Hummingbird  1
Belted Kingfisher  2
Red-bellied Woodpecker  5
Downy Woodpecker  4
Hairy Woodpecker  1
Northern Flicker  2
Eastern Phoebe  3
Great Crested Flycatcher  6
Warbling Vireo  2
Red-eyed Vireo  8
Blue Jay  8
American Crow  4
Fish Crow  1
Northern Rough-winged Swallow  2
Tree Swallow  9
Barn Swallow  6
Carolina Chickadee  6
Tufted Titmouse  10
White-breasted Nuthatch  3
Carolina Wren  2
House Wren  7
Eastern Bluebird  2
Swainson's Thrush  2
Wood Thrush  8
American Robin  9
Gray Catbird  15
Northern Mockingbird  1
European Starling  1
Cedar Waxwing  6
Black-and-white Warbler  1
Common Yellowthroat  3
Northern Parula  1
Magnolia Warbler  1
Yellow Warbler  2
Blackpoll Warbler  1
Black-throated Blue Warbler  1
Yellow-rumped Warbler  4
Eastern Towhee  2
Chipping Sparrow  5
Scarlet Tanager  2
Northern Cardinal  7
Rose-breasted Grosbeak  1
Indigo Bunting  5
Red-winged Blackbird  6
Common Grackle  11
Brown-headed Cowbird  2
Orchard Oriole  2
Baltimore Oriole  5
House Finch  3
American Goldfinch  5

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Field Report: Black Rock Sanctuary, May 5, 2012

Spring migration was in full effect this past Saturday at Black Rock Sanctuary where Vince Smith lead a bird walk that saw 53 species of birds, including such notable migrants as Green Heron, Great-crested Flycatcher, Brown Thrasher, Ovenbird, Black-and-white Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Magnolia Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Baltimore Oriole, Orchard Oriole, and Rose-breasted Grosbeak. The complete list, as submitted to eBird follows:

Canada Goose  9
Mallard  3
Double-crested Cormorant  14
Green Heron  1
Black Vulture  1
Turkey Vulture  5
Mourning Dove  3
Chimney Swift  3
Red-bellied Woodpecker  3
Downy Woodpecker  2
Northern Flicker  4
Pileated Woodpecker  1
Great Crested Flycatcher  1
Warbling Vireo  5
Blue Jay  8
American Crow  4
Fish Crow  1
Northern Rough-winged Swallow  3
Tree Swallow  6
Barn Swallow  2
Carolina Chickadee  3
Tufted Titmouse  1
Carolina Wren  2
House Wren  2
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher  2
Eastern Bluebird  2
Wood Thrush  2
American Robin  5
Gray Catbird  10
Northern Mockingbird  1
Brown Thrasher  2
European Starling  5
Ovenbird  1
Black-and-white Warbler  1
Common Yellowthroat  3
American Redstart  1
Magnolia Warbler  1
Yellow Warbler  3
Chestnut-sided Warbler  1
Yellow-rumped Warbler  12
Eastern Towhee  1
Chipping Sparrow  1
Field Sparrow  3
Song Sparrow  2
White-throated Sparrow  4
Northern Cardinal  4
Rose-breasted Grosbeak  1
Red-winged Blackbird  5
Common Grackle  12
Brown-headed Cowbird  6
Orchard Oriole  3
Baltimore Oriole  4
American Goldfinch  1

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Voice Your Opinion on the Future of John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is moving forward in developing its Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) for the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia. The CCP is a 15-year plan designed to provide strategic management direction that best achieves the Refuge’s purposes; attains the vision and goals developed for the Refuge; contributes to the National Wildlife Refuge System mission; addresses key challenges, issues and relevant mandates; and, is consistent with sound principles of fish and wildlife management. 


In brief, it's a big document that outlines proposed goals, priorities and plans for the next decade at the refuge. There are 3 different "alternatives" described:  A- essentially status quo; B- existing on-going programs and practices, plus additional objectives; and C- Additional far-reaching ideas.  The Refuge prefers and recommends alternative B.


Read the 2-page outline or the big document (chapter 3) if you can. But please DO EMAIL YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT THE FUTURE OF HEINZ REFUGE to northeastplanning@fws.gov. Put "John Heinz NWR" in the subject line. It's best if comments are detailed and specific. All ideas welcome - policies, visitor services, trails, signage, habitat management, deer control, educational programs - everything! Public comments accepted through April 23. EMAIL NOW - DON'T DELAY!  And please share this message with others who share an interest in Heinz Refuge.  Every comment is important for management to hear, to ensure a strong future for this precious urban oasis, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum.  Documents can be downloaded from weblink:  http://www.fws.gov/northeast/planning/John%20Heinz/ccphome.html


John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia is listed as an Audubon Important Bird Area and its stewardship is covered by the Valley Forge Audubon Society.

Sunday, April 1, 2012

2011 Christmas Bird Count Results

By Vincent Smith, Compiler

The 112th Valley Forge Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count took place on December 24, 2011. The weather was very mild. Those conditions lead to some lingering species. Overall 73 species were observed which is a little shy of the 75 average over the 28 year history of our count. This year had the second highest number of volunteers and the second highest volunteer hours for the count. I want to put out a special thank you to all section leaders and all your volunteers. The Christmas Eve count imposed on our season of merriment, yet we had wonderful coverage. That indicates how committed everyone is to do their part in making the count a success. Thank you.


The award for “best almost species” of 2011 was a Snowy Owl observed in Spring City right outside of the Section 2 count circle by about a quarter of a mile. The bird was last seen on December 22, perched on a white trailer in a self storage business. A bit of a heart break that it did not fly into our circle, but WOW it was exciting to see. A first for me and many other local birders. 


Some of the highlights that were observed on this year’s count included 2 new species. A Ross’s Goose was observed amongst a flock of Snow Geese from section 2 , plus 3 Cackling Geese amongst Canada Geese at Norristown Farm Park. 


Overall the waterfowl counts appeared to have been down by both species and number. The one exception was the large flocks of Snow Geese observed by Sections 1, 2, 10.  These 3 sections are all next to each other and most of the birds were in flocks heading south.  Some have suggested that the low waterfowl counts may be related to high water levels on the rivers and streams or that the mild weather further north did not present a push factor. 


Bald Eagles continue to make their presence felt.  The first Christmas Bird Count record of this species was 1999 and species has shown up every year since 2003.


American Kestrel continues to decline. The 3 birds observed are well below the average of 19 for the 28 year history. Maybe it is time to start American Kestrel Trails nationwide like we did for Bluebirds. 


Hairy Woodpeckers (44 birds) showed the highest total count over the Christmas Counts 28 year history.  Pileated Woodpeckers have continued to shown a rise with 11 birds observed on this count.


Other species that may have been influenced by the mild weather included a late Eastern Phoebe from Section 7, plus 2 Gray Catbirds from Sections 3 and 4. The 29 Eastern Towhees was the highest total ever for the count. The 18 Horned Larks found at Merrimead Farm in Section 7 was a very nice find.  The species has not been observed on our count since 1992. 


Other species of note included the 2nd highest ever total for Blue Jays and the 3rd highest total for Common Grackles.


Of course the same mild weather may have also been the reason that so few irruptive species were observed. The only species to make a showing was a scattering of Purple Finches all observed from Section 11. 


I would like to thank all the section leaders (Mike Coulter, Rick Keyser, Bruce Piecukonis, Dr. Jan Gordon, Barbara Hiebsch, Brian Henderson, Debbie Beer, Frank and Lynn Roman, Tom Reeves, Joe Hudson, and Edie Parnum) and the volunteers for making this a successful count. As a reminder the Spring Bird Count will take place on June 2, 2012. Thanks again for all of your help.


Click here to view an Excel sheet of Christmas Bird Count data.