October Backyard Birding in Queens NYC

My birding plans changed due to some networking issues that I had to work on, which ate into my departure time. As the clock ticked, the window for that early morning birding closed; so, I decided to work and bird the garden. I was not disappointed with my decision. My reward, was an early morning flock of 6 Purple Finches that came to the feeders providing extended crippling views - late this afternoon, a few of them were still around.  A Yellow-bellied Sapsucker paid a visit along with a Downy Woodpecker.  I have counted at least 3 YB Sapsuckers this week in the garden as well as a Brown Creeper, which did not show today.  Seen among the Pokeweeds were 2 Hermit Thrushes and 1 Gray-cheeked Thrush.  A lone Chipping Sparrow, was seen briefly in the grass, making 9 species of Sparrows for the month of October.  I am hoping that Fox Sparrows return again this year.  Goldfinches were again visiting the thistle and shelled sunflower seed feeders and now I am down to 2 Black-capped Chickadees at the feeders. 

A Cooper's Hawk seen a few times during the week, made an early morning pass and would have gotten a Pigeon save for the early warning that the Blue-Jay screamed.  No evidence of a kill yet in the yard, but this is a sign of things to come.  Last year I had as many as 4 Hawks staking out the feeders.  Whether, I am in the garden or off somewhere in the field, I just enjoy the time with nature. I hope you had a good day too and somehow included nature in your travels.

Female Northern Cardinal

Female Purple Finch

White-throated Sparrow

Male Purple Finch

Tags: Backyard Birding Queens NYC, Purple Finch, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Northern Cardinal