Jamaica Bay Shorebird Report 7-11-13...

Shorebirds pulled out last night as evidenced by the numbers today on the East Pond at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. While the current star, an American Avocet, is still lingering, the number of Short-billed Dowitchers were shaved in half to an estimated 500.  Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs numbers were also down and the 8 Stilt Sandpipers were down to 2 observed.  Despite the lower number of birds, a Killdeer, Semipalmated Plover and Pectoral Sandpiper added to the variety bringing the number of shorebirds to 12.  I spent some time studying the Shore-billed Dowitchers enjoying the opportunity to compare the various plumages and having the opportunity to look at the mostly Griseus species against 2 that looked good for Hendersoni.

Today's shorebirds numbers are as follows:

American Avocet:1
Greater Yellowleg: 14
Killdeer: 1
Lesser Yellowleg:10
Least Sandpiper: 6
Oystercatcher: 9
Pectoral Sandpiper:1
Semipalmated Plover: 1
Semipalmated Sandpiper: 8
Short-billed Dowitcher: 500 (2 candidates for Hendersoni)
Spotted Sandpiper: 2
Stilt Sandpiper: 2

Stilt Sandpiper center; a nice comparison as it fed amongst the many Short-billed Dowitchers.

The fewer number of shorebirds on the pond today allowed me to do some additional exploration on the South End and I am happy to report that I was able to make my way up to the Raunt.  For those of you not familiar with this naming convention.  This is the area that is directly across from the overlook when taking "Big John's" path (the path to the blind on the East Side).  See a map of the East Pond before Hurricane Sandy below. 

Jamaica Bay Wild Life Refuge East Pond Map

I have provided a few images below to give visitors an idea on some of the changes to expect on the East Pond and the areas to pay careful attention to as one make their way around the pond.  It is not that difficult if one take care and is not reckless when navigating the pond.  DO NOT be fooled by areas that may look solid and under water.  If you are not familiar with the layout, use your scope tripod legs to test the areas you are about to step in and try to bird with others near you.  TAKE YOUR time, when navigating soft spots; the mud can suck your boots in and you will go down if you are not careful.  The East Pond is a great place for shorebirding and I totally LOVE IT.  Respect the pond, the birds and all will be well.  Good luck out there!

Tags: Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, Queens, Shorebird, Jamaica Bay, American Avocet