Spring 2020 Newsletter
Spring Birding From Home - Stories, Sightings and Tips
Fox in the Feeder by Pete Salmansohn
Watching for signs of spring is one of the most exciting pursuits of a naturalist’s year, and the arrival of different bird species is especially fun and noteworthy. Many observers carefully patrol the swamps and marshes seeking the first red-winged blackbirds, grackles, and the occasional and uncommon rusty blackbird, while others are watching for, and listening for the fast-flying Killdeer, and its loud cry of “killllll-deeeeeer”, along the shores of the Hudson.
But many of us know that if we keep an eye under our rural and suburban bird feeders during this time in March and early April, we’re likely to see a lesser-known but equally inspiring migratory visitor, the fox sparrow. Read More
Identifying Birds by their Songs and Calls
Is a great way to learn and enjoy our wonderful bird population here are some great resources for you.
50 Birds and the Sounds They Make
A well researched fun learning tool, interactive web page for young and old alike.
Song Sleuth 2.0 Mobile app for iPhone or Android
Helping you become a better birder. Song Sleuth is a fun and easy way to learn birding by ear. Everywhere you go, Song Sleuth can listen to the birds singing around you, and instantly show you the most likely bird species that it heard. The app provides all the tools you need to determine which is the correct bird. Save and share your recordings, and learn about each bird with the built-in David Sibley Bird Reference.
Stressed Out By The COVID-19 Pandemic? Go Birding To Enjoy Life Again
Watching birds can relieve mental stress and boost your mood. Now is the best time to engage in this activity. By Oishimaya Sen Nag
Stressed out over the current pandemic situation? Alone, and with no idea how to spend your time while practicing social distancing? The National Audubon Society offers you the perfect solution - Birding. Read More
Two lovestruck spotted doves. Image credit: Oishimaya Sen Nag
Early Spring Sightings in Garrison & Birding Tips
Spring is here but you are probably still home bound with friends, spouses, and kids, being safe from our national health crisis.
But you can make this a positive opportunity, it is a great time to look out your window and enjoy the arrival of spring birds.
We have been seeing Robins, Phoebes, Bluebirds and Doves, Finches and Sparrows visiting backyards again. Read More
Please Support Putnam Highlands Audubon Society Conservation and Educational Programs During Our 2020 Birdathon
Birdathon is your local Putnam Highlands Audubon Society’s annual fundraising appeal, providing us with much of our operating funds.
Dear Members and Friends,
This year, due to the novel COVID-19 viral pandemic, we are unable to have our annual fundraising Birdathon in its normal format. We have decided instead to change the format this year to reflect the current public health crisis and maintain social distancing. We have a budget goal of raising $3,500 to support stewardship of our three Sanctuaries and other bird conservation programs.
We have pared our budget down to the necessary amount for insurance and the cost of maintaining a Warden at Reese Sanctuary. Instead of Teams, we will invite our members and friends to volunteer to submit bird species numbers from birding through windows, at backyard feeders and yards, or, going outside for a walk maintaining social distancing. Click Here to Register to Participate in The Volunteer Backyard Bird Count
Please root for our Backyard Bird volunteers with a donation to support this important annual Audubon event that helps our Chapter monitor bird conservation issues and supports our three Sanctuaries. You can donate here, online or by mail.
When conditions allow we will again offer monthly bird walks and educational programs in Beacon, Cold Spring, Garrison, Philipstown and other local towns.
Free, public programs for children & adults
Care of PHAS’s wildlife sanctuaries: , Reese, and deRham Watergrass
Support for bird conservation programs, including bird walks and public programs
Summer internships at Constitution Marsh for high school students
Annual Scholarships
Chapter newsletters
We appreciate your support.