Friday, April 19, 2013,

This past Saturday morning Four Harbors Audubon Society had our monthly walk at Avalon Park and Preserve. We meet every second Saturday at 8 AM, 9 during the winter, at the Duck Pond in Stony Brook.  It was a terrific morning. Comfortable weather, sunny skies, and friends I haven’t seen in far too long. 

We were joined by the Brookhaven Young Birders Club. This is one talented group. Sharp eyes and sharp minds. One of this crew spotted – and identified! –  a Northern Harrier from at least a half a mile away. Older, (I mean more experienced), but by no means more able, birders confirmed this with binoculars. These young birders are that good.

That’s some of them in the photo above. They’re pointing out a juvenile Red-tailed Hawk that was perched above one of the farm fields. In the pic below you can see that same bird trying to see what all the excitement is all about. 

This crew compiled a very impressive bird count for the morning’s walk. They really know their stuff and they’re eager learners. One of them keeps a blog of their adventures. You can check it out here.

The Brookhaven Young Birders Club is open to anyone between the ages of ten and seventeen. If you know any young people that like birds or even just finding new places to hike and explore here on Long Island please contact Cathy at cmasrour@gmail.com. This is a good bunch. You should check them out. JK