2nd Annual Harlem Bird Walk

Today we had our 2nd annual outing to scout out the over-wintering Raptor population in Harlem. We began at 145th St., first walking south to St. Nicholas Park. Then heading back north, we brushed up against Jackie Robinson Park. Continuing on through Highbridge Park, we eventually finished up with a grand finale at Broadway Bridge. Thanks to all those intrepid participants for coming out. Here's some of the highlights!

Two canvasbacks in the shadow of Highbridge (nice spot Ben!)

Raptor activity was fairly light...we only saw two Redtails and none of the kestrels or Cooper's that I've recently seen. This all changed once we stepped off the 1 train. Almost immediately, this Peregrine swooped through the structure, narrowly missing a pigeon.

As we fanned out to relocate the bird, one of the Inwood Hill RTH's took up a favored position on this building overlooking Marble Hill. In a sustained and vicious attack, both Peregrines repeatedly dive-bombed the hawk...intermittenly calling out and diving!




After a few thrilling minutes, they broke off their attack and circled high over Riverdale!

Eventually the Hawk flew off...later this RTH was also spotted over the area.

All in all it was a great day...sharing the ins-and-outs of my neighborhood. The finale at Broadway Bridge made for an excellent finish. I may do this again sometime in January to try to locate the other RTH's, kestrels and Cooper's in the area. I'll keep y'all posted!