10,000 Birds

JUNE 9, 2014

The only downer was that they did not come close. I was home by noon after what was undoubtedly my most successful search for some of New York’s coolest breeding birds ever! Grasshopper Sparrows don’t seem to sing terribly loudly but their song carries a long way. And, of course, because it was that kind of day, I did.

Breeding 168

Breeding New York Downers Breeders 168

10,000 Birds

SEPTEMBER 12, 2014

In 1952, at least in the US, no one wanted to be a Debbie Downer. Then a little later there was a spot of bother with DDT, but we pulled out of that one ok, with a toolbox that would surely stand us in good stead if we only had the will to use it – legislation and literature, captive breeding programs, nest platforms.

California Condor 251

California Condor Guam Whales Whaling 251

10,000 Birds

NOVEMBER 2, 2011

Between the two breeding bird atlases in the state – one done in the early ’80s and one in the early ’00s – the number of atlas blocks with Vesper Sparrows declined 49%, a decline that is echoed in breeding bird survey routes as well. What has caused the decline? What has caused the decline? … a.

Sparrows 165

Sparrows North Dakota Downers United States 165

10,000 Birds

JULY 30, 2012

Nothing is quite as much of a downer to a birder than the summer doldrums. Migration hasn’t really kicked in, the breeders aren’t tied to breeding territories any more, and it is hot and sweaty outside. Uncomfortable weather and a lack of birds make birders grumpy.

Downers 172

Downers Kangaroos Breeders Canada 172

10,000 Birds

AUGUST 23, 2011

4) For the sake of keeping it real…if you are the breed of birder that is in possession of a very poor set of social skills… maybe you should just send any prospective birders my way instead. No one, aside from your therapist, wants to spend time with a Debbie Downer. 5) Have a sense of humor.

Grizzly Bear 206

Grizzly Bear North Dakota Downers Bears 206