2011 FIELD TRIP SCHEDULEAll who have an interest in birds are invited to attend functions of the DVOC
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Thursday, December 22, 2011
2011 FIELD TRIP SCHEDULE
All who have an interest in birds are invited to attend functions of the DVOC
| DVOC offers a variety of field trips to locations in and around the Delaware Valley area. Some trips target specific species while others concentrate on birding a certain habitat or area. Our field trips are led by a number of DVOC members who eagerly share their knowledge, experience and enthusiasm with trip participants. Most trips are half to full day events, with some being longer excursions to more distant locations. We offer approximately 40 field trips annually. We are always seeking new leaders and exciting destinations. DVOC field trips are open to members and non members of all skill levels. These field trips are a fun way to see birds, learn about avian behavior and meet new birders.
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NOTE: PLEASE MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO NOTIFY THE FIELD TRIP LEADER THAT YOU PLAN TO ATTEND, AND ALSO SHOULD YOU NEED TO CANCEL. For our winter field trips, should extreme weather be
forecasted the trip may be cancelled at the leaders’ discretion.
Please check the website before departure for any updates. Contact Information for Field Trip Leaders 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 Field Trip Archives |
2011 FIELD TRIP SCHEDULE
More trips will be posted when available
January 8 (Saturday) – PHILADELPHIA MID-WINTER BIRD CENSUS, PA (PMWBC)
Join the 25th annual mid-winter census which highlights the incredible diversity
of habitat and species found within our city borders. An average of 92 species
are recorded each year including notable rarities.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members
Contact: Keith Russell
2011
Report
2010
Report
2009
Report
2008 Report
2007
Report
2006
Report
2005
Report
2004
Report
2003 Report
January 15-17 (Saturday-Monday) - MONTAUK (LONG ISLAND), NY
A trip over Martin Luther King weekend for winter finches, eiders, scoters,
alcids and any Eurasian accidentals. Car pool from N.E. Phila at 6AM. Space
is limited due to lodging constraints – first come, first served!
This is a shared expenses trip open to members and non-members. The final cost
for each participant will be determined by expenses incurred.
Leaders: Erica Brendel and Chris
Walters
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field
Trip Report
2009
Field Trip Report
2008 Field Trip
Report
2007 Field Trip
Report
2006 Field Trip
Report
2005 Field Trip
Report
2004 Field Trip Report
2003 Field Trip Report
January 22 (Saturday) - CAPE MAY, NJ
Meet 9:00AM at the Wawa Parking Lot (Rtes 47 and 347) for seabirds and wintering
waterfowl. Dress for the weather and bring lunch and scopes. We will end the
day at Jake's Landing Road looking for short-eared owls.
This DVOC trip is a joint field trip with Wyncote Audubon and is free to members
and non-members
Leader: Martin Selzer
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field Trip
Report
2009
Field Trip Report
2008
Field Trip Report
2007 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
January 23 (Sunday) – CUMBERLAND AND CAPE MAY COUNTY, NJ
This trip will search for the Sandhill Crane flock that has traditionally roosted
at Husted Landing. This is supposedly a resident flock although no one seems
to know where they breed. It is extremely interesting because a Common Crane
and several hybrid offspring are part of this group of 18 birds. If the flock
is located early then this trip will end at Jake's Landing for the Short-eared
Owl show. This trip will meet at noon at the Wawa on the Mauricetown Crossway
and 47. We will choose our itinerary and meeting place after the CBC’s.
This will give us a chance to chase whatever else is around before completing
the day with the dusk activity of the cranes and or owls. This trip will likely
produce large numbers of Snow Geese, maybe even a Ross’s or Greater White-fronted
Goose, harriers and Bald Eagles. A pre-trip will meet at Wawa on the Mauricetown
Crossway and 47 at 8:30 and head to the Villas WMA to look for birds like red-headed
woodpecker.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Tony Croasdale
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field
Trip Report
2009 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
January 29 (Saturday) – CONOWINGO DAM, MD AND PERRYVILLE, PA
Birding on the Susquehanna River where there is a nice concentration of Bald
Eagles around Conowingo Dam. After birding the dam we will head north to Perryville
and look for wintering waterfowl. Meet at 9AM at Fisherman’s Park at Conowingo
Dam.
Directions: From Route 1. Immediately after crossing the dam, turn left on Fisherman
Park Road for .07 mile and follow signs to Fisherman’s Park.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Tom Reeves cell 267.879. 0000
phone 610.361.8027
2011 Trip cancelled due to weather
2010 Field Trip Report
2009 Field Trip
Report
2008 Field Trip
Report
2007 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
February
6 (Sunday) – MANAHAWKIN and BARNEGAT LIGHT STATE PARK, NJ
This will be a quick trip to Barnegat Light State Park. We hope to see harlequin
ducks, scoters, eiders, gannets, great cormorant and some beach birds like horned
larks, Savannah sparrow (Ipswich ssp) and snow bunting and maybe even some harbor
seals. Then we will head to nearby Manahawkin. The dead of winter is a splendid
time to spend in salt marshes. Sometimes the "Bridge to Nowhere" is
a stop on a return trip from Barnegat Light, however this spot is definitely
worth a trip of its own to discover what treasures it may contain. The “Bridge
to Nowhere” is a bridge at the end of a newly paved road that was once
supposed to lead to a failed development. This spot is notorious for Short-eared
Owls and Rough-legged Hawks and has had Sedge Wren. We will also visit nearby
Cedar Run Dock Road which is less wild but has access to Barnegat Bay. This
is also a good spot for short-ears and rough-legs as well as diving ducks and
grebes, this spot has held Red-necked Grebe before.
This trip will run in two segments: will meet in the Barnegat State Park at
8:30 am and then we will meet at the Stafford Diner on route 72 and Mermaid
Drive, next to Wawa at noon.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Tony Croasdale Cell: 215-301-7940
No report submitted for the 2011 trip
2010 Field Trip cancelled due to weather
2009 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
February 12 (Saturday) - PHOTOGRAPHY TRIP: BARNEGAT LIGHTHOUSE STATE PARK, OCEAN
COUNTY, NJ
This field trip will focus on getting some good photographs of wintering gulls
and waterfowl at Barnegat Light. Almost no effort will be made to find rarities.
We’ll plan to walk the jetty, find cooperative birds and photograph them.
Target birds include Red-throated Loons, Common Loon, Long-tailed Ducks, Scoters,
Purple Sandpipers, Eiders, Snow Buntings and Ipswich Sparrow -- basically whatever
we find. A King Eider showed up for our much-delayed trip in 2008. Whether you're
new to photography or a pro, you're welcome on this trip. I will be shooting
almost exclusively with a Digital SLR and 300mm lens. Digiscopers and more traditional
photographers are both welcome, and we'll do our best to find some subjects
for everyone. If interested, contact Steve Kacir and let him know whether you'll
be digiscoping or just using a camera. Some information about your lens will
also help in planning our approach to this trip. The trip will last about half
a day. In case of foul weather the trip will be rescheduled.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Field Trip meeting place: Lighthouse Parking Lot. Meeting Time: 8:00am
Leader: Steve Kacir
2011 Field
Trip Report
2010
Field Trip Report
2009
Field Trip Report
2008 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
February 18 - 21)(Friday - Monday) – EASTERN ONTARIO
A 4 day trip leaving Friday morning and returning Monday evening to look for
winter finches, raptors and owls. In Algonquin we hope for crossbills, redpolls,
Pine Grosbeak, Boreal Chickadee, Gray Jay, Black-backed Woodpecker and Spruce
Grouse, while in the south the woods and fields should hold Saw-whet, Long-eared,
Short-eared and Snowy Owl. If they are around we’ll also search for Boreal,
Great Gray and Hawk Owl. Quality, not quantity! Limited registration.
This is a shared expenses trip open to members and non-members. The final cost
for each participant will be determined by expenses incurred
Leader: Win Shafer
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field Trip
Report
2009 Field Trip Report
2008 Field Trip
Report
2007 Field Trip
Report
2006 Field Trip
Report
2005 Field Trip Report
February 21 (Monday) – NORTH SHORE, NJ
Our trip to the North Shore region of New Jersey this
year will be Monday, February 21, 2011 - President's Day. We will meet at 10:30AM
at the Shark River Inlet. For those needing directions, plug in "Shark
River Inlet, Belmar, NJ" into Google Maps and take it from there. We will
meet on the south side.
Dress in layers as the weather up here can be quite chilly when we are
scanning the ocean, and perhaps a bit warmer while searching the various ponds
for rarities. There will be plenty of opportunities for buying both gas and
lunch and hitting restrooms when needed.
This has been the year of the rarity for the North Shore. If any of these rarities
sticks around, we will still chase. If not, we will just bird some of the best
hotspots and see what is around. This area of New Jersey is a good spot for
some of the rarer gulls like Little and Black-headed. We will try for alcids
and hopefully have some luck!
If the "Common" Teal is still around, we will search for it.
This trip is good for anyone who wants to stay behind
in an area, or meet up with the group a bit late. Just call my cell (856)383-2756.
Cell phone coverage is very good up here. The trip does not go in bad weather.
If any doubts about the weather, call me the day before or up until 8:00AM that
Monday.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field
Trip Report
Leader: Sandra Keller
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
February 26 (Saturday) – DELAWARE CITY, DE
A morning trip around the freshwater ponds can be very productive. Meet at 8AM
at Veteran's Park (Delaware River end of Clinton St) in Delaware City.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Colin Campbell
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field Trip cancelled due to weather
2009
Field Trip Report
2008 Field
Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
March 9-19, 2011 (Post-tour Darien extension March 19-24, 2011) – SPECIAL
TRIP TO PANAMA FOR DVOC MEMBERS
The guide for this trip, Hernan Arauz, gave a talk on Panama to DVOC (and also
Wyncote, Bucks Birders and maybe DOS) in May 2010.
This a special offer and a private opportunity for DVOC members and members
of other Delaware Valley bird clubs. All arrangements are being made by Ancon
Expeditions of Panama. There is a fee for this trip which is not set by DVOC.
Click Here
for the itinerary
Click Here
for the Darien Extension itinerary
Click Here for information
on our guide's parents and their relationship to the Darien
Contact Jane Henderson for further
information
Pictures and other informtion from this trip is available at Bert
Filemyr's Website
March 12 (Saturday) - BARNEGAT LIGHT, NJ
A ½ day field trip ideally suited to NEW MEMBERS
& STUDENTS (but open to all members) to the best location in Jersey to see
Harlequin Duck and Purple Sandpiper. Common Eider are regular here and we’ll
look for King Eider. An assortment of ducks and loons should be found in the
inlet. The dunes hold “Ipswich” Sparrow and usually Snow Buntings,
and in good years longspurs. Dress warm. Meet at the Lighthouse parking lot
at 9:00AM.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Chris Walters
2011 Field Trip Report
2010
Field Trip Pictures
2009 Field Trip
Report
2008 Field Trip Report
2007 Field Trip
Report (March)
2007 Field Trip Report
(January)
2006 Field Trip
Report
2005 Field Trip
Report
2004 Field Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
March 19 (Saturday) - INDIAN RIVER INLET AND POINTS NORTH, DE
Join us as we search for wintering waterfowl, gulls,
seabirds and other late winter visitors. Besides birding Indian River Inlet
and Rehoboth Bay, we will stop at Silver Lake, Cape Henlopen State Park, Prime
Hook and Bombay Hook as we bird our way back north. Dress for the weather, bring
lunch and scopes. Meet at the parking lot on the north side of the Indian River
Inlet at 9am.
This DVOC trip is a joint field trip with Wyncote Audubon and is free to members
and non-members
Leader : Martin Selzer
2011 Field Trip Report
2010
Field Trip Report
2009
Field Trip Report
2008 Field
Trip Report
2007 Field
Trip Report
2006 Field
Trip Report
2005 Field
Trip Report
2004 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
MARCH 26 (Saturday) – PINELANDS BIRDING, FRANKLIN PARKER PRESERVE, NJ
Franklin Parker Preserve is a relatively new reserve
made up of old cranberry bogs and pinelands. New Jersey Conservation Foundation's
Emile De Vito will meet us in Chatsworth and guide us through this preserve,
we will actually be able to drive through the reserve instead of the usual very
long hike one needs to do to explore this gem. Franklin Parker Preserve is a
really unique piece of habitat. This location came to be known in birding circles
for its late summer gull-billed terns and a northern shrike that spent a few
weeks there two winters ago. The reserve hosts tundra swans, rough-legged hawks,
harriers and bald eagles in the winter, some of which will hopefully still be
around. We may also be treated to pipit, Savanna sparrows and merlin. You never
know what will turn up in a spot like this.
We will meet at the Chatsworth Firehouse (corner of 563 and 532) at 9:00am and
carpool into the reserve. After we are done in Franklin Parker Preserve we will
try a reliable red-headed woodpecker location in the pinelands, or even go to
Tuckerton in time allows.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Tony Croasdale
No report submitted for the 2011 trip
2010 Field
Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
April 16 (Saturday) - COASTAL DELAWARE
Looking for early migrants and lingering winter visitors.
We will begin in new Castle County and head south into Kent County. Bring lunch
and scopes. Contact leader the week before for meeting time and place.
This DVOC trip is a joint field trip with Wyncote Audubon and is free to members
and non-members.
Leader: Lynn Jackson
2011 Field Trip Report
2010
Field Trip Report
2009 Field
Trip Report
April 30 (Saturday) - FORT WASHINGTON STATE PARK, MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PA
Fort Washington State Park (FWSP) is an excellent place for spring migration.
We have tallied up to twenty-eight species in prior spring migration periods.
For this trip we will meet at the Hawk Watch platform at Militia Hill at 8AM.
Directions to FWSP: http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/fortwashington.aspx#directions
This DVOC trip is a joint field trip with Wyncote Audubon and is free to members
and non-members.
Leaders: Jane Henderson
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field Trip
Report
2009 Field Trip
Report
2008 Field Trip Report
2007 Field Trip
Report
2006 Field Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
May 1 (Sunday) - RAILS AND NOCTURNAL SPECIES AT THE C&D CANAL, NEW CASTLE
COUNTY, DE
New for 2010
We'll be listening for night birds along Dutch Neck Rd from 3:30
am until the birds stop calling. We'll spend the hours before sunrise
listening for calling Sora, Virginia Rail, King Rail, Marsh Wren and Sedge Wren
at the 1000 Acre Marsh and Grier's Pond. Though not completely necessary, tall
boots may be good to have on hand. Please bring insect repellant, as Grier's
Pond is infested with Deer Ticks. Please make all efforts to contact Steve Kacir
if you plan on attending. The trip will run through sunrise. In case of unfavorable
weather (including high winds), this trip will be rescheduled.
If you arrive late, turn left onto Dutch Neck Rd from S. Reedy Point Road where
S. Reedy Point Rd ends at the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. Continue to drive
west along Dutch Neck Rd until you see a group of birders. If you get to the
intersection of Knightsbridge Rd and Dutch Neck Rd, you are too far west. Meeting
Time 3:30AM Meeting place: S Reedy Point Rd at Dutch Neck Rd, South of Delaware
City off Route 9 Google
Map:
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Steve Kacir
No report submitted for the 2011 trip
2010 Field Trip Report
2008
Field Trip Report
2007 Field Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
April 29 - May 1 (Friday-Sunday) - BIRDING SOUTHERN DELAWARE and into MARYLAND
Click Here for the 2011
Information Sheet
Please contact Colin Campbell if
interested. Home phone 302-792-2506, e-mail: delawaretwitcher@verizon.net.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Colin Campbell
2011 Field Trip Report
2010
Field Trip Report
2009
Field Trip Report
2008 Field
Trip Report
2007
Field Trip Report
2006
Field Trip Report
2005 Field
Trip Report
2004 Field
Trip Report
May 1 (Saturday) Belleplain State Forest, NJ
Meet 7AM at the WAWA (NJ Rts 47 and 347) for migrating warblers and other birds
at the nearby State Forest. This DVOC trip is a joint trip with Wyncote Audubon
and is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Martin Selzer
2011 Field Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
May 7 (Saturday) - BIRDING, BANDING and BRUNCH - A SPECIAL TOUR OF RUSHTON FARMS,
WILLISTOWN, PA."
DVOC members have been specially-invited by Willistown Conservation Trust (WCT)
to tour Rushton Farm Preserve, and witness in action their newly-established
Banding Station, the launching of which was significantly supported by DVOC's
2009 Conservation funds.
Located in Chester County, Rushton Farms serves as a model for sustainable agricultural
practices, promotes the values of open space and natural resource protection,
and builds mutually-supportive relationships among community farmers, consumers
and land-owners. Audubon Pennsylvania has identified the Rushton Woods as an
important migratory and nesting habitat for birds, and a critical part of the
Ridley/Crum Important Bird Area. The new bird banding station established on
the property augments an ongoing monitoring program, plays an important role
in documenting species occurance, underscores the value of preserving habitat,
and perhaps most importantly, introduces scores of visitors to the wonders of
nature - many of whom never saw a bird up-close before.
WCT is very grateful for DVOC's support, and would like to host DVOC for a morning
birding tour, banding demonstration led by Doris McGovern, and refreshments.
Meet at 7:00 AM in the Rushton Farms Parking Lot. Directions from Rte 476: travel
west on Rte 3 through Newtown Square and Edgemont (approx 7 miles). Turn right
onto Delchester Road. Rushton Farms is on right-hand side, just before the intersection
with Goshen Road. This trip is free, open by special invitation to DVOC members
only. Please register to Debbie Beer,
610-955-4098, by May 4.
No report submitted for the 2011 trip
Early May – PHOTOGRAPHY TRIP: SHOREBIRDS & MIGRANTS AT HEISLERVILLE
WMA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, NJ
Heislerville WMA has been an excellent location for shorebird viewing in the
past years. This photography trip will focus on getting some good photos of
shorebirds, but we will also be paying attention to other migrants and breeding
species in the area. We won’t necessarily look for any specific species,
but will try to find wildlife engaged in interesting behaviors at distances
that will allow us to compose some good photographs. Whether you're new to photography
or a pro, you're welcome on this trip. I will be shooting almost exclusively
with a Digital SLR and 300mm lens. Digiscopers and more traditional photographers
are both welcome, and we'll do our best to find some subjects for everyone.
If interested, contact Steve Kacir and let him know whether you'll be digiscoping
or just using a camera. Some information about your lens will also help in planning
our approach to this trip. This trip will run for basically half a day. In case
of foul weather the trip will be rescheduled. Meeting Time: 6:00AM Meeting Place:
The impoundment at Heislerville
WMA Google Map.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Steve Kacir
2011 Field Trip cancelled
2010 Field
Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
May 8 (Sunday) - JOHN HEINZ NWR AT TINICIUM, SOUTHWEST PHILADELPHIA, PA
One-half day trip. We will bird for passerines, but check the wet habitats as
well for non-passerines. Meet in Tinicum's parking lot at 6:30 AM.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Frank Windfelder (267-251-1141)
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field trip
Report
2009 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
MAY
16 (Monday)– GLOUCESTER COUNTY “RUN”, NJ (WEEKDAY)
Our annual Glassboro Woods trip for the specialty breeders will be on Monday,
May 16. We will meet at 7:30AM at the Rt. 47 entrance off of Carpenter Rd. Plug
in Glassboro Woods into Google Maps and you will see where Carpenter comes in.
For those who arrive early, please be back at the parking area by 7:30 as I
might take us to another entrance depending on what I find in the coming week.
Be prepared for insects, long walking, and lack of facilities during our birding
here. We could be away from the vehicles for up to 4 hours depending on what
we find. Be prepared!
Anyone can always leave at anytime though. There's a Wawa just to the north
on Rt. 47 for those who want to buy food before we start or after.
We will try for good looks at KENTUCKY, PROTHONOTARY, HOODED, BLUE-WINGED, and
WORM-EATING WARBLERS in addition to ACADIAN FLYCATCHER, SCARLET TANAGER, GREAT
CRESTED FLYCATCHER, and whatever migrants are around. Glassboro Woods is a great
destination for learning birding by ear and we will study songs and call notes.
The trip will probably go until a little after noon, but this might depend on
the weather and when the birds become quiet. I will go in a light rain or occasional
showers, but a steady heavy rain will cancel the trip and I have no weather
date planned.
Feel free to call my cell Sunday afternoon if needed with any questions:
(856)383-2756.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Sandra Keller
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field
Trip Report
2009 Field
Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
May 21 (Saturday) - RIDLEY CREEK STATE PARK, PA
For breeders and spring migrants. Expected: warblers, including Kentucky, Hooded
and Louisiana Waterthrush; thrushes (possibly including Swainson's), vireos,
flycatchers and many others. Meet at 6:30 AM at the Ridley Creek bridge on Gradyville
Road (near Newtown Square, PA). We will bird until 11:00 or noon, depending
on when the birds give out.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Art McMorris
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field
Trip Report
2009 Field Trip
Report
2008 Field Trip
Report
2007 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
May 22 (Sunday) - CARPENTER'S WOODS FOR SPRING MIGRANTS, PHILADELPHIA, PA
We will meet at the bus stop at Sedgwick St. and Wayne Ave (W. Mt. Airy) at
6:30 AM. We'll look and listen in and around the Woods for newly arrived and/or
nesting warblers, thrushes, vireos, tanagers, flycatchers, etc. There are two
pairs of nesting Screech Owls in the Woods now who may or may not put in an
appearance. We usually run out of birds about noon.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leaders: Erica Brendel and John Goschke,
co-sponsored by Friends of Carpenter's Woods.
2011 Field Trip cancelled
2010 Field
Trip Report
2009 Field Trip
Report
2008 Field Trip
Report
2007 Field Trip
Report
2006 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
Canceled May 22 (Sunday)– SW NEW JERSEY
This trip will track down goodies spotted during scouting for the World Series
of Birding. We will likely visit Bevan's WMA, Dividing Creek, Bivalve, Heislerville
WMA, Belleplain State Forest and many off the beaten track in Cumberland County
and maybe into Northern Cape May County. This trip will hit many locations and
will almost certainly locate over 100 species. This part of New Jersey feels
very much like Virginia or coastal North Carolina. Summer Tanager, Blue Grosbeak,
Yellow-breasted Chat, Kentucky Warbler, Prothonatary Warbler and Yellow-throated
Warblers are all breeders here. We will find huge numbers of shorebirds at Bivalve
and/or Heislerville WMA. Curlew Sandpiper and White-faced Ibis have been annual
in this area in the past four years.
We will meet at 7:30 am at The WaWa on CR 670/ Mauricetown-Crossway Rd near
the intersection of route 47 and 347.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Please RSVP tony.croasdale@gmail.com Leader's cell: 215-301-7940
Leader: Tony Croasdale
2011 Field Trip cancelled
2010 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
June 3 – 5 (Friday - Sunday) Piney Tract,
Clarion County for Grassland Birds
The Piney Tract is one of the best grassland bird sites in the state.
On our last trip in 2006, we had Upland Sandpipers, Henslow’s, Clay-colored,
Grasshopper and Savannah Sparrows, Bobolinks, Northern Harriers and Lawrence’s
Warblers. Mourning Warblers have been seen on other trips. Basic itinerary:
Drive out Friday. Bird Saturday and Sunday morning. Drive back Sunday afternoon.
The exact itinerary depends on local reports just prior to the trip.
Leaders: Rick Mellon and Ron Montgomery
Please RSVP Rmellon@voicenet.com
Leader's phone 215-493-0660 cell: 215-378-7471
We will be meeting at the Microtel Inn near Clarion, just off Exit 62 of I-80
at 8:00 a.m. Saturday morning to start the trip. Each person or carpool group
is responsible for their own expenses. This trip is open to members and non-members.
No report submitted for the 2011 trip
2006
Trip Report
June 10-12 (Friday to Sunday) – WEEKEND AT CAMP SUSQUEHANNOCK IN NE PA
This trip will stay in cabins at Camp Susquehannock (run by Win Shafer) and
will concentrate on birding the hot spots in Susquehanna County. We will be
based at the camp on 1100 acres and will also visit a number of locations in
the county possibly including Salt Spring State Park (only about 7 miles away)
that has a beautiful gorge with waterfalls and virgin hemlock forest; Florence
Shelly Preserve (in Wayne County to the east of camp about 25-30 miles); Woodbourne
Forest Sanctuary (in Dimock about 18-20 miles) listed on the PA Susquehanna
River Birding Trail; and High Point Preserve at Silver Lake. We will carpool
up to the camp on Fri afternoon (about 2 ¾ hrs) and bird Sat and Sun
mornings with options for a variety of trips each afternoon. Lodging and some
meals will be provided by the camp free of charge. Target birds include breeding
Bobolinks, Winter Wrens, a good variety of breeding warblers including Blackburnian
and Magnolia and possibly Grasshopper Sparrows. We may also do some evening
owling. Full details on a flyer later. Please let Win Shafer know in advance
if you plan to attend. Leader: Win Shafer. Contact Win
Shafer ( eshafer@ea1785.org ) for further information and directions.
This is a shared expenses trip open to members and non-members. The final cost
for each participant will be determined by expenses incurred.
2011
Field Trip Report
2008 Field Trip
Report
June 18 (Saturday)– WHARTON STATE FOREST FOR NIGHTHAWKS, NJ
This is a half day trip that meets in the early evening. We will focus on hearing
and seeing nightjars, especially Common Nighthawks performing their Booming
displays. We will also make some efforts to hear and see Barred Owl and Whip-poor-will.
Chuck’s-will’s-widow has also been heard calling in the area in
past years, though not in recent years. The trip will meet at the Carranza Memorial
(between Atsion and Chatsworth) at 6:00PM. In case of foul weather, the trip
will be rescheduled.
Click Here for a Google Map
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Steve Kacir
2011 Field Trip Report
2010
Field Trip Report
2009
Field Trip Report
2008 Field Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
June 22 (Wednesday) – LAKEHURST NAVAL AIR STATION FOR UPLAND SANDPIPERS,
NJ
The grasslands here are the best annual site in NJ for seeing the breeding displays
of Upland Sandpipers. We also expect Grasshopper, Field Sparrows, Horned Lark,
Eastern Meadowlark and in the pine forests Pine Warbler. Each participant must
be a US CITIZEN and will need a valid driver’s license or picture ID.
Our stay in the Jump Zone grasslands will be 3 hours.
You must register with Bob Horton for this trip in advance. This trip is limited
to 20 people.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Bob Horton
Meeting time: 7AM at the Chapel of the Air parking lot in Lakehurst
Directions: Take Rte 70 to the center of Lakehurst. At the McDonald’s
& gas station, turn onto Rte 547. In about a ¼ mile, on the left
there is a gray chapel named the Chapel of the Air. We will car pool from this
parking area under the supervision of John Joyce, the base Conservation Officer.
Each car entering the base will need a registration card and proof of insurance.
2011
Field Trip Report
2010 Field
Trip Report
2009 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
July 16 (Saturday) - BOMBAY HOOK NWR, DE
We'll be looking for returning shorebirds and other migrants. Bring lunch and
scopes and lots of bug juice.
This DVOC trip is a joint field trip with Wyncote Audubon and is free to members
and non-members.
Contact leader Lynn Jackson for details
2011
Field Trip Report
2010
Field Trip Report
2009 Field
Trip Report
September 1 (Thursday) – "CONFUSING FALL BIRDERS" AT HIGBEE
BEACH WMA, NJ
Spend a morning birding the fields and forest edges looking for songbird migrants.
We will sort through the fall plumages of the (hopefully) numerous migrants
at this Fall hotspot. With luck we will get to see a huge fallout of birds,
but there should be plenty to see regardless at this time of year. Emphasis
will be on sorting out "confusing fall warblers". The warblers are
not confused, we are. They know who they are, but we are the ones confused (sometimes
anyway). Meet at the main lot at Higbee Beach WMA (the one at the end of the
road) Cape May Point NJ at 7:30 AM
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Mike Fritz
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field Trip
Report
2009 Field Trip
Report
2006 Field Trip
Report
2005 Field Trip
Report
2004 Field Trip
Report
2003 Field Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
September 3 (Saturday) – JOHNSON SOD FARM FOR GRASS-PIPERS
A field trip to the Johnson Farm’s sod fields for an assortment of shorebirds
including plovers and sandpipers. Target birds include Upland Sandpiper, American
Golden-plover, Baird’s Sandpiper and Buff-breasted Sandpiper. Sharp-tailed
Sandpiper was seen here in 2003 and Pacific Golden Plover in 2002.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Meeting Time: 7:30AM
Trip Leader: Steve
Kacir
2011 Field Trip Report
2009 Field Trip Report
2007
Field Trip Report
2006 Field Trip
Report
2005 Field
Trip Report
2004 Field
Trip Report
2003 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
September 4 (Sunday) – PALMYRA COVE NATURE PARK, NJ
We will bird for passerines, then go to the cove for waterbirds. It’s
a good time for early fall migrants, such as Golden-winged & Mourning Warblers,
Yellow-bellied, Least and Olive-sided Flycatchers. These are rare of course,
but we're bound to find something good. Meet in the parking lot at 6:45 AM
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
MAXIMUM: 10 participants - email Frank to register
Leader: Frank Windfelder (267-251-1141)
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field Trip Report
2009 Field Trip
Report
2008 Field Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
September 10 (Saturday) – FORT WASHINGTON STATE PARK, FLOURTOWN, PA
For fall migrants.
This is a joint DVOC / Wyncote
Audubon Society field trip and is free to members and non-membe
Meet 8 AM at the Militia Hill Hawk Watch deck
Trip Leader: Jane Henderson
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field
Trip Report
2009 Field
Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
September 12 (Monday) - MANAYUNK CHIMNEY SWIFT ROOST- PHILADELPHIA, PA
In autumn migration, huge numbers of Chimney Swifts roost in chimneys of certain
schools in the Roxborough/Manayunk area. The birds have been going down the
chimney just before dark, so people should get there around 6:45 PM when the
birds begin to gather.
2011 Location:
John Story Jenks Elementary School (in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia)
8301 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia PA 19118
Location
of the John Story Jenks Elementary School
Arrive in school yard at 7:00 PM.
Birds start going down the chimney around 7:20 PM.
700 swifts were sighted there on Friday night.
This is a joint DVOC / Wyncote
Audubon Society field trip and is free to members and non-members
Leader: Jane Henderson
2011 Field Trip Report
2010
Field Trip Report
2008
Field Trip Report
2007
Field Trip Report
2006 Field Trip Report
2005 Field Trip
Report
Video of 2003 Roost (Six
second clip in *.avi format - 436 KB. Best viewed with Windows Media Player)
Ornithological
Studies Presentation on Chimney Swifts
September 13 (Tuesday) – STONE HARBOR POINT, NUMMY'S ISLAND, NJ
We will meet at 11:00AM in the parking lot of the Wetlands Institute along Rt.
657 in Stone Harbor. Any questions, please call my cell at (856)383-2756 either
that day or a day or two before. The trip will go in most any weather except
a hard steady rain and/or extreme winds. Anyone is welcome to join up with the
group at any time. We will always be somewhere in this area. We won't be walking
too much, but some walking on sand will probably be involved. We will be concentrating
on shorebirds and terns and will search for any rarities reported. There are
plenty of stores to buy lunch if needed. Bring plenty of water. Bathrooms are
available at the Wetlands Institute. Any questions, again, please call my cell
or email me.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Trip Leader: Sandra Keller (856) 383-2756.
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field
Trip Report
2009 Field
Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
October 15 (Saturday) – ASHLAND NATURE CENTER (near Hockessin, Delaware)
We will visit the Hawk Watch and look for late migrants in the vicinity
Meet at the Center's parking lot at 8am.
The area is owned by the Delaware Nature Society. There is no fee, but they'd
love you to join!
For more info: www.delawarenaturesociety.org
Directions to Ashland Nature Center
From Wilmington: Take Route 52 North to Route 82. Make a left on Route 82. Make a left on Barley Mill Road, proceed through the covered bridge, and the entrance is on the right
From I-95 at Newark: Proceed north on I-95 to the Newport exit - Route 141 north. At Route 48, make a left and proceed through the merge with Route 41. Make a right at Brackenville Road where there is a light. Continue past Old Wilmington Road and the intersection with Barley Mill Road. The entrance is on the left before the covered bridge.
From Kennett Square: Take Route 82 south into Delaware. Proceed through the village of Yorklyn. Make a right on Barley Mill Road. Proceed through the covered bridge, and the entrance is on the right.
From Hockessin: At the intersection of Route 41 and Yorklyn Road, proceed east on Yorklyn Road. Yorklyn Road becomes Route 82 south in the village of Yorklyn. Make a right on Barley Mill Road. Proceed through the covered bridge, and the entrance is on the right.
GPS Coordinates
39.797889 N, 75.660152 W
This DVOC trip is free to members and
non-members.
Leader: Colin Campbell
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
October 16 (Sunday) – SHARP-TAILED SPARROWS AT TUCKERTON MARSHES, NJ
We should get great looks at Salt Marsh Sharp-tail’s as well as being
able to compare all races of Nelson’s. A walk along 7 bridges road will
add additional species. We have gotten Clay-colored Sparrow in several years.
Bring high boots or wellies. The Brigantine portion of
the trip has been canceled. Participants of course can continue on their own
to that location. Meet at the end of 7 Bridges Road at 7:00 am sharp!
(This is a time change.)
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Frank Windfelder (267-251-1141)
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field Trip
Report
2009 Field Trip
Report
2008
Field Trip Report
2007 Field Trip
Report
2006 Field Trip
Report
2005 Field Trip
Report
2004 Field Trip
Report
2003 Field Trip
Report
Summary of trips
2001-2011 (*.pdf file)
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
October 23 (Sunday) - JOHN HEINZ NWR AT TINICIUM, SOUTHWEST PHILADELPHIA, PA
This trip will search for early waterfowl and late passerine and shorebird migrants,
as well as local residents.
Meet in Tinicum's parking lot at 8:00 AM.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Denis Brennan (267) 408-2569
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field Trip
Report
2009 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
October 30 (Sunday)- BAKE OVEN KNOB, PA
For raptors and possible Golden Eagle and Goshawk. A decision on which day should
have the best conditions will be made the week prior. Meet at parking lot at
9:00 AM and bring lunch.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leaders : Frank Windfelder (267-251-1141)
and Chris Walters
2011 trip cancelled due to winter storm
2010 Field Trip
Report
2009 Field
Trip Report
2008
Field Trip Report
2007
Field Trip Report
2006 Field Trip Report
2005 Field Trip
Report
2004 Field Trip
Report
2003 Field Trip
Report
Click
Here for a summary of 2005-2010 trips
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
November 5 (Saturday) - SAW-WHET OWL BANDING at HIDDEN VALLEY, PA
Visit Scott Weidensaul’s banding station along the Kittitany Ridge on
Second Mountain in Schuylkill County during the peak of Saw-whet migration.
Meet at the banding station at 6:30PM. Dress warmly. Expect to be out till 11PM.
Limited to 15 participants.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members. Priority will be given to
DVOC members.
Leader: Debbie Beer
2011 Field Trip Report
No report submitted for the 2010 trip
2009 Field Trip Report
2008
Field Trip Report
2007
Field Trip Report
2006 Field Trip
Report
2005 Field Trip
Report
2004 Field Trip
Report
2003 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
November 13 (Sunday) Kirkwood Preserve and Rushton Farms
These important green spaces are part of the Upper Ridley/Crum IBA and include
lots of great habitat including meadows, woods and riparian areas. We will look
for sparrows, raptors and any early winter finches. Meet in the gravel lot on
Grubbs Mill Rd (north on Grubbs Mill from Goshen Rd) at 7:30 AM.
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leaders: Debbie Beer and Win
Shafer
2011 Field Trip Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
November 27 (Sunday) - BRIGANTINE (FORSYTHE NWR), NJ
The trip to Forsythe NWR will be on Sunday, Nov. 27. Please meet in the parking
lot by the restrooms at 11:30AM. We will go until 4:30PM or so. Right now I
am just planning on staying around the refuge, although I might hit Leed's Point
at dusk. This trip is geared to any level of birding. We will chase rarities
if reported, but basically we will be concentrating on the more common species
here now. The trip will not go in bad weather - and that includes extremely
high winds. If in doubt, please call me that Sat. before. (856)383-2756."
This DVOC trip is free to members and non-members.
Leader: Sandra Keller
2011 Field Trip Report
2010 Field Trip
Report
Click Here for a Google Map of the meeting place for this field trip
Looking ahead to 2012 - Special Trip to Cuba
for DVOC members - March 22 - April 2, 2012
This is a special offer and a private opportunity for DVOC members and members
of other Delaware Valley bird clubs. All arrangements are being made by Gary
Markowski of the Caribbean Conservation Trust, which has a long history of managing
bird conservation programs in Cuba. There is a fee for this trip which is not
set by DVOC.
Trip dates are March 22 – April 2, 2012, with an optional 1 night extension
in Havana. Join DVOC field trip chair Win Shafer, and Cuban ornithologist Dr.
William Suarez, Curator, Cuba’s National Museum of Natural History on
this exclusive, US. Government authorized trip, which is part of an ongoing
bird conservation project in Cuba.
For details Click
Here, or contact Win Shafer