Some of Our Local Species for The Winter
American Wigeon near Hunter Island in January 2021. They like to stay close to the shoreline.
Notice the stubby bill, small neck ring and small size of this seemingly "Canada Goose." This one is now split from that species and is a Cackling Goose.
A male Bufflehead in his tuxedo. His color appears as black and white in most light.
A Canvasback photographed from City Island. They are not often seen here anymore.
A Ruddy Duck. Perhaps taken in Van Cortland Park lake. They are not common here and prefer fresh water.
Common Goldeneye are usually very far out viewed from the "lookout" on Hunter Island or from Twin Island.
Horned Grebe should be here soon. This one was photographed opposite Turtle Cove in Eastchester bay.
A male Gadwall near Hunter Island. You can really appreciate their beauty when they're out of the water.
American Black Ducks have returned and can be seen off Hunter Island. They are considered a "Threatened Species."
This is a male Hooded Merganser. He puts his hood up to attract females. They used to be quite common at Turtle Cove but not so much anymore.
A female Red-breasted Merganser. There are many in our waters right now.
A Red-throated Loon off Orchard Beach. Compare the field marks to the Common Loon below.
A White winged Scoter. You can see this bird now off Orchard Beach!
Both Common and Red-throated Loon can be seen around the waters off Orchard Beach and Hunter Island. This is a Common Loon in non-breeding plumage.
