Rochester Birding Association

March: Tina Morris - "Return to the Sky"
2026-03-12 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Speaker: Tina Morris – “Return to the Sky”

As the bald eagle, our national symbol, was facing extinction in the continental U.S. in 1976, Tina Morris was beginning her graduate work at Cornell University. By luck and circumstance, she was selected to reintroduce the species into New York State in the hope that eagles could repopulate eastern North America. Young, female, with no experience, she faced the challenges of saving this iconic bird while striving for acceptance in the unfamiliar male-dominated world of raptor biology. Playing mother to seven eagles forced her to transcend the isolation and tedium of field research to rescue an endangered species while in turn rescuing herself.
Tina Morris completed her graduate work in ornithology and wildlife biology at Cornell in 1978, writing her thesis on the adaptations of hacking techniques to reintroduce bald eagles. Following her studies at Cornell, she worked for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Nature Conservancy for several years, focusing on endangered species and critical habitat conservation, before embarking on a 23 year career teaching English and biology. Since her retirement in 2020, she has devoted her time to her own writing, especially creative non-fiction with a science or nature focus. Her short stories and non-fiction essays have appeared in Cognoscenti, LitBreak, Kestrel and North by Northeast. Thirty years ago, with four children in tow, Tina and her husband bought a farm in northern Massachusetts, which they manage as a wildlife sanctuary, promoting biodiversity and habitat protection for species in decline.

Look for the Zoom link in your email a few days prior to the meeting. The Zoom Room will open at 6:45 PM. Don’t wait until the last minute to sign on, you might be left out!

December: Jennifer Ackerman - "What an Owl Knows"
2025-12-11 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, December 11, 2025
Speaker: Jennifer Ackerman – “What an Owl Knows”
For millennia, owls have captivated and intrigued us. Our fascination with these mysterious birds was first documented more than 30,000 years ago in the Chauvet Cave paintings in southern France. With their forward gaze and quiet flight, owls are often a symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and foresight. But what does an owl really know? And what do we really know about owls? Scientists have only recently begun to understand in deep detail the complex nature of these extraordinary birds. Some 260 species of owls exist today, and they reside on every continent except Antarctica, but they are far more difficult to find and study than other birds because they are cryptic, camouflaged, and mostly active in the dark of night. Join Jennifer in a multimedia presentation on what we have learned lately about the nature of the world’s most enigmatic birds. With remarkable photos, videos, and audio recordings, Jennifer explores the rich biology and natural history of owls and examines remarkable new scientific discoveries about their brains and behavior.
Award-winning science writer and speaker Jennifer Ackerman has been writing about nature and science for more than three decades. She is the author of seven books, including the New York Times bestsellers, The Genius of Birds (Penguin Press, 2016) and What an Owl Knows: The New Science of the World’s Most Enigmatic Birds (Penguin Press, June 2023), which was named a New York Times Notable Book of 2023.
Jennifer’s previous books include The Bird Way (2020), which won the 2021 Whitley Book Award and was a finalist for the 2021 PEN/E.O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award. It was named a Nature Book of the Year by the London Sunday Times. Her book on bird intelligence, The Genius of Birds, was a finalist for the 2017 National Academies Communication Book Award and was named one of the ten best nonfiction books of 2016 by the Wall Street Journal. It has been published in 28 languages.
Jennifer was named a Guggenheim Fellow in 2024. She is also the recipient of a grant from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation and fellowships from the National Endowment of the Arts, the Bunting Institute of Radcliffe College (now the Radcliffe Institute), Brown College at the University of Virginia, and the Tisch College of Citizenship and Public Service at Tufts University.

Note: Photo taken by Sofia Runarsdotter
Look for the Zoom link in your email a few days prior to the meeting. The Zoom Room will open at 6:45 PM. Don’t wait until the last minute to sign on, you might be left out!

Beginner Birder Trip – Nations Road
2025-12-07 14:00 - 18:00 | Nations Road, 2658-2682 Nations Rd, Avon, NY, 14414, United States
Sharpen your skills on wintering hawks and Short-eared Owls. Other wintering birds such as Horned Larks, Snow Buntings, and Lapland Longspurs are often present. This trip is a combination of driving and viewing at stops along roads. Length about .5 mile walking along the road. Restroom facilities are available at Tops.
Meet at 2:00 p.m. at the Tops Plaza in Avon on Routes 5 and 20, 2 miles west of I-390. If possible, carpooling from Tops would be very helpful. Bring binoculars, dress warmly and in layers. Spotting scopes and FRS radios would be very useful.
Leader: John Boettcher 585-671-9639 and co-leaders Niki Banke 585-317-3751 and Robert Crandall 585-278-3455
Note: This is a field trip for beginners. New birders should feel free to join these trips regardless of experience level: bring binoculars if you have them. The pace & focus of Beginner Trips may not be satisfying for experienced birders. Our Beginner Trips focus on teaching identification skills, learning new habitats, and answering questions. Experienced birders are welcome but may be pressed into service as educators

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Conesus Lake Area
2025-12-06 08:00 - 12:00 | Conesus Lake Area, Vitale Park, Big Tree Road, NY, 14480, United States
We’ll be looking for Tundra Swans, Canvasback, Redhead and other waterfowl. This trip is a combination of driving, stopping at overlooks and short walks on mostly level dirt trails and dikes. Length is about 1.5 mile walking. Dress warmly and in layers. Restrooms are available at Vitale Park only.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. at Vitale Park on Route 20A in Lakeville. The park entrance is by the Lakeville post office on the south (lake) side of 20A and across the street from Smith’s Hardware. Spotting scopes would be very useful.
Leader: Jim Kimball 585-519-9211 and co-leaders Nick Kachala 585-750-5536 and Andrew Consler 585-991-2154

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Niagara River (Joint trip with the Buffalo Ornithological Society)
2025-11-30 09:00 - 17:00 | Niagara River, Old Fort Niagara, Youngstown, NY, 14174, United States
The Niagara River area is famous for the variety and number of gulls in winter. Join us on our birding venture along the Niagara River in both the US and Canada. We will start at Lake Ontario and work our way south to the Falls. Our focus will be on waterfowl and gulls, including Bonaparte’s Gull and Little Gull, with possible late migrating Common Tern, with additional stops for Red-headed Woodpecker, Black Vulture and late migrating passerines. This is a joint trip with the Buffalo Ornithological Society.
Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the large parking lot next to the swimming pool of Fort Niagara State Park Beach, 1 Scott Avenue, Rt. 18F, Youngstown, NY. Bring beverages and lunch for this is an all day trip. We will be crossing into Canada; carpooling would be very helpful. Participants MUST bring passports or Enhanced Driver’s licenses. Dress warmly and in layers. Spotting scopes and FRS radios would be very helpful.
Leaders: Tom O’Donnell of the Buffalo Ornithological Society (BOS) 716-622-5185 or tmodonnell@roadrunner.com and Neal Reilly 518-256-9147

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Birds and Brews - Rising Storm Brewing Co.
2025-11-17 18:00 - 21:00 | Rising Storm Brewing Co., 1880 Blossom Road, Rochester, 14625, United States
BIRDS AND BREWS
Join us for craft beers and conversation!
A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.

Monday, November 17, 2025
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Rising Storm Brewing Co.
1880 Blossom Road
Rochester

The former Daisy Flour Mill has been transformed into a spacious brew pub! Beer, wine, cider, and cocktails are all on the menu, as well as an imaginative selection of meals for your dining pleasure. We’ll be on the upper level. https://www.risingstormbrewing.com

November: Andrea Patterson - "40 Years of Banding At Braddock Bay: What Have We Learned?"
2025-11-13 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, November 13, 2025
40 Years of Banding At Braddock Bay: What Have We Learned? – Andrea Patterson

Braddock Bay Bird Observatory has been banding birds on the south shore of Lake Ontario since 1986, and we’ve collected data on more than 300,000 birds. Thanks to a platoon of collaborating researchers including local professors and their undergraduate and graduate students, our data has been used to answer a variety of questions concerning the behavior, ecology, and biology of birds. Join us for a romp through 40 years of research, as we tackle questions like:

Have we noticed any changes in bird populations or migrations over time?
Are migrating flocks just associations of birds that happen to be coordinated by time, place, and species, or is there something more meaningful at work?
Why do birds carry extra fat in the spring?
Why do some insectivores switch their diet to fruit in the fall?
Is it possible to distinguish individual Magnolia Warblers just by their night flight calls???
What is that thing on the chin of that Great Crested Flycatcher?

We promise that you don’t need a knowledge of statistics or the scientific method to understand and enjoy this fun overview of our work.

Biography:
Andrea Patterson began volunteering at Braddock Bay Bird Observatory in 2009, and banded her first bird in the spring of 2010 when she took a bander training class from Elizabeth Brooks. Since then, she has handled more than 20,000 birds as part of the Observatory’s long-term migration study and has been lucky enough to spend time banding Saltmarsh and Nelson’s Sparrows in New Hampshire, rails (including one Black Rail!) in Louisiana, and Tawny-crowned Greenlets in Belize. Now the executive director of the Braddock Bay Bird Observatory, Andrea coordinates the migration, summer, and owl monitoring programs; facilitates the use of the Observatory as a field site for a half-dozen research affiliates; and teaches four banding classes annually.

Look for the Zoom link in your email a few days prior to the meeting. The Zoom Room will open at 6:45 PM. Don’t wait until the last minute to sign on, you might be left out!

Durand-Eastman Park
2025-10-26 09:00 - 12:00 | Durand Eastman Park, Lakeshore Boulevard, Rochester, NY, 14620, United States
Dark-eyed Juncos, woodpeckers, Winter Wrens and, if lucky, Red-headed Woodpecker, are possible. After checking out Lake Ontario and Eastman Lake for ducks, we will drive to and walk a section of Horseshoe Road. We will then drive to Log Cabin Road where we will walk the non-motor vehicle section and parts of Zoo Road, traversing the Blue Trail to return to Log Cabin Road. Steady moderate grades at sections. Length about 2.5 miles, total. No restrooms available.
Meet at 9:00 a.m. in Parking Lot D on the right side of Lakeshore Blvd. opposite Log Cabin Road. Please dress for the weather.
Leader: Jeanne Verhulst 585-362-0803 and co-leaders Doug and Elizabeth Rabjohns 585-690-6296

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Batavia Wastewater Treatment Plant
2025-10-18 09:00 - 12:00 | Batavia Wastewater Treatment Plant, 9 Treadeasy Ave, Batavia, NY, 14020, United States
Why a wastewater treatment plant? Open water and a great location mean that this spot appears regularly on fall birding lists for ducks as well as passerines. We will drive on the banks of the ponds, getting out wherever the birds are congregating. Discover the great opportunity this spot (and its helpful staff) offers. Restrooms might be available at the plant offices.
Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the wastewater treatment plant headquarters (5 Treadeasy Ave.). Follow Rt. 33 West from Main Street, take the second exit on the roundabout to continue on Rt. 33W. Turn left on to Industrial Blvd., continue over railroad tracks, cross over Treadeasy Ave, go up a small hill, and through the gates at the end of Industrial Blvd. Turn left after the gates, follow the driveway around to the back side of the building. If possible, we will carpool from the plant offices. Spotting scopes would be very useful.
Leader: Neal Reilly 518-256-9147 and co-leader Cathy Ballard 585-322-2621

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Birds and Brews - Swiftwater Brewing
2025-10-16 18:00 - 21:00 | Swiftwater Brewing, 378 Mount Hope, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
BIRDS AND BREWS
Join us for craft beers and conversation!
A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.
Thursday, October 16, 2025
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Swiftwater Brewing
378 Mount Hope Avenue, Rochester
Swiftwater has a wide range of beers, ciders, wines, and canned cocktails, and a menu of small plates, large plates, sandwiches and cookies. Check it out at https://swiftwaterbrewing.com/

High Acres Nature Area
2025-10-12 08:30 - 12:00 | High Acres Nature Area (HANA), 425 Perinton Parkway, Fairport, NY, 14450, United States
Over 130 bird species have been observed at HANA including more than 70 that nest in the diverse habitats found there. During this fall field trip we expect to see various species of migrating birds such as ducks, kinglets, warblers and thrushes, and summer resident birds getting ready to migrate south. As a bonus, the fall colors should be in full glorious display. Our approximately two-mile walk over mostly flat trails will explore about 250 acres at HANA and may include some wet spots if it has been a wet fall. No restrooms available.
Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the parking lot on Perinton Parkway approximately 1/4 mile east of the Waste Management offices.
Leaders: Brian Rohrs and Gayle Lazoration 585-281-9534

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

October: Bobby Harrison - "My search for the Ivory-billed Woodpecker"
2025-10-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, October 9, 2025
Speaker:
Bobby Harrison – “My search for the Ivory-billed Woodpecker”

The struggle to prove the Ivory-billed Woodpecker still exists has obsessed believers and exasperated doubters for a century. Photographer Bobby Harrision has been working for decades to document the species once and for all before the government declares it extinct. He and Tim Gallagher, at the time the editor of Cornell Lab of Ornithlogy’s Living Bird magazine, were the last to see a bird that may have been an Ivory-billed during an expedition to the Big Woods of the Arkansas Delta in 2004. Harrison has captured video of what may have been an Ivory-billed since then, but the controversy continues—and he continues to search the swamps of eastern Arkansas to get a definitive image of the elusive bird.
Bobby Harrison is an award-winning nature photographer, speaker, writer and educator based in Huntsville, Alabama. Mr. Harrison holds a B.F.A. in Photography from Andrew’s University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, and a M.S. in Media Technology from Alabama A&M University. He served as the Director of the Art Program at Oakwood University from 1992 until his retirement in 2022, holding the rank of Associate Professor. He is also a charter member of the North American Nature Photography Association and served on the Board of Directors from January 2001 to February 2004.

Mr. Harrison has published articles and photographs in various national and international magazines and calendars such as: Audubon, Living bird, Birder’s World, Wildbird, Nature’s Best, Bird Watchers Digest, Natural History, National and International Wildlife, American Photo, Birds and Blooms, Sinra, Outdoor Photographer, Outdoor and Travel Photographer, as well as other publications. Calendars include Birder’s World, Audubon, and Sanibel Island. He is currently a columnist for the magazine, Creation Illustrated.

His travels have taken him from the Pribilof Islands and the Alaska mainland to Venezuela, from the Arizona deserts to coastal Maine to photograph his favorite subject: birds. He has traveled widely throughout North America giving
presentations on birds and bird photography.

Mr. Harrison has published photographs and more than 100 articles in various national and international nature magazines. He is also one of the featured photographers in a thirteen-part television series entitled “Nature’s Best Photography”. His bird photography has garnered numerous awards including the 2021 Lucie Awards competition for wildlife photography, the 2018 Audubon Photography Awards top 100 images, and three awards in the widely acclaimed Nature’s Best International Photography Awards competition.

In 2005 Mr. Harrison was elected a Fellow of The Explores Club in New York City. On March 18, 2006 he, along with his colleague Tim Gallagher of Cornell University received The Explores Clubs Presidents Award for Conservation at their annual gala. This prestigious award is given for a significant contribution to science through exploration.

Look for the Zoom link in your email a few days prior to the meeting. The Zoom Room will open at 6:45 PM. Don’t wait until the last minute to sign on, you might be left out!

Ganondagan State Historic Site - a Field Trip for All Ages
2025-10-04 10:00 - 13:00 | Ganondagan State Historic Site, 1488 NY-444, Victor, NY, 14564, United States
This trip is open to all ages (ages 15 and younger must accompanied by a responsible adult). This trip goes through four habitat types and has the potential for many birds including fall migrants. We will start from the parking lot and walk wide mowed or packed dirt trails through grasslands, then head down hill through shrub land and wetland, to travel back up the hill through hardwood forest. The round trip is about 2 miles and includes hills. Restroom facilities are available at the Seneca Arts and Culture Center (SACC) at the end of the trip.
Meet at 10:00 a.m. in the main parking lot situated below the SACC, 7000 County Road 41, Victor, NY 14564.
Leaders: Amy Kahn 585-310-2330 and co-leader Neal Reilly 518-256-9147

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

The Big Sit at Silver Lake State Park
2025-10-04 08:00 - 16:00 | Silver Lake State Park Boat Launch, 4257 W Lake Road, Silver Springs, New York, 14550, United States
Founded in 1992, The Big Sit is an annual, international birding event similar to a bird-a-thon. The catch is that all observations must be made from within a circle no more than 17 feet in diameter. Our count circle will overlook the southern end of Silver Lake located in Wyoming County. You can stay for as long as you like to help with the count or to learn more about the birds of Silver Lake. Bring a picnic lunch if staying for the lunch hour. At the very least, you will have Matt Nusstein’s undivided attention!

This will be a great opportunity to beef up your eBird list for Wyoming County! Comfort station and a shelter are available.

The Sit begins at 8:00 a.m. and runs for 8 hours. Meet at the Silver Lake State Park Boat Launch, 4229 W Lake Rd, Silver Springs, NY 14550.

Questions? Contact leader: Matt Nusstein 716-446-3376, Matthew.Nusstein@parks.ny.gov

Hamlin Beach State Park
2025-10-04 08:00 - 12:30 | Hamlin Beach State Park, 1 Camp Hill Road, Hamlin, NY, 14464, United States
We will be walking flat trails in the wooded and brushy areas of the park, looking for thrushes, sparrows, and maybe a half-hardy warbler or two. We’ll stop by the lake watch to view ducks on the water and in flight, learning about the lake watch process. We will also explore the former CCC Camp adjacent to the park where there is a pond and brushy/forest areas. Dress appropriately for cooler weather along the lake and wear sturdy footwear. Restroom facilities are available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. in Parking Lot 4 (note location change due to construction in Parking Lot 1), Hamlin Beach State Park Spotting scopes would be useful.
Leader: Roger Clark 505-231-7369 and co-leader Rick Stevens 585-689-1882

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge
2025-09-21 09:00 - 17:00 | Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, NY, United States
We’ll look for migrant ducks and various passerines in this “get to know Iroquois in autumn” trip. This trip is a combination of driving and walking and includes a boardwalk, forest trail, and dirt road. Length, about 3 miles total, on mostly flat trails. Port-a-john is available about midway through the trip.
Meet at 9:00 a.m. toward the rear of the Brockport Wegmans parking lot (restroom available). For those traveling from the west, meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Upper Stafford Marsh Overlook near 5999 Albion Road, Oakfield, NY. Bring a lunch and beverages as this trip may go into the later afternoon. Spotting scopes would be very useful for some of the stops.
Leader: Rick Stevens 585-689-1882 and co-leader Niki Banke 585-317-3751

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Ganondagan State Historic Site
2025-09-20 09:00 - 12:30 | Ganondagan State Historic Site, 1488 NY-444, Victor, NY, 14564, United States
This trip goes through four habitat types and has the potential for many birds including fall migrants. We will start from the parking lot and walk wide mowed or packed dirt trails through grasslands, then head down hill through shrubland and wetland, to travel back up the hill through hardwood forest. The round trip is about 2 miles and includes hills. Restroom facilities are available at the Seneca Arts and Culture Center (SACC) at the end of the trip.
Meet at 9:00 a.m. in the main the parking lot situated below the SACC, 7000 County Road 41, Victor, NY 14564.
Leaders: Amy Kahn 585-310-2330 and co-leader Neal Reilly 518-256-9147

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Braddock Bay East Spit
2025-09-14 08:00 - 12:00 | Braddock Bay East Spit, 105 East Manitou Road, Rochester, NY, 14610, United States
The East Spit of Braddock Bay is a well-known spot for migrating shorebirds in late summer. Herons, eagles, Osprey and early warbler migrants are also possible. The trail is a woodland path between Lake Ontario and the Braddock Bay Marshes. We will walk out to the end of the spit and back, about 1 mile. The trail is narrow and has uneven, rocky footing in places. Sturdy waterproof shoes or boots and bug spray will be needed. Crossing the channel to the barrier island will be optional and dependent on water levels. Restrooms are available next to the Marina building.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the East Spit parking lot beyond Westport Marina at Braddock Bay. Note: You must drive through the Marina to reach the East Spit parking lot. Spotting Scopes would be very useful.
Leader: Neal Reilly 518-256-9147 and co-leaders Sheryl Gracewski and Tom Nash 585-261-6975

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
2025-09-13 10:30 - 16:30 | Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Seneca Falls, NY, 13148, United States
We’ll be looking for waterfowl and migrating shorebirds. Expect to see herons, eagles and possibly falcons. There will be a number of stops during this mostly driving trip. Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center.
Meet at 10:30 a.m. at the Montezuma Visitor Center. Pack a lunch. Spotting scopes would be very useful.
Leaders: Mike and Joann Tetlow 585-748-5838 and Dominic Sherony 585-298-4260

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

September: Richard Fuller - "Connecting the USA with Australia: Migratory shorebirds of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway"
2025-09-11 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Speaker: Richard Fuller – “Connecting the USA with Australia: Migratory shorebirds of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway”

Richard Fuller is a Professor at the University of Queensland. He studies how people have affected the natural world around them, and how some of their destructive effects can best be reversed. The research group works on pure and applied topics in biodiversity and conservation, with a strong emphasis on building collaborative conservation to save migratory species. He is also an incurable birder. See www.fullerlab.org
Look for the Zoom link in your email a few days prior to the meeting. The Zoom Room will open at 6:45 PM. Don’t wait until the last minute to sign on, you might be left out!

Sandra L. Frankel Nature Park (Brickyard Trail)
2025-09-10 07:30 - 11:30 | Sandra L. Frankel Nature Park (Brickyard Trail), 1239 Westfall Road, Rochester, NY, United States
The wide, flat, multi-use Brickyard Trail winds between Elmwood Avenue and Westfall Road in Brighton. With woods at both ends and ponds and marsh in the middle, it provides varied bird habitat. We will walk the full length of the trail and back (1.7 miles) to look for migrating fall warblers, kinglets, sparrows, wrens, and finches. There might even be a Belted Kingfisher hanging around. Dress for the weather. Insect repellent may be needed for the wooded sections. No restrooms.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. in the parking area near the entrance to Temple B’rith Kodesh (2131 Elmwood Ave.); the trail entrance is nearby. Wheelchair friendly—please call leaders for accessibility questions.
Leaders: Jeanne and Tom Verhulst 585-362-0803

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Beginner Birder Trip – Charlotte and Turning Point Park
2025-09-07 08:00 - 12:00 | Charlotte / Ontario Beach Park, Charlotte Park, 4800 Lake Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14613, United States
We’ll be looking for shorebirds, warblers, and other fall migrants along the river and lakeshore. At Charlotte Beach, we’ll look for gulls in many plumages and some shorebirds, too. At Turning Point Park, we will look for local resident birds and fall migrants. The Charlotte Beach area is mostly flat and paved; one long, steep grade at Turning Point Park. Length about 2 miles total. Restrooms are available at Charlotte only.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. at Ontario Beach Park in Charlotte in the northeast corner of the parking lot, beside the Genesee River outlet. Bring binoculars and, if you have them, spotting scopes.
Leader: John Boettcher 585-671-9639 and co-leader Rosemary Reilly 585-748-0802
Note: This is a field trip for beginners. New birders should feel free to join these trips regardless of experience level: bring binoculars if you have them. The pace & focus of Beginner Trips may not be satisfying for experienced birders. Our Beginner Trips focus on teaching identification skills, learning new habitats, and answering questions. Experienced birders are welcome but may be pressed into service as educators
RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Whiting Road Nature Preserve
2025-09-06 08:00 - 12:00 | Whiting Road Preserve, 403 Whiting Road, Webster, NY, 14580, United States
This preserve includes about 240 acres of land that is made up of a variety of bird habitats, resulting in decent bird lists throughout the year. The trails are well marked and maintained, however, they can get muddy at times, so appropriate footwear is recommended based on the weather leading up to the trip date. Most of the trails are flat, but there will be a bit of up and down in some sections. Our trek will take us mainly on the Blue and Black trails. Moderate difficulty in a few spots, length about 2.5 miles. No restrooms.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the Preserve parking lot on Whiting Road in Webster, 0.6 miles south of Lake Road.
Leaders: Tom and Jeanne Verhulst 585-362-0803 and co-leader AP Salverda 585-957-6064

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Birds and Brews - LOCATION CHANGE!! K2 Brothers Brewing on Empire
2025-08-19 18:00 - 21:00 | K2 Brothers Brewing, 1221 Empire Boulevard, Rochester, NY, NY, 14609, United States
LOCATION CHANGE!

BIRDS AND BREWS
Join us for craft beers and conversation!
A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.

Tuesday, August 19, 2025
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
K2 Brothers Brewing on Empire
1221 Empire Blvd., Penfield

A long list of beers and ciders, as well as a full bar,
are only some of the attractions of this New York State microbrewery.
Check out the full food menu at
https://k2brewing.com/rochester-k2-brewing-empire-food-menu

Beginner Birder Trip – Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
2025-08-09 14:00 - 18:00 | Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Seneca Falls, NY, 13148, United States
Learn more about the fall migration of shorebirds in this nearby birding treasure. We’ll visit key spots you’ll want to revisit again and again! There will be a number of stops during this mostly driving trip. Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center.
Meet at 1:00 p.m. in the Bushnell’s Basin Park and Ride lot. The lot is off Route 96 just south of Exit 27 from I-490. Alternatively, meet up with the group at the first stop, the Montezuma Visitor Center at 2:00 p.m. Bring binoculars and, if you have them, spotting scopes.
Leader: John Boettcher 585-671-9639 co-leader Niki Banke 585-317-3751
Note: This is a field trip for beginners. New birders should feel free to join these trips regardless of experience level: bring binoculars if you have them. The pace & focus of Beginner Trips may not be satisfying for experienced birders. Our Beginner Trips focus on teaching identification skills, learning new habitats, and answering questions. Experienced birders are welcome but may be pressed into service as educators

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Conesus Inlet State Wildlife Management Area
2025-08-02 07:30 - 12:00 | Vitale Park, Vitale Park, Big Tree Rd, NY, 14480, United States
Explore this expansive wetland for Virginia Rails and Wood Duck families. We’ve seen eagles on a reliable basis, Cliff Swallows and more. This trip is a combination of driving, stopping at overlooks and short walks on dirt trails and dikes. Length about 1.5 miles of walking. Restrooms are available at the meeting place only.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at Vitale Park on Route 20A in Lakeville. The Park entrance is by the Lakeville post office on the south (lake) side of Route 20A and across the street from Smith’s Hardware. There’s a possibility of a trip extension to the Geneseo Airport area. Spotting scopes would be useful.
Leader: Jim Kimball 585-519-9211 and co-leaders Nick Kachala 585-750-5536 and Andrew Consler 585-991-2154

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Birds and Brews - Fifth Frame Brewing Co.
2025-07-14 18:00 - 21:00 | Fifth Frame Brewing Company, 5370 St. Paul Blvd., Rochester, NY, 14617, United States
BIRDS AND BREWS
Join us for craft beers and conversation!
A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.
Monday, July 14, 2025
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Fifth Frame Brewing Co.
5370 St. Paul Blvd.
(In the building that was the Summerville Grill,
just before the Summerville Pier)
Come enjoy the creative menu and a wide range of beers,
as well as a full bar!
https://fifthframe.co

Barnhart's Camp and Keeney Swamp
2025-06-29 07:30 - 20:30 | Barnhart’s Camp and Keeney Swamp, 9045 State Route 408, Nunda, NY, 14517, United States
Beginning with Keeney Swamp, we will spend the morning birding as we drive (and stop) along forest roads and ponds. As we make our way to Camp, we will stop to look for the Prairie Warbler. After lunch, we will make our way back towards Nunda, driving back roads to cover the diverse landscapes of northern Allegany County. Grassland, woodland, pond and swampland species such as Mourning and Hooded Warblers, Eastern Bluebirds, Indigo Buntings, and maybe a bittern could be seen. This trip has very little walking and generally goes all day so we can see as much as possible!
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at the Shop-n-Save on Rt. 408, (Mt. Morris-Nunda Rd), Nunda, NY. No restrooms until Barnhart’s Camp. Spotting scopes and FRS Radios would be useful. Lunch at Barnhart’s Camp is a trip tradition—they grill the hot dogs! Bring a dish to pass—your choice (but this is optional).
Leaders: Jerry and Carolyn Barnhart 585-385-4026 and co-leaders Rick Stevens 585-689-1882 and Tom and Jeanne Verhulst 585-362-0803

RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Bergen Swamp
2025-06-14 07:30 - 12:00 | Bergen Swamp, Hessenthaller Road, Bergen, NY, United States
A trip to this unique place is by special permit from the Bergen Swamp Preservation Society and will feature nesting birds. The mix of vegetation zones provides secluded nesting habitat for the usual western N.Y. species as well as those more characteristic of the Canadian zone such as Blue-headed Vireo, Hermit Thrush, Ovenbird, and other warblers. This is a walking trip of 3 miles on possibly wet and slippery corduroy trails that must be followed closely for safety reasons and because of the fragile habitat. Sturdy boots (rather than sneakers) are strongly recommended, and hiking or ski poles may be useful.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at the main trailhead entrance to Bergen Swamp: 6646 Hessenthaler Rd, Byron, NY 14422. From Rochester, take I-490 west to Exit 2. Take Rt. 33 west and turn right (north) onto Route 19. Turn left at the fire station onto Hunter Road; it becomes Swamp Road. Follow Swamp Road west past Pocock Road and turn right onto Hessenthaler Road. The swamp entrance is at the kiosk on the right. Park along the right shoulder, but do not park in front of the caretaker’s house.
Leader: Greg Lawrence 585-730-2553 and co-leader Neal Reilly 518-256-9147
RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.

Wyoming County Fields and Forest—New Compehner Farm
2025-06-08 07:30 - 12:00 | New Compehner Farm, 6340 Lagrange Rd, Wyoming, NY, 14591, United States
This is a great opportunity to explore the beautiful upland region of northeastern Wyoming County including New Compehner Farm, the home and farm of Hans and Leslie Kunze. First, we will look for a variety of native sparrows (Savannah, Vesper), hopefully, returning Cliff Swallows, both oriole species, open country birds, and nesting species in a nice mixture of bird friendly plantings and open fields. Next, we will head toward Silver Lake with stops along the way at wooded and marshy habitats to look for nesting Veery, Wood Thrush, Hooded Warblers, hopefully, a Louisiana Waterthrush, and, if lucky, a Virginia Rail. We will end the trip at Silver Lake to look for ducks and gulls and to observe a colony of Purple Martins.
Easy walking, but will cover a mile or two; wear sturdy shoes. The trip will last at least until noon; bring snacks or lunch, or eat at the Charcoal Corral (a local favorite). A bathroom is available at the home of the leader.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at 6340 LaGrange Road, Wyoming, NY 14591.
Leaders: Hans Kunze 585-813-2676 and Rick Stevens 585-689-1882
RBA Field Trip Guidelines
All field trips go rain/snow or shine unless there is a travel advisory issued. Trips run approximately 2 to 4 hours. Bring binoculars. Wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Please arrive at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the start time of the trip. Colds, flu, and COVID are still around–if you’re not feeling well, please stay home. Please carpool when possible!
Waive and Release from Liability: By participating in this field trip you acknowledge that you assume all risks and hazards incidental to the activities of the event. You further release, absolve, hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Rochester Birding Association, Inc. and all individually named organizers, leaders, and participants of the event. In case of injury, you hereby waive all claims against all organizers, leaders, and participants.
Photo/Video Waiver: If you do not consent to have your image used by the RBA in the manner next described, upon arrival at the trip, please write “no photo” after your name on the sign-in Field Trip Roster. Otherwise, by attending this field trip you hereby grant permission to the Rochester Birding Association to take and publish photos or videos of you in connection with the event listed above, with or without your name, and for any lawful purpose including, for example, such purposes as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.
