Beginner Birder Trip – Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
2024-08-10 14:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | 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-leaders Sheryl Gracewski and Tom Nash 585-261-6975
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.

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
2024-08-18 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. Bring your own FRS radios and spotting scopes, if you have them.
Leaders: Mike and Joann Tetlow 585-748-5838

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 - Three Heads Brewing
2024-08-29 18:00 - 21:00 | Three Heads Brewing, 186 Atlantic Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, 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, August 29, 2024
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Three Heads Brewing
186 Atlantic Avenue, Rochester
We’ll enjoy sitting outside, weather permitting,
at this neighborhood favorite brew pub.
Three Heads doesn’t serve meals (just some limited snacks),
but you are welcome to bring your own takeout.
(Old Pueblo Grill and Le Petit Poutine are right across the street.)
https://threeheadsbrewing.com

Whiting Road Nature Preserve
2024-09-07 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 birding habitats. This results in decent birding lists throughout the year. The trails are well marked and maintained. However, they do 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 definitely will be a bit of up and down trail climbing in some sections. Our trek will take us on parts of the blue, brown, orange, and red trails. Moderate difficulty in a few spots, length about 2.5 miles.
No restrooms.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the parking lot on Whiting Road in Webster, 0.6 miles south of Lake Road.
Leaders: Candace Giles 585-281-1643 and Eunice Thein 585-746-2919 and co-leader Dick Horsey 585-435-2837

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
2024-09-08 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 2.0 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.

Sandra L. Frankel Nature Park (Brickyard Trail)
2024-09-11 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 late Green Heron 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.

September: Michael Adriaansen - “Land Management and Preservation Along Important Bird Migration Routes in New York vs. Texas”
2024-09-12 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, September 12, 2024

Speaker: Michael Adriaansen – “Land Management and Preservation Along Important Bird Migration Routes in New York vs. Texas”
This presentation will compare the land management in New York and Texas along important bird migration routes and how it affects bird species diversity.
Michael Adriaansen has a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from Binghamton University, and a master’s degree in Environmental Interpretation from SUNY – ESF. He worked as an environmental educator for NYSDEC at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve in Buffalo for more than 15 years. Presently, he works as an environmental educator with NYS Parks at Niagara Falls. He recently took a trip to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas and recorded many life birds. His presentation will be filled with pictures and a few videos from this trip.
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!

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
2024-09-14 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.

Braddock Bay East Spit
2024-09-15 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.

Birds and Brews - Black Button Distilling
2024-09-19 18:00 - 21:00 | Black Button Distilling, 1344 University Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Join us for craft beers and conversation!
A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.

Thursday, September 19, 2024
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Black Button Distilling
1344 University Avenue
(between Culver and Winton Roads)
This time it’s “Birds and Booze”!!
Known best for its bourbon and gin, Black Button is growing fast,
and its new dining area and full bar provide plenty of space.
Check out the food and cocktail menus at
https://blackbuttondistilling.com/tasting-room/cocktail-food-menu/

Ganondagan State Historic Site
2024-09-21 08:30 - 12:30 | Ganondagan State Historic Site, 1488 NY-444, Victor, NY, 14564, United States
This trip goes through many habitat types and has the potential for many birds including fall migrants. We will start from the parking lot to the longhouse and walk wide mowed or packed dirt trails through grasslands and then head down hill through shrub land, and wetland to travel back up the hill in hardwood forest. The round trip is about 2 miles and includes hills.
Restroom facilities are available at the museum center at the end of the trip.
Meet at 8:30 a.m. in the main parking lot situated below the new museum at 7000 County Road 41 (Boughton Hill Road), 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.

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge
2024-09-22 11:00 - 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 available about midway through trip.
Meet at 11:00 a.m. at the Brockport Wegmans’ parking lot (restroom). For those traveling from the west, meet at the Upper Stafford Marsh Overlook near 5999 Albion Road, Oakfield, NY at 11:30 a.m. Bring a lunch and beverages as this trip can go into the afternoon. Spotting scopes would be very useful.
Leaders: Sheryl Gracewski and Tom Nash 585-261-6975 and co-leader Rosemary Reilly 585-748-0802

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 SPECIAL EVENT: "Marine Birds of the Americas: A Conversation with Sea McKeon" facilitated by author and RBA President Randi Minetor
2024-09-25 18:30 - 19:30 | Brighton Memorial Libary Learning Center, 2300 Elmwood Avenue, Brighton, 14618, United States
Special Events in September
RBA is partnering with our friends at the Seneca Park Zoo and Genesee Valley Audubon Society to bring you two events with Sea McKeon, American Bird Conservancy Marine Program Director, during his consultation visit to Rochester. Join us for the first of two exciting events!
Wednesday, September 25, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Marine Birds of the Americas: A Conversation with Sea McKeon, facilitated by author and RBA President Randi Minetor
Brighton Memorial Library Learning Center
2300 Elmwood Avenue, Brighton
Free and open to the public; hearing loop system; wheelchair accessible
Join Sea McKeon, Marine Program Director for the American Bird Conservancy (ABC), in a lively discussion with Randi Minetor, as he shares highlights from recent travels to Peru and other destinations, and the conservation work of ABC throughout the Americas. In partnership with the Rochester Birding Association. For more information, visit www.senecaparkzoo.org/birdability

September SPECIAL EVENT: Sea McKeon - "Intro to Birding through Nature Journaling"
2024-09-28 08:30 - 10:30 | Seneca Park, 2222 St. Paul Street, Rochester, NY, 14621, United States
Special Events in September
RBA is partnering with our friends at the Seneca Park Zoo and Genesee Valley Audubon Society to bring you two events with Sea McKeon, American Bird Conservancy Marine Program Director, during his consultation visit to Rochester. Join us for the second of two exciting events!
Saturday, September 28, 8:30 – 10:30 am
Intro to Birding through Nature Journaling with ABC’s Sea McKeon
Seneca Park, Longhouse Shelter
2222 St. Paul St., Rochester
Free and open to the public; preregistration required and limited to 16 people
Participants will learn fundamentals of birding through a Sit and Bird session and will discover how nature journaling (with words and/or drawing) helps our observational skills. No artistic talent required! Suitable for ages 12 to 120; binoculars available and nature journals provided.
A Birdability event: all paths are wheelchair accessible; participants are encouraged to bring camp chairs or blankets to sit on. In partnership with Genesee Valley Audubon. For more information and to register, visit www.senecaparkzoo.org/birdability

Hamlin Beach State Park
2024-10-05 08:00 - 12:30 | Hamlin Beach State Park, 1 Camp Hill Road, Hamlin, NY, 14464, United States
We’ll start off walking flat wooded and brushy areas of the park, looking for thrushes, sparrows, and maybe a half-hardy warbler or two. After that, we’ll stop by the lake watch to view ducks on the water and in flight, learning about the lake watch process.
Dress appropriately for cooler weather along the lake, and wear comfortable footwear. Restroom facilities are available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. in Hamlin Beach State Park, Parking Lot 1. Spotting scopes would be very useful.
Leader: Dominic Sherony 585-298-4260 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.

October: Mark Deutschlander - “Radiotracking Migratory Songbirds with the Motus Wildlife Tracking System”
2024-10-10 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, October 10, 2024

Speaker: Mark Deutschlander – “Radiotracking Migratory Songbirds with the Motus Wildlife Tracking System”

Advances in technology have created new opportunities to study avian migration and better understand
Mark Deutschlander
the full life cycle of migratory birds. While tracking technologies allow us to learn where birds go, these technologies also can provide detailed knowledge about the pace of migration, decision making related to breeding constraints or energetic, and the evolutionary trade-offs in migration. Several case studies will help illustrate the impacts of new tracking technologies, particularly radiotracking, and some new regional projects using Motus radiotracking on migratory songbirds will be discussed.
Mark Deutschlander is a Professor of Biology at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, where he teaches courses about physiology, ornithology, and migration. His research focuses on understanding navigation and orientation mechanisms in migratory songbirds, as well as the energetics of migration.

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!

Batavia Wastewater Treatment Plant
2024-10-13 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. 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 at the end of Industrial Blvd. (17 Treadeasy Ave.), which is off Pearl Street (Route 33) at the western edge of the city of Batavia. 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.

High Acres Nature Area
2024-10-19 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.

Durand-Eastman Park
2024-10-27 09:00 - 12:00 | Durand Eastman Park, Lakeshore Boulevard, Rochester, NY, 14620, United States
Hermit Thrushes, Kinglets and lingering migrants are possible. We will walk a section of Horseshoe Road, then drive over to Log Cabin Road where we will walk the non-motor vehicle section and parts of Zoo Road. Steady moderate grades at sections. Length about 2.5 miles, total.
Restrooms are available on Log Cabin Road.
Meet at 9:00 a.m. in Parking Lot D on the north side of Lake Shore 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.

Birds and Brews - Swiftwater Brewing
2024-10-30 18:00 - 21:00 | Swiftwater Brewing, 378 Mount Hope, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
Join us for craft beers and conversation!
A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.
Thursday, October 30, 2024
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/

November: Maria Castano
2024-11-14 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, November 14, 2024

Maria Castano
Doctoral candidate and Biologist, University of Rochester
Flame-rumped Tanager
Maria Castano is a Colombian biologist studying the role of behavior as a driver of population differentiation. The outstanding bird diversity of her home country made her an enthusiastic birder and ornithologist. She earned her BS at Universidad de los Andes, where she completed her undergraduate thesis about the amazing experience of performing a long-term population monitoring study about patterns of space use of montane birds. Maria joined the TropBioLab at the University of Rochester in Fall 2020, with the specific interest in how visual and acoustic signals involved in mate choice are shaped by ecological pressures that ultimately result in reproductive isolation of neotropical birds. Her dissertation project at UR focuses on the Flame-rumped Tanager (Ramphocelus flammigerus) subspecies complex—two subspecies that exhibit subtle morphological differences, but dramatic variation in the carotenoid-based plumage color of the rump.

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!

Birds and Brews - Knucklehead Craft Brewing
2024-11-20 18:00 - 21:00 | Knucklehead Craft Brewing, 426 Ridge Road, Webster, NY, 14580, United States
Join us for craft beers and conversation!
A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Knucklehead Craft Brewing
426 Ridge Road, Webster
Join us for craft beers and conversation! A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.
Knucklehead Craft Brewing serves a selection of its seasonal and flagship beers, as well as a food menu that ranges from wings and mahi mahi tacos to pizzas, burgers, and wraps, with a number of vegan choices.
Check it out at https://knuckleheadcraftbrewing.com/

Niagara River (Joint trip with the Buffalo Ornithological Society)
2024-12-01 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 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.

Conesus Lake Area
2024-12-07 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.

Beginner Birder Trip – Nations Road
2024-12-08 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 not available except at Tops. Bring binoculars.
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 strongly advised. Dress warmly and in layers. Spotting scopes and FRS radios would be very useful.
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.

December: Dr. Elsie Shogren - "The moment of truth for speciation: Myzomela honeyeaters in the Solomon Islands"
2024-12-12 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, December 12, 2024
Speaker: Dr. Elsie Shogren – “The moment of truth for speciation: Myzomela honeyeaters in the Solomon Islands”
Dr. Elsie Shogren grew up exploring muddy creeks and observing wildlife around the family farm in Nebraska. She channeled her fascination with biology as an undergraduate at Cornell University, where she discovered field work and ornithology collecting data on Tree Swallows in Ithaca, NY and Alberta, Canada. After graduating, Elsie continued developing her research interests, assisting with projects on Red-backed Fairywrens in Australia, Greater Prairie Chickens in Nebraska, and Piping Plovers in South Dakota. Deciding to focus on the interplay of sexual and natural selection for her PhD at Kansas State University, she studied the consequences of rainfall for survival, behavior, and evolution in sexually-selected Neotropical Manakins. As a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Rochester, Elsie is now exploring the genetic, ecological, and behavioral factors that maintain species boundaries between two Myzomela honeyeaters that have recently come into contact and are hybridizing in the Solomon Islands of the south Pacific.

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!

Birds and Brews - TRATA
2024-12-30 18:00 - 21:00 | TRATA, 145 Culver Road, Rochester, NY, 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, December 30, 2024
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
TRATA
The Restaurant at the Armory
145 Culver Road, Rochester

A full menu and a self-serve beer and wine wall—what could be more fun than that? Our seating will be at high-top tables in the bar.
https://tratarochester.com

Irondequoit Bay Outlet and Durand-Eastman Park – Year List Jump-Start
2025-01-01 08:00 - 12:00 | Irondequoit Bay Outlet, 5000 Culver Road, Rochester, NY, United States
Get started on your annual list! We’ll look for winter waterfowl on the Bay then move to Durand-Eastman Park where we will stroll Log Cabin Road and Zoo Road looking for finches, waxwings, and resident birds. This trip is mostly on paved roads. No restrooms available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the large parking lot next to the Outlet bridge, on the west side of Irondequoit Bay Outlet (Irondequoit Bay State Marine Park). Dress warmly! Spotting scopes would be very useful.
Leaders: Norma Platt and John Boettcher 585-671-9639
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.

Webster Park – Campground Area
2025-01-04 08:00 - 12:00 | Webster Park – Campground Area, 1034 Lake Road, Webster, NY, 14580, United States
In mature forest and scrubby areas we’ll look for overwintering resident birds, lingering migrants such as Hermit Thrush and special winter visitors such as Evening and Pine Grosbeaks, White-winged and Red Crossbills and Bohemian Waxwings. This is a mostly level walk, partly on dirt road, partly on wooded dirt trail that can be uneven in places. Wear boots with good traction, and dress warmly as we may be outside for 2-3 hours, although you are free to leave at any time. Trip length will depend upon trail and weather conditions. No rest rooms available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the parking lot on the south side of Lake Road across from Kanatota Lodge.
Leaders: Rosemary Reilly 585-748-0802 and co-leader Pat Martin 585-301-5485
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 – Mendon Ponds Park Songbird Trail
2025-01-11 09:30 - 12:30 | Mendon Ponds Park, 95 Douglas Road, Honeoye Falls, NY, 14472, United States
This trip will be a leisurely winter walk along rolling trails (approx. 1.5 miles) featuring some very close looks at our winter passerines! Bring your binoculars, some sunflower seeds, and your camera! This is a family-friendly field trip.
Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the visitor center on Pond Road near Clover Street. Restroom is available at the visitor center or port-a-john.
Leader: John Boettcher 585-671-9639 and co-leader Ann McMican 585-533-1222
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.
