Rochester Birding Association

Nations Road Area
2024-01-21 14:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Nations Road, 2658-2682 Nations Rd, Avon, NY, 14414, United States
We’ll search Nations Road area of Avon and southward toward Geneseo to Huston Road, looking for Northern Shrikes, hawks, Snow Buntings, Horned Larks, and other birds of the fields and farmland in winter. We’ll be mostly driving, but will be getting out of the car at frequent stops along the road. Dress for the weather. Please carpool, if possible!
Meet at 2:00 p.m. at Tops Plaza (restroom) in Avon on Routes 5 and 20, two miles west of I-390. Spotting scopes would be very useful.
Leaders: Jim Kimball 585-519-9211 and Rick Stevens 585-425-7849

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.

Lakeshore Plains West
2024-01-28 09:00 - 16:00 | Braddock Bay Park, 199 East Manitou Road, Greece, NY, 14612, United States
A driving tour of the farm fields and open lands to the west of Rochester, this trip will search for Horned Larks, Snow Buntings, Lapland Longspurs, Northern Shrikes, falcons (possible Merlin or Peregrine) and hawks (hoping for Rough-legged and Northern Harriers) in western Monroe and possibly into Orleans County. Dress warmly in layers; bring snacks (lunch if you wish to continue on into the early afternoon with us) and a thermos filled with a warm beverage. We will drive along backcountry roads for a few hours, stopping where we see bird activity.
No restrooms available until we reach Hamlin Beach SP.
Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the Braddock Bay Park main parking lot. Use the East Manitou Road exit from the Ontario State Parkway. Plan on coordinating carpooling, if possible, as this is a driving tour. Fewer cars are better as we pull over on roads potentially with snow banks. Bring your own FRS radios and spotting scopes, if you have them.
Leader: Lynn Bergmeyer 585-576-0422 and co-leader Robert Buckert 585-269-4206

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.

February: Dr. Jordan Boersma - “Leveraging Hunter Knowledge to Find and Conserve Bird Species in New Guinea”
2024-02-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, February 8, 2024 – “Leveraging Hunter Knowledge to Find and Conserve Bird Species in New Guinea”

Dr. Jordan Boersma
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Jordan will talk about how his team leveraged the immense natural history knowledge of local hunters to find the Black-naped Pheasant-pigeon, a species with no scientific documentation since the 1800s. They used an innovative approach to gauge accuracy of knowledge and determine whether this critically endangered species was familiar to local hunters, then worked with experienced hunters to capture the first-ever photos and video of this species. He will also highlight pending efforts to conserve the remaining habitat for the Black-naped Pheasant-pigeon, and how their methods can be applied to other elusive and potentially imperiled species. Depending on his field schedule, he may also have stories to share about using the same methods to search for another bird species with no previous photographic evidence.
Dr. Jordan Boersma’s curiosity for birds developed in his backyard in W Michigan, where he spent his childhood. He headed west to study wildlife biology at the University of Montana, which led to an opportunity to study ornate and elusive birds in Borneo, where he spent much of four years before pursuing a Ph.D at Washington State University. His dissertation work centered on physiology and behavior of fairywrens, a colorful and socially complex family of birds native to Australia and New Guinea. During extensive field seasons in New Guinea he learned that indigenous people harbored immense knowledge of local fauna, and is now working with local communities to study and conserve rare and potentially imperiled species as a postdoctoral researcher at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

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!

Winter Waterfowl and Other Possibilities
2024-02-11 09:00 - 12:00 | Irondequoit Bay Outlet, 5000 Culver Road, Rochester, NY, United States
Starting at Irondequoit Bay Outlet, we will look for beautiful Long-tailed Ducks, mergansers, scaup and other ducks. We will also concentrate on locating wintering gulls like the occasional Lesser Black-backed, Iceland and Glaucous gulls. We will then drive over to Summerville and Charlotte to see what might be in the Genesee River. If Redpolls or winter finches are being seen, we will stop at Durand-Eastman Park along the way.
Walking is flat on pavement. Restrooms are available in the Charlotte area.
Meet at 9:00 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 for the weather. Spotting scopes would be useful.
Leader: Lynn Bergmeyer 585-576-0422 and co-leader Robert Buckert 585-269-4206

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 - Faircraft Brauhaus
2024-02-22 18:00 - 21:00 | Faircraft Brauhaus, 25 Parce Avenue, Suite 100-105, Fairport, NY, 14450, United States
Join us for craft beers and conversation!
A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.

Thursday, February 22, 2024
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Faircraft Brauhaus
25 Parce Ave., Ste 100
Fairport

This pub and restaurant features an extensive selection of craft beers, as well as a full menu and table service. They’re famous for their German specialties, from spaetzle to schnitzel. https://faircraftbrauhaus.com

March: Emily Engle = "Behind the Scenes of Merlin Sound ID"
2024-03-14 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, March 14, 2024

Emily Engle
Outreach Coordinator, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
The Merlin Bird ID app, created by the Cornell lab of Ornithology, is a global field guide and a powerful tool to help identify the birds around you. Merlin can help you identify 1,000+ bird species by sound even when you can’t see them—but how does it work? We’ll take a behind the scenes look at Merlin to learn how Sound ID was developed, and how you can help us expand Merlin to cover more species worldwide.
Hailing from Santa Barbara, Emily Engle grew up hiking the mountains and exploring the tidepools of California’s central coast. Hands-on experiences in the outdoors gave her a love for the natural world and inspired her to pursue an education learning how to protect it. Fueled by a passion for connecting people to nature, science, and conservation, Emily earned her degree in Environmental Studies from UC Santa Cruz. From researching mountain lions in the West to guiding as a naturalist in Georgia’s Golden Isles, her work has allowed her to explore the critical interdependence between people and wildlife. After falling in love with the birds and landscapes of coastal Georgia, she moved to Ithaca and began her role as an Outreach Coordinator at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology aiding in the celebration of birds, community science, and conservation action through Merlin and eBird.
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!

Hamlin Beach State Park
2024-03-16 09:00 - 13:00 | Hamlin Beach State Park, 1 Camp Hill Road, Hamlin, NY, 14464, United States
We will gather at Braddock Bay Park and drive to Hamlin Beach State Park where we will look for waterfowl. On the way there, we will look through fields for migrant waterfowl (Snow or other rarely seen geese) and lingering winter field birds (Horned Larks, Snow Buntings or Lapland Longspurs). We may stop at Owl Woods in search of migrating owls if they have been reported that morning. We will end back at the Braddock Bay Park Hawk Watch in hopes of spotting Rough-legged, Red-shouldered Hawks, and Bald Eagles.
Dress warmly as we will be out of the cars often at multiple locations—the lakeshore can be cold this time of year. Trails are flat but can be muddy/snowy. Waterproof boots strongly recommended.
Restrooms available at Hamlin Beach only.
Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the Braddock Bay Park main parking lot. Use the East Manitou Road exit from the Ontario State Parkway. Bring your own FRS radios and spotting scopes, if you have them.
Leader: Mike Tetlow 585-748-5838 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.

Birds and Brews - Rising Storm Brewing Co.
2024-03-20 18:00 - 21:00 | Rising Storm Brewing Co., 1880 Blossom Road, Rochester, 14625, United States
Join us for craft beers and conversation!
A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.
Wednesday, March 20, 2024
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Rising Storm Brewing Co.
1880 Blossom Road
Rochester, NY 14625
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

Beginner Birder Trip - Owl Woods & Hawk Watch Site
2024-03-23 08:30 - 13:00 | Owl Woods, 349 Manitou Beach Road, Rochester, NY, 14468, United States
We’ll look primarily for our smallest visiting owl, the Northern Saw-whet, which returns to this spot on a yearly basis. Long-eared Owls generally put in an appearance, too, although they’re quite shy and great at hiding. After the owl walk, we’ll head to the Braddock Bay Park Hawk Watch site to learn how to identify raptors on the wing. At this time of year, we might witness spectacular flights of thousands of raptors!
The Owl Woods trails are flat and likely will be wet and muddy. Boots are strongly recommended–they’re almost mandatory! No restrooms available. Bring binoculars and, if you have them, spotting scopes.
Meet at 8:30 a.m. in the parking lot on the right side of Manitou Beach Road across from the Owl Woods trailhead.
Leader: Liz Magnanti 585-748-0309 and co-leaders Dick Horsey 585-435-2837, Doug and Elizabeth Rabjohns 585-690-6296
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.

Lake Shore Marshes East Wildlife Management Area
2024-03-24 07:30 - 12:00 | Webster Plaza near Starbuck’s, 994 Hard Road, Webster, NY, 14580, United States
This extensive driving tour of the large natural area to our northeast always turns up some great birds! We’ll look for unusual ducks, late winter birds, and interesting migrants like Fox Sparrows. One portion of the trip is walking on a wide, mainly flat, sometimes muddy, trail. Bring a snack to munch on to keep your energy up, and dress for the weather! Restrooms are available at Sodus Point Park and Chimney Bluffs State Park.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. in Webster Plaza at the junction of Route 404 and Hard Road near Starbucks. Spotting scopes would be very useful.
Leader: Kinsley Whittum 585-872-7334 and co-leader Christina Hoh 973-224-7009

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.

Woodcock Courtship Flight at Owl Woods
2024-04-06 19:00 - 21:00 | Owl Woods, 349 Manitou Beach Road, Rochester, NY, 14468, United States
This will be an evening trip for woodcock courtship flight. If you’ve never seen this spectacle, prepare to be amazed: birds call noisily (peenting) from the ground in grassy fields before spiraling rapidly up high, making twittering, kissing-like sounds at the apex of their ascent and descending silently back down, only to start the cycle anew. An amazing sight!
Fields may be wet and muddy. Boots are strongly recommended. Bring a flashlight or headlamp.
Meet at 7:00 p.m. in the parking lot across from Owl Woods. Take the Manitou Beach Road exit from Ontario State Parkway. Turn north then right into the large parking lot.
Leader: Neal Reilly 518-256-9147 and co-leader Robert Buckert 585-269-4206

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.

April: Dr. Andrew Farnsworth - "Birdcast"
2024-04-11 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, April 11, 2024 – “Birdcast”

Dr. Andrew Farnsworth
Senior Research Associate, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Andrew Farnsworth is a Senior Research Associate in the Center for Avian Population Studies at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Andrew began birding at age 5 and quickly developed his longstanding fascination with bird migration. His current research efforts advance the use and application of rapidly expanding technologies to study bird movements across scales including weather surveillance radar, audio and video recording and monitoring tools, citizen science datasets, and machine learning techniques. Andrew received his BS in Natural Resources from Cornell, MS in Zoology from Clemson University, and PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Cornell University.
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 - Swiftwater Brewing
2024-04-18 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, April 18, 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/

High Acres Nature Area
2024-04-20 08:00 - 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 field trip we expect to see at least 40 species returning to nest or on their way to northern nesting grounds. Our approximately two-mile walk over mostly flat trails will explore about 250 acres at HANA and include some wet spots requiring at least ankle-high waterproof shoes or boots.
No restrooms available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the parking lot on Perinton Parkway approximately 1/4 mile east of the Waste Management offices.
Leader: Rosemary Reilly 585-748-0802 and co-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.

Highland Park
2024-04-24 08:00 - 12:00 | Highland Park, Reservoir Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14620, United States
We’ll be looking for spring migrants while enjoying lovely flora. This walk would be gorgeous even without the birds, but it does have birds in abundance! Find out where people have spotted the rarities that pop up in this urban treasure. Dress for the weather. Paved walkways, gentle hills. Walking in grass a possibility, if you chose to.
No restrooms available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. on Reservoir Avenue in front of the Conservatory building.
Leader: Jeanne Verhulst 585-362-0803 and co-leader Amy Kahn 585-310-2330

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.

NEW! Braddock Bay Hotspots—Braddock Bay Park, East Spit, Burger Park, West Spit, Owl Woods
2024-04-27 08:30 - 12:00 | Braddock Bay Park, 199 East Manitou Road, Greece, NY, 14612, United States
Locations to be determined based on where the birds are at the time. The trip will end at the Braddock Bay Park where Bird of Prey Days will be in full swing.
Carpooling is encouraged. Dress for the weather and muddy trails.
Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Braddock Bay Park main parking lot.
Leader: Neal Reilly 518-256-9147 and co-leader Robert Crandall 585-278-3455

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.

Four Mile Creek Preserve, Webster
2024-04-28 08:00 - 12:00 | Four Mile Creek Preserve, Phillips & Lake Road, Webster, NY, United States
We will look for spring migrants along the approximately 2 to 3 miles of gently rolling hiking trails. The trails will most likely be muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
No restrooms available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the preserve parking lot at the SE corner of Lake Road and Phillips Road in Webster.
Leader: Christina Hoh 973-224-7009 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.

Cobbs Hill Park
2024-05-01 08:00 - 12:00 | Cobbs Hill Park, Culver Road and Norris Drive, Rochester, NY, 14610, United States
With spring in full swing, come to one of Rochester’s best-kept birding secrets: Cobb’s Hill Park’s Washington Grove. Colorful warblers and other spring migrants arrive en masse at this urban oasis of tall stately trees. We will search for Yellow-rumped, Black-throated Blue, and Black-throated Green, Nashville, and Black-and-white Warblers among others. We will likely hear the flute-like Wood Thrush and see Hermit Thrushes searching the ground for food. Sparrows, orioles, and perhaps a Scarlet Tanager will make an appearance.
The entrances into the grove have two short steep trails, the main trails are gentle hills. No restrooms available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. opposite the reservoir in the grassy area between the road and the woods; use the entrance off Highland Avenue, just east of Monroe Avenue (NOT the Nunda Blvd. entrance).
Leaders: Tom and Jeanne Verhulst 585-362-0803, Sue Robertson 585-427-2535 and 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.

Wednesday Evening Warblers!
2024-05-01 18:00 - 20:30, 2024-05-08 18:00 - 20:30, 2024-05-15 18:00 - 20:30 | Lakeview Community Church, 30 Long Pond Rd, Greece, NY, 14612, United States
*JUNE 5th EVENT CANCELLED* The warblers have gone on their way north, we won’t be holding Wednesday Evening Warblers on June 5. See you next year!
Evenings can be a great time to bird and the trees surrounding the Lakeview Community Church parking lot in Greece can hold a surprising number of warblers in Spring. Come directly from work. No special footwear needed. This is casual birding on Wednesday evenings. Bring binoculars. We might also check out Church Woods Trail or go across the street to Firehouse Woods.
Rain or shine. Trails are flat, but can be muddy. Dress for the weather and bring bug spray. No restrooms (port-a-john around the corner on Edgemere Dr.).
6:00 p.m. each Wednesday, May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Lakeview Community Church, 30 Long Pond Road, Rochester, NY 14612.
Leader: John Boettcher 585-671-9639 and co-leader Lisa Talpey, and others TBD.
Photo: Hooded Warbler by Nic Minetor

Beginner Birder Trip – Lakeshore Warbler Hotspots
2024-05-04 07:30 - 11:00 | Lakeview Community Church, 30 Long Pond Rd, Greece, NY, 14612, United States
The shoreline of Lake Ontario is a haven for migrating warblers and other passerines. We will stop at several areas where these birds tend to congregate in spring. Learn the basics of identifying our most colorful migrants on this trip. We’ll be looking for color patterns, song, and the distinctive behaviors to enhance identification skills with these fast-moving beauties.
Though flat, trails may be very muddy. Waterproof boots are strongly recommended! Dress for the weather and bring binoculars. No restrooms available.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at the parking lot behind Lakeview Community Church, 30 Long Pond Road, Rochester, NY 14612 (near Edgemere Drive).
Leaders: John Boettcher 585-671-9639, Greg Lawrence 585-730-2553, Lynn Bergmeyer 585-576-0422
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.

Braddock Bay Hawk Lookout
2024-05-04 09:30 - 12:00 | Braddock Bay Park, 199 East Manitou Road, Greece, NY, 14612, United States
This trip is for the spring hawk flight and migrating songbirds. We will be working to identify distant raptors and meet some great new people, too! This requires a short walk across grass to the viewing platform. Port-a-John may be available.
Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Braddock Bay Park main parking lot. Use the East Manitou Road exit from the Ontario State Parkway. Spotting scopes would be very useful.
Leader: Mike Tetlow 585-748-5838 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.

Beechwood State Park and Olga Fleisher Wildlife Preserve
2024-05-05 07:00 - 12:00 | Beechwood State Park, Campground, Sodus, NY, 14551, United States
Beechwood State Park is on the shoreline of Lake Ontario in Wayne County and should attract warblers, vireos, thrushes and other migrants. The Beechwood trip will involve about two miles of walking over mostly level ground (Port-a-john available) and will last until about noon. Bring lunch if you plan to attend the second part of the trip to the Olga Fleisher Preserve (known locally as Huckleberry Swamp), a bottomland forest and wetland. Huckleberry has both boardwalk and flat forest trails. (No restroom.)
Meet at 7:00 a.m. at Webster Park, corner of Lake and Holt Roads, or at 7:30 a.m. at B. Forman Park, 4507 Lake Road, Pultneyville, 14538 (Port-a-john). We will continue to Beechwood from there. If meeting at Beechwood, meet at the main parking area off Lake Road, (not at the stream area parking) at about 8:00 a.m.
Leader: Jim Wood 585-967-8687 and co-leader 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.

Ontario Pathways (Flint Creek section)
2024-05-07 08:00 - 12:00 | Ontario Pathways, 2011-2077 New York 96, Clifton Springs, NY, 14432, United States
We’ll look for warblers and other spring migrants along this rails-to-trails pathway in Ontario County. This well-maintained trail is an established favorite for wildlife viewing and scenic views. Wear comfortable walking shoes. At times, the weather can be fickle, dress accordingly! This is a level grade, easy-to-walk, linear trail, 1.6 miles in and 1.6 miles back out. No restrooms available. Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the trailhead. It is on the south side of Rt. 96 just east of the Rt. 488 intersection. For anyone needing a bathroom before heading out on the trail, there is a Byrne Dairy on the corner of Rts. 96 & 488.
Leaders: Lynn Bergmeyer 585-576-0422 and 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.

Rush Riverside Refuge (in association with Rush Recreation and Parks Association)
2024-05-09 08:00 - 12:00 | Rush Riverside Refuge, 250 Rush Scottsville Rd,, Rush, NY, 14543, United States
The town of Rush has recently acquired a new patch of land containing old-growth woods, farm fields in various stages of succession, and a mile of Genesee River frontage. Join us as we explore this “new” birding spot.
Trails may be wet and muddy, waterproof shoes/boots are recommended. No restrooms available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the former Monroe County Fair Site, 6565 East River Rd, Rush, NY. Park and meet in front of the large barn straight in and just to the left of the entrance road.
Leader: Ann McMican 585-533-1222 and co-leaders Sue Robertson 585-427-2535, Nick Kachala 585-750-5536

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.

May: Dr. Michael Schrimpf - "Studying Open-ocean Bird Distributions Using eBird"
2024-05-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Asbury First Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14607, United States
Thursday, May 9, 2024 – “Studying Open-ocean Bird Distributions Using eBird”
Dr. Michael Schrimpf
Post-doctoral Fellow, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Dr. Michael Schrimpf is a seabird ecologist who grew up in Wisconsin, and first developed an interest in birds in college. That interest, combined with a desire to explore the oceans, led to his graduate work with seabirds. He studied alcids like Common Murres and Rhinoceros Auklets on the West Coast while completing a master’s degree at the University of Washington, and then began working in the Antarctic and Southern Ocean during his PhD work at Stony Brook University, on Long Island, NY. His current work at Cornell involves partnering with expedition cruise companies to understand how eBird data from ships can help map seabird distributions.

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!

Manitou Beach Preserve
2024-05-11 08:00 - 12:00 | Manitou Beach Preserve, Manitou Beach Preserve, Manitou Beach Rd, Hilton, NY, 14468, United States
Our trip to this lakeside treasure should rack up good numbers of warblers, flycatchers, and other spring arrivals. Owned by Genesee Land Trust, Manitou Beach Preserve consists of 5 acres of flat, field, forest and hedgerow, shrub, and cattail wetlands extending into Braddock Bay.
Wear waterproof, sturdy shoes and don’t forget the bug spray! No restrooms available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the Owl Woods parking lot on Manitou Beach Road (Route 261) at the Lake Ontario State Parkway.
Leader: Amy Kahn 585-310-2330 and co-leader Christina Hoh 973-224-7009

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.

Amy's Pond & Woodsmith -- Genesee Land Trust / RBA Joint Trip
2024-05-12 07:00 - 11:00 | Amy’s Ponds – Genesee Land Trust and Conservation Easements, 484 Lake Road, Ontario, NY, 14519, United States
This is a field trip to the private property of Amanda Smith-Hatch for spring migrants, early nesters and waterfowl. Two adjacent easements make up 187 acres that include two large ponds, mature woodland, and open fields all within 0.5 mile of Lake Ontario. Past trips have yielded eagles, bitterns, herons, many warblers, Scarlet Tanagers, etc. We’ll walk along uneven trails, so bring a walking stick if needed, and prepare for a medium-long hike in an outstanding sanctuary open only by special arrangement — many thanks to Genesee Land Trust!
No restrooms available.
Meet at 7:00 a.m. at Webster Park on the west corner of Holt and Lake Roads, or at Amy’s Pond at 7:30 a.m. 484 Lake Road, Ontario, NY about 1 mi east of County Line Road, turn down the long gravel driveway (on the south side of Lake Road) until you reach the marked parking area.
Leaders: Sheryl Gracewski and Tom Nash 585-261-6975 and co-leader Lorna Wright, Executive Director, Genesee Land Trust

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.

Oatka Creek Park
2024-05-14 07:30 - 12:00 | Oatka Creek Park, Quaker Road & Union Street, Garbutt, NY, 14546, United States
Woods and meadow provide great habitat for nesting species such as Indigo Bunting, Eastern Towhee, Blue-winged Warbler and Field Sparrow. This will cover about 3 miles of mostly flat trails.
Port-a-john available at trailhead.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at the park entrance at the intersection of Quaker Road and Union Street in Garbutt.
Leader: Nick Kachala 585-750-5536 and co-leader Bill Haake 585-755-8253

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.
