Rochester Birding Association

September SPECIAL EVENT: Sea McKeon - "Intro to Birding through Nature Journaling"
2024-09-28 08:30 - 10:30 (America/New_York) | 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

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

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.

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.

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/

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Beginner Birder Trip – Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
2024-08-10 14:00 - 18:00 | Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Seneca Falls, NY, 13148, United States
Learn more about the fall migration of shorebirds in this nearby birding treasure. We’ll visit key spots you’ll want to revisit again and again! There will be a number of stops during this mostly driving trip.
Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center.
Meet at 1:00 p.m. in the Bushnell’s Basin Park and Ride lot. The lot is off Route 96 just south of Exit 27 from I-490. Alternatively, meet up with the group at the first stop, the Montezuma Visitor Center at 2:00 p.m. Bring binoculars and, if you have them, spotting scopes.
Leader: John Boettcher 585-671-9639 co-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.

Conesus Inlet State Wildlife Management Area
2024-08-03 07:30 - 12:00 | Vitale Park, Vitale Park, Big Tree Rd, NY, 14480, United States
Explore this expansive wetland for Virginia Rails and Wood Duck families. We’ve seen eagles on a reliable basis, Cliff Swallows and more. This trip is a combination of driving, stopping at overlooks and short walks on dirt trails and dikes. Length about 1.5 miles of walking.
Restrooms are available at the meeting place only.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at Vitale Park on Route 20A in Lakeville. The Park entrance is by the Lakeville post office on the south (lake) side of Route 20A and across the street from Smith’s Hardware. There’s a possibility of a trip extension to the Geneseo Airport area. Spotting scopes would be 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.

Birds and Brews - K2 Brothers Brewing
2024-07-24 18:00 - 21:00 | K2 Brothers Brewing, 1221 Empire Boulevard, Rochester, NY, NY, 14609, United States
Join us for craft beers and conversation!
A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.
Wednesday, July 24th, 2024
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
K2 Brothers Brewing
1221 Empire Blvd.
Come and tell us where you’ve been and what you’ve seen this summer.
K2 has an excellent selection of craft beers, a terrific menu of snacks and meals,
and LOTS of outdoor seating. If it rains, we’ll grab some bar stools or a booth inside.
https://k2brewing.com/

Barnhart's Camp and Keeney Swamp
2024-06-23 07:30 - 20:30 | Barnhart’s Camp and Keeney Swamp, 9045 State Route 408, Nunda, NY, 14517, United States
We will be birding as we drive (and stop) throughout the diverse landscapes of northern Allegany County including Keeney Swamp. Grassland, woodland, pond and swampland species such as Prairie and Mourning Warblers, Eastern Bluebirds, Indigo Buntings, and maybe a bittern could be seen. This trip generally goes all day so we can see as much as possible!
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at the Shop-n-Save on Rt. 408 (Mt. Morris-Nunda Rd), Nunda, New York, where restrooms are available. Spotting scopes and FRS Radios would be useful.
Lunch at Barnhart’s camp is a trip tradition—they grill the hot dogs! Bring a dish to pass—your choice (but this is optional).
Leaders: Jerry and Carolyn Barnhart 585-385-4026 and co-leaders Rick Stevens and Tom and Jeanne Verhulst 585-362-0803

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

Odonata Sanctuary
2024-06-16 08:00 - 12:00 | Odonata Sanctuary, 20 Parrish Road, Honeoye Falls, NY, 14472, United States
The 100 acre privately owned Odonata Sanctuary, 20 Parrish Road, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472, is the former home of Joseph W. Taylor, who was a founder of the American Birding Association and president of Hawk Mountain Association. The sanctuary participates in the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) that provides nesting acreage for grassland nesting birds such as Eastern Meadowlarks, and Bobolinks. The sanctuary is an access point for the observation of migrating birds and monarch butterflies and is also home to one of the largest Eastern Bluebird nest box trails in the USA. The trails pass over streams, around a pond and through woodlands.
No restrooms available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the sanctuary. Enter the sanctuary at 20 Parrish Road and drive up the long, one-lane driveway.
Leaders: Tom Nash and Sheryl Gracewski 585-261-6975 and co-leader Steve Melcher 585-746-8078.

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

Bergen Swamp
2024-06-15 07:30 - 12:00 | Bergen Swamp, Hessenthaller Road, Bergen, NY, United States
A trip to this unique place is by special permit from the Bergen Swamp Preservation Society and will feature nesting birds. The mix of vegetation zones provides secluded nesting habitat for the usual western N.Y. species as well as those more characteristic of the Canadian zone such as Blue-headed Vireo, Hermit Thrush, Ovenbird, and other warblers.
This is a walking trip of 3 miles on variably wet and slippery corduroy trails that must be followed closely for safety reasons and because of the fragile habitat.
Sturdy boots (rather than sneakers) are strongly recommended, and hiking or ski poles may be useful.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at the main trailhead entrance to Bergen Swamp: 6646 Hessenthaler Rd, Byron, NY 14422. From Rochester, take I-490 west to Exit 2. Take Rt. 33 west and turn right (north) onto Route 19. Turn left at the fire station onto Hunter Road, it becomes Swamp Road. Follow Swamp Road west past Pocock Road and turn right onto Hessenthaler Road. The swamp entrance is at the kiosk on the right. Park along the right shoulder, but do not park in front of the caretaker’s house.
Leader: Greg Lawrence 585-730-2553 and co-leader Neal Reilly 518-256-9147

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

Annual RBA Picnic at Burroughs Audubon Nature Club - Rain or Shine!
2024-06-13 17:30 - 20:30 | Burroughs-Audubon Nature Club, 301 Railroad Mills Road, Pittsford, NY, 14534, United States
· Please bring your own dinner, as you prefer. If you would like to grill, please bring your own meat. RBA will provide charcoal.
· We will provide plates, cups, plastic utensils, and ice.
· The picnic is always informal and fun. There’s no formal program; it’s just a lot of birders talking about birds, travel, and other adventures.
· The BANC facility is located in an ideal place to see birds. This is a great opportunity to enjoy this lovely spot, with an after-dinner walk to look for breeding songbirds and year-round residents.
Looking forward to see you there!
Directions: From Route 96 turn onto Fishers Road, go 1.3 miles. Right on to Railroad Mills Road, go 0.2 miles. BANC parking is on the right. Address is 301 Railroad Mills Road, Pittsford, NY 14534

Wyoming County Fields and Forest—New Compehner Farm
2024-06-09 07:30 - 12:00 | New Compehner Farm, 6340 Lagrange Rd, Wyoming, NY, 14591, United States
This is a great opportunity to explore an upland region of northeastern Wyoming County including New Compehner Farm (6340 LaGrange Road Wyoming, NY 14591). We will look for migrating and resident warblers, a variety of native sparrows, hopefully returning cliff swallows, both oriole species and open country birds, in a nice mixture of open fields and wooded habitats and bird friendly plantings. We will focus on locating several nesting species. This trip has a little of everything on a beautiful farm.
Easy walking, but will cover a mile or two; wear sturdy shoes. The trip will last until noon. Use a restroom en route, if possible (there is a McDonalds in the town of LeRoy), otherwise a bathroom is available at the home of the leader.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at 6340 LaGrange Road, Wyoming, NY 14591.
Leaders: Hans Kunze 585-813-2676 and Rick Stevens 585-689-1882

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

Ganondagan State Historic Site, a Field Trip for Young Birders
2024-06-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Ganondagan State Historic Site, 1488 NY-444, Victor, NY, 14564, United States
This trip is open to young birders ages 8 to 18 accompanied by a parent. This trip has generated large species lists due to the many habitat types we will travel through. We will start from the parking lot to the longhouse and walk wide mown or packed dirt trails through the Meadowlark field and then head down through woods, shrub land, and wetland to an overlook in grassland. The round trip is 1.5 miles and includes some hills. After we reach the overlook, those who wish can continue for another 2 miles on the narrower Seneca Trail through field and woods, across County Route 41, and along a wooded stream valley to the Bobolink field.
Restroom facilities are available at the museum center at end of trip.
Meet at 10:00 a.m. in the main parking lot situated below the new museum at 7000 County Road 41 (Boughton Hill Road), Victor, NY 14564.
Leader: 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.

Taylor Marsh (Joint trip with the Bergen Swamp Preservation Society)
2024-06-08 08:00 - 12:00 | Taylor Marsh, Allens Hill Road & Nighan Hill Road, Honeoye, NY, United States
Taylor Marsh is a preserve owned by the Bergen Swamp Preservation Society and located in Ontario County north of Honeoye Lake. It is best known for marsh birds, including both American and Least Bittern and Virginia Rail. However, the star attraction is the Sandhill Cranes that have been present in this area all year around for many years. Breeding has been confirmed. They are occasionally heard at Taylor, although seldom seen. Taylor also has brush-shrub and wooded upland habitat with a good variety of spring migrants and breeding birds. An adjacent hay field is home to Bobolinks and Eastern Meadowlarks. It has a checklist of nearly 145 species that can be downloaded at https://bergenswamp.org/TaylorMarshBirdList_19_03_03.pdf. This is mostly a flat trail, which can be muddy, and has one very small shallow stream to cross.
Waterproof boots are advisable. No restrooms available.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Taylor Marsh parking area on the west side of Allen’s Hill Road just south of Nighan Hill Road. From Rochester, take I-390 south to the Avon exit. Turn left onto Routes 5&20 and go east. In the town of Lima, turn right onto Route 15 A and follow it south. Turn left onto Richmond Mills Road (Livingston County Road 41). It becomes Ontario County Road 15. Follow County Road 15 past County Road 37 and turn right at the next stop sign onto Allen’s Hill Road. (There is no road sign at the intersection.)
Leaders: Lynn Braband 585-436-9388 and Jay Greenberg 585-256-0485

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.

JUNE 5th WARBLERS CANCELLED
2024-06-05 15:00 - 17:00
*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!

Letchworth State Park
2024-06-02 05:30 - 15:00 | Letchworth State Park, Mt. Morris Dam Overlook, NY, 14427, United States
This trip frequently garners one of the higher bird lists among RBA field trips. Of course, it gets an early start! We’ll look for birds not frequently seen on other trips, such as Acadian Flycatcher. We’ll do a fair amount of walking: one somewhat steep but short forest trail and a dirt road down to the river level, as well as some roadside birding.
Restrooms are available at several locations along the way.
Meet at 5:30 a.m. at the Dam Overlook Gifts and Grill parking lot (use the Route 36 entrance to Letchworth State Park). Pack a lunch and snacks, as the trip will likely last well into mid-afternoon. Spotting scopes would be very useful.
Leader: Elijah Kruger 585-329-7754 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.

Ganondagan State Historic Site
2024-06-01 08:00 - 12:00 | Ganondagan State Historic Site, 1488 NY-444, Victor, NY, 14564, United States
This trip has generated large species lists due to the many habitat types we will travel through. We will start from the parking lot to the longhouse and walk wide mown or packed dirt trails through the Meadowlark field and then head down through woods, shrub land, and wetland to an overlook in grassland. The round trip is 1.5 miles and includes some hills. After we reach the overlook, those who wish can continue for another 2 miles on the narrower Seneca Trail through field and woods, across County Route 41, and along a wooded stream valley to the Bobolink field.
Restroom facilities are available at the museum center at end of trip.
Meet at 8:00 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.

Birds and Brews - TRATA
2024-05-29 18:00 - 21:00 | TRATA, 145 Culver Road, Rochester, NY, United States
Join us for craft beers and conversation!
A chance to meet up and socialize with people who love birds.
Wednesday, May 29, 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

Wednesday Evening Warblers!
2024-05-29 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

Sandra L. Frankel Nature Park (Brickyard Trail)
2024-05-26 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 Westfall Road and Elmwood Avenue 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 Song Sparrows, Marsh Wrens, Common Yellowthroat, Red-eyed Vireo, and others. Green Herons, Catbirds, and woodpeckers nest here.
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.

Powder Mills Park and BANC Sanctuary (Joint trip with Burroughs Audubon Nature Club)
2024-05-25 07:30 - 12:00 | Powder Mills Park, 199 Park Road, Pittsford, NY, United States
Powder Mills Park is a mature woodland and wetland park that can be productive for many late-migrating or nesting species. In recent years, Baltimore Orioles, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Scarlet Tanagers, Pileated Woodpeckers, Red-tailed Hawks, have all nested there. The trip will continue with a visit to the BANC Sanctuary on Railroad Mills Road, where we’ll walk the trails around the woodland, wetland, and creek habitats. Nesting species there include Eastern Bluebirds, House Wrens, Eastern Phoebes, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers and adjacent tree lines have produced a variety of migrating warblers.
Both locations are mostly flat trails; waterproof footwear is advised. Please note that no restroom facilities will be available at the Sanctuary.
Meet at 7:30 a.m. at the Powder Mills Park Fish Hatchery parking lot on Park Road.
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.
