Upcoming Virtual and In-store Programs
The Secret Love Lives of Birds Virtual Program
Doug Robinson, PhD
Thursday, February 13th at 7pm
It may be February, but Spring is just around the corner...and it is the breeding season for many birds, but what does that entail? Before nestlings can be produced, a lot has to happen! From claiming territories to enticing a partner to raising young, tonight we will cover the basics, the mysteries, and the complexities of avian reproduction of some common, and not-so-common, birds of Long Island.
About the speaker: Dr. Robinson is an Associate Professor of Biology at Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, NY. Dr. Robinson conducts behavioral and population biology research on birds and has spent decades following American Crows and their lives. His experiences have taken him around the world and include long-term stays on remote islands investigating seabird foraging biology, as well as supporting the well-being of Kākāpō in New Zealand. Dr. Robinson teaches Ecology, Anatomy and Physiology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology of New Zealand Flora and Fauna at the Mount.
Sparrows of NY: Tips for Identifying Those Tricky "Little Brown Jobs" Virtual Program
Stella Miller, WBU
Thursday, March 20 at 7pm
Sparrows can be some of the trickiest birds to identify, but by knowing what to look for, you can learn to distinguish them with confidence! In this program, we’ll break down key features such as plumage patterns, habitat, behavior, and song to help you tell apart these tricky "little brown jobs'. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your ID skills, this session will provide tips, tricks, and practical field insights to make identifying these often-overlooked birds easier and more enjoyable.
Eastern Bluebirds & More! Virtual Program
John Rogers
Thursday, April 24 at 7pm
This inspiring and informative presentation includes the life history of the Eastern Bluebird, other birds that nest in bluebird boxes, nest box management, and more. The focus is on bluebirds, but John also shares his love for the natural world in the hope the audience will take away some broader and deeper messages about nature. The program has variety, feeling, and is inspirational. Sprinkled throughout are just a few wildflowers, butterflies, other birds, quotes by some of the great naturalists of the past, and more. With beautiful photographs, sounds, and a sincere, enthusiastic presentation style, this program is of interest to anyone who appreciates nature.
About the Speaker: John Rogers has maintained a trail of bluebird nest boxes in central NY north of Syracuse for over 4 decades. He has presented bluebird programs and workshops for hundreds of organizations in 12 states and 2 Canadian provinces. John was a co-founder of the New York State Bluebird Society in 1982 and was elected a life time (volunteer) board member in 2002. He has received numerous awards for his bluebird conservation work, including the Bluebird Conservation Award from the North American Bluebird Society, where he was a past board member. In 2010 he was a recipient of the Hero of Conservation Award from the Syracuse Post Standard. John is an experienced birder and member of the Onondaga Audubon Society in Syracuse.
2 Part Virtual Program
Birding 101: A Guide For Beginning Birdwatchers
Stella Miller, WBU
Wednesday, May 7 at 7pm
Thursday, May 8 at 7pm
Spending time looking for and observing birds is great for your physical, mental, and emotional health. It connects you to nature in a way that goes beyond just hiking. It teaches you observation skills, and, if you choose, it can open the doors to making new friends.
It's flexible-you can bird only in your backyard, or you can choose to travel the world to see as many birds as possible. It keeps you sharp-because once you have seen a bird, you just want to learn as much as you can about it. It is really the perfect pastime when you think about it! But, how does one actually become a birder? You will learn tips on learning to identify birds, as well as the tools needed to get started in this comprehensive two night online course.