Having been to New York Metropolis on many events, I had by no means had the chance to go to Central Park, all of my journeys through the years had been quick, busy enterprise journeys. On this explicit event, it could be completely different, I’m now retired and my spouse and I’d be vacationing in NY, with no work commitments.
Earlier than leaving house, I did my analysis and came upon that Central Park, that sprawling inexperienced oasis within the coronary heart of Manhattan, is a birdwatcher’s paradise. A sanctuary for each native and migratory birds, making it an ideal spot for each novice and skilled hen lovers. And so, with out having to persuade my higher half, Central Park was included in our vacation itinerary.
Our first day in New York…, plans to go to Central Park was a washout, actually…, it rained all day. The second try was a lot better, though a bit chilly and crisp.
We entered the southern finish of the park and as we strolled alongside, the primary hen to catch my eye was the American Robin
Their placing orange chest was a pleasant sight as they hopped alongside the bottom, probing for earthworms. Every motion despatched a ripple of heat via the marginally chilly morning. Not eager to miss the chance, I crouched low, framing him as greatest I might in my digicam’s viewfinder. He cocked his head, as if questioning my presence. A fast burst of the shutter and his inquisitive gaze was endlessly captured. These widespread but charming birds gave the impression to be all over the place. The American Robin, a hen I had not see earlier than, with its orange chest, introduced a way of consolation and pleasure to me.
Transferring alongside, we encountered the Widespread Starling. At a distance it seemed to be nondescript, however a bit nearer and a glimmer of daylight, its plumage shimmered—a kaleidoscope of iridescent colours. What a photograph alternative…
Although typically thought of pests, these Widespread Starlings are fairly the spectacle whenever you take a second to understand their magnificence, busy foraging on the lawns, their sharp beaks probing the bottom.
Deeper into the park, the colourful flash of crimson from a Northern Cardinal caught my consideration.
These placing birds, with their sensible plumage and distinctive crest, are a photographer’s dream. I watched in awe as a male cardinal perched on a low department, its crimson feathers standing out towards the leafless branches of early spring. Not far off was the much less spectacular, solely by way of color, feminine. I struggled to get an ideal angle for the shot, anxious that it could fly away, I let off a burst of the shutter.
Home Sparrows and Wrens had been plentiful as effectively, flitting about within the underbrush and among the many park’s many bushes.
Their small dimension and fast actions generally made them a little bit of a problem to {photograph}, however their persistence and cheerful chirps had been a pleasant presence. The Home Sparrows, with their earthy tones, blended seamlessly into the background, whereas the Wrens, with their perky tails, gave the impression to be all over the place without delay.
One of many highlights of my bird-watching/images journey in Central Park, was recognizing the Blue Jays
Their placing blue feathers and daring personalities make them arduous to overlook. I managed to seize just a few pictures of those birds as they shortly moved about. Their clever eyes gave the impression to be continually looking out for meals or potential threats, they refused to take a seat nonetheless for greater than a fleeting second.
Amid the rejuvenating inexperienced of early spring, I noticed an American Goldfinch, the little hen appeared to revel within the season’s light heat.
Within the park’s extra open areas, I noticed the Purple-Winged Blackbird. The males, with their shiny black feathers and brilliant crimson shoulder patches, had been unmistakable. Their distinctive calls crammed the air as they perched on the wire fence and low branches.
The Woodpeckers had been one other fascinating discover. Their rhythmic drumming resonated via the park, main me to their location.
I watched as this Downy Woodpecker hammered away at a tree trunk, looking for bugs hidden beneath the bark. Their black and white plumage made for placing pictures towards the tree bark.
This Purple-Topped Woodpecker appeared to have found a little bit of treasure on the bottom.
One other thrilling discoveries was the Northern Flicker. These medium sized birds are from the woodpecker household, their distinctive noticed plumage and placing black bib had been a deal with to watch. I watched as one foraged on the bottom, its head coming up and down because it probed for bugs.
The lakes had been effectively populated with waterfowls, the Mallards, Canadian Geese and Cormorants had been a serene sight. The Mallards, with their iridescent inexperienced heads and delicate quacks, floated gracefully on the water. The Canadian Geese, bigger and extra imposing, paddled alongside in teams, their honking calls echoing throughout the lake, whereas the Cormorants most well-liked to have a quiet second sunbathing. All species had been calm and composed, providing ample alternatives for some serene waterfowl images.
A stroll via the park wouldn’t be full if there was not a Pigeon or Dove current, and as anticipated they didn’t disappoint. These birds, typically ignored resulting from their abundance, offered a way of continuity within the bustling park. Their comfortable cooing sounds had been a soothing backdrop to my bird-watching endeavors.
Sadly, regardless of my hopes, I didn’t spot any Hawks or Owls throughout my go to. These elusive raptors remained hidden from view, maybe saving their appearances for one more day. Attributable to time constraints, I didn’t making it to the North Woods, part of the park recognized for its wealthy birdlife and tranquil setting. Maybe on my subsequent go to I’ll start on that finish of Central Park.
Central Park, with its various habitats and abundance of hen species, presents limitless alternatives for bird-watching and images. New discoveries and unforgettable moments await the birder/photographer. Whether or not you’re capturing the colourful colours of a Cardinal, the iridescent feathers of a Starling, or the serene presence of a Mallard, the park is a haven for individuals who recognize the sweetness and surprise of birds. My early springtime journey in Central Park, although fairly quick, has left me with cherished reminiscences and a deeper appreciation for the avian world proper within the coronary heart of the Massive Apple, New York Metropolis.
