All events are free and open to the public unless otherwise indicated in the description.
To save your money and to help save the planet, we encourage carpooling for all events.
Occasionally events have to be cancelled due to unusually bad weather conditions. For all our events, if you have any doubt about whether the event is going to happen, please check for a cancellation notice on this website; if there is nothing here then phone the contact person for your event.
NOTE: CLICK ON HEADING TO COLLAPSE AND EXPAND DESCRIPTION.
March
15mar7:30 am5:00 pmMontezuma NWR and Wetlands Trip7:30 am - 5:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Join DOAS Board Director, Chris DeCesare, on Saturday, March 15 (rain date: March 22) for a birding field trip to Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and the adjacent Wetlands
Event Details
Join DOAS Board Director, Chris DeCesare, on Saturday, March 15 (rain date: March 22) for a birding field trip to Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge and the adjacent Wetlands Complex to view migratory waterfowl and shorebirds on their annual journey north to their breeding grounds. The area is comprised of 50,000 acres of wetlands and upland habitat north of Cayuga Lake and is a globally significant Important Bird Area because of the number of waterfowl that stop there during migration season. Past sightings include a variety of ducks, snow geese, swans, bald eagles, herons and sandhill cranes.
Above: Snow Geese, Photo by Rod Sutton
Participants can plan to meet at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters at 10:00 a.m. Those wishing to carpool can meet at the Dietz Street Parking Lot, across from the YMCA in Oneonta at 7:30 a.m.
The trip will begin at the refuge headquarters and then proceed by car to hotspots around the complex. There may be a small amount of walking on level ground; restrooms are available at the refuge headquarters. There is no charge for admission.
This is an all-day trip with an expected return to Oneonta around 5:00 p.m. Participants should plan on bringing a bag lunch, snacks, water, etc. For more details, contact Chris DeCesare at 607-244-5496 or chris.decesare444@gmail.com.
About Trip Leader Chris DeCesare:
Like many on the board, I’ve had a lifelong love of nature and being outdoors. This led me to study wildlife biology in college and environmental education in graduate school. It was my ornithology professor who introduced me to the interesting world of birds from nesting bald eagles to the mating ritual of the woodcock and the songs of backyard birds. My favorite memory is sneaking up on woodcocks at dusk in a scrub field with my classmates and throwing ourselves to the ground as a bird twittered to earth from its sky dance.
My work experience includes being a seasonal park ranger at a US Fish and Wildlife Refuge, a seasonal Biological Technician for the US Forest Service and an environmental educator for the NYSDEC. The latter was my career for over 20 years. I currently manage a grant for afterschool program as the Program Director for the Creating Rural Opportunities Partnership (CROP) program.
I have been a part of DOAS as a camp director, a program leader for adults and families, and a Christmas Bird Counter. I’m excited to be on the board to help further the mission. My interests include paddling, hiking, gardening, and spending time with my dog Koa participating in sports such as Scentwork and Dock Diving. Though I love birds, I also have a fondness for insects…Shh!
Register for the Trip
Time
March 15, 2025 7:30 am - 5:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Location
Dietz Street Parking Lot Carpool Location
Event Details
The Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society will host bestselling author Randi Minetor on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Randi will be discussing her latest
Event Details
The Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society will host bestselling author Randi Minetor on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Randi will be discussing her latest book, The Complete Language of Birds, which explores the diverse myths and folklore tales involving birds.
Ancient Egyptians believed that the Earth began as an egg laid by a giant goose. Ojibwa people of America’s northern plains tell of a Great Flood that swept away the world’s evils, and the bird that braved the deep waters to bring a bit of soil up from the bottom to bring land back to the surface. European scientists once believed that swans survived the winters by turning themselves into barnacles and adhering to the bottoms of ships, transforming back into swans in spring.
These and many other tales in The Complete Language of Birds harken back to a time when birds seemed like magical beings with the answers for so many of the world’s questions.
This program is free and open to the public. Those interested in attending can register for the event here:
https://mobilize.us/s/SONRoX .
Presenter Bio
Bestselling author Randi Minetor writes the Birdfinding and Best Easy Bird Guides series for Falcon Guides/Globe Pequot Press and is the author of Backyard Birding and Butterfly Gardening for Lyons Press. Her most recent book, The Complete Language of Birds, is an encyclopedia that unites classic illustrations, science, folklore, and mythology about more than 400 bird species around the world. She writes for Birding Magazine and North American Birds and serves as president of the Rochester Birding Association in upstate New York.
Time
March 21, 2025 7:30 pm - 8:15 pm(GMT-04:00)
22mar11:00 am1:00 pmBird-Friendly Windows Workshop - Sidney, NY11:00 am - 1:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
It is estimated that over 1 billion birds die as a result of window collisions each year in North America with 99% of these occurring
Event Details
It is estimated that over 1 billion birds die as a result of window collisions each year in North America with 99% of these occurring at residential and low-rise buildings. It is considered to be the third highest cause of bird mortality, following habitat loss and predation by domestic cats.
- Up to 50% of bird-window collisions leave no evidence at all.
- Many of the birds that fly away are likely to die later of their injuries.
- Birds most often suffer concussions and internal injuries which can take days to kill them.
- If a collision kills a parent bird, the young will most likely also die.
- This is all preventable if people take action at their own homes.
Learn more about this issue at our April 18 Program, 7:30pm on Zoom – Register Here
Delaware Otsego Audubon Society is providing FREE workshops this Spring for homeowners in our communities to make and take home window treatments for up to three windows at their homes to help prevent collisions. Our workshop schedule is below. Pre-registration is required so that we can have ample materials available.
We have limited funds available for free window treatments, so please register early and consider a donation for providing additional materials for this program.
March 22, Sidney, NY – Register Here
11am – 1pm at at Sidney Memorial Public Library, Smart Community Room
Assisted by Binghamton University Audubon Society Campus Chapter
Contact Susan O’Handley at s.ohandley@doas.us or by phone at 607-397-3815 (leave a message) for more information or if you have any questions.
The mission of Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society is to protect our natural environment and connect people with nature to benefit birds and other wildlife through conservation, education, research and advocacy. We envision a healthy world where people and wildlife thrive and natural resources are protected.
Other Area Workshops
March 29 Oneonta, NY – Register Here
11am – 1pm at Southside Mall, Oneonta, NY
Assisted by SUNY Oneonta Environmental Science Club
April 12 Cobleskill, NY – Register Here
10am-12pm at SUNY Cobleskill Center for Agricultural and Natural Resources
Assisted by SUNY Cobleskill Wildlife Society
April 26 at Earth Festival, Milford, NY – Register Here
10am-3pm at Milford Central School
Assisted by Hartwick College FORCES (Environmental Sustainability Club)
May 3 Delhi, NY – Register Here
10am-12pm at SUNY Delhi (campus location details pending)
Assisted by SUNY Delhi Sustainability Club
Time
March 22, 2025 11:00 am - 1:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Location
Sidney Memorial Public Library
8 River St, Sidney, NY 13838
Organizer
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society
29mar11:00 am1:00 pmBird-Friendly Windows Workshop - Oneonta, NY11:00 am - 1:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
It is estimated that over 1 billion birds die as a result of window collisions each year in North America with 99% of these occurring
Event Details
It is estimated that over 1 billion birds die as a result of window collisions each year in North America with 99% of these occurring at residential and low-rise buildings. It is considered to be the third highest cause of bird mortality, following habitat loss and predation by domestic cats.
- Up to 50% of bird-window collisions leave no evidence at all.
- Many of the birds that fly away are likely to die later of their injuries.
- Birds most often suffer concussions and internal injuries which can take days to kill them.
- If a collision kills a parent bird, the young will most likely also die.
- This is all preventable if people take action at their own homes.
Learn more about this issue at our April 18 Program, 7:30pm on Zoom – Register Here
Delaware Otsego Audubon Society is providing FREE workshops this Spring for homeowners in our communities to make and take home window treatments for up to three windows at their homes to help prevent collisions. Our workshop schedule is below. Pre-registration is required so that we can have ample materials available.
We have limited funds available for free window treatments, so please register early and consider a donation for providing additional materials for this program.
March 29 Oneonta, NY – Register Here
11am – 1pm at Southside Mall, Oneonta, NY
Assisted by SUNY Oneonta Environmental Science Club
Contact Susan O’Handley at s.ohandley@doas.us or by phone at 607-397-3815 (leave a message) for more information or if you have any questions.
The mission of Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society is to protect our natural environment and connect people with nature to benefit birds and other wildlife through conservation, education, research and advocacy. We envision a healthy world where people and wildlife thrive and natural resources are protected.
Other Area Workshops
March 22 in Sidney, NY – Register Here
11am-1pm at Sidney Memorial Public Library, Smart Community Room
Assisted by Binghamton University Audubon Society Campus Chapter
April 12 Cobleskill, NY – Register Here
10am-12pm at SUNY Cobleskill Center for Agricultural and Natural Resources
Assisted by SUNY Cobleskill Wildlife Society
April 26 at Earth Festival, Milford, NY – Register Here
10am-3pm at Milford Central School
Assisted by Hartwick College FORCES (Environmental Sustainability Club)
May 3 Delhi, NY – Register Here
10am-12pm at SUNY Delhi (campus location details pending)
Assisted by SUNY Delhi Sustainability Club
Time
March 29, 2025 11:00 am - 1:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Organizer
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society
April
12apr10:00 am12:00 pmBird-Friendly Windows Workshop - Cobleskill, NY10:00 am - 12:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
It is estimated that over 1 billion birds die as a result of window collisions each year in North America with 99% of these occurring
Event Details
It is estimated that over 1 billion birds die as a result of window collisions each year in North America with 99% of these occurring at residential and low-rise buildings. It is considered to be the third highest cause of bird mortality, following habitat loss and predation by domestic cats.
- Up to 50% of bird-window collisions leave no evidence at all.
- Many of the birds that fly away are likely to die later of their injuries.
- Birds most often suffer concussions and internal injuries which can take days to kill them.
- If a collision kills a parent bird, the young will most likely also die.
- This is all preventable if people take action at their own homes.
Learn more about this issue at our April 18 Program, 7:30pm on Zoom – Register Here
Delaware Otsego Audubon Society is providing FREE workshops this Spring for homeowners in our communities to make and take home window treatments for up to three windows at their homes to help prevent collisions. Our workshop schedule is below. Pre-registration is required so that we can have ample materials available.
We have limited funds available for free window treatments, so please register early and consider a donation for providing additional materials for this program.
April 12, Cobleskill, NY – Register Here
10am – 12pm at SUNY Cobleskill Center for Agricultural and Natural Resources
Assisted by SUNY Cobleskill Wildlife Society
Contact Susan O’Handley at s.ohandley@doas.us or by phone at 607-397-3815 (leave a message) for more information or if you have any questions.
The mission of Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society is to protect our natural environment and connect people with nature to benefit birds and other wildlife through conservation, education, research and advocacy. We envision a healthy world where people and wildlife thrive and natural resources are protected.
Other Area Workshops
March 22 in Sidney, NY – Register Here
11am-1pm at Sidney Memorial Public Library
Assisted by Binghamton University Audubon Society Campus Chapter
March 29 Oneonta, NY – Register Here
11am – 1pm at Southside Mall, Oneonta, NY
Assisted by SUNY Oneonta Environmental Science Club
April 26 at Earth Festival, Milford, NY – Register Here
10am-3pm at Milford Central School
Assisted by Hartwick College FORCES (Environmental Sustainability Club)
May 3 Delhi, NY – Register Here
10am-12pm at SUNY Delhi (campus location details pending)
Assisted by SUNY Delhi Sustainability Club
Time
April 12, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Location
SUNY Cobleskill
106 Suffolk Cir Cobleskill, NY 12043
Organizer
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society
14apr7:00 pm8:15 pmWoodcock Walk at Parslow Road7:00 pm - 8:15 pm(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
In collaboration with Otsego Land Trust REGISTER to attend at https://otsegolandtrust.org/events/woodcock-courtship-danceSpace is
Event Details
In collaboration with Otsego Land Trust
REGISTER to attend at https://otsegolandtrust.org/events/woodcock-courtship-dance
Space is limited, so please register as soon as you can.
Rain date: 4/16.
On Monday, April 14 from 7:00 to 8:15 PM, join Otsego Land Trust and Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society for our annual Woodcock Walk at the Parslow Road Conservation Area. DOAS locals Sandy Bright and Charlie Scheim will lead a walk to observe the spring courtship ritual of the woodcock.
The woodcock usually spends its time hidden on the forest floor probing for earthworms in moist soil, but on spring evenings males perform a dance in scrub fields to attract potential mates. This wonderful display occurs in three parts: the strut, the launch skyward, and the spiral back to earth accompanied by buzzy calls and twittering wing sounds.
The woodcock usually spends its time hidden on the forest floor probing for earthworms in moist soil, but on spring evenings males perform a dance in scrub fields to attract potential mates. This wonderful display occurs in three parts: the strut, the launch skyward, and the spiral back to earth accompanied by buzzy calls and twittering wing sounds.
The walk will begin at 7:15 PM in the parking lot with an introduction to the woodcock and its habits, and a walk on the trail listening and looking for the birds that inhabit this protected property. The sun is expected to set around 7:30 pm at which time the group will position itself in the best location to view and count the Woodcocks. The trail will be a path through forests and fields that is fairly level, although at times quite uneven, and at times muddy and wet. Note also that there are no restroom facilities at the parking lot. The round-trip distance will be approximately a half mile, and the second half of the walk will be in darkness, so it is useful to bring a flashlight. Then, participants will walk on the trail discussing the varied habitats on the property as they make their way to the best spot to observe the woodcocks. Waterproof footwear, a headlamp or flashlight, and binoculars are recommended.
American Woodcock spend most of their time hidden in fields and on the forest floor, where they probe for earthworms. But on spring nights, males perform very conspicuous displays, giving a buzzy “peent” call, then launching into the air. Their erratic display flight includes a distinctive, twittering flight sound and ends with a steep dive back to the ground. The wet thickets, shrubby swamps, and open fields at Parslow Road Conservation Area are ideal habitats for these interesting birds that have unfortunately seen a population decline over the years.
About our Guides
Sandy Bright has been a birder for over 20 years. She authors the Bird Sightings column for the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society (DOAS) newsletter and has been the Coordinator for the Oneonta Christmas Bird Count since 2013. Professionally, Sandy is a retired Oneonta elementary teacher, where she taught from 1992 till 2018.
Charlie Scheim has been a birder since college (1970s) He is now on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer and Field Trip Coordinator of DOAS. He is also a Regional Coordinator for the NYS Breeding Bird Atlas and is the Coordinator for the Fort Plain Christmas Bird Count. Charlie is a retired math professor from Hartwick College, where he taught from 1980 to 2018.
Together they lead a number of bird walks each year, give various educational presentations, and participate in many citizen science bird surveys.
Cost: FREE
Please let us know you are coming!
For questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with info@otsegolandtrust.org.
—-
Parslow Road Conservation Area is owned and protected by Otsego Land Trust for public enjoyment. The mission of Otsego Land Trust is to improve the quality of life throughout the Upper Susquehanna region by working with landowners and partners to protect and conserve our farmland, forests, and waterways in perpetuity.
The Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society, a chapter of the National Audubon Society, envisions a healthy world where people and wildlife thrive and natural resources are protected. The mission of Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society is to protect our natural environment and connect people with nature to benefit birds and other wildlife through conservation, education, research and advocacy.
REGISTER to attend at https://otsegolandtrust.org/events/woodcock-courtship-dance
Time
April 14, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:15 pm(GMT-04:00)
Location
Parslow Road Conservation Area
127 Parslow Road
Event Details
Join Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society (DOAS) on Friday, April 18, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. on Zoom for a presentation called “Preventing Bird-Window Collisions at Our Homes.”
Event Details
Join Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society (DOAS) on Friday, April 18, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. on Zoom for a presentation called “Preventing Bird-Window Collisions at Our Homes.” DOAS Education Chair Susan O’Handley will be presenting.
Birds are facing significant population challenges all over the world. Changes in habitat, seasons that are shifting, severe storms, and increased temperatures are all playing a part in an overall decline in numbers. The National Audubon Society is working to find ways to change those trajectories through significant and ambitious goals in conservation from both ends of the spectrum: increasing the chances for successful breeding bird seasons and reducing bird mortality rates.
We hear a good deal about bird-window collisions that occur in urban environments, because really, when you can show pictures of hundreds of bird deaths in a day during migration season, it becomes news. We read about it, we see pictures of it, and in response, we work to find solutions to prevent it from happening again. What we don’t hear about are the average of two birds per residence per year that occur from window strikes in suburban and rural neighborhoods. Although these don’t feel significant in comparison, if you add those numbers up, the deaths of birds as a result are staggering—more than in any city. It is estimated that over 1 billion birds die as a result of window collisions per year in North America. It is considered to be the third highest cause of bird mortality, following habitat loss and predation by domestic cats.
Susan will provide an overview of the issues that surround building collisions and actions that can be taken at our homes, businesses, schools, and other public buildings to help reduce the number of bird deaths each year.
This presentation is free and open to the public. Registration is required at https://mobilize.us/s/4Mcrr7
Accessibility: Captions can be turned on by the user.
Presenter Bio:
Susan O’Handley has been involved with local Audubon chapters for over thirty years and has served on the Board of Directors for the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society since 2012 (ten years as a co-president). Susan also works with the Audubon NY/CT Council Board, which is composed of twenty-seven Audubon chapters in NY State and six chapters in CT. She also serves on the Advisory Board for Audubon NY/CT Regional Office as the Chapter Representative. Susan owns and operates a small digital marketing agency in Hartwick, NY.
Time
April 18, 2025 7:30 pm - 8:15 pm(GMT-04:00)
Organizer
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society
26apr8:00 am10:00 amRiddell State Park/Earth Festival Bird Walk8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Join DOAS Member and Area Birder, Bob Donnelly for the annual Earth Festival Bird Walk at 8am on Saturday, April 26. Participants should meet at
Event Details
Join DOAS Member and Area Birder, Bob Donnelly for the annual Earth Festival Bird Walk at 8am on Saturday, April 26. Participants should meet at the Milford Central School parking lot at 7:50am, near the Earth Festival Entrance. Carpools to Riddell State Park will leave promptly at 8am and will return in time for the 10am start of the EF Event. All are welcome to attend, regardless of age or birding experience. The walk is expected to return in time for the 10am start of Earth Festival! Look for the DOAS exhibit area in the gym when you return!
Riddell State Park offers a variety of trails from easy to moderate to intermediate, that travel through acres of forested woodlands, and wide fields and along the Schenevus Creek. Our walk should cover about 2 miles total of easy walking, on a combination of flat to rolling terrain, with some trails having slopes and roots exposed. Waterproof footwear is recommended, water and sunscreen as needed. Restrooms are available at Milford Central School before and after the trip. There is a bathroom available at Riddell.
Please direct any questions to (607) 397-3815 (voicemail only).
Image Above: Aud_APA-2019_Eastern-Towhee_A1-9473-5_TS_Photo-Jesse-Gordon
Time
April 26, 2025 8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Organizer
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society
Event Details
It is estimated that over 1 billion birds die as a result of window collisions each year in North America with 99% of these occurring
Event Details
It is estimated that over 1 billion birds die as a result of window collisions each year in North America with 99% of these occurring at residential and low-rise buildings. It is considered to be the third highest cause of bird mortality, following habitat loss and predation by domestic cats.
- Up to 50% of bird-window collisions leave no evidence at all.
- Many of the birds that fly away are likely to die later of their injuries.
- Birds most often suffer concussions and internal injuries which can take days to kill them.
- If a collision kills a parent bird, the young will most likely also die.
- This is all preventable if people take action at their own homes.
Learn more about this issue at our April 18 Program, 7:30pm on Zoom – Register Here
Delaware Otsego Audubon Society is providing FREE workshops this Spring for homeowners in our communities to make and take home window treatments for up to three windows at their homes to help prevent collisions. Our workshop schedule is below. Pre-registration is required so that we can have ample materials available.
We have limited funds available for free window treatments, so please register early and consider a donation for providing additional materials for this program.
April 26, at Earth Festival, Milford, NY – Register Here
10am – 3pm at Milford Central School
Assisted by Hartwick College FORCES (Environmental Sustainability Club)
Contact Susan O’Handley at s.ohandley@doas.us or by phone at 607-397-3815 (leave a message) for more information or if you have any questions.
The mission of Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society is to protect our natural environment and connect people with nature to benefit birds and other wildlife through conservation, education, research and advocacy. We envision a healthy world where people and wildlife thrive and natural resources are protected.
Other Area Workshops
March 22 in Sidney, NY – Register Here
11am-1pm at Sidney Memorial Public Library
Assisted by Binghamton University Audubon Society Campus Chapter
March 29 Oneonta, NY – Register Here
11am – 1pm at Southside Mall, Oneonta, NY
Assisted by SUNY Oneonta Environmental Science Club
April 12 Cobleskill, NY – Register Here
10am-12pm at SUNY Cobleskill Center for Agricultural and Natural Resources
Assisted by SUNY Cobleskill Wildlife Society
May 3 Delhi, NY – Register Here
10am-12pm at SUNY Delhi (campus location details pending)
Assisted by SUNY Delhi Sustainability Club
Time
April 26, 2025 10:00 am - 3:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Location
Milford Central School
42 West Main Street
Organizer
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society
May
03may10:00 am12:00 pmBird-Friendly Windows Workshop - Delhi, NY10:00 am - 12:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
It is estimated that over 1 billion birds die as a result of window collisions each year in North America with 99% of these occurring
Event Details
It is estimated that over 1 billion birds die as a result of window collisions each year in North America with 99% of these occurring at residential and low-rise buildings. It is considered to be the third highest cause of bird mortality, following habitat loss and predation by domestic cats.
- Up to 50% of bird-window collisions leave no evidence at all.
- Many of the birds that fly away are likely to die later of their injuries.
- Birds most often suffer concussions and internal injuries which can take days to kill them.
- If a collision kills a parent bird, the young will most likely also die.
- This is all preventable if people take action at their own homes.
Learn more about this issue at our April 18 Program, 7:30pm on Zoom – Register Here
Delaware Otsego Audubon Society is providing FREE workshops this Spring for homeowners in our communities to make and take home window treatments for up to three windows at their homes to help prevent collisions. Our workshop schedule is below. Pre-registration is required so that we can have ample materials available.
We have limited funds available for free window treatments, so please register early and consider a donation for providing additional materials for this program.
May 3, Delhi, NY – Register Here
10am – 12pm at SUNY Delhi
Assisted by SUNY Delhi Sustainability Club
Contact Susan O’Handley at s.ohandley@doas.us or by phone at 607-397-3815 (leave a message) for more information or if you have any questions.
The mission of Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society is to protect our natural environment and connect people with nature to benefit birds and other wildlife through conservation, education, research and advocacy. We envision a healthy world where people and wildlife thrive and natural resources are protected.
Other Area Workshops
March 22 in Sidney, NY – Register Here
11am-1pm at Sidney Memorial Public Library
Assisted by Binghamton University Audubon Society Campus Chapter
March 29 Oneonta, NY – Register Here
11am – 1pm at Southside Mall, Oneonta, NY
Assisted by SUNY Oneonta Environmental Science Club
April 12 Cobleskill, NY – Register Here
10am-12pm at SUNY Cobleskill Center for Agricultural and Natural Resources
Assisted by SUNY Cobleskill Wildlife Society
April 26 at Earth Festival, Milford, NY – Register Here
10am-3pm at Milford Central School
Assisted by Hartwick College FORCES (Environmental Sustainability Club)
Time
May 3, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Location
SUNY Delhi
454 Delhi Dr Delhi, NY 13753
Organizer
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society
06may7:30 am9:30 amBramley Mountain Bird Walk7:30 am - 9:30 am(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Join the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society (DOAS) for a bird walk at Bramley Mountain in Glen Bernie (near Delhi) on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. This hike will be lead
Event Details
Join the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society (DOAS) for a bird walk at Bramley Mountain in Glen Bernie (near Delhi) on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. This hike will be lead by longtime birders and former DOAS board members Pam Peters and Eileen Kline.
The trailhead/parking is on Glen Burnie Road east of the village of Delhi. From State Route 28, turn onto Glen Bernie and drive 3.3 miles, parking is on the right. From State Route 10, get onto CR 18, turn onto Glen Bernie Rd and parking area is .7 miles on the left.
This is a four mile loop in mixed deciduous woods. Hopefully the leaves will not be out yet, so we should see and hear some early returning birds (winter wren, blue-headed vireo, hermit thrush) and possibly some spring warblers.
The first mile is a relatively flat, but uneven rocky woods trail. A steep mile ascent follows to the summit and the newly constructed Bramley Mountain firetower. A two-mile descent along a wide woods logging road brings us back to the parking area. There are no resting benches or facilities. We might be able to climb the tower and access the cab at the top if a steward is available.
Trails are likely to be wet and muddy, so wear appropriate shoes. Bring water, snacks, bug spray and hiking sticks if needed. There is usually cell service at the top of the mountain. This is a dog-free trip. All levels of experience are welcomed.
Accessibility: No restrooms, no benches. The first mile is a relatively flat, but uneven rocky woods trail. A steep mile ascent follows to the summit. A two-mile descent along a wide woods logging road. Dog-free trip.
Contact (607) 397-3815 or info@doas.us with any questions.
Maps and description of Bramley Mountain Trail and Firetower:
https://bramleymountainfiretower.org/bramley-mountain-trail/
https://www.catskillmountainclub.org/bramley-mountain-trail
Above image, left: sapsucker; Right: Bramley Mountain, photo credit: https://www.catskillmountainclub.org/bramley-mountain-trail
Time
May 6, 2025 7:30 am - 9:30 am(GMT-04:00)
Location
Bramley Mountain
Glen Burnie Rd
10may8:00 am10:00 amOneonta Susquehanna Greenway Bird Walk8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Join DOAS on Saturday, May 10 at 8:00am for a walk to view returning migrant birds on the Susquehanna Greenway Trail. Charlie Scheim and Sandy
Event Details
Join DOAS on Saturday, May 10 at 8:00am for a walk to view returning migrant birds on the Susquehanna Greenway Trail. Charlie Scheim and Sandy Bright will lead the walk. This is an easy hike on unpaved but level ground which may be slightly muddy. No restrooms are available. There are a few benches along the way.
Participants will meet at 8 a.m. in the parking lot by the fields near the school district bus garage, just past the transfer station for a two-hour walk to view returning migrant birds on the Greenway trail, located on Silas Lane, off Rte. 205 in Oneonta.
Contact Charlie Scheim at 607-434-4880 or scheimc@hartwick.edu for more information.
Time
May 10, 2025 8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Organizer
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society
11may8:00 am10:00 amSpring Bird Walk at the DOAS Sanctuary8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Join DOAS on Sunday, May 11 at 8:00am for a spring bird walk. Returning migrants at this location should include warblers, vireos, orioles, tanagers, and possibly waterfowl and
Event Details
Join DOAS on Sunday, May 11 at 8:00am for a spring bird walk. Returning migrants at this location should include warblers, vireos, orioles, tanagers, and possibly waterfowl and raptors. The walk will last approximately two hours, and will require some hill-climbing and hiking over uneven and possibly muddy ground. A handicapped accessible port-a-john is available on site. Participants will meet at 8am at the DOAS Sanctuary, park on the left side of the driveway on Grange Hall Road Spur. Directions to the DOAS Sanctuary can be found at: https://doas.us
DOAS Co-President Andy Mason will lead the walk. Contact him with any questions at Andy.mason@doas.us or (607) 397-3815 (voicemail only).
Image: Black-throated Blue Warbler, Photo by Lorraine Minns, Audubon Photography Awareds 2016.
Time
May 11, 2025 8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Location
DOAS Sanctuary and Franklin Mountain Hawkwatch
52 Grange Hall Road Spur
Organizer
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society
Event Details
The 2025 Jean Miller Memorial Wildflower Walk at Gilbert Lake State Park, in cooperation with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation – Central
Event Details
The 2025 Jean Miller Memorial Wildflower Walk at Gilbert Lake State Park, in cooperation with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation – Central Region, will take place this year on Thursday, May 15, 2025. Participants will meet at the beach area at 10am.
The walk is approximately 2-3 hours in the park on easy to medium terrain and will be led by DOAS. Bring water, insect repellent, binoculars if on hand, and your curiosity!
This is a free program. Pre-registration is required using the form below. Registering for the program helps us contact participants in case there is an issue with the weather. Contact info@doas.us for additional information.
Time
May 15, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Join Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society (DOAS) on Friday, May 16 at 7:30 p.m. on Zoom for a presentation of “The Nature of a World Cruise” with
Event Details
Join Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society (DOAS) on Friday, May 16 at 7:30 p.m. on Zoom for a presentation of “The Nature of a World Cruise” with DOAS members Kathryn and Al Davino.
In order to escape the winter cold of 2024, Kathryn and Al Davino did a rather unusual thing and booked a world cruise. On January 6, they boarded the Viking Sky in Los Angeles and sailed 30,872 nautical miles by the time they disembarked in Greenwich, England, 120 days later on May 6. Along the way, Kathryn chronicled their adventures, and she has compiled a photo slideshow presentation of the fascinating plants and animals that they encountered along the way.
There were frequent dolphins and flying fish accompanying the vessel, and interesting plant forms like the Cannonball trees in Malaysia and the Baobabs of Africa.
Throughout Indonesia, raptors known as Brahminy Kites were commonly seen, often in large flocks swirling near the water’s edge, and they spent an evening observing a breeding colony of little blue penguins on Phillip Island, near Australia.
There were large flocks of fruit bats hanging like limp black towels in the trees of Sri Lanka, and noisy Sulfur-crested Cockatoos feasting upon Juniper berries in Australia.
In Komodo National Park, the people were the ones restricted to the caged-in walkways, as they walked through the land of the venomous Komodo Dragons. Tourists were warned to tuck away any loose items, like sunglasses and food, while visiting the Batu Cave temples in Malaysia, since the colony of mischievous Long-tailed Macaques found there were adept at thievery. Kathryn found them fascinating to photograph, and she was able to keep all of her belongings. Others in the crowd were not so lucky!
They found the wildlife in Africa to be utterly amazing. Lions, elephants, rhinos, hippos, giraffes, ostriches, and a variety of antelopes were seen, just to name a few.
Join DOAS for this presentation to enjoy the highlights of their trip.
Time
May 16, 2025 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm(GMT-04:00)
Organizer
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society
18mayAll DayDOAS Big Day Bird Count 2025(All Day: Sunday)(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Sunday, May 18 is this year’s Big Day for DOAS. The Big Day is a group effort in which birders, working alone, in pairs, or in small
Event Details
Sunday, May 18 is this year’s Big Day for DOAS.
The Big Day is a group effort in which birders, working alone, in pairs, or in small groups, can maintain social distance and adopt infection-avoidance procedures while enjoying the outdoors. We will try to locate as many bird species as we can in a single fun day. Birders can spend any amount of time they choose within that 24 hours, and report on their efforts to the Big Day coordinator, Charlie Scheim.
Everyone is welcome, novice or experienced. If you are interested and have not participated before, please contact Charlie at 607-434-4880 (voice or text) or scheimc@hartwick.edu to get information on joining in the fun.
DOAS Bird Checklist – revised 2020.
DOAS BIG DAY BIRD COUNT RULES (Modified from ABA):
A Big Day Count is a single-team effort in which the primary objectives are (1) to identify as many bird species as possible during a single calendar day and (2) to strive to have all team members identify all species recorded.
Counting
- Count only species listed in a recognized field guide.
- Birds must be conclusively identified by sight or sound. Use common sense: if in doubt about the bird’s identity, don’t count it.
- An introduced species may be counted.
- Birds counted must be alive, wild, and unrestrained. Domestic species are not to be included. Birds attracted to tape-recorders or feeders may be counted. Injured birds may be counted if wild and unrestrained. Eggs do not count as birds.
Time – All counting must be within a single 24-hour period, on a single calendar day, determined by where the Count begins or ends.
Area– Any geographic area within the region served by DOAS may be covered. A team’s coverage area may overlap that of other teams.
Travel – Travel may be by any means, provided that all participants remain within direct voice-contact distance during all travel (except for separate motorized travel or for “timeouts” for gas, food, rest, etc.).
Participants
- Any number of participants may constitute a team.
- Nonparticipating companions may accompany the team and may record or may drive vehicles.
Conduct
Each participant must:
- remain within direct voice-contact distance of all other participants at all times, except during time-outs.
- make every reasonable effort to identify personally and to help other team members identify every species counted by the team.
- count only birds personally and unquestionably identified.
- review the Big Day Count Rules before the start of the Count.
Outside Information
- During the Count, teams must make every reasonable effort to avoid receiving bird-finding help from nonparticipants.
- Any information received prior to the Count may be used during the Count.
- Ethics– Each participant should strive to maintain proper birding ethics at all times.
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Time
May 18, 2025 All Day(GMT-04:00)
Location
Various Locations as per DOAS
20may8:00 am10:00 amPine Lake Bird Walk8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Join DOAS on Tuesday, May 20 from 8:00-10:00am at Hartwick College’s Pine Lake Environmental campus in Davenport Center. Suzanne Gaynor and Jane Bachman will lead
Event Details
Join DOAS on Tuesday, May 20 from 8:00-10:00am at Hartwick College’s Pine Lake Environmental campus in Davenport Center. Suzanne Gaynor and Jane Bachman will lead the walk. We can expect warblers, ducks, other songbirds, and possible Bald Eagles who nest nearby.
Meet at 8am in the Pine Lake parking lot at 1894 Charlotte Creek Rd, Oneonta, NY.
This will be a 1 1/2-mile walk past a variety of habitats including Pine Lake, Charlotte Creek, woods, a swamp, and open field. There is one moderate climb and much of the walking is on uneven woodland trails. Sturdy footwear is recommended. A restroom is available at the start and end of the walk.
Contact Suzanne Gaynor at 607-435-2939 for more information.
Image: Yellow Warbler on native Willow Tree by Keith Williams, Flickr CC(NC2.0)
Time
May 20, 2025 8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Location
Pine Lake Environmental Campus
1894 Charlotte Creek Road
25may8:00 am10:00 amWest Branch Preserve Bird Walk8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Join DOAS for a bird walk on Sunday, May 25 at 8am at the West Branch Preserve, located in the Town of Hamden, about 10
Event Details
Join DOAS for a bird walk on Sunday, May 25 at 8am at the West Branch Preserve, located in the Town of Hamden, about 10 miles southeast of Delhi. Charlie Scheim and Sandy Bright will lead the walk.
Meet at 8 AM at the preserve entrance and parking area, on NY Rt10, about 0.9 miles west of the intersection with County Route 26. The parking area is adjacent to the Watershed Agricultural Council building at 33195 NY-10. The walk will be on unpaved and at times uneven paths through the fields and forests of the Preserve and will likely last about 1.5 hours.
There will be a certain amount of moderate uphill and downhill walking. There are no restrooms at the preserve and no resting benches along the path. See website below for more information. https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/eny-west-branch-nature-preserve/?en_txn1=bl.ch_ny.eg.x.g
The walk will be on unpaved and at times uneven paths through the fields and forests of the Preserve and will likely last about 1.5 hours. There will be a certain amount of moderate uphill and downhill walking. There are no restrooms at the preserve and no resting benches along the path.
For more information, contact Charlie Scheim at 607-434-4880 or scheimc@hartwick.edu.
Image: Scarlet Tanager, Photographer Unknown.
Time
May 25, 2025 8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Location
West Branch Preserve
NY-10
June
07jun8:00 am10:00 amUplands Center Bird Walk8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Join DOAS Director Charlie Scheim, Bird Sightings author Sandy Bright, and the Environmental Director of the Uplands Center Renee Hardenkamp for a morning bird walk
Event Details
Join DOAS Director Charlie Scheim, Bird Sightings author Sandy Bright, and the Environmental Director of the Uplands Center Renee Hardenkamp for a morning bird walk at the Uplands Center in Walton, NY (2641 Dunk Hill Road) on Saturday, June 7 at 8:00am. Our focus will be on observing birds and their breeding behaviors., will accompany us on this walk. The Uplands Center (www.uplandscenter.org) has acres of fields and forests, great habitat for breeding birds. We will meet just outside the main lodge. The walk will begin on a mostly level grassy path through a large field where we will likely find a number of grassland species. We will then follow a path through a wooded area with some gentle uphills and downhills, seeking woodland inhabitants. There are accessible rest rooms at the walk’s beginning and end and some rest spots along the way. The walk will likely last about an hour and a half. This program is free and there is no pre-registration required. You may call Charlie Scheim at 607-434-4880 for more information or for any last minute weather concerns.
Image: Bobolink; photo by Jennifer Hyypio.
Time
June 7, 2025 8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Location
Uplands Center
2641 Dunk Hill Road
14jun8:00 am10:00 amHanford Mills Exploration Days Bird Walk8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society will host a morning bird walk starting at 8am on June 14 in conjunction with Exploration Days at Hanford Mills. Veteran birders
Event Details
Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society will host a morning bird walk starting at 8am on June 14 in conjunction with Exploration Days at Hanford Mills. Veteran birders Suzanne Gaynor and Kathryn Davino will co-lead the walks around the Hanford Mills property.
We invite both beginners and experienced birders. The walk covers fairly level terrain and will last about 90 minutes.
The trail traverses a variety of surfaces: grass, gravel, and boardwalk, and does include an occasional step up/down and a few gentle slopes. The total distance traveled is about .5 miles. There are no rest areas along the route, but there are benches near the pond, and picnic tables at the parking lot. Accessible bathrooms are available.
Participants should meet in the event parking lot (south side of Rt. 12, opposite museum buildings) and bring binoculars, insect repellent, water, and curiosity about birds! When we return to the parking lot, we invite folks to join us as we drive a short distance to see a Bald Eagle nest that currently has a pair of adults caring for one or more fledglings.
This is a free program. Call Kathryn Davino (607-746-7396) with questions.
Image: Yellow-rumped warbler; Photo by Landa Palmer, 2019.
Time
June 14, 2025 8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Location
Hanford Mills Museum
51 County Road 12, East Meredith, NY 13757
21jun8:00 am10:00 amKirkside Park Bird Walk8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Event Details
Join DOAS Director Charlie Scheim, Bird Sightings author Sandy Bright, and local birder Jeanne Ellsworth on Saturday, June 21 for a birding walk in Kirkside
Event Details
Join DOAS Director Charlie Scheim, Bird Sightings author Sandy Bright, and local birder Jeanne Ellsworth on Saturday, June 21 for a birding walk in Kirkside Park, Roxbury, NY. We will meet at 8:00am in the Kirkside parking area accessed via Kirkside Driveway. The walk will last about 1 ½ hours and will wander through the park along level unpaved pathways, looking for the birds of late spring and early summer. Restrooms are available near the parking area. For more information or for any last-minute weather concerns, contact Charlie Scheim at 607-434-4880.
Time
June 21, 2025 8:00 am - 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Location
Kirkside Park
67 Kirkside Drive