The sun’s rays reached out from the horizon through a vibrant turquoise sky as if wanting to embrace all that they encountered. The perpetual rain clouds had finally dispersed seabound, leaving all of nature and wildlife unanimously sighing. A welcomed reprieve and just in time for the first-ever DHP Bird Watching Tour.
Anticipant, but without expectation (as most bird watchers have warily become), the group set out from the Visitor Center hopeful and watchful. Donned with binoculars and cameras, they were about to embark on a 3-hour adventure that would take them near fields and trees, ponds and creeks.
The dazzling sunlight was a perfect backdrop as right off the bat, a small flock of wild turkey were spotted crossing an inner byway. Tour guide Pam Raes was extremely insightful, sharing a plethora of information regarding the most frequently seen bird species at the park. These massive birds will soon be hatching poults, but none yet were seen with this group that pecked at tidbits as they wandered.
The first stop to disembark was beneath the decades old eagle nest. The pair that had kept this nest for so long have not returned this season, but the nest is nonetheless an extraordinary sight for bird enthusiasts. Since no young are in the nest this season, their absence opened the chance to get close and personal. Adjacent to the nest is a huge open area filled with timothy grass and wildflowers. The few towering trees and briar bush offered a good bird viewing opportunity. Some species spotted included the red-winged black bird, its colors vibrant! Cowbirds, cardinals, and mockingbirds also made an appearance.
After a few minutes, the group proceeded to a crossroad where there were numerous bluebird houses. A rambunctious blue tree swallow displayed its aerial expertise, worthy of applause. Once it came to rest, the tour bus rolled onward.
The previously never toured 60-acre pond area was the next stop. A beautiful, pristine area filled with bird song carried on soft breezes. Huge duck houses here encourage nesting. Numerous songbirds jaunted amongst the reeds and marshy perimeters. A couple of Herons were spotted flying, their “S-shaped” necks and trailing legs apparent. An Osprey hovered, perhaps seeking brunch, and a pair of Eastern Kingfishers seemed to vie for fishing territorial rights, their shrill whistles distinguishable as they flitted, darting just above the water.
Turkey vultures en masse rode the thermals overhead, wings waving and steady as they circled, noses (not eyes) keen to any scent of fresh demise. When observed up close, their “beauty” can only be seen in the eye of the beholder, yet their presence is gratefully appreciated by all who call this park home.
The crew next disembarked at the rear entrance to the “Q” area and were allowed to walk the back road alongside the northeastern fence line — an area off-limits to standard tourists. This area had brush, antiquated floodlights, wires, and fencing, as well as a nice mature tree line opposite a small field. Apparently, the bird population loves this area, as did the bird watchers. Tour guide Pam got sight of her first eastern towhee, pointing it out with much glee. A pair of wrens made use of a decrepit light whose covering served as a nice nesting nook. Cedar waxwings appeared, as did yellow warblers, a flicker, and so much more!
Last stops included the beaver dam area and its surrounding pond as well as a nearby redtail hawk nest whereupon guests got to witness the female redtail overseeing her young fledgling. A fascinating encounter to top off a remarkable debut tour beyond the fence. Appreciative guests had only one lingering question: Will this tour be offered again next year?
Dee Calvasina, www.deecalvasina.com, is the author of “Beyond the Fence, The Amazing World of Deer Haven Park,” a writer, speaker, and monthly columnist for the Finger Lakes Times who supports the conservation of military history, nature, and wildlife at DHP.