Ray Duffy writes:

"I got a Clapper Rail in Mill Creek Marsh on Sunday. 

"They seemed to have moved into this area this year — I've had repeated calling clappers at the Point.

"I photographed this one, who waited until he thought I was gone to come out of the grass — and I'm not sure if I didn't hear another as I was looping toward the water treatment plant."

Thanks, Ray, These guys are rare to see, let alone photograph so well.

Mickey Raine writes: "Yesterday evening while at the Mill Creek Marsh, Liberty, Jeanie, Elaine and I were fortunate enough to observe the spectacular aerial acrobats, the Black Skimmers. 

In all, there were between 9 and 10, but flying mostly alone or in pairs.  The sun had just about set, but left a wonderful streak that continued to change in tones. 

This added dimension made the experience so much more fascinating as these beautiful creatures would swoop down and glide inches above the water surface. 

They did manage to catch plenty of fish–those photos will come later, but I just wanted to send a few for now. 

Although the lighting was rapidly waning, the mood was incredible . . .

Thanks, Mickey! Two more of Mickey's photos follow.

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We had beautiful weather and a wonderful turnout for our annual tree and plant walk with the inimitable Edith Wallace (center, with straw hat).

Edith asked that we let you know that the book she was recommending  is "Tree Finder," a pocket manual for identification of trees by their leaves. Edith says that Watts is author.

A big thank you to all our participants, and even larger shout-out to Edith, who was her usual terrific and illuminating self!

The photo on left is Marco Van Brabant's shot of Edith in action. (Thanks, Marco!)

Edith's guided walk on Sunday morning was sponsored by the Bergen County Audubon Society and the N.J. Meadowlands Commission.

Two of the winners of Conserve Wildlife Foundation's Species on the Edge Art and Essay Contest are Kelly Lu (Ist place, Hudson County) and  Madina Ruzehaji (2nd place, Hudson County) of the Lincoln School in Kearny.

Kelly wrote about (and painted a portrait of) a Silver-bordered Fritillary (above). Madina wrote about (and painted a portrait of) a Piping Plover (below).

You can read Kelly's essay here.

You can read Madina's essay here.

More about the contest here.

Congrats to Kelly and all the other winners!