Stunning. That’s what I thought when I first saw these photos of Yellow-Crowned Night Herons in the Kearny Marsh that Ron Shields sent earlier today. Ron writes: Yellow-crowned night herons are common in the Saw Mill Creek Wildlife Management Area and along the river where I have photographed them on numerous occasions.
However, finding them in the Kearny Marsh is unusual at best. I was lucky to come across this trio of juveniles recently and they proved to be most cooperative.
Those who attended our special walk at Harrier Meadow this morning were treated to a clear view of the Ruff, the rare bird that has been seen in and around DeKorte for the past week. Thanks to Michael Addis for his photos!
Our favorite day of summer is just a day away! Butterfly Day at DeKorte Park is this Saturday, July 30, from 10 am to 3 p.m.
The free event includes butterfly talks and guided walks. We’ll look for majestic monarchs, fabulous fritillarys and more at Jill’s Garden and throughout the park. Experts from co-sponsors Bergen County Audubon Society and the North American Butterfly Association – North Jersey Chapter will be on hand to help you find and identify the butterflies and will have tables with plenty of information on the species.
The family-friendly day features plenty for kids, including a scavenger hunt, costume contest at noon (for ages 12 and under), face painting, coloring and crafts. Rain date is Sunday, July 31. Don’t miss out! Register for the free event here.
Ray Duffy sent us this great photo of peeps roosting on drift wood at Mill Creek Marsh from earlier this week. Ray writes: The high tides at Mill Creek often provides a unique chance to catch the peeps as they start to roost as the tide covers up the mudflats for them to feed and they’re looking for a place to rest. You get neat opportunities to see them lining the cedar stumps and the branches of driftwood. Thanks Ray!