April 2023 Programs

Tait says spring migration “is the most wonderful time of year!”

It’s a first!
Naturalist Tait Johansson’s First Wednesday’s Bird Walk at Dean’s Bridge in Somers is April’s first walk… and we’re excited to see some returning birds! We’ll be on the lookout for early spring migrants like Palm Warbler, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, golden-crowned Kinglet, and possibly a Rusty Blackbird.
Wednesday, April 5, 7:30-9:30am. Cost: Free. Level of difficulty: Moderate. Registration is required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org.

Bird and habitat conservation AND beautiful photos? Yes!
Don’t miss this month’s very special Public Lecture on Bird Migration: Linking Habitat Conservation Across the Americas with John Hannan. You’ll enjoy beautiful imagery of birds and landscapes while learning about key hemispheric bird conservation initiatives happening right now across the Americas. These initiatives will build long-term sustainable economies and community benefits while protecting the birds we love and protect right here in New York State.  From massive endeavors to preserve more than 1.2 million acres of high Andes habitat to citizen science projects in which you can participate, John will present an uplifting view of bird conservation in the Americas and ways you can be part of it.

About John Hannan: John works for BirdLife International, the world’s largest partnership of bird conservation organizations spanning more than 119 countries with 117 partners and hundreds of collaborating organizations, including the National Audubon Society. John is a Somers resident, long-time Bedford Audubon member and an avid naturalist and photographer. He regularly contributes to publications and conferences on bird watching, nature travel and conservation. John has been part of the Audubon family at many levels, including on staff at National Audubon, a past Chair of the Audubon NY State Chapters’ Council, and a past president of Bedford Audubon’s Board of Directors.

Wednesday, April 12, 7:00pm (lecture); 6:45pm refreshments. Cost: Free. Katonah Village Library Garden Room. Registration is not necessary.

Keep calm and dig on… getting rid of and learning about invasive species!
Get some exercise and fresh air on this spring day and join Naturalist & Properties Committee Chair Steve Ricker for our monthly Habitat Renewal Day.  You’ll learn about invasive plants, including identification and their negative effect on the ecosystem while working to remove the invasives in our sanctuary and gardens. Tools and gloves will be provided, or you can bring your own. (Loppers and hand pruners are the most used tools). Plants with thorns and poison ivy may be present.
Saturday, April 15, 11:00am-12:30pm. Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Easy-moderate. Registration is required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org.

Let’s check out the “dam” ravens!
We’re referring to the resident Common Ravens at the Cross River Dam, of course, We’ll check them out on Naturalist Tait Johansson’s Third Thursday’s Bird Walk that starts at this dam in Katonah. It’s a great introductory walk for those new to birding, as well as a return to old favorites for those with more experience. We’ll also be looking for mid-April migrants like Blue-headed Vireo, Louisiana Waterthrush, and Pine Warbler.
Thursday, April 20, 7:30-9:30am. Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Easy-moderate. Registration is required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org.

Come “Jay Walking” with us!
In partnership with the Friends of John Jay Homestead, we invite you to join us for Spring Jay Walking at the Homestead. Bedford Audubon Naturalist Tait Johansson will lead this Bird Walk around the property in search of birds that call it home and those just passing through, including migrants like Blue-gray Gnatcatcher and Hermit Thrush.
Sunday, April 23, 8:00-10:00am. Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Moderate. Registration is required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org.

Did you know that Brewster is in Bedford Audubon’s community?
Join Naturalist Tait Johansson on a Field Trip to Tonetta Lake – a new birding spot that we’re excited to show you! Tonetta Lake is one of the best kept secrets in the Town of Southeast. At nearly 75 acres with 8,488 feet of shoreline, it is home to the Cedar Swamp Conservation Area. We’re hoping for sightings of returning spring migrants like Green Heron, Wood Thrush, Blue-headed Vireo, and Black-throated Green Warbler. Tait says, “We’ll be walking along the Maybrook Trailway on the western side of Lake Tonetta and along the Atlantic White Cedar swamp there.” We can’t wait!
Tuesday, April 25, 7:00-9:00am. Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Moderate. Registration is required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org.

Come to a wildlife sanctuary in the heart of Mount Kisco.
Have you been to the only open space trail area in the city of Mount Kisco? If not, don’t miss Naturalist Tait Johansson’s Migration Bird Walk at Marsh Sanctuary. The Kisco River runs through on its way to the Hudson River, and we will be searching this 156-acre sanctuary for migrating songbirds such as Warbling Vireo, Yellow Warbler and Black-and-White Warbler.
Wednesday, April 26, 8:00-10:00am. Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Moderate. Registration is required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org.

Go mad for migration!
Join Tait for Migration Madness on Maple Avenue in Katonah as the migration floodgates start to open. It’s the perfect time to look for Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Baltimore Oriole, and Northern Parula as well as other late-April returning migrants before the trees fully leaf out.
Thursday, April 27, 7:00-9:00am. Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Easy. Email Susan to register: info@bedfordaudubon.org.