Audubon Society Leads Sandy Hook Bird Walk Dec. 9

SANDY HOOK GATEWAY NATIONAL RECREATION AREA — Have you ever seen a Snow Bunting? How about a Northern Harrier, a Yellow-rumped Warbler or a Long-tailed Duck?

These, and many other varieties of birds, can be seen when the Monmouth County Audubon Society hosts a bird walk on Sandy Hook on Saturday, December 9. The trip will be led by members of the Monmouth County Audubon Society, all very familiar with Sandy Hook and its birds.

“Many species of ducks that breed in the Arctic spend the winter in the area,” explains Stuart Malmid, one of the leaders of the bird walk. “They seek protection in the coves along Sandy Hook and usually remain here most of the winter. In addition, hawks continue to hunt here all winter, and they’re fascinating to watch. And we don’t discount the possibility of seeing some really rare birds. It takes some time to find one rare duck in a flock of several hundred, but the more eyes searching the flock, the better our chances.”

Anyone interested in participating in the event can meet at 10:00 a.m. in the parking lot by the old Visitor Center, 1.8 miles north of the park entrance. The trip is open to both members and non-members of the Monmouth County Audubon Society, and participation is free. Advance registration is not required.

Participants should dress appropriately for the weather, which can be blustery and unpredictable along the coast; wear comfortable shoes and bring binoculars and field guides. In case of questionable weather, check the organization’s website the evening before the trip for updates.

The Monmouth County Audubon Society, a chapter of the National Audubon Society, is dedicated to the enjoyment and study of nature, wildlife conservation, habitat protection, and education. Meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month September through May at the Knights of Columbus hall, 200 Fair Haven Road, Fair Haven; guest speakers address a wide variety of nature-related topics, and refreshments are provided. In addition, the group sponsors at least one field trip per month, and members receive The Osprey, the club’s bi-monthly newsletter. Further information can be obtained by visiting the organization’s Website at http://www.monmouthaudubon.org, or via e-mail at info@monmouthaudubon.org.