Audubon Society Bird Walk at Sandy Hook Saturday, Feb. 11

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, will be sought when the Monmouth County Audubon Society hosts a bird walk on Sandy Hook this Saturday, February 11.

This is a great opportunity to shake off the stuffiness of winter, get some sunshine and enjoy the outdoors. The trip will be led by accomplished birders who are very familiar with Sandy Hook and its birds.

“Many species of ducks which breed in the Arctic spend the winter in the area,” explains Linda Mack, field trip leader and past president of the organization. “They seek protection in the coves along the Hook and usually remain most of the season. 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, such as Snowy Owls, visitors from the Arctic which are rarely seen on the East Coast."

Anyone interested in participating in the event can meet at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 in parking lot near the Visitor Center (which is closed). The lot is just north of the old Sea Gull’s Nest restaurant. 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 cold temperatures and windy conditions, which are common along the coast. Binoculars are essential, and a field guide is helpful.

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 athttp://www.monmouthaudubon.org, or via e-mail at info@monmouthaudubon.org.

Wikimedia Commons image/Snowy owl/Bert de Tilly