The original ‘snow birds’, that’s who!
Did you know that Long Island is a top destination for over 30 types of waterfowl in winter? These birds migrate south to Long Island from their Arctic tundra nesting grounds because of their need for food and warmth and include ducks, geese and swans, the original ‘snow birds!’ They can be seen on ponds, harbors, lakes, coastal beaches and bays including the Sound and Ocean. This process usually begins at the end of October with sightings of flocks of ducks, the most recognizable being the Mallard.
The Snowy Owl has become a frequent winter visitor to Long Island’s shoreline dunes. Fire Island is known to be an area they love. They tend to settle also on the south shore's barrier islands, where the habitat is similar to their home up north. Believe it or not, one was spotted in New York City over the recent holiday weekend! This year, there have already been multiple sitings. These owls arrive in December when their food supply diminishes and stay through March when they make the challenging journey back to the Arctic. Their permanent home is the Arctic tundra where they enjoy hunting for animals such as lemmings.
While here, they feast on small mammals like rodents and rabbits. They can be seen hunting at dusk and dawn. People are fascinated with these beauties also referred to as the ‘owl from Harry Potter’. Photographers and birders alike are happy to welcome the snowy owl here for the winter. If you do spot one, it’s important that you give the animal space.
They’re here for the sole reason of finding food and we need to respect their privacy and do everything in our power not to stress them out.
Yes, Long Island is also home to Harbor Seals! They migrate from their Canadian breeding grounds in Canada and Maine to the Long Island Sound and can be spotted from December to March at Cupsogue, Hempstead Bay, Jones Beach and Montauk State Parks. If you are lucky enough to see a seal, please be sure to give them space.
Take a seal cruise or a seal walk tour on Long Island this winter!
In the event you see an injured seal please contact the Marine Mammal Stranding
Center. (631) 369-9840
If you happen to find an animal in the wild in distress at any time of year, please contact Animal Help now
AHNow.org
Suggested viewing:
Filmed on all 7 continents, Winged Migration is a 2001 critically acclaimed
documentary which follows several species of birds who migrate thousands of
miles, to the Equator and back, over a four-year span.
PBS Nature Magic of the Snowy Owl
Season 31, Episode 2
Anne Marie Tognella, Sweetbriar Volunteer