​A Fall Day of Discovery at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Photos by Gail Karlsson is an environmental lawyer, nature writer and photographer, who is the author of 'A Birds' Guide to The Battery and New York Harbor' (Amazon).

On a crisp October day, a group of butterfly enthusiasts took a walk through the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, under the guidance of the American Littoral Society's Jamaica Bay Guardian Don Riepe.

While it was a lovely fall day with only mild wind, participants only saw a few migrating monarch butterflies. Still, the day brought a series of delightful surprises.

The walk began with a closer look at the vibrant pollinator garden, a haven for various insects and a feast for the eyes. A lone Common Buckeye butterfly, defying the cooler temperatures, graced the group with its presence.

Back at the Visitor Center, the day took a more interactive turn. Wing Kong, a local environmental artist and educator, captivated participants with her butterfly-themed activities. A special highlight was a showcase of monarch butterflies in various stages, culminating in the release of a newly emerged butterfly near the pollinator garden.

While butterflies may have been the intended focus, the refuge also teemed with other feathered residents. A large flock of Snowy Egrets took a well-deserved rest around the West Pond before continuing their southward journey. The familiar honking of Canada Geese filled the air as they soared overhead, adding to the symphony of nature.

East Pond offered a different spectacle. Here, the group encountered a diverse collection of ducks, including the distinctive Northern Shovelers with their oversized bills. Ruddy Ducks and American Black Ducks also provided opportunities for observation and appreciation. Diving close by were the elusive Pied-billed Grebes, adding a touch of mystery to the scene.

Despite the absence of a massive monarch migration, the day at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge was a resounding success. It served as a reminder of the incredible biodiversity thriving right here in New York City.

Interested in joining similar nature walks? The American Littoral Society frequently organizes free events like the Monarch/Pollinator Walk. To learn more about our upcoming events, follow our social media, sign up for our monthly newsletters, or keep an eye on our website calendar.

Find Gail Karlsson's blog posts about birds and nature in and around New York City at: https://gailkarlssonbirdsnyc.blogspot.com/. Learn more about Wing Kong and her work  on her website .

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