Cornell Lab of Ornithology Bird Identification
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology sits in the 225-acre Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary in Ithaca, New York. Birders have identified at least 242 species of birds at the sanctuary.
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General Tips
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By understanding where cedar waxwings feed and nest, a birder can increase chances of seeing them. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology suggests focusing on the size, shape and color of a bird as well as its uniquely distinguishing characteristics. Understanding varying habitats and which birds use them can also narrow down identification possibilities. Sapsucker Woods is comprised of three general habitat types: ponds, scrub-shrub and mixed woods forest.
Field Guides
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Matching field marks on a bird in sight to drawings or photographs in a field guide makes birding easier and more fun. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology publishes "The Birds of Sapsucker Woods," a field guide to the 100 most common birds found on the sanctuary that is designed to be carried easily on the four miles of trails at Sapsucker Woods.
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Audio Identification
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Even the mute swan makes a noise, which can be heard on a bird sounds CD. Using compact discs and digital bird sound recordings with headphones or ear buds will accurately compare songs and calls heard on the sanctuary with known recorded vocalizations.
Online Identification
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The Cornell Lab of Ornithology's website can help tell the difference between a white-crowned sparrow and a white-throated sparrow. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology's website hosts an interactive "All About Birds" section featuring all of the birds seen in North America.
Visitors Center
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The feeders outside the windows of the visitors center provide some of the best birding at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Knowledgeable birders who staff the visitors center of the Imogene Powers Johnson Center for Birds and Biodiversity at Sapsucker Woods specialize in common species and keep lists of recent sightings.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Sharon Mollerus Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Michel Villeneuve Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Jo Guldi Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Olivier Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Mike Baird Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Larry & Teddy (nee Schlueter) Page
