President’s Message Winter 2023

Hello my little birding friends! Hope this newsletter finds you all well and enjoying the birds. It is winter and some birds have gone south and some have come down from the north. I’m hoping to see the snowy owl this winter. It’s one of my favorites to see at this time of year. We usually see one on our winter bird walk to Jones Beach. My son goes surfing in the winter and brings his truck on the beach. He always sees one and his wife gets good pictures of them for me to paint. At our September meeting our speaker spoke about not raking our leaves because bugs hide and stay warm in them and are also a source of food for the birds in the winter. She also said not to dead head your flowering plants as they provide seeds for the birds too. They also spread to make more plants. I know it’s hard because some of you want your yard to be nice and manicured! Maybe just try a section. And don’t forget to feed the birds and thaw and clean out the bird baths this winter. They need the energy. 

We have some good speakers coming up and our annual Holiday party at Seatuck in December. Feel free to bring something to eat or drink. It’s always a good time, especially since we can get back to normal after Covid. I love Christmas with all the decorations and lights. Some people put their Christmas trees in the back yard after the holidays so the birds can hide in them and stay warm, then throw them away in the spring. We are making a GSBAS calendar for 2023 and have gotten some really great photos from our members. Hopefully we will continue with the calendar for years to come so save your best photos. So have a good holiday season, stay warm and enjoy the birds!!! 

Just a little note that if you decorate with real green garland, remember to cut one side of it around the window or door, turn it around, and wire it together. This way both sides are hanging down the same! Also remember that GSBAS dues are due in February now and are $20 for the year. We are also making a calendar this year of pictures that our members have taken. The calendar is $15 and can be paid by check to our mailing address. 

Thank you, happy holidays!