Jamaica Bay & Southern Long Island
August 21-24, 2003

Discover the wonders of shorebirds (over 30 species posssible), wading birds, seabirds, waterfowl, migrating songbirds, and more in the shadows J.F.K. International Airport and New York City, and on the beaches and dunes of Long Island. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, situated in New York Harbor and part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, is a favorite site of birders and host to an amazing abundance of birds and numerous rare and accidental sightings (Rufous-necked Stint, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Little Stint, Broad-billed Sandpiper). We will also enjoy the large number of uncommon or southern species that regularly occur in this area, such as Yellow-crowned Night-Heron, Tricolored Heron, Piping Plover, Ruff, Curlew Sandpiper, godwits, phalaropes, American Avocet, American Oystercatcher, Least Tern, Black Skimmer, Northern Gannet, Boat-tailed Grackle, and more! Visits to nearby hotspots on the shores of Long Island will add to the phenomenal diversity of species observed. The following itinerary is flexible and may vary due to the occurrence of rarities, tide schedules, and seasonal water levels, but presents some of the prime areas we will cover in maximizing our enjoyment of Jamaica Bay and Long Island birdlife!

Day One: Arrive in the afternoon for check-in. Meet at 4:30 p.m. and proceed to dinner (included) at a nearby restaurant, after a stop at Breezy Point for an introduction to coastal birding. This will give us all a chance to get acquainted and discuss the possibilities presented by the Jamaica Bay area. 

Day Two: Gather for a day of birding at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge and surrounding areas. We will spend some time exploring several trails and habitats within the refuge, enjoying the passerines, marshbirds, seabirds, and most notably the incredible concentration of shorebirds. Depending on time available, stops at Jones Beach State Park, Jacob Riis Park, or Cow Meadow Park Preserve will round out the day, concentrating on regional specialties. The day will conclude around 4:30, with the rest of the afternoon and evening on your own to explore the area.


Day Three: This day will be spent checking out hotspots along Long Island’s South Shore. A stop at Robert Moses State Park, on the barrier beach of Fire Island, will begin our exploration of the coastal dunes, beaches, and tidal flats. We will continue eastward,with birding opportunities presented by places such as Cupsogue County Park, Shinnecock Inlet, and Mecox Bay. After arriving back at our motel in the afternoon, we will meet for a relaxing dinner at a nearby restaurant (included) and review the day’s sightings.

Day Four: After checking out, we will meet for a final morning of amazing birding at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. Our efforts will be focused on species that may have eluded us earlier, while once again enjoying the spectacle of shorebird migration and other avian visitors. We will bird until 11:00 a.m., at which time we’ll summarize our sightings and conclude the tour. You are welcome to stay and explore more of Long Island and New York City on your own.

Tour Details
This tour includes three nights of accomodations at a comfortable motel. All rooms are furnished with a queen bed or two double beds and include the usual amenities. Dinner at two of the area’s well-known eating establishments are also included (Thursday and Saturday), as well as entrance fees and parking fees at the various birding locales.

Also included are professional guide services for the duration of the tour. Brett M. Ewald will be the tour leader on this exciting excursion. As well as being an accomplished birder, naturalist, and biologist, Brett has been involved in numerous research projects involving migration, distribution patterns, and coastal species. He looks forward to sharing the wonders of Jamaica Bay and the South Shore with you!

Besides the spectacular birding, this area is known for its barrier beaches, international airport, and the further you head east, as a retreat from New York City. For those looking to experience another side of the area, the multitude of attractions around New York City, including the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building,are within an hour’s drive.

Tour Pricing 
Prices listed are per person, based on your level of occupancy. 

• Quad: $354.00
  
• Double: $434.00
  
• Single: $594.00
  

Terms and Conditions
A $100.00 deposit is required at time of registration. Any balance due is required June 30, 2003. Confirmation and an informational packet, including details and directions, will be sent upon receipt of deposit. Make your check or money order payable to Lakeshore Nature Tours. If the tour is full, a waiting list will be taken, and filled according to the date of registration. A $25 service fee will apply to cancellations before June 30, 2003. Cancellations after June 30, 2003 will forfeit the entire $100.00 deposit. Transportation and any corresponding tolls are the responsibility of the participant(s).