About Birdwatch

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  1. Boreas says

    We are lucky to currently have Bicknell’s Thrush and Spruce Grouse in the Adirondacks. But this is indeed luck – due to elevation, habitat, and past human habitation patterns. But changing climate and expanding ranges of competitors is obviously going to stress the existing populations – and likely push them out of NYS entirely within the century. They won’t go extinct any time soon, but with diminishing habitat, it is certainly possible.

    WRT habitat loss in NYS at Whiteface, I do not believe we are getting an accurate assessment of the likely impact to Bicknell’s breeding – especially if the changes benefit competing species moving into the higher-elevation territory. Should this stop ongoing development on Whiteface? Depends on how much NYS residents want to provide habitat for these birds. That should be left up to NYS taxpayers and not wishful ORDA/DEC tree-cutting schedules. We need to be voting as if Adirondack Park protections depends on the outcome.

  2. Paul says

    Did people actually read the information in the permit application on this before writing this article or commenting? Apparently the bird experts that worked on this said the project would have NO negative impact on these birds and possibly it could have a positive impact by increasing habitat that the birds prefer for nesting. Creating these “edges” apparently is good for them. What people should do is stay out of these areas during the nesting season. Leave them alone, luckily this is when there are not skiers there. I am sure that hikers in the high peaks stay out of these high elevation areas to protect these birds rather than trying to get a “look” at them…..

    • Boreas says

      Paul,

      One should always get more than one opinion, and rely on independent scientific scrutiny to evaluate the statements/opinions for accuracy. A single non-profit acting as “experts” are not always reliable advocates for wildlife. Has the VINS statement quoted in the article passed independent scientific scrutiny? Opening up “edges” is good for many species short term, but what are the LONG-TERM implications of this type of management to Bicks in the HPW? Can we see the data on that?

      When debating endangered species protection, we need to be even more careful to evaluate opinions, as lack of vetting could ultimately cost us a species. I have even grown more skeptical of various environmental statements from Audubon Society of late. We need to ensure these organizations are protecting wildlife and not donors’ wishes.

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