Date: 8/15/25 6:43 pm From: Andrew Baksh <birdingdude...> Subject: [nysbirds-l] Jamaica Bay Update, including the East Pond
Salutations all,
I wanted to share a brief update following yesterday’s meeting with Minka
Sendich, the Acting Superintendent of Gateway National Recreation Area.
During our discussion, I raised several key issues, including the
management of the East Pond water levels, the overgrowth around the West
Pond, and ways to enhance the visitor experience through improved
sightlines and access.
While I won’t go into every item covered, I can say the conversation was
productive. I was firm yet respectful in presenting our concerns, and Minka
listened attentively, offering her insights throughout. We agreed that
there is much to be done, but that collaboration and communication will be
crucial in correcting some of the past mistakes. More to follow as we
collaborate in addressing some of the concerns.
*East Pond Update:*
The North End West Side trail has been cleared. Although water levels
remain higher than ideal, it is currently possible to walk up the pond with
caution and waterproof boots. Be aware that water is ankle-deep in most
areas, and several sections are soft and muddy.
With high water levels concentrating shorebirds into limited areas,
disturbance is a genuine concern. Please use good judgment and avoid
pushing birds off feeding and roosting areas unnecessarily, particularly
where they’re favoring shallow zones and mudflats.
Today, I walked up to Dead Man’s Cove on a rising tide without issue.
However, I chose not to go beyond that point so as not to disturb the birds
gathered at Gull Point, where several Caspian Terns were loafing.
Highlights from the north end walk included 3 *Caspian Terns* and 3
*Gull-billed
Terns*. Juvenile shorebirds observed included Short-billed Dowitchers,
Lesser and Greater Yellowlegs, and Least, Semipalmated, and Stilt
Sandpipers.
I did not see the continuing *American White Pelican*; it may be more
easily located early or late in the day. With more birds arriving each day,
we're hopeful for a strong showing at the upcoming Shorebird Festival this
Sunday.
*In Memoriam:*
On a more somber note, I was deeply saddened to learn of Lloyd Spitalnik’s
passing this week. Pat and Shai beautifully captured his spirit. Although I
did not know Lloyd as well as some of you, every interaction I had with him
was positive. Beneath his often-gruff exterior was a generous and
knowledgeable man who was always willing to share his photography
expertise. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends.
Warm regards,
Andrew
--
*"A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle. Be that candle." ~ AB*
*"Emancipate yourself from mental slavery; none but ourselves could free
our mind." ~ Bob Marley*
*"Tenderness and kindness are not signs of weakness and despair, but
manifestations of strength and resolution." ~ Khalil Gibran*
*"I prefer to be true to myself, even at the hazard of incurring the
ridicule of others, rather than to be false, and to incur my own
abhorrence." ~ Frederick Douglass*
