The Pennsylvania Society of Ornithology hosts a Breeding Bird Blitz each year. This is a 24-hour event, that will take place between June 7-17 during which teams across the state of Pennsylvania compete to see which team can observe the most amount of bird species. Each team generates support through sponsorships and donations. The state-wide proceeds are pooled, and the proceeds are split between three projects throughout the state that enhance bird habitat, foster bird education, and monitor bird populations.

This year, Rider Park will be one of the organizations receiving funding. The park has been awarded a grant to enhance American Woodcock habitat. These iconic birds are plump and well camouflaged. They are found on the ground in densely wooded or shrubby areas adjacent to open meadows. The birds have a long bill they use to probe for earth worms in damp soil. Their mating behavior is unusual with the male emitting loud “peent-peent” calls before flying high in the air and spiraling down to the ground to land near the female.

Approximately four acres of meadow along the western edge of the park will be turned into a mosaic of multi-stem shrubs and trees to enhance American Woodcock habitat. American Woodcocks have been observed in this area of wet ground and it is hoped they will benefit from enhanced habitat complexity.

In addition to habitat enhancements, several interpretive signs describing American Woodcock behavior, nesting needs, and habitat requirements will be installed. To round off these efforts, the Rider Park team will partner with Lycoming Audubon Society to offer public programs to experience American Woodcock spring courtship displays.
Please visit http://www.breedingbirdblitz.org/williamsport-warblers to donate to the “Williamsport Warblers” team. This local team is composed of Lycoming Audubon Society members and Rider Park Manager, Sara Street.

For more general information about Rider Park, please visit: http://www.RiderPark.org.