Saturday, September 26, 2026: Fall Birding at Sandy Hook

Semipalmated sandpiper. Photo by Ric Cohn. 

8:30AM to 12:30PM

Trip cancels if it rains.

Sandy Hook, a unique geological feature on the northernmost extent of the Jersey shore, has long been known as one of New Jersey's premiere birding sites. In fall, Sandy Hook's considerable patches of coastal forest may attract great numbers of migrants as they spot this enticing habitat at first light while crossing the New York Bay. We will explore the varied habitats of the Hook, hoping to see a good variety of sparrows, some late warblers, thrushes, shorebirds, raptors, and maybe something unexpected. Last year’s trip reported 76 species including 13 warbler species, an American golden plover and white-rumped sandpiper. Fingers crossed, we will do as well this year.

We will meet at Lot B, on the right side of the road just a few hundred yards after the entrance gate. Park near the building in the center of the lot, which is a public restroom. Sandy Hook is largely flat and its trails are not challenging, but walking in general can be quite fatiguing since it is mostly done on sand. We recommend comfortable hiking boots that can keep sand out. Along with binoculars, please bring a scope if you own one- there are many spots where it will come in handy. Extra layers are recommended if it is windy. Bring a sunhat, water and a snack or lunch if you like. Bug spray and sunscreen may be useful.

Contact mbcoutings@gmail.com for further information.

Saturday, October 3, 2026: Troy Meadows Natural Area

Swamp sparrow. Photo by Ric Cohn. 

8:30 am to 11:30 am. Rain date: Sunday, October 4.

Meet at the small parking area on your left (close to the gas pipeline crossing) just beyond the end of Troy Meadows Road.

Troy Meadows in Parsippany/East Hanover is an excellent place to encounter a wide variety of songbirds, waterfowl, wading birds, raptors, and if we're lucky, some possible rarities. The last time we did this walk, we were treated to sightings of a variety of sparrows including field, Lincoln’s, swamp and savannah.

Bring binoculars. Dress for the weather. This area can be very wet; waterproof, high boots are recommended. There are no bathrooms at this location. 

In the case of rain, check our website, www.montclairbirdclub.org and your weekly email blast for updates. You can also send an email to mbcoutings@gmail.com.

Google pin for exact location of parking lot turnoff:  40.84913908249395, -74.38472085305187.

Saturday, October 10, 2026: Commerce Road Wetlands, Fairfield, New Jersey

American pipit. Photo by Micheal Yellin.

A birder’s meet-up 

Meet at the end of Commerce Road in Fairfield at 8 a.m. (a nearby address is 26 Commerce Road).

If rain has recently been heavy, this walk will be moved to an alternate site, as Commerce Road Wetlands becomes impassable. Watch our website, club emails or write to mbcoutings@gmail.com for further information. 

Commerce Road Wetlands’ marsh and pond border the Passaic River in western Essex County next to Great Piece Meadow. EBird lists 116 species as being seen there in Octobers past including: rusty blackbird, American pipit, late migrant warblers and a variety of sparrows, shorebirds, and raptors. On last year’s walk at this time, 39 species were seen or heard including semipalmated sandpiper, American pipit, purple finch and rusty blackbird.

Wear waterproof shoes or boots. Bring binoculars, a scope if you have one, bug spray, and sunscreen. Be sure to wear a hat and carry water. There are no bathrooms at this location.