Tifft Nature Preserve Photo Blog

First Week of February

2012-02-09T16:51:00.014-05:00

Although it is the beginning of February, there's not any
snow on the ground and very little ice on the lake and
ponds.

Hairy Woodpecker. The Hairy closely resembles the
Downy Woodpecker but is larger with a much longer
bill.

Male Mallard Duck taking a swim

Chickadee up close

Female Mallard Duck standing on a patch of ice

Hooded Merganser

Canada Geese

Nuthatch

Ice swirl in Lake Kirsty

Snowy Day at Tifft

2012-01-23T17:37:00.023-05:00

We finally have some snow at Tifft!

A couple of Mallard Ducks swimming in a circle in an
open patch of water

Snowy trail

Lake Kirsty covered with snow and ice

Some Cardinals taking cover in the trees

Caryn (Tifft Educator) showing a deer imprint in the
snow during the Winter Whispers hike

Come and join us for the following events:

Frosty Fun Festival
Saturday, February 4, 10am-2pm
Celebrate winter in western New York and shake off your
cabin fever! Drop in and join us for guided snowshoe hikes,
indoor winter crafts, snow animal sculpture contest,
frosty fun olympics and more! There will be food and hot
beverages available for purchase. Non-members: $5

HOPE FOR SNOW!!!

Life at the Bitter Edge: Winter-Active Insects
of New York State (a Friends of Tifft Event)
Sunday, February 19, 2-4pm
Snowfleas, winter stoneflies, and snow scorpionflies
are just some of the fascinating insects that manage to cope
with the cold and snow of a western New York winter.
Discussion and display presented by Wayne Gall, Ph.D.
$3 per person; $10 maximum per family. Free for
FOT members

New Year at Tifft

2012-01-08T15:41:00.020-05:00

It's hard to believe it's January and there still is no

snow at Tifft Nature Preserve.

These gulls are walking on thin ice.

This duck found a patch of open water to splash in.

The owner of this nest thought some shredded paper
and tape would add a nice touch.

This buck was nice enough to pose for a picture.

A distant view of the cabin.

Join Friends of Tifft for Tracks in the Snow: Animal

Investigation Tour (a Friends of Tifft Event) on
Sunday, January 15, 2-4 pm, as we explore the trails during
a winter investigation of animal tracks and evidence. Look
for signs of active winter natives and maybe even see them
up close! Snowshoe rentals will be available for an additional
$2 fee paid onsite, weather permitting. $3 per person; $10
maximum per family. Free for FOT members.

Winter Birds of Tifft Nature Preserve

2011-12-20T19:15:00.043-05:00

I have been taking a lot of pictures of the birds at Tifft,
and here are some of them:

Downy Woodpecker:

I also saw a ton of Robins everywhere!
Here's one perched in a tree:

Some of the prettiest shots I took were of the cardinals,
just as it started to snow:

Here's a male Cardinal (all red) & a House Finch flying
in behind him to perch on the feeder.

And of course, the Mallard ducks are still pretty active
right now. Here's a male Mallard Duck (he has bright
green feathers to attract the females):

And a female, whose feathers allow her to blend in with
her surroundings in order to provide more protection
when she's guarding her eggs:

And last, a squirrel trying to pretend he's just another
one of the birds in the bird feeder:

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

December Morning at Tifft

2011-12-04T17:40:00.023-05:00

Hey Everyone! I went walking
in the preserve, and I wanted
to share some of the sights
from Tifft. -jm

View from the boardwalk

Chickadee

Whitebreasted nuthatch

Downy woodpecker

Mallard ducks

Deer rubbing

Andrew (Tifft Educator) hanging "Do not feed the deer"
signs

View from one of the mounds

Japanese Lanterns

Enjoying the sun and the colors of Tifft

2011-09-28T14:47:00.008-04:00

After the storm last night, it was a beyond beautiful day here at Tifft. Sunny, colorful, and breezy. I will miss walking and exploring here daily so much.

Green Frog at Heritage Boardwalk.

Leaves in a spiderweb

Heritage Boardwalk in the sunshine.

Really young painted turtle catching the warm suns rays.

Dewy Mullein. Click on photo for a better look.

A better look at the Mullein

Nettle Trail

Black-eyed Susans?

Lichen on a tree branch

Staghorn Sumac changes to the best shades

Snakeroot flower

Red Maple leaf floating in a spiderweb

Red Maple leaf resting in a thistle.

The "Maple Alley" along Service Trail near Beth Pond.

Small Grasshopper along Service Trail.

Brown Trasher along Service Trail near Rabbit Run West

In the background you can catch a glimpse of a Red-bellied woodpecker. Along Service Trail near Heritage Boardwalk Trail.

Weve been keeping a close eye on this monarch chrysalis and its definitely almost complete with its metamorphosis. See how its getting darker and gaining spots?

Treetopia!

2011-09-26T12:11:00.003-04:00

Were gearing up for our next big event here and its expected to be a "root-ing" good time!
As part of a grant from the Niagara Greenway Ecological Standing Committee, Tifft Nature Preserve has been busy planting over 1,000 trees with the help of numerous volunteers. In celebration of all things trees, branch out with us at Tree-topia! Tree-mendous crafts including leaf hats, leaf rubbings, twig butterflies and more! Fun tree-related games will teach the importance of trees for humans and animals. Fall foliage hikes of the preserve will take place throughout the event. It's sure to be a tree-tastic time for everyone and a great way to enjoy autumn! Refresments will be available for purchase. Non-members: $5

For more information about Tifft and this program, check out our biweekly column in The Good Neighborhood here: http://thegoodneighborhood.com/2011/09/22/tales-from-the-tifft-treetopia-a-tall-order-for-fall/

Fantastic Fungi and Fall Walks

2011-09-22T15:29:00.009-04:00

I should have mentioned that my last post was our 200th post, on the 20th of September, 2011! I just love the way that sounds. Thank you so much to everyone who has followed this blog and dont forget that I would appreciate some feedback. I have a little over a week left in my year of service and would love to know how you think I did maintaining the blog for the past year. I also hope to continue to contribute to the blog in the future!

I know ive been updating alot this week, but the weather has been fantastic and in prep for our Treetopia! event, I have been out quite a bit collecting leaves. Lots of opportunities for pictures!

Butter and Eggs!

Enjoying a beautiful fall morning

Ginny educating the walkers with her infinite knowledge

Old Willow along Snakeroot Trail

Blue Vervain

Accidentally got a shot of Ed's shoes during a shoot. Personal favorite

SO much fantastic Fungi today

Turtles enjoying the warm rays

Very tall Cottonwood along Snakeroot

Wellness Walk Volunteers enjoying a hike

Unique Dragonfly - can anyone ID?

Buttonberry and Joe Pye Weed along Old Tifft St

Snakeroot growing up through the bench along Old Tifft St

Egrets at Berm Pond

Egret in flight at the Berm Pond

Lady's Thumb Smartweed

Covered in pollen

Bumblebee on a mint flower in the Native Garden

Fall days at Tifft

2011-09-20T13:44:00.005-04:00

As my year of service is winding down at Tifft (only two weeks to go) its been really great to walk around the preserve and reflect on all that the preserve has given me. All the people ive met, the facts and life lessons ive learned, and the natural beauty of the City of Buffalo. I will definitely miss taking the time out to get photographs to share with you all. I will try to continue in the craziness of the next few weeks to continue updating with some photos, but for now, enjoy these shots from a couple different days last week.

Usually we dont see toads at Tifft but I found this guy along Snakeroot Trail!

Old Black Willow along Snakeroot Trail

The Old Canals along Snakeroot are clear to the bottom today.

Grasshopper clinging to grass on the mounds

Beautiful blue sky and rolling clouds on a warm fall afternoon on the mounds.

Bumblebee peeking out of a turtlehead flower in our Native Garden outside the cabin.

Juvenile Cedar Waxwing in the Red Maple outside the Cabin. He had been snacking on some berries from the Native Garden.

American Goldfinch eating seeds from some Green Coneflowers in the Native Garden.

What I identified as a black-throated blue warbler along Service Trail near Beth, up in the Maples.

When I was ID'ing trees on a nature walk, I found this interesting gall looking structure on a tree of heaven leaf.

Inside was this strange looking white fungus or something. If anyone has any ideas of what it is please message me!

Up close with a northern leopard frog.

He was sooo beautiful. Click on the picture for a bigger view.

Downy Woodpecker I heard making this hole in a snag just minutes before.

Monarch Madness!

2011-09-13T15:55:00.004-04:00

A few 4th graders on our ALC Tour this morning helped us find this wonderful Monarch Chrysalis along with a few really great caterpillars on the Milkweed out along Service Trail this morning!

Its almost as if this daddy long-legs was guarding it

As Caryn says it looks like it has "pearls around it"

Insect eggs on a milkweed pod

Metamorphosis seriously is awesome

Having a snack on some milkweed leaves

Can you guess what it is?

A huge turkey feather!

As of Late: Summer is coming to a close

2011-09-07T15:37:00.001-04:00

As the days get cooler and shorter, there is so much to enjoy. Being outdoors without the oppressive summer sun really is a pleasant experience. I finally got the chance after a very busy season to get outdoors and explore. For the first time since the spring I got to take a long walk along Mounds Bypass trail to Old Tifft St, then up Service Trail to Mosquito Junction Boardwalk. Has to be one of my favorite loops on the preserve. Take a look at all the amazing things I saw!

At first I just saw one turkey. I was SO excited because I have never seen a turkey here up close before!

Then I realized it was a turkey family!

They quickly moved to the safety of the phragmites on the mounds

Cottonwood leaf already fallen to the ground

I came up to bunch of berry trees along Mounds Bypass and saw a ton of Juvenile Cedar Waxwings along with an American Redstart

Then I saw these guys, the one in the back I think might be a Common Yellowthroat and the one in front maybe a Pine Warbler. Dont quote me, they dont call them "Confusing Fall Warblers" for no reason.

This Grasshopper appears to have a giant egg sac or something. It was resting on a dying thistle.

Still have yet to identify this awesome caterpillar on a teasel leaf.

Teasel Skeleton

Beaver Dam along Old Tifft St

Japanese Knotweed maybe be beautiful but unfortunately its taken alot of precious space at the preserve.

Goldenrod gets such a bad rap. I really think its gorgeous.

Grapevine leaves streaked with fall.

Joe Pye Weed going to seed

Caught these deer staring at me behind a cloak of Knotweed. Got a quick snap before they disappeared.

Juvenile Wood Ducks out by the south viewing blind. Very cool!

Like Knotweed, Phragmites are this beautiful purple color right now, but they have literally taken over everything!

Looking for a fun way to Volunteer this year?

2011-09-06T12:43:00.001-04:00

On Saturday, September 10th, we are holding a Volunteer Tour Guide training for any new volunteers that would like to help out! Tifft Nature Preserve provides programs for all ages throughout the year. Tour guides are needed to lead Pre-K through 12th grade students on weekdays and public programs of all ages on weekends and evenings.Tours include a variety of environmental topics such as exploring nature, aquatic ecology, snow science and animal homes and habitats.

The emphasis is on developing an appreciation of nature through enjoyable, inquiry based activities. No prior experience is necessary, just a love of the outdoors and an interest in working with people of all ages. Materials will be provided. Pre-registration required. Please call 825-6397 to register!

For an in - depth look, read my article on The Good Neighborhood:

http://thegoodneighborhood.com/2011/08/26/tales-from-the-tifft-volunteers-wanted-training-session-in-september/

New Moon Walk and International Bat Night

2011-08-18T10:24:00.004-04:00

Join us Saturday August 27th from 8-10 PM as we explore the darkness of the new moon and search for crepuscular and nocturnal inhabitants of the preserve including deer, beavers, and bats. From 9:30 - 10:00PM a special program will take place to celebrate International Bat Night with licensed biologists from Ecology and Environment, Inc. conducting a bat survey of the preserve. Participants will safely observe bat mist netting and learn more about the importance of bats and threats that they face. Non-members: $5. Space is limited. Please call 825-6397.

Science Outdoors : At the Erie Canal Harbor

2011-08-17T14:40:00.003-04:00

Credit: The Buffalo News

Join us for the last few weeks of summer with FREE science programming at canalside! Each week includes hands-on educational activities and make and take crafts.

Each week includes a different theme. Past themes have been birds, go green!, animal homes, etc. The next two weeks (Aug. 22nd and Aug. 29th) include reptiles and amphibians, and wonderful water!

Look for the bright colored tents down at the Erie Canal Harbor! Check out our website for clarification. Also, look at some photos from previous weeks to get an idea of how much fun we have!

Animal Adaptations

Playing the Pollination Game

Making recycled envelopes

Investigating bird nests

Turtle Tour! A FOT Event

2011-08-17T14:22:00.003-04:00

Join us this Sunday August 21st from 2-4 PM.
Meet at the cabin for a brief introduction and then head out to the wetlands for a turtle adventure. Binoculars will be provided for use during the tour or bring your own. Discussions will include native and non-native turtles, wetland restoration, the pet trade, threatened species and much more. All donations go to wetland habitat restoration. $3 per person; $10 max per family.

Fins, Furs, and Feathers Discovery Camp

2011-08-13T12:18:00.009-04:00

This past week, 13 campers joined us for a week of exploring at Tifft Nature Preserve. Activities included fishing, games, hiking, scavenger hunts, and crafts. Check out these pictures, and then head over to our Discovery Camp blog for updates.

Campers exploring the marsh

We found a moth!

Playing a game of Oh Deer! A battle for resources

The Results of Oh Deer!

Playing Insect or Not

Alexis' twist a bug

Riley's Swallowtail Wings

We found a monarch caterpillar

Searching for more caterpillars on the milkweed

Playing Mindfield a game of memory, we even had the kids design their own

Miss Meghan teaching the kids how to fish

We imprinted fish scales and counted to see how old the fish were

Campers enjoying the wind on top of the mounds

Cartesian divers to explain swim bladders

Teaching the campers to bird with scavenger hunts and binoculars

Looking for birds out at the Lisa Pond Blind

Really cool bullfrog

A spreadwing Dragonfly

A bat presentation given by Lauren Makeyenko

Playing a game of bat tag where the blindfolded has to use its voice to find fruit by echolocation

Playing Bird-opoly

Keep the fish in the pond, using a parachute and water balloons!

Luckily no one got wet!

Its Turtle Time!

2011-08-04T10:23:00.006-04:00

Taking a hike this past week, I was reminded that its perfect time for turtle searching. With the sun hot and the water cool, its the best time to explore the marsh for reptiles and amphibians. I found lots of other cool wildlife besides turtles. Come explore at Tifft and see what you find!

The walk up the mounds

A sulphur moth (maybe a Pink-edged Sulphur?)

Fawn along Snakeroot Trail

It was a windy day, so I was able to get close ups of alot of wildlife because they couldnt hear me coming. This little cottontail was along Snakeroot Trail

Turtle line up

Immature Robin hanging out along Mosquito Boardwalk Trail. Many birds have nested back there, especially the robins and catbirds

Swallow silhouettes

This painted has a snail hanging on its back

Momma and duckling along Heritage Boardwalk Trail

Green Frog up close and personal

Look at all our resident Geese/Ducks in the Cattail Marsh

Messy messy Duckweed.

Re-Tree Day at Tifft!

2011-07-29T10:25:00.004-04:00

Volunteers came out to Tifft on Saturday July 23rd to help plant over 250 trees in one day!

Here are all the trees (some of them)

Our wonderfully cheery registration volunteers

Everyone's working hard

The planting spanned across a patch in the north side of the preserve where brush had previously been cleared.

Thank you to all of our volunteers and Re-Tree WNY

Nature's Neighboorhood Camp

2011-07-23T09:27:00.005-04:00

Nature's Neighboorhood Camp, a five day camp for 7-12 year olds, was in full swing last week. It was an exploration of different animal homes, habitats, and behaviors. These pictures show all the fun and exciting activities that took place during the week. If youre interested in signing your child up for an upcoming summer camp, please visit www.sciencebuff.org or call 825-6397 for details.

Sweeping the mounds for insects

Campers got to paint their own habitat to try to camouflage an animal

Dip netting for macro invertebrates at Lisa Pond

Playing the bee game where campers use a straw as their "proboscis" to collect honey. Winner is the bee with the most!

Looking for dragonfly nymph exoskeletons at Lisa Pond

Playing moose, kind of like simon says but every camper has a symbol for an animal and you have to pay attention and watch for your animal symbol.

Fishing in Lake Kirsty.

Finding insects on the mounds.

Inspecting a praying mantis

Playing a quick game of volleyball after lunch

Checking out whats below the boardwalk in the marsh

Get Married at Tifft!

2011-07-17T14:07:00.002-04:00

Have your Wedding at Tifft! Tifft provides a beautiful backdrop for an outdoor wedding. With the breeze from Lake Erie on the left and the forest and Lake Kirsty surrounding, its a refreshing step from the norm. Call 825-6397 for prices and date availability.

Help Re-Tree TIfft

2011-07-17T13:27:00.002-04:00

Saturday, July 23
9AM - 1PM
Adults and Children ages 10 and up
Tifft Nature Preserve is partnering with Re-Tree WNY, a program of Keep WNY Beautiful, to "Re-Tree Tifft". Come help plant 400 trees at the preserve to help maintain the canopy of trees for wildlife habitat. Kids ages 10 and up can help out, but all kids under 18 need to be supervised by an adult. Bring a shovel and a mallet if you have one. Park along Fuhrmann Blvd. and follow the signs to the planting site. Pre-registration requested. Please call 825-6397

2011-07-08T15:28:00.004-04:00

This summer is full of exploring for kids at Tifft. Sign up for one of our Discovery Camps and let your kids become adventurers and explore the great outdoors.
Our first camp for the summer, Mini-beasts for kids ages 5-8, kicked off this week with wonderful weather and a great time was had.

Exploring the Marsh on Heritage Boardwalk Trail

Decked out in their crawling spider necklaces

Just finished a delicious spider snack

Dip-netting for Macroinvertebrates at Lisa Pond

Facilitator Caryn Corriere describes various insects

Getting a closer look at some macros

Trailblazers

Making a climbing spider craft after lunch

Get some energy out with a fun game of clothes pin tag

Taking a break from an intense game

Best buds

Running like crazy

Sweeping the mounds for insects

Checking out what they caught

Buggy snack time - always healthy and delicious

More buggy snacks and happy faces

Getting ready for a walk

More camps are offered this summer:

Jul 11-15 Ages 7-12: Nature's Neighboorhoods 9-4:30 PM $190
Jul 19-21 Ages 9-14: Field Entomology 9-4:30 PM $135
Jul 26-28 Ages 5-8: Herp, Herp, Hoorah! 9:30 - 3:30 PM $100
Aug 8-12 Ages 7-12: Fins, Fur & Feathers 9:30-4:30 PM $190
Aug 16-18 Ages 5-8: Hop! Swim! Fly! 9:30 - 3:30 PM $100

Call 825-6397 to register (must be at least a week in advance)

Summer in Bloom

2011-07-08T14:39:00.005-04:00

Its a perfect time to come observe the flowers in bloom and the insects in flight. Tifft is bursting with energy now thanks to the brilliant sun and the frogs and turtles are popping up like crazy! Night hikes are fantastic when you'd like to see some fireflies and a full moon and breezy days are perfect for fishing or exploring. Here are some things you may see when you come out.

Spittlebug

Snapping Turtle along Rabbit Run

White - marked tussock moth

Grasshopper

Common Ringlet Butterfly on a Birds-foot Trefoil

Woodchuck along Mounds by-pass trail

Doe and her fawn at the Observation Mounds

Yellow Warbler along Service near Old Tifft St

Bluets

Tiptoeing across the water

Painted Turtle

Cecropia Moth Eggs

Polyphemus Moth

The Cecropia Moth that laid the eggs, she had an injured wing

Insectival!

2011-07-01T15:36:00.004-04:00

Saturday June 25th marked Tifft Nature Preserve's very first Insectival!, a celebration of insects and thier arthropod kin. There were fun activities for all to enjoy including outdoor and indoor games, crafts, and bug hunting. Here are some pictures from this past weekends festival. Hope to see you all again for Insectival! next year!

Nature Mary and visitors searching for insects under logs along Snakeroot Trail

Searching for macroinvertebrates and other marsh wildlife along Heritage Boardwalk Trail

Found some macros!

Climbing spider crafts!

Some insects were found when sweeping the mounds with big nets. We use bug catchers to see what we found. We always release the insects back into the preserve after weve observed them.

Rotate a bug part insect craft!

Eat at Bugs Diner, serving real edible insects: cheddar flavored mealworms!

Insect collections from the Buffalo Museum of Science

Did you know fact wall. I bet you didnt know most of these crazy facts!

Edible insects now for sale in the gift shop! Suckers and edible mealworms!

Real live, creepy, crawly, waxworms to pick up and let them squirm in your hands!

Look at all of them! Over 2000 in one bowl!

Insectigate bug vision with these goofy compound eye goggles!

Thanks to all our wonderful staff and volunteers for making this event happen, especially the Buffalo Museum of Science. Also, thanks to our visitors for their continued support. Look forward to more summer programs!

350 Tree Planting!

2011-06-19T13:41:00.006-04:00

Sorry these are a month late, the blog has been giving me issues uploading. On June 4th, we set out to plant 350 trees in one day to represent the stable amount of carbon dioxide that should be in the atmosphere. Right now the levels are at about 391 ppm rather than 350ppm. Despite the intense rain, we managed with the help of wonderful volunteers to plant more than 200 trees! Thanks to all of our volunteers!

Ecologist Dave Spiering gives tips to the volunteers.

Volunteers work hard driving the stakes into the ground.

Weve planted many saplings including shagbark hickory, red maple, silver maple, and more.

With some help from very able AmeriCorps members, the task didnt seem so daunting.

All ages came out to help!

Tree planting 101

Many families came together to help each other get the job done.

Friends Of Tifft president Herb Darling works with others to get more trees in the ground before the rain came.

For more information on how you can plant trees and help the environment please call 825-6397

On July 23rd we will be teaming up with ReTree WNY to set out to plant more trees! Please come help with this event!

Nature Everywhere

2011-06-06T14:41:00.003-04:00

The mourning dove hatchlings have now fledged.

The geese have been seen "babysitting" for each other, where a few parent geese will watch over sometimes 30-40 goslings. Its definitely a sight.

Here they were all trying to scurry down this slope to get back into Lake Kirsty. They kept tumbling and falling all over each other.

The wellness walkers and staff spotted a common nighthawk. This was taken through the scope so it may be a little blurry.

Be sure to visit this weekend June 11th for the FREE DEC Fishing Day! Call 825-6397 for details

Lately at Tifft....

2011-05-27T14:08:00.003-04:00

Lots of young animals having been popping up and have been seen around the preserve, despite the massive amounts of rain lately. Hopefully within the next couple days the trails should be dried up, but for now, bring your raingear and come enjoy the weather and the birds while they're still here. Credit for all photos in this post go to Gary Schwartz and his wife.

The robin nest outside of the cabin finally has a couple of young hatchlings

Snapping turtle along Heritage

American Coots are smaller

Canada Goose and goslings swimming in Lake Kirsty.

Downy Woodpecker fluffed up. They can be distinguished from a Hairy by the length of the bill and generally smaller size. They are common at Tifft all year round.

Song Sparrow foraging the open ground. These are the most common sparrow at Tifft.

Grey Catbirds are very common here, and are known for their range of sounds. You will most likely hear them everywhere you go on the preserve. They are generally solitary and stay within very bushy vegetation. Service Road and Mosquito Junction are perfect places to look for these birds.

Lots and lots of goslings.

The Common Loons have still been hanging around Lake Kirsty. They are unable to take off for flight from land, only from water and were not sure why theyve stayed at Tifft for so long.

The Osprey eggs should be hatching within the next few weeks

Upcoming Events at Tifft

2011-05-18T12:58:00.002-04:00

Looking for something to do on these beautiful summer days?

Here are upcoming events for May and June!

Trek Tifft
Join Friends of Tifft for a guided tour of the preserve. This drop-in program runs all year every 1st, 2nd, and 4th (and 5th if applicable) Sunday of the month.
All ages
2 -3:30 PM
$2 donation per person suggested.

Wellness Walks
Drop by Tifft Nature Preserve and enjoy the fresh air and the sights and sounds of the season with a healthy outdoor walk!
All Ages
Thursdays, Offered all year
10 AM – NOON
$2.00 per person donation appreciated
Please call 825-6397 to confirm walk will be taking place.

Full Moon Stroll
Tuesday, May 17th
8 - 9:30PM
Adults
May's Full Flower Moon will give Tifft's trails a nice glow and with spring in full swing, that means nighttime is a great time to go on a stroll!
Non-members: $5

Twilight Walk
Friday, May 27th
7:30 - 9 PM
Join us as we explore the oncoming darkness of the new moon rising. We won't find werewolves or vampires at Tifft, but we will search for crepuscular inhabitants (animals active at twilight times of dawn and dusk) of the preserve including deer and beaver.
Non-members: $5

350 Tree Planting
Saturday, June 4th
10 AM - 2 PM
(or when 350 trees are planted)
Adults and children ages 10 and up
Trees provide habitat for migratory songbirds and other wildlife while using carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. This year, Tifft Nature Preserve is setting out to plant and fence 350 trees in one day, but we can't plant these trees ourselves. Why 350? Come find out! Please wear clothes and shoes for working outdoors (rubber knee boots if you have them). Please bring a shovel if you have one. We will provide refreshments for participants. Please call 825-6397 to register. FREE

Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Family Fishing Day
Saturday, June 11th
9:30AM - 1PM
Ages 8-12
Join DEC biologists, Erie County Sportsmen and volunteers for an educational fishing day at Tifft's Lake Kirsty. Bait, fishing instructions, prizes, and hot dog lunch provided. Advance registration required. Please call the DEC at 851-7010. FREE

Full Moon Stroll
Wednesday, June 15th
8:30 - 10PM
Adults
June's Strawberry Moon will guide us through Tifft's trails to enjoy the sounds that alert us of summer's wonderful approach.
Non-members: $5

Tifft History Tour
Sunday, June 19th
2-4PM
All ages
Tifft has an interesting history and plays a major role in Buffalo’s past. Spend an afternoon learning how the layout of the preserve has been affected over the years and find some “secret” spots where you can still see remnants of its history. Marvel at nature’s ability to reclaim the land and use old maps and photos to imagine the original layout of the preserve.
$3 per person; $10 maximum per family.
Free for FOT Members.

Summer Solstice Sunset Stroll
Tuesday, June 21st
7:45-9:15PM
All ages
Stay outside late and join us as we celebrate the longest day of the year with a stroll that will end with a memorable sunset over Lake Erie!
Non Members: $5

Insectival
Saturday, June 25th
10AM-2PM
All ages
Drop in for a bug-tastic time at Tifft Nature Preserve where families of all ages can join in Tifft’s first Insectival – a celebration of insects and their arthropod kin! Activities will include sweeping for insects on the grassy mounds, dipping for aquatic insects in the cattail marsh, buggy crafts that are sure to be a hit with the younger set, an insectigation station, and much more! It’s sure to be an insect-errific day for everyone!
Non-Members:$5

Pre-registration required for all programs unless otherwise noted. To register, call 716.896.5200 EXT. 338 or online at www.sciencebuff.org. Buffalo Museum of Science members save 10%.

Northern Saw-whet Owl Sighting!

2011-05-18T12:34:00.004-04:00

An unusual wildlife sighting at Tifft today that I thought I would share with you. A Northern Saw-whet Owl was seen on Rabbit Run East and fortunately hung out long enough for us to go out and get a good look. Such a cute little owl too! We all feel seriously lucky to have gotten a glimpse!

May Marsh Walk

2011-05-11T15:51:00.001-04:00

Please join Friends of Tifft this Sunday May 15th from 2 - 4PM for our May Marsh Walk. The Cattail Marsh is one of the most integral parts of our preserve, so if youre looking for a fun way to get outside with the family this spring this is it! Enjoy a scavenger hunt around the marsh and learn about the animals that call Tifft's marsh a home. $3 per person; $10 maximum per family. Free for FOT members.

International Migratory Bird Day Celebration

2011-05-09T13:15:00.002-04:00

Please join us this weekend, Saturday May 14th from 9-10:30 AM for a celebration of migratory birds. The morning hours are the perfect time to spot the many birds that call Tifft a home. Discover more about our feathered friends and their importance throughout the world by joining us for a hike and more as we celebrate 2011 International Migratory Bird Day. Non-BMS Members: $5

New life everywhere!

2011-05-06T14:02:00.008-04:00

The weathers been fantastic lately here at Tifft. The warblers are here and the birders are out! The deer have thinned out and have started hiding out preparing to give birth to new fawns. There are nests all around the cabin, turtles sunning themselves, and green popping up everywhere. Come out and visit!

The Osprey have made themselves very comfortable on the platform and hopefully are sitting on a clutch of eggs at the moment.

Canada goose looking like a proud mama. Around Lake Kirsty.

Mayapples in the Native Garden in front of the Cabin.

Mourning Dove sitting on her nest in the blue spruce near the back of the cabin.

Goslings following their parents all in a row.

A Common Loon thats been staying here on Lake Kirsty.

Baltimore Oriole.

We've set up an Oriole feeder outside of the cabin, but it seems they are more interested in the hummingbird feeder in the back!

Tree Swallows have been flying in swarms around the cabin.

Mosquito Junction Boardwalk.

Irises growing along the South boardwalk.

Believe it or not, this is my attempt to photograph a Yellow-rumped Warbler. If you look close enough, you may find it.

A very vocal Yellow Warbler at Mosquito Junction/Service Rd.

Nettle is going craazzyy. It does look pretty nice though unfortunately.

Perfect afternoon place to sit and relax. Near Heritage Boardwalk.

Blue-headed Vireo in the tree to the right of the South entrance of Heritage Boardwalk.

Warbling Vireo in the tree to the left of the South entrance to Heritage Boardwalk.

Nashville Warbler in the tree to the right of the South entrance to Heritage Boardwalk.

Every Sunday, there is a free guided tour at 2 pm and also, if you really want to get to know Tifft, join our wellness walkers Thursday mornings at 10am for a nice tour of the preserve.
I've learned so much about birds from them already and cant wait to learn more. Look for new kiosk updates with information about birds, animals, etc.

Spring Birds

2011-04-29T12:17:00.006-04:00

Spring is here and there's lots happening here at Tifft. Now that Earth Day celebrations have finally come to an end ( even though every day is Earth Day! ) I've finally gotten a chance to get outside and explore. Here's some updates from us at Tifft! Come Visit!

Robins are building a nest over the educators office window!

Can you spot the Palm Warbler?

Scarlet Tanager along Mosquito Junction Boardwalk

Scarlet Tanager along Mosquito Junction Boardwalk

Green Heron perched along Mosquito Junction Boardwalk

American Coots along Mosquito Junction Boardwalk

Geese strolling near the South Viewing Blind

High waters along the boardwalk

Signs of spring! Lots of green!!!

Deer peeking through the trees

Tree Swallow perched near the cabin

The Osprey pair are now nesting on top of the pole right across Lake Kirsty near the cabin!

Red-winged Blackbird outside cabin

Mallards possibly nesting along Lake Kirsty

Come in and visit because the weather lately has been pretty gorgeous!

April 17th - Friends of Tifft's Earth Day Celebration

2011-04-27T12:05:00.006-04:00

Despite the weather, about 75 people came out on a cloudy sunday for Friends of Tifft's Earth Day Celebration. High wind warnings and rain didnt stop them from having a good time indoors. Exhibitors such as GrowWNY and Buffalo ReUse came with activities, along with Messinger Woods who brought different owls and educational materials. Raffles, crafts, and guided tours made for a day full of different activities for all ages to enjoy. Take a look at what we did!

Beautiful Barn Owl from Messinger Woods

BG the Eastern Screech Owl from Messinger Woods

Wayne Gall explaining various insects

Buffalo ReUse showing off their reusable materials

Trying out GrowWNY's FENDER BLENDER, the pedal powered smoothie maker!

Not everyone was tall enough to sit on the bike!

Girls enjoying their delicious, all natural, self-powered fruit smoothie!

Making homemade and completely recyclable kaleidoscopes!

Sprucing up some herb/flower pots made from yogurt cups

The few that were brave enough to go on a tour on a blustery day

Thank you to all of our sponsors for making this year’s Earth Day Celebration possible including:
Friends of Tifft Nature Preserve, WNY AmeriCorps, Caz Coffee, Wegmans, Walmart, Sahlens, GrowWNY, Messinger Woods, Lexington Co-op, Buffalo ReUSE, The Buffalo Bills, and Buffalo-Niagara Earth Day 2011.

April 16th - Earth Day Clean-Up

2011-04-27T11:37:00.004-04:00

On the Saturday before Earth Day, volunteers came to Tifft to help clean-up of the preserve as part of the Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper Spring Clean-up. People of all ages, including boy scouts came out to join the effort in cleaning up trash blown in from Lake Erie’s winds. Thanks to all the 61 volunteers help, the preserve is finally ready for a busy spring and summer season. 883 lbs of garbage was cleaned up that day!

Volunteers prepared for the weather

Working hard in the rain!

Lots of boy scouts helped with the clean-up

Garbage was cleaned up all over the preserve, even near route 5

The things you find at Tifft...

Ecologist Dave Spiering with our pile of 883lbs of trash! There were two tires found amongst many other odd objects.

Thanks to Buffalo-Niagara Riverkeepers and all of our hardworking volunteers!

Earth Week!

2011-04-18T10:05:00.003-04:00

Sorry its been awhile since our last post! Things have been quite busy here since the beginning of April in preparation for Earth Day Celebrations.
Look forward to pictures from this past weekends FOT's Earth Day Celebration but for now, we hope to see you at this weeks coming events.

Thursday, April 21st:
Earth Day Wellness Walk
10AM-Noon
Want to get outside on Earth Day eve and appreciate nature? Join Tifft volunteers for a healthy outdoor walk with a botanical emphasis. Suggested $3 donation per person.

Friday, April 22nd:
10AM - 2PM
Earth Day events will culminate with Spring Egg-stravaganza! on Aprill 22nd - the actual date designated as Earth Day to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's natural environment. Visitors to the preserve can create spring themed crafts made from recycled and natural materials, live animals that hatch from eggs including local birds, reptiles and amphibians, take home resources about our local environment as well as handy tips that everyone can use to keep our environment healthy!

A highlight of the event includes dying eggs using natural dyes made from such items as beets, red cabbage, goldenrod, blueberries and staghorn sumac (dyes are provided, please bring your own hard-boiled eggs; 6 eggs per person maximum)

Its sure to be an egg-stremely fun time for all!
Non-members: $7 Drop-in program

Call us about any details or questions at (716)825-6397

Last week of March

2011-03-24T13:05:00.005-04:00

Well, the snow flew again and has covered the ground for a little longer here at Tifft. New birds are arriving everyday and to see which ones we have seen, check out the Tifft Nature Preserve Bird Sightings Blog. Here are some photos taken during our weekly Wellness Walk.

The resident chickadees are still begging for seeds as you walk by, but theyre on their own now!

White-breasted nuthatch along Service Rd.

Killdeer was spotted along Lake Kirsty! There were 4 there total along the bank near Service Rd.

Sleepy-eyed deer laying down behind Beth Pond. Their coat is thinning out and the color is getting lighter in preparation for the spring.

Remnants or pieces of a beaver lodge? Along the far side of Beth Pond.

Ring-necked ducks swimming in Beth Pond.

This doe looks a little pregnant dont you think? Her belly is low and a little larger.

Cool ice designs around the red osier dogwood along Lisa Pond.

A male wood duck on the far side of Lake Kirsty.

Two Canada geese framed by the north viewing blind.

Just hanging out on the turtle platform.

Can you spot the killdeer? That camoflauge works great!

Beginning of Spring at Tifft

2011-03-18T10:23:00.005-04:00

The past few days at Tifft have been fantastic days for walking. The weather has been warming up and the rain has subsided. The snows almost melted and the sun has been shining. Yesterday, our wellness walkers and I saw lots of signs of spring and returning birds popping up everywhere.

Some of the decently large group of wellness walkers yesterday

Lots of Mallards on Lake Kirsty and even a Hooded Merganser in the front!

Canada Geese on the water by the bridge.

Looked as if a Cooper's Hawk began creating a nest in the tree to the left of the bridge entering the preserve. It was probably too busy for them there because we havent seen a hawk often around that area.

Ice is melting clearing open areas of water.

Canada Geese giving us attitude and making a wholllee lot of noise.

Red-winged Blackbirds everywhere. They were all over the marsh.

The trails are clear despite the swampy water high around the marsh.

Woodpecker Holes everywhere!

Skunk Cabbage on Lisa Pond. Spring is here!

Very small zoomed in pic, but a Mallard and two Wood Ducks out on Lisa Pond!!

Cooper's Hawk up in the tree on the south end of the preserve behind Beth Pond. This may be the same Cooper's that built its nest near the bridge.

And then we found what appears to be a new nest in a tree close to where we saw the Cooper's Hawk.

Lots of deer shedding their coats, looking fskinnier for the warm weather.

AHooded Merganser pair on Lake Kirsty.

Come visit, take a break, and enjoy the season!

Signs Of Spring

2011-03-16T11:11:00.005-04:00

Hi Everyone! Spring is finally coming to Tifft! Keep looking for updates on the Preserve in the next few weeks because hopefully signs will be popping up more frequently!
Also, feel free to check out our Bird Sighting blog to keep track of bird arrival and migration at Tifft!
Thanks for following!

Canada Geese have arrived on Lake Kirsty!

Buds getting ready to open

South Blind ice and snow beginning to melt down

Water flowing over the bridge dam.

WNED Fundraiser

2011-03-16T11:06:00.003-04:00

Tifft Nature Preserve staff and volunteers participated in the WNED pledge drive and promoted programs at Tifft!

Join us for our Upcoming March Programs!

2011-03-03T12:22:00.000-05:00

Spring Forward Night Hike
Saturday, March 12
7-8:30 PM
Adults and youth 12 and older
Tifft Nature Preserve, 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14203
Enjoy an evening hike at Tifft Nature Preserve before we “spring forward” into spring. Non-Members: $5. Buffalo Museum of Science Members save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Trek Tifft
Sunday, March 13
2-3:30 PM
Tifft Nature Preserve, 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14203
Join Friends of Tifft for a guided tour of the preserve. This drop-in program runs all year every 1st, 2nd, and 4th Sunday of the month. $2 donation per person suggested.

Nature's Circle: Marching into Spring
Monday, March 14
10:30-11:15AM
Ages 2-3
Tifft Nature Preserve, 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14203
Read a story and have some fun during an outdoor circle time at Tifft. Silly songs, games and lots of fun help little ones comfortably engage in a natural setting. Let’s learn to enjoy nature together! Non-Members: $4 per child and adult, $2 additional children with same adult. Buffalo Museum of Science Members save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Wellness Walk
Thursday, March 17
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tifft Nature Preserve, 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14203
Join Tifft volunteers for a healthy outdoor walk with a botanical emphasis. This drop-in program runs all year. $2 donation per person suggested.

Full Moon Stroll
Saturday, March 19
7-8:30 PM
Tifft Nature Preserve, 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14203
Join us in celebrating the transition of seasons as we look for signs of spring on a moonlit walk around the preserve on the last official day of winter. Non-Members: $5. Buffalo Museum of Science Members save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Learn To Bird - A Friends of Tifft Event
Sunday, March 20
2–4 PM
Tifft Nature Preserve, 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14203
The National Audubon Society has designated Tifft as an “Important Birding Area”, so what better place to learn to bird than at Tifft? Join one of Friends of Tifft’s experienced birders as they teach you how to use binoculars and your ears to locate and identify birds by sights and sounds. $3 per person; $10 maximum per family.

Wellness Walk
Thursday, March 24
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tifft Nature Preserve, 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14203
Join Tifft volunteers for a healthy outdoor walk with a botanical emphasis. This drop-in program runs all year. $2 donation per person suggested.

Signs of Spring Hike
Saturday, March 26
2-3:30 PM
Tifft Nature Preserve, 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14203
Ever wonder how animals know it is spring? Which animals help usher in spring? Learn about the wildlife sights and sounds that help us know it’s spring at Tifft and also get information how you can be a citizen scientist while observing these species in your backyard or favorite natural space. Non-Members: $5. Buffalo Museum of Science Members save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Trek Tifft
Sunday, March 27
2-3:30 PM
Tifft Nature Preserve, 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14203
Join Friends of Tifft for a guided tour of the preserve. This drop-in program runs all year every 1st, 2nd, and 4th Sunday of the month. $2 donation per person suggested.

Wellness Walk
Thursday, March 31
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tifft Nature Preserve, 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14203
Join Tifft volunteers for a healthy outdoor walk with a botanical emphasis. This drop-in program runs all year. $2 donation per person suggested.

Beaver Stakeout!

2011-03-03T11:58:00.004-05:00

Took a walk on a sunny day yesterday and saw some chickadees, our first Mockingbird of the year, and meanwhile, caught some great shots of our resident South Viewing Blind Beaver!

Trails are clear!

Chickadee on a mossy tree

First shot of a mockingbird, took alot of figuring with the help of our Welness Walkers to figure this one out.

First look at the resident beaver at the South Viewing Blind. Hes peeking out of the water ready to jump out.

He found some water reeds to chomp on before he takes a hike over to a nearby tree.

Trying to get some higher branches!

He got it. This is just one of many of the beavers victims on the preserve. The beavers really have decimated many of the cottonwoods and native trees around the waterways and marsh of the preserve. We have tried our best to fence off many of these trees to prevent further damage, but unfortunately its too late for a lot of our trees.

Friends of Tifft: WinterFEST 2011

2011-02-23T11:31:00.005-05:00

About 100 people came out to enjoy Friends of Tiffts WinterFEST this past sunday. It was an abnormally warm winter day at Tifft. Unfortunately we were unable to offer snowshoeing because, well, the lack of snow, but many fun activities were still available. Take a look below to see how much fun we all had!

Greeter and Volunteer Paul Gannon manning and directing at the information desk. We offered a scavenger hunt with prizes and lots of information about Friends of Tifft to visitors.

Volunteer Walt Witmer set up his Native American snow snake outside of the cabin. In this game, you test your skills by sending a wooden "snake" down a chute of snow and try to hit the birdie off a pole at the end. The kids loved this activity, especially the boys.

Victory!

Snow snake in action!

Volunteer Carol Mathner leading a Tifft in Nature outdoor Tour. Many kids brought their scavenger hunts on the tour with them.

Checking out the beaver lodge on Heritage Boardwalk with the tour.

Volunteer Ed Ratajczak was hanging out all day counting birds for the Great Backyard Bird Count, which was also going on this weekend.

Volunteer Joyce Zobel was in charge of snacks and warm beverages to fill hungry bellies after a long day of fun.

There were different crafts including this one: Pinecone Bird Feeders, where one rolls a pinecone in peanut butter, then in bird seed. They took these home to hang in their trees for their very own backyard birds.

Another popular craft was winter murals using paints, stamps, glitter, etc.

Hers came out so pretty!

In the works

The Hibernation game was also a hit; where children can play with stuffed native animals and try to figure out whether these animal friends are asleep or active during the winter.

Trying out the indoor "snowball toss"

We had a great time this year and really are grateful for all the support for Tifft Nature Preserve and Friends of Tifft by our visitors. Thank you everyone for coming out and we hope to see you for our upcoming programs and for years to come!

Spring is Coming to Tifft!

2011-02-18T14:54:00.008-05:00

I took a nice afternoon hike today, and while I have to say it was windy and awfully muddy, the temperature was almost perfect. I wish I could upload the feeling of the outdoors today rather than just the pictures. The air was crisp and fresh with earthy, woodsy smells, and the sounds of the wind carried bird chirps of excitement about the changed weather. The sun was peeking through the clouds and the trails were almost clear all over the preserve. Here are some of the things you can experience on the cusp of a new season at Tifft.

From the top of the mounds, you can see most of the snow has already melted away, leaving for an easier path to walk.

I had to wear my heavy duty rain boots. The snow drifts can be decieving. I stepped right into a big puddle hidden underneath. But look! You can see the ground!

Alot of brush got cleared out the other day in hopes to control the invasive Japanese knotweed and Stinging nettle populations and make way for native trees to grow. This is on the south end of the preserve.

The deer definitely seem relieved that the snow is cleared and there's more available food. Most were laying down behind Beth Pond relaxing. Look at that bushy tail!

They say Robins are the first sign of spring, and even though they've been around all winter, they still are a great sight to see. There were dozens in the trees singing and flying around the north end of the preserve.

An awesome cedar waxwing. There were a group of four in the tree. Great addition to this weekends Great Backyard Bird count!

The ice is melting finally off of Lake Kirsty and the water is flowing.

Be sure to visit us this weekend for WinterFEST and during the following weeks to enjoy the change in season!

Join Friends of Tifft for WinterFEST this Sunday!

2011-02-16T13:56:00.003-05:00

Who said winter is a drag? Join Friends Of Tifft this Sunday February 20th from 1pm - 4pm for a FREE funfilled afternoon of winter activities. We look forward to having a wonderful family event for everyone to enjoy. In past years, WinterFEST has brought people to Tifft Nature Preserve from all areas in WNY and this year, were hoping to have even more fun! (If thats possible!)

Activities include:

Outdoor Guided Tours:

1:30-2:30 PM - Tifft In Winter

2:00-3:00PM - Trek Tifft: Animal Tracks Tour

3:00-4:00PM - Tifft In Winter

Ongoing Indoor Activities:

-Winter Crafts

-Scavenger Hunt
-"Snowball Toss"

-Hibernation Activity

-Warm Cozy Fire

-Snacks and Warm Beverages

Ongoing Outdoor Activituies:

*Activities Weather Permitting

-Snow Snake

-Snow Sculptures

-Snowshoe Rentals/Tours*
*Snowshoeing is optional and available at a
discounted $3 per pair rental fee. Rentals are
available at the station in the inside front cabin

Come out with us and bring the whole family for a last chance to enjoy Buffalo's winter!

Fresh Snow in February

2011-02-04T11:45:00.004-05:00

Fresh Snow fell at Tifft Nature Preserve the other day leaving a beautiful wintry sparkle to every tree branch. The Trails were barely touched except for the soft tracks of animals.

Tracks across the ice near the bridge

Snow and ice was stuck to everything

Untouched trails. Deer tracks

Heritage Boardwalk, Iced over

Group on the lookout

Bright Red Northern Cardinal

Wintry and Wonderful Wellness Walk

2011-01-27T12:59:00.011-05:00

Wellness Walkers Virginia Hubbard and Ed Ratajczak beginning their walk

Friendly Chickadees only get special treats in the winter

Does on the trail

Wellness Walker Fred Robjent caught a glimpse of a catbird

White Breasted Nuthatch watching from above

Heritage Boardwalk

Snowflakes!

Found: Bird Nest Remnants in an old broken tree

Robin in the Trees

Fred DID find the Catbird!

View through the North Viewing Blind

Large Buck behind Beth Pond

Buck running away from us across Beth

Pair of does behind Beth Pond

Please feel free to join our dedicated group of Wellness Walkers every Thursday from 10am - 12pm for a free tour of the beauty Tifft Nature Preserve has to offer. Donations are always welcome!

Snowy Day At Tifft

2011-01-19T10:34:00.006-05:00

Some pictures of a Saturday around the cabin. Still bustling, still warm.

New Bindings on our snowshoes, all lined up.

Warm, Cozy, Fire.

Lots of Snow falling out the back windows.

5 inches!

Busy, busy feeder.

Come out and visit us tonight for a full moon stroll from 6 - 8:30 PM. $7 per person for non-members, snowshoeing weather permitting!

Winter Trails Day 2011

2011-01-09T12:48:00.009-05:00

Over 50 people came out for the national Winter Trails Festival for some free snowshoe rentals, free cross country ski rentals provided by Campus Wheelworks, and Hot Drinks from Caz Coffee! Here are some pictures of the festivities.

Hot Drinks Provided by Caz Coffee

Family Renting Skis from Campus Wheelworks

\
Family getting ready to snowshoe

Some Children enjoying snowshoeing on the back deck

All bundled up for a trip up the mounds

All shapes and sizes are available for a nice winter hike!

Hiking up the mounds

Some Children enjoying the Cross Country Ski Rentals!

Feeders Are Packed Today!

2010-12-29T13:28:00.000-05:00

The feeders right outside the cabin were packed today with a variety of birds (and a few deer too!)

The deer have been eating the needles off all the low branches

We placed a camera on the tree to track various birds and animals at the feeder

Female House Finches, Black Capped Chickadee, Male Cardinal

American Goldfinch, American Tree Sparrow, Male and Female House Finches

Female Downy Woodpecker

Red Breasted Nuthatch

Come out and see what weve got going on at Tifft. Just remember, just because its snowing doesnt mean were closed. Weve got snowshoe rentals, plenty of trails, and a nice, newly insulated cabin to come cozy up in!

Bill Bogacki

2010-12-18T16:04:00.003-05:00

It is with a sad heart that I pass on to you the news that our long-time friend, Tifft supporter and birder Bill Bogacki died early yesterday, December 16th.

His wife Julia wants everyone to know that visiting hours for Bill will be Sunday, December 19th, from 2 - 6pm at the Beach-Tuyn funeral home, 5541 Main St. (at Cayuga Rd.) Williamsville. Bill's funeral will be on Monday morning at 9:30 in SS. Peter and Paul Church on Main Street in Williamsville. Julia has invited all of Bill's Tifft friends and birder friends to join her for a brunch after the funeral. If you plan to attend the brunch, please call Tifft so that we can give Mrs. Bogacki an idea of how many will be attending.

Bill was one of the first people to teach me things about birding and I"m sure that is the same for many others. Tifft will not be the same and we are lucky for having known him.

"Snowed Out" at Tifft

2010-12-05T14:50:00.003-05:00

The weather has been pretty crazy out here in South Buffalo and this past thursday and friday we were "snowed out." There was a wall of snow and the parking lot was not plowed so Tifft closed for a couple days. We've had some brave souls out here today cross country skiing and snowshoeing and although the weather is frightful, it sure looks pretty gorgeous out here.

First Days of Snow bring out Plenty of Wildlife!

2010-12-01T15:44:00.004-05:00

Hey everyone, Sorry its been awhile since youve recieved an update, but weve been quite busy here at Tifft!

We just wrapped up Native American Month and are getting ready for all of our upcoming winter activities. Stay tuned for updates and photos!

First off however, I took a hike through the preserve today, even though it was constant snowfall and windy. It was a great walk and I saw plenty of deer, a muskrat, woodpecker, eastern cottontail, and plenty of waterfowl. Here are some photos of the things I saw!

Beaver Dam at the edge of the bridge is almost covered in water due to the water rise!

Doe at edge of boardwalk trail near the south viewing blind

Cleaning herself, not paying too much attention to me!

Chomp, Chomp! Licking her lips after a snack

A very windy, stormy day at the preserve!

2010-10-28T12:42:00.004-04:00

A Mallard Duck pair braving out the winds on Lake Kirsty

Windmills working hard on the harbor

Canada Geese fighting the gusts

With wind gusts anywhere from 20-50 mph, driving down the skyway made you feel like you were driving along the ocean. Waves crashing on the break wall created a waterfall effect.

Fall Day at Tifft

2010-10-19T16:52:00.004-04:00

Today was a beautiful fall day at the preserve.

Some Phragmite up by the mounds.

One of our wonderful volunteers, Bob, teaching the kids about invasive species for the ALC program this morning

Finally making way planting the trees along service road. The Daves have especially doing alot of planting and finally were down to about 30 trees left to plant!

New ABLE Members!

2010-10-14T15:39:00.005-04:00

Hey Ya'll. You're new ABLE members here. The wonderful Nate has finished his service here and we have been lucky enough to inherit the blog. Myself, Sara Johnson:

and my fellow ABLE member David Mahan:

will be responsible for the blog from now on. Looking forward to sharing the next year with you all and hope you continue to follow us!