Migrating birds have found the perfect place to make a landing spot anywhere around Onondaga Lake, and local photographers have the photos to prove it. The Executive Director of Audubon New York credits the revitalization efforts of the lake as the reason it tends to be a popular landing pad. There are at least 50 acres of wetlands. Erin Crotty says Onondaga Lake is critically important to several species.
“Birds that are migrating through the community and using Onondaga Lake as a source of food and shelter.”
Crotty adds the lake is situated along what is known as the Atlantic Flyway which is part of the path they take. There are many reasons they visit here. Sometimes they intend to breed, they could be on the other side of their life cycle, or perhaps they’re heading north or south. She says the photography exhibit reflects birds along the Lake in vivid way.
"You’re looking at it through really the eyes of another person. You’re able to see the level of detail in an Eastern Bluebird, for example that you might not be able to see with a naked eye or with high-powered binoculars. So it’s just another form for folks to get introduced to birds."
A wide array of 85 unique birds species have now been identified around Onondaga Lake.
“Well, you’ll see eagles. There’s a beautiful picture of a painted bunting. Mergansers, which are ducks. A wide variety of species that folks can come down and see through the eyes of these wonderful photographers.”
The Exhibit is called “Onondaga Lake: An Important Stop for Birds on an Impressive Journey.” It’s open to the public this weekend at the Honeywell Onondaga Lake Visitors Center off 690 near State Fair Boulevard. The exhibit will run on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.
