Photo of Dickcissel by Chip Franke

On Dec 8, 2023 The Linnaean Society of New York issued “A Rare Bird Alert” for the Dickcissel. “This bird has bounced around the West Village – the Bleecker Playground, Abingdon Square Park as well as moving around the adjoining neighborhood.”

During the weekend, Westbeth was visited by dozens of birdwatchers who wandered into the Westbeth courtyard and stationed themselves on the corners of Bank St and Washington St hoping to nab a sighting.

The Westbeth courtyard garden , a National Wildlife Foundation certified wildlife habitat garden, is home to many House Wrens. According to Charles, a birdwatcher who was interviewed by the website, “Hanging with House Wrens is a perfect plan since the Dickcissel is very similar in build except it has yellow streaks along its head.”

Charles the birdwatcher further explained why a Dickcissel in the area makes for a rare bird sighting. “Dickcissels, as birds do, migrate south this time of year. However the Dickcissel migratory pattern originates in the Midwest and heads towards Central America. Sighting them as far north as the Big Apple City is a rare experience for bird and watcher.”

The Linnaean Society of New York fosters an appreciation of the natural world with a special emphasis on birds. Founded in 1878, the Society comprises dedicated amateurs and professionals interested in the study, preservation, and enjoyment of nature and the environment.