What is “warbler neck?” The answer to that question and many others will be revealed when the Monmouth CountyAudubon Society host its annual field trip to Allaire State Park, Route 524, Wall Township, on May 5.
While most of a bird’s year is spent trying to be invisible to predators, things change in the spring when breeding is the priority; and birds have a variety of ways to attract a mate in the spring, such as molting into more colorful plumage and loud singing. Once summer is under way, a bird’s priorities shift to nesting and raising young. Their feathers revert to the duller “basic plumage” and they sing much less, according to a press release. The migration season brings a great variety of birds through the area and Allaire State Park is what birders refer to as a “migrant trap,” an oasis of woodland habitat surrounded by suburbs.
Anyone interested in participating in the May 5 event can meet at 8:15 a.m. in the main parking lot by the historic village in Allaire State Park. The walk will end about noon. All are welcome and participation is free. Participants should bring binoculars and field guides. The walk will take place light rain or shine. Pets are not permitted.