Will a surf scoter turn up at Jamaica Bay in Gateway NRA?/NPS

The Mandarin duck seen recently paddling in ponds in Central Park in New York City brought much excitement to New Yorkers and on the Internet. But have you ever seen surf scoter, a sea duck with a clown-like face? They can be seen at Jamaica Bay at Gateway National Recreation Area in the New York-New Jersey metropolitan area.

How about a long tailed duck, which can be seen at the NRA's Sandy Hook Unit in New Jersey?

For bird and wildlife enthusiasts, Gateway National Recreation Area will hold two free events in November and December.

Upcoming Bird Walk at Sandy Hook:

* Dec. 9, Sat., 10 a.m. Hosted by the Monmouth County Audubon Society.

“Many species of ducks which breed in the Arctic spend the winter in the area,” explains Lisa Ann Fanning, one of the leaders of the bird walk. “They seek protection in the coves along Sandy Hook and usually remain here most of the winter. In addition, hawks continue to hunt here all winter, and they’re fascinating to watch. And we don’t discount the possibility of seeing some really rare birds. It takes some time to find one rare duck in a flock of several hundred, but the more eyes searching the flock, the better our chances.”

Anyone interested in participating in the event can meet at 10 a.m. in the parking lot by the old Visitor Center, 1.8 miles north of the park entrance (U.S. Life-Saving Station - between Lot D & Lot E).

The trip is open to both members and non-members of the Monmouth County Audubon Society, and participation is free. Advance registration is not required. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather, which can be blustery and unpredictable along the coast; wear comfortable shoes and bring binoculars and field guides. In case of a questionable weather forecast, check the organization’s website (www.monmouthaudubon.org) after 6 p.m. the evening before the trip for updates.

Upcoming Sunset Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

* November 23, Friday, 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

A park ranger will lead a night time hike around the West Pond trail. Learn more about the nocturnal residents of the Wildlife Refuge. Call (718) 318-4340 for reservations. Wear warm layers.