17 Common Ravens, most of them juveniles, were in the Norz Farm fields along River Road in Hillsborough Township this afternoon (Jeff Ellerbusch). The Ravens were enjoying a repast of manure. Turkey Vultures, European Starlings, Rock Pigeons, Brown-headed Cowbirds and Red-winged Blackbirds joined them in the fields.

It was not that long ago, when the sighting of a single Raven in New Jersey caused a stir. Read Rick Radis’ article on the New Jersey Audubon eBird portal, The Return of the Raven, chronicling the species’ relatively recent proliferation in New Jersey.

Common Ravens are known nesters in Hillsborough. It is not uncommon to find a group of 3-5 in the township. On the other hand, 17 in one location with most of them juveniles, is an entirely different matter. This is a population explosion.

2 Horned Larks were singing at the west end of Opie Road (J. Ellerbusch).

From Zach Batren at Negri-Nepote Native Grassland Preserve:
“Took a nice hike through Negri this morning after the rain storm. Ended up with 52 species but unfortunately the pond was nearly empty except for a Green Heron, Killdeer, and Tree Swallows. Still no sign of any Dickcissel in the area, but I did find a pair of Blue Grosbeaks near the power-lines and, of course, plenty of Grasshopper Sparrows.”

Blue Grosbeak, Negri-Nepote Grasslands, NJ, June 9, 2014 (photo by Zach Batren)

Grasshopper Sparrow, Negri-Nepote Grasslands, NJ, June 9, 2014 (photo by Zach Batren)