Juniata Valley Audubon Society

Winter has a way of surprising those who are willing to step outside and look closely—and this season has rewarded us generously. What might seem like the quietest time of year has instead delivered moments of real excitement: Snow, Ross’s and Greater-white fronted Geese dropping into local fields, Lapland Longspurs and Snow Buntings flashing up from snowy ground, a random female Pine Grosbeak offering sights that most birders in central Pennsylvania don’t get the opportunity to observe. Equally welcome were several flocks of Pine Siskins popping up where we least expect them. These are the moments that remind us why winter birding is not something to endure, but something to savor! And it helps that this year, we’ve actually had a winter.

There’s a special kind of joy in these cold-weather encounters. They ask us to slow down, to scan the margins, to appreciate subtle beauty. Standing together in brisk winds or crunching across frozen ground, binoculars raised, we’re reminded that curiosity and community are at the heart of what we do. Birding connects us—to each other, to place, and to the rhythms of the natural world—even in the stillness of winter. I think most importantly it gives us pause and presence—something I feel is severely lacking in the modern lifestyle.

The values of us in JVAS are shared broadly across the whole Audubon community. At a national level, there have been encouraging conservation wins worth celebrating: renewed commitments to protecting important bird habitats, expanded investments in climate resilience, and continued momentum toward conserving working landscapes that benefit both wildlife and people. These victories don’t happen by accident—they are the result of persistent advocacy, science-based decision-making, and people who care enough to speak up. People like us.

As winter begins to loosen its grip, we will feel the promise of spring ahead. Waterfowl are already gathering in mixed flocks wherever open water will allow it. Soon, other migrants will return, songs will fill the woods, and wetlands will come alive again with motion and sound. Until then, let’s continue to enjoy what this season offers, celebrate the unexpected birds it brings us, and carry forward the sense of optimism that comes from knowing our efforts—local and national—are making a difference.

Here’s to the last good surprises of winter, and to a spring filled with hope, renewal, and birdsong.

Warm regards,

Michael Kensinger

President, Juniata Valley Audubon Society

As the last leaves fall and the air sharpens with the promise of winter, I’m reminded how nature has its own quiet celebrations this time of year. The fields and forests may appear still, but listen closely — the gentle “tseet tseet” calls of White-throated Sparrows return, the soft chatter of chickadees brightens the gray mornings, and the flash of red from a visiting Northern Cardinal reminds us that color and life persist even in the coldest months. I think we could all agree that winter bird have a little something extra. I mean, these are more than fair-weather friends if they can withstand some of the weather we get here, wouldn’t you agree? So, a tip of the hat to the birds that remain here even when it feels at times as though nature is trying to freeze us to death.

Winter is, in many ways, a season of gratitude. It gives us time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the resilience of the world around us — and of one another. It’s also a season of community. Whether we’re filling our bird feeders, walking a snowy trail, or simply pausing at the window to watch a nuthatch spiral down a tree, each small act connects us to something larger — a shared love of the natural world. Many of us still brave the gnashing teeth of frost and snow to indulge in the sight of wildlife in winter, and that is a testimony of love in it’s purest form if you ask me.

As we move into the holidays, I want to thank each of you for your support of the Juniata Valley Audubon Society. Your commitment — whether through membership, volunteering, or advocacy — helps ensure that the birds and wild places we cherish will be there for generations to come.

Let’s carry that spirit of care forward into the new year. Together, we can continue to protect habitats, inspire others to explore and appreciate nature, and ensure that the voices of conservation are never silenced.

From all of us at Juniata Valley Audubon, may your days be peaceful, your feeders busy, and your heart full this winter season!

Warmest regards,

Michael Kensinger

President, Juniata Valley Audubon Society

Late summer has a rhythm all its own—a softer, slower pulse than the bright urgency of June. Goldfinches linger longer on their perches, the sun’s arc dips just a little lower in the sky, and the air, while still warm, carries the faintest whisper of cooler days ahead. Meadows are now stippled with goldenrod and asters, and evenings glow with the chorus of katydids and crickets.

As August leans into September, nature reminds us once again of the beauty of change. Warblers begin their quiet southbound journeys, dressed in the subdued “incognito” plumage that can frustrate even the most skilled birders. While part of the heart misses summer’s full symphony, there is a new music—its instruments changed, but its melody no less lovely.

The lively chorus of birdsong now mingles with the rasping rhythms of insects, carrying me back to my “back to school” childhood memories. I heard my first katydid of the year on July 21, calling outside my bathroom window. Dog-day harvest flies (annual cicadas) shimmer like green chrome in the heat of the day, clinging to the dry teasel stalks at Grazierville Wetland. And even as I type these words, a monarch butterfly dances among Tim’s and my flowers.

Though many “fair weather” birds have departed, the stage is far from empty. American Goldfinches perch atop sunflowers that bow in the afternoon light. Thistle blooms alongside the asters and coneflowers I treasure each year. Cedar Waxwing flocks swell once more, and somewhere a Mourning Dove may still be tending a late-season brood.

As naturalists and nature-snoopers, we understand that every ending is also a beginning. One bird departs, another arrives—and I’m already looking forward to the return of our fantastic winter birds.

Inside the latest issue of The Gnatcatcher, you’ll find an exciting lineup of fall guest speakers and field trips to enjoy. And yes, I’m already anticipating one of my favorite traditions: the Christmas Bird Count. Our Sinking Valley team always has a wonderful time—it’s a highlight of the holidays for me.

In these moments between seasons, may we hold on to what summer has given us: the warmth of long days, the laughter shared on a trail or by a riverside, and the steady heartbeat of wild places. And may we step into autumn with hope—hope that the work we do for conservation ripples outward like circles on a pond, touching lives we may never see.

Wherever you find yourself in the coming weeks—whether walking through sunlit fields, standing under a sky thick with migrating swallows, or simply watching the world change outside your window—know that your care for nature is an act of love. It is a gift to the next season, and to the next generation. Each and every one of you makes a difference.

Dear friends and fellow defenders of wild places,

It’s been a season of passion, perseverance, and purpose for all of us at the Juniata Valley Audubon Society. As your president, I feel more committed than ever to standing up for the birds, the forests, and the future we believe in.

But let’s be honest—these are difficult times for conservation. We’re facing deep cuts to environmental programs, reckless rollbacks of protections, and a massive increase in logging on our public lands. These decisions threaten the habitats we love and the wildlife we work so hard to protect.

This isn’t just policy—it’s personal. It’s about our identity as Pennsylvanians, and our duty as stewards of the land.

That’s why I’ve made it my mission to be a strong, clear voice for our community.

Recently, I had the honor of speaking at the “Hands Off” rally in Altoona, where I delivered a fiery conservation sermon to a crowd of 500–600 passionate advocates. I marched with them through the streets, united in purpose, determined to defend our public forests from exploitation.

We are not just reacting—we are rising.

We are reminding everyone—from neighbors to lawmakers—that our forests are not for sale.

And I’m hopeful.

Hopeful because I see the fire in our members.

Hopeful because I see new generations picking up the torch.

Hopeful because together, we are powerful.

Let’s keep marching. Keep speaking. Keep protecting.

The birds need us. The forests need us.

The future needs us.

In solidarity and hope,

Michael Kensinger

President, Juniata Valley Audubon Society

As we step into the season of renewal, we are reminded of the beauty and resilience of the natural world. The transition from winter to spring is always a time of wonder—birds are beginning to return from their wintering grounds, and the landscape around us begins to shift as the earth stirs with new life. You might already notice the sturdy skunk cabbage jutting from the snow, or perhaps bright buds appearing on trees, signaling that warmer days are just around the corner.

Yet, as much as we celebrate these signs of spring, we also know that nature’s rhythms are unpredictable. Weather shifts, sudden storms, and the ebb and flow of seasons all remind us of the delicate balance that sustains life. These changes bring both challenges and opportunities, encouraging us to stay adaptable and aware of our shared responsibility to protect the habitats that so many species—ourselves included—depend on.

While we face unpredictable times in the conservation world, with regulations being relaxed and protections removed, I want all of us to take heart in the knowledge that every action, no matter how small, contributes to the collective effort to preserve the places we love. I want us to remember the resilience that occurs in nature occurs also in ourselves. That is why our commitment to birdwatching, habitat restoration, and simple acts of environmental stewardship makes a massive difference sending ripples through our community. The smallest bird song, the fluttering of wings, and the bright splash of new green are constant reminders that nature is resilient—and so are we. And so, now more than ever we should share our stories, photographs, artwork and experiences in the wild wonders of nature. In using our combined talents to communicate this wonderful world to others, we might just be able to embolden or educate people who otherwise haven’t a clue of how important conservation issues are. It is my belief, and I’m sure most of you will agree that these issues are more important now than they’ve ever been.

As the days grow longer and the weather grows warmer, let us take joy in a season of renewal. Let us make an unwavering promise for a future where our efforts, united, can help ensure that our natural world continues to thrive. The spring season is a time to embrace possibility, to gather hope, and to know that, together, we will continue to make a difference.

May the road rise to meet your every step in the coming season.

All my best,

Michael Kensinger
President, Juniata Valley Audubon Society

Dear Friends of Juniata Valley Audubon Society,

As the warmth of summer fades, the Juniata Valley has been transformed into a kaleidoscope of autumn colors. The migrating birds that visited our region to reproduce have begun their journey south, while year-round residents prepare for the changing seasons. This transition invites us to reflect on the beauty and resilience of nature. This also marks the perfect time of year to get out and see new species as we are in the direct pathway of birds only “passing through.” While fleeting, there is seldom a more exciting time to bird (in my opinion) than the spring and autumn migration periods.

As we look ahead to winter, mark your calendars for our annual Christmas Bird Count on Saturday, December 21st! This beloved tradition brings us together, fostering camaraderie and citizen science, topped with a festive “Tally Dinner” which will take place at 6 PM at the US Hotel Tavern’s “Gold Room” on the day of the count. This annual event has become one of my favorite holiday traditions, as we unite over a lovely meal to discuss exciting finds for the day. Last year, JVAS bested our previous year’s record by tallying 81 species! Rare bird highlights included Saw-whet Owl, Short-eared Owl, Double-crested Cormorant (which required a rare bird report), Eastern Meadowlark, 2 Merlin, and the American Pipit! Can we top 81 species this year? Well, you never know! But with your help, we just might! One target species in particular we are hoping to find within our circle is the Ruffed Grouse.

If you are eager to start a team of your own, or perhaps join a participating team, please reach out to us and we will direct you to our coordinator, former JVAS President Mark Bonta. Your participation helps contribute valuable data to the National Audubon Society’s longest-running community science project.

As winter approaches, please remember to prioritize bird health at your feeders. Regular cleaning prevents the spread of disease among our feathered friends. Take a few minutes each week to scrub and refill feeders, ensuring a safe haven for birds seeking sustenance. For several years, conjunctivitis has spread through the House Finch population, putting other species at risk. I personally observed this disease not only in House Finches, but also in American Goldfinch. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so let’s look ahead and put some more effort in cleaning feeders this year.

This season let’s extend an invitation to friends, family, and neighbors to join our JVAS community. It has done my heart so much good to see new members joining, and to see new people joining our board and making what we do possible. Without you, our supporters and volunteers, there would be no JVAS. Share your passion for birding and conservation and encourage others to explore the natural wonders of our region. Together, we’ll continue to promote environmental stewardship, education, and advocacy.

To engage with a wider and often younger audience, I have created an JVAS account on the social media platform Instagram as I attempt to reach new audiences as our Publicity Chair. Instagram focuses heavily on photos and short descriptions, and is used a lot more by younger birders. Now you can follow @JuniataValleyAudubonSociety there.

As we embrace the crisp air, vibrant foliage, and birding opportunities, let’s make this season one to remember!