NYC Wildlife Before the Storm

Saturday morning bird watch on West 108th Street
No animals are visible on today’s late afternoon dog walk in Riverside Park on the eve of Hurricane Irene’s arrival. Well, actually many animals are out, but only two species: humans and canines. No wildlife. Not a single bird or squirrel. Even the cicadas are silent, and the animal world seems to be tucked out of sight, quietly waiting, while over on Broadway, the humans scurry about emptying the local hardware stores of batteries and flashlights.
The animals are still there, of course, curled into nests, dens and dreys just yards away from us walkers. They know how to disappear. They do it all the time. On Friday, a raccoon performed a vanishing act.
First, a bit of wall-walking …
Then, a balancing act …
And, ladies and gentlemen: watch closely. Now you see me …
Now …
… you don’t!
And … hoopla! I’m back!
Here’s hoping all the animals find safe haven and come through the storm safely.
Explore posts in the same categories: 2011, August, Birds, In the City, NYC Parks, raccoons, Riverside Park, Seasons, Squirrels, Summer, Wildlife/Natural HistoryTags: animals in storm, NYC wildlife, raccoons in riverside park, raccoons in the city, urban raccoons, urban wildlife, wildlife in hurricane irene
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August 27, 2011 at 7:21 pm
I looked with dread at the evacuation map and realized that almost all my favorite spots in NYC are in the danger zone — here’s hoping the damage will be minimal and all the inhabitants; two legged, four legged, feathered, etc. will be safe!
August 27, 2011 at 7:18 pm
Wow Coop–these pics are amazing. Hoping you’re not in Zone A..
–Bray
August 30, 2011 at 6:00 pm
Thanks, Thom! As for Zone A: nah, we are on high ground – no problem.