The New Jersey Bird Records Committee (NJBRC) collects records of rare birds reported in the state of New Jersey, and maintains a State List of all species seen in the state.

Our goals are summarized by Richard Crossley. In this context, “rare bird” means a species which has never appeared in the state before, or has appeared only a few times. Typically, these birds are not in normal range or habitat and are not present for a long period. In this usage “rare” does not mean endangered species with a wide continental range, or threatened breeding birds. Such species are not monitored by NJBRC, and should be reported to the appropriate governmental or conservation organizations.

What’s New:

One of the highlights of the spring was the occurrence of a sub-adult Fork-tailed Flycatcher at Assunpink Wildlife Management Area. Discovered on April 30 by Michael Henderson, this cooperative individual remained through Monday, May 9, making it the longest-staying member of its kind in New Jersey. This was the twenty-first record of the species in state, but only the third since 2001. There were 10 records of this native of Central and South America between 1991 and 2001. Many excellent photos were obtained.

A summary of the results of the Spring 2016 meeting of the Committee is now available. It can be found on the Lists and Annual Reports Page.