by Merrill Creek Reservoir | Feb 9, 2026 | Birds, Blog, Merrill Creek Reservoir
During these cold months of winter, access to unfrozen water is key to the survival of birds. Birds typically need to drink at least twice daily to maintain metabolism, even in winter. When necessary, as a “last-resort, birds can and do eat snow, but it is not ideal...
by Merrill Creek Reservoir | Jan 28, 2026 | Birds, Merrill Creek Reservoir, Migration
Merrill Creek Reservoir (MCR) has long been known as an important wintering/roosting area for many migratory waterfowl species. If fact, in 2005 MCR was designated as an “Important Bird & Biodiversity Area” (IBBA) primarily for this reason. An IBBA is a globally...
by Merrill Creek Reservoir | Dec 11, 2025 | Animals, Birds
Winter is a great time to see woodpeckers! With the leaves off trees and bird feeders (especially suit feeders) filled, many of NJ’s woodpecker species can be easily seen pretty much everywhere across the state! In fact, in winter, NJ gets some migrant woodpeckers...
by Merrill Creek Reservoir | Jun 25, 2024 | Birds, Eagles, Merrill Creek Reservoir
Both Bald Eagle nests at MCR have produced young this year and they have now fledged the nests within this past week! MCR’s eagle nest at the west side of the property produced 2 eaglets and our nest to the east produced 1 eaglet. According to the National Wildlife...
by Merrill Creek Reservoir | Feb 12, 2024 | Animals, Birds
Winter time is not typically thought of when people think of birds laying eggs and nesting. But for three of New Jersey’s permanent resident owl species that live at Merrill Creek Reservoir, the Great Horned Owl, the Barred Owl and the Eastern Screech Owl, winter is...
