RCA Reflections are invited talks about ecology and the environment, free and open to all to join. This talk will be delivered in a hybrid format: in-person at Rice Creek Field Station or via Zoom (see Dial-In Instructions below).

Talk Description

This inspiring and informative presentation covers the life history of the Eastern Bluebird, other birds that nest in bluebird boxes, nest box management, and more. The focus is definitely on bluebirds, but John also shares his love for the natural world in the hope the audience will take away some broader and deeper messages about nature. The program has variety, feeling, and is inspirational. Sprinkled throughout are just a few wildflowers, butterflies, other birds, quotes by some of the great naturalists of the past, and more. With beautiful photographs, sounds, and a sincere, enthusiastic presentation style, this program is of interest to anyone who appreciates nature.

Speaker

John has maintained a trail of bluebird nest boxes in Central New York, north of Syracuse, for over four decades. He has presented bluebird programs and workshops for hundreds of organizations in 12 states and 2 Canadian provinces. John was a co-founder of the
New York State Bluebird Society in 1982, and was elected a lifetime (volunteer) board member in 2002. He has received numerous awards for his bluebird conservation work, including the Bluebird Conservation Award from the North American Bluebird Society. He is a past board member of that organization. In 2010, he was a recipient of the Hero of Conservation Award from the Syracuse Post-Standard. John's academic background includes a BA in Biology from SUNY Oswego. An experienced birder and member of the Onondaga Audubon Society in Syracuse, he and his wife, Sue, live in Oneida.

Free student transportation

Since the Centro Green Route Bus does not run on Saturdays, Rice Creek offers a van shuttle during the fall and spring semesters. Please call 315.312.6677 between 9:15 and 10:15 am on Saturdays to request a pick up. Alternatively, book your ride in advance by emailing rcdesk@oswego.edu by 3 p.m. on the Thursday before the program. Please include your full name and phone number.

Accessibility statement

We welcome people of all abilities to Rice Creek Field Station. Rice Creek's main building and parking areas are ADA accessible. The Purple Trail, scheduled to open in April 2026, is built to comply with U.S. Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines. 

Although we strive to create inclusive programs, not all programs will be accessible to all individuals. Please reach out to us at rcfs@oswego.edu or (315) 312-6677 to inquire about accommodations. We would be happy to work with you.

About RCA

Rice Creek Associates (RCA) is a community of like-minded people who share a passion for nature and a desire to support Rice Creek Field Station. Formed in 1986, RCA supports Rice Creek Field Station's mission by expanding the scientific, educational and recreational opportunities at the Field Station through community involvement. For more information, including a link to join RCA for as little as $5 or $15, please visit the RCA webpage.

Photo credit: Rhododendrites on Wikimedia Commons.