John Bull

John Bull, author of "The Birds of New York State," passed away last Friday at age 92. A full obituary is on the New York Times website.

I grew up two blocks from John and Edith's Far Rockaway home, and John was an early influence on getting this shy birder out into the world. I treasure my first-edition copy of the Birds of New York State and still refer to it. In it is a clipping from a local paper in which John talked about his favorite birding spot -- and mine -- a little woodlot, now long since paved over by a highway. Thankfully, John soldiered on to a ripe old age, ever optimistic and introducing new generations to birding.

Thank you, John.