One immature Atlantic Puffin was found on Sept. 27, 1963, at Rhinebeck, by Mrs. Conrad Giersch (Kingbird, 1964). Photographed (NY Conservationist, 1964). 

This is the only record of this species in Dutchess County and the only inland record for New York State. For such an improbable record, assisted passage cannot be ruled out, perhaps from an oceangoing ship passing up the Hudson River.

This Puffin was picked up emaciated in the Giersch backyard on Old Albany Post Rd. and kept overnight. William Hollister responded for the NYS Conservation Department and turned the bird over to Heinz Meng, professor of ornithology at New Paltz State Teachers College, where it died the following day. It was mounted and remains in the college collection.