It is possible that RES are extremely rare in the state of New York or not even present because the link by Cornell University does not list redear sunfish. Redbreast and pumpkinseed sunfish are listed but not redears. There are a few northern strains of RES that do survive as far north as southern Michigan, so it is feasible that a northern strain of redears could survive in some most southern areas of NY.
DNR Summary of RES in Michigan;
http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153-10364_53405-222228--,00.html
DNR Report (pdf):
http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/ifr/ifrlibra/technical/reports/2003-3tr.pdf
