The City Birder

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 17:14:42 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, October 24 - Sunday, October 25, 2026:

Bedford Audubon Society

Sparrow ID Workshop + Field Trip
Saturday, October 24, 2026, 7:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Do sparrows confuse you? You’re not alone. With their strikingly similar appearances, sparrows can be tricky to identify — even for seasoned birders. Back by popular demand, Naturalist Tait Johansson can help you distinguish these “little brown jobs” from one another in this two-part Sparrow Identification Workshop and Field Trip. In the first part, Tait will provide information on how to identify these underappreciated birds, from field markings, behaviors, and vocalizations; in the second part, we’ll take a field trip to Allen’s Meadows Park in Wilton, CT, a sparrow “hot spot,” to practice identifying them in the field. We’ll be on the lookout for Vesper Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Lincoln’s Sparrow, and others.
Registration: Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Moderate. Registration required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org or by calling 914-302-9713.
View Details

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Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, Ocotber 24, 2026, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory bird outing is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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An Autumn Birding Day at Floyd Bennett Field
Sunday, October 25, 2026
Leader: Heydi Lopes Miller
Description: This trip focuses on late fall migrants, particularly sparrows (Emberizidae genus), plus raptors in peak, late shorebirds, as well as early winter species, namely arriving water fowl. There will be action with grassland species and hopefully a vagrant species.
Registration: Danielle Khalife daniellek97@gmail.com
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Freshkills Park Alliance

Birdability Week: Fall Bird Tour
Saturday, October 24, 2026, 9:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Rangers
Description: Join Freshkills Park Alliance for a morning of birding fun as we celebrate this years Birdability week with a tour through North Park.
Registration: Register via Eventbrite
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Gateway National Parks

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Sunday at 10:30 AM from October 03, 2026 to October 31, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Green-Wood Cemetery

Little Birds, Big World: Meet Green-Wood’s Sparrows
Saturday, October 24 & Sunday, October 25 (One ticket secures a spot for both sessions)
Description: Whether you’re new to birding or looking to sharpen your identification skills, this engaging two-part course will have you seeing (and hearing!) the sparrows found at Green-Wood and throughout New York City in a whole new way. You’ll learn how to identify different species by their markings, behaviors, habitats, and calls. The course concludes with a guided walk through the cemetery, where you’ll put your new skills into practice and hear Green-Wood come alive with birdsong.
View Details

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Hudson River Audubon Society

Lenoir Hawk Watch
Saturday, October 24, 2026, 10:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: Meet behind the Lenoir Mansion, 1076 North Broadway, Yonkers. Park in the south lot. Feel free to bring a folding chair and refreshments.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details

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Linnaean Society of New York

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, October 24, 2026
Leader: Joseph DiCostanzo
Description: The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge includes over 12,600 acres of salt marshes, freshwater and brackish-water ponds, upland fields and woods, an open bay, and islands. It is one of the most significant bird habitats in the northeastern United States and a great place to observe seasonal bird migration and resident species. This walk will likely include visiting the East Pond, which may require mud boots to navigate comfortably.
Registration: Miriam Rakowski — rakowskimiriam@gmail.com
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Birds & Brews: Brooklyn Edition (Greenwood Cemetery)
Sunday, October 25, 2026
Leader: Amanda Bielskas, Tara Craig, Alan Drogan, Gillian Henry
Description: We are expanding our Birds & Brews walks into Brooklyn! This walk will start later in the morning so we can tour Greenwood Cemetery for fall migrants. After a 2-3 hour walk, we will head to a local venue for some libations and conversations.
Registration: Amanda Bielskas — bielskas@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Birding along the QueensWay
Saturday, October 24, 2026, 9:30am - 11:00am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance and The Trust for Public Land as we explore the QueensWay through birding! The QueensWay is an intiative to transform the LIRR Rockaway Beach Branch that cuts through Forest Park into a new green space.
Registration: Registration page
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Accessible Birding in Fort Tryon Park
Saturday, October 24, 2026, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Alex Wang
Description: Fort Tryon Park offers stunning views of the Palisades and Hudson River from its soaring cliffs of bedrock. Spanning 67 acres, the park features many well-paved walkways designed to accommodate a wide range of mobility needs for birders with stroller, wheelchair, walker, cane, and other mobility aids.
Registration: Registration page
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Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, October 24, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
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Birding at Mount Loretto Unique Area, Staten Island
Sunday, October 25, 2026, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Join Staten Island resident and longtime birder, Anthony Ciancimino, as we explore the diverse habitats found at Mount Loretto Unique Area. With 200 acres of land, this is a one of the best places to spot migrating birds in the area.
Registration: Registration page
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Fall Birding in Van Cortlandt Park
Sunday, October 25, 2026, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance on a bird tour in one of the Bronx's largest green spaces. Participants will look for various species of resident and migrant birds and discuss a wide range of avian topics. This outing is held in partnership with Van Cortlandt Park Alliance.
Registration: Registration page
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Bilingual Birding at Seward Park: Mandarin-English
Sunday, October 25, 2026, 10:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Xinyi Zhang
Description: Join bird guide Xinyi Zhang for a Mandarin-English bilingual bird outing in Seward Park, and discover the resident and migratory birds that rely on small urban green spaces like this one!
Registration: Registration page
View Details

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North Fork Audubon Society

Inlet Pond County Park
Sunday, October 25, 2026, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Peggy Lauber
Description: Start your Sunday off with birds and nature! Join us for a weekend bird walk with our NFAS President, Peggy Lauber. We hope to spot some Yellow Warblers, Great Egret and Red-tailed Hawk. Open to everyone, no experience needed.
Registration: Registration Page
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North Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake State Park
Saturday, October 24, 2026, 8:00am – 11:00am
Leader: Bill B. (516) 993-7340 & Bill C. (631) 682-7404
Description: Official Website
Registration: Limited registration. You must register via email to nsaudubonsociety@gmail.com, and you will receive a confirmation email. If you become unable to attend, please email to allow someone on the waiting list to take your slot.
View Details

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Queens County Bird Club

Arverne/Bayswater
Saturday, October 24, 2026, 7:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: Joe Schiavone (203) 640-2927
Description: Arverne East Nature Preserve hosts five different maritime ecosystems, providing a safe home for diverse local flora and fauna. Pedestrian pathways weave through the preserve, offering New Yorkers a new way to observe and appreciate these natural environments, including accessible connections to the Rockaway boardwalk and beach. A new welcome center was also constructed as part of this project, which houses a community meeting space, office space for Urban Park Rangers, crew headquarters for Parks maintenance staff, and public restrooms.
Registration: You must contact the trip leader to register.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Jones Beach Coast Guard Station Parking Area
Sunday, October 25, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Wantagh State Parkway, travel south. Upon entering Jones Beach State Park, exit at Bay Drive and continue west. Turn right (north) at entrance for Coast Guard Station and West End Boat Basin; turn right again for parking.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, October 24, 2026
Birding: Fall Migration at Beach 54th and Almeda Avenue (in Rockaway Community Park), Queens
10:00am–11:30am
Join the Urban Park Rangers on an exclusive tour of the closed Edgemere Landfill to find bird species migrating through this grassland ecosystem.
Free

Birding: Fall Migration at West 116th Street and Riverside Drive (in Riverside Park), Manhattan
1:00pm–2:30pm
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Riverside Park to look for fall migrants that include warblers, raptors and more!
Free

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Wild Bird Fund

Central Park Fall Bird Walks
Saturday, October 24, 2026, 8:30am
Leader: Ricki Ravitts, Carine Mitchell and Hendrik Weideman
Description: Please join expert birders Ricki Ravitts, Carine Mitchell and Hendrik Weideman for bird walks in Central Park as we see which of these beautiful fellows are stopping by on their way south. We will be scanning the park for those hard-to-ID warblers, as well as wrens, vireos, swifts, thrushes, flycatchers, swallows, kinglets and nuthatches. We'll also keep our eyes out for migrating raptors, including Cooper's hawks.
Registration: Registration Page
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Sparrow Identification Class

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 15:12:00 +0000

If you've ever struggled to identify sparrows, this class is for you. I'll be teaching a two day course at Green-Wood Cemetery, which culminates with a walk in the cemetery to see what we've learned.

Sign up through Eventbrite here.

Grasshopper Sparrow

Best of the Fortnight

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:37:38 +0000

Unsurprisingly, there's a bit of an Autumn vibe to my photo picks from the first two weeks of October 2026. Expect to see lots more colorful landscapes and fancy sparrows in the next edition.

Song Sparrow

Palm Warbler

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Blue Grosbeak

Sachem skipper

American Kestrel

Least Flycatcher

Cooper's Hawk

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Northern Harrier

Brown Thrasher

Scarlet Tanager

Blackpoll Warbler

Common Nighthawk

Western Kingbird

Red-headed Woodpecker

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 19:38:00 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, October 17 - Sunday, October 18, 2026:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, Ocotber 17, 2026, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory bird outing is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

Prospect Park Fall Migration Saturday Walks
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 7:30am
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Walks typically go into early afternoon or later if the birding is great. Bring water, snacks and/or a sandwich if you plan to stay the whole duration–but feel free to leave whenever you want.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

Crisp Autumn Air for Birding in Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Leader: Chris Miller
Description: Exceptional diversity in a bird rich region. The beginning of winter migration and peak sparrow presence.
Registration: Peter Dorosh email: Prosbird@gmail.com
View Details

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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

Suffolk County Farm
Sunday, October 18, 2026, 8:00am
Leader: Brian Moldashel
Description: Meet at 8:45 am at the parking lot by the new farm welcome center. Always a dynamic place in fall, the farm often hosts open field species such as Bobolink and Eastern Meadowlark, as well as any number of raptors, sparrows, flycatchers, and more. This easy walk will cover less than two miles over flat farm fields and dirt roads.
Registration: Please register with Brian Moldashel for this trip: brian.moldashel@gmail.com
View Details

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Gateway National Parks

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Sunday at 10:30 AM from October 03, 2026 to October 31, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Caumsett State Park
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 8:30am - 5:00pm
Leader: Ken Thompson (631-612-8028) John Gluth (631-827-0120)
Description: Northern State to exit 42N (Route35) to 25A west to West Neck Rd.(right turn). West Neck/Lloyd Harbor Rd. into Lloyd Neck. Entrance to the Park on the left. Meet in the parking lot.
Registration: Text or email to Vera Capogna 516-639-5430 vlvcap@yahoo.com
View Details

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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace - SOLD OUT
Sunday, Ocotber 18, 2026, 7:15am – 8:45am
Description: Stop by this fall and you will see a variety of species passing through. By September, the offspring of summer’s nesting birds will be on their own. Returning warblers will be in their less flamboyant fall plumage. Catch a glimpse of spot blackbirds, flycatchers, sparrows, vireos, and swallows on the move. By October, be on the lookout for returning waterfowl and raptors heading south. And by November, overwintering feathered denizens return from the north.
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Birding in Peace: Late-Risers Edition (Members Only)
Sunday, October 18, 2026, 10:00am – 11:30pm
Description: If you’ve always wanted to go on a birding tour at Green-Wood but aren’t much of a morning person, this tour is for you! The early bird-er might get the worm, but you can birdwatch at any hour. Join birding expert Rob Jett and a small group of fellow members to roam the grounds while hearing and seeing the many feathered friends of Green-Wood.
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Hudson River Audubon Society

Lenoir Hawk Watch
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: Meet behind the Lenoir Mansion, 1076 North Broadway, Yonkers. Park in the south lot. Feel free to bring a folding chair and refreshments.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details

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Linnaean Society of New York

Beginners Birding Walk in Central Park’s North End
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Leader: Linda LaBella
Description: Central Park is one of the world’s premier birding spots, especially during spring and fall migrations, and we encourage first-time and beginning birders to join us on a fun, informative and casual field trip where you will learn the basics of birding: using binoculars, field guides, species ID, and birding etiquette. You will be introduced to simple identifying tools like field marks, bird behavior and birdsong. On a good day we’ll see migrating songbirds like warblers, sparrows, vireos and waterfowl. The walk begins and ends in the North End of Central Park at the Pool on the west side, one of the best birding habitats in the park, then typically proceeds along a stream called the Ravine with boardwalks and paved pathways. Appropriate shoes for walking on rass and dirt paths are strongly recommended. Remember to bring a pair of binoculars and your birding questions.
Registration: Catherine Ichord — catherine.ichord@gmail.com
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Fresh Kills Sparrow Walk
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Leader: Casey Ferino
Description: Join us at Fresh Kills Park on Staten Island for a sparrow-focused birding trip unlike anything else in the city. This new park opened in October 2023 and its tidal creeks, wetland edges, and sweeping native grasslands offer some of the most exciting sparrow activity in the area each autumn. Fresh Kills is home to the largest nesting colony of Grasshopper Sparrows in New York State and migration also brings Lark Sparrows, Savannah Sparrows, and White-crowned Sparrows. All of this occurs at the capped mounds of what was once the world’s largest landfill, an extraordinary landscape reborn as a great urban wildlife refuge.
Registration: Matthew Fischer — matthewwfischer@gmail.com
View Details

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NYC Bird Alliance

Intro to Birding in Crotona Park
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: _____
Join NYC Bird Alliance this spring to explore beautiful Crotona Park. Its meadows, flowering trees, and sizable pool provide excellent habitats for a variety of birds, including woodpeckers, warblers, and wading birds.
Registration: Registration page
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Birding in East Harlem with EsplanadeFriends
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: EsplanadeFriends
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance and EsplanadeFriends to discover the East Harlem Esplanade and its adjacent green spaces. Expect to see many water birds right off the coast.
Registration: Registration page
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9th Annual Raptorama! at Marine Park
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: It's that time of the year again, time for Raptorama! Meet us at Marine Park's Salt Marsh Nature Center to learn about hawks, eagles, owls, and more. See live birds of prey up close at the Salt Marsh Nature Center with NYC Bird Alliance, American Littoral Society, and the MPA Forever Wild Committee.
Registration: Not required.
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Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
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Intro to Birding at Owl's Head Park
Sunday, October 18, 2026, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join us at one of Brooklyn’s scenic waterfront parks for a beginner-friendly outing. Owl's Head Park contains rolling hills, meandering pathways, and breathtaking views of the New York skyline and striking Verrazano Narrows Bridge.
Registration: Registration page
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New York Botanical Garden Birding Tour
Sunday, October 18, 2026, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance at New York Botanical Garden. Get to see some of NYBG’s diverse landscape and learn why this unique green space is such a vital haven for a great variety of species year-round. The tour will meet at the Reflecting Pool in the Native Plant Garden.
Registration: This tour is included in your admission to the Garden.
View Details

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Newtown Historical Society

Mount Olivet Cemetery
Saturday, October 17, 2026
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: 65-40 Grand Avenue, Maspeth. Meet outside main office. Bring binoculars and wear comfortable shoes.
Registration: RSVP or for more info: newtownhistory@gmail.com, (718) 366-3715
View Details

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North Shore Audubon Society

Kissena Park
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 8:30am – 11:30am
Leader: Matt Fischer (646) 673-5843
Description: Meet at veladrome. Click for map
Registration: Limited registration. You must register via email to nsaudubonsociety@gmail.com, and you will receive a confirmation email. If you become unable to attend, please email to allow someone on the waiting list to take your slot.
View Details

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Queens County Bird Club

Kissena Park
Sunday, October 18, 2026, 7:45am - 12:00pm
Leader: Eric Miller (917) 279-7530
Description: This mini-trip includes Kissena Park both east and west of Kissena Blvd. Expect to find many species of sparrows and southbound migrants. Meet at the Kissena Velodrome parking lot, which can be entered from Booth Memorial Ave north of Parsons Blvd - see map.
Registration: You must contact the trip leader to register.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake State Park
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Southern State Parkway, take Exit 18 (Eagle Avenue) south to Field 3 (use second park entrance and make an immediate left turn.)
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, October 17, 2026
Birding with Ryan at East Fourth Street Community Garden, Brooklyn
9:00am–11:00am
Join local birdwatching author and garden member Ryan Goldberg for a fall birding event.
Free

Raptorama! at Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
12:00pm–2:00pm
See live birds of prey up close at the Salt Marsh Nature Center with NYC Bird Alliance, American Littoral Society, and the MPA Forever Wild Committee.
Free

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 14:59:26 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, October 10 - Sunday, October 11, 2026:

Bedford Audubon Society

Breakfast with the Hawks
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 9:00am - 11:00am
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: You don’t want to miss this popular annual event at our Chestnut Ridge Hawkwatch Platform. Naturalist Tait Johansson, Lead Counter Chris Waas and Director of Conservation and Wildlife Management at Westmoreland Sanctuary Steve Ricker will be on hand to “show and tell” the raptors and other avian species flying above, while we enjoy bagels, hot cocoa, coffee and some homemade treats. This much-loved event is perfect for families. (All children must be accompanied by an adult.) Among others, Red-shouldered Hawks are on the move this time of year, and it’s also the time for a better chance of seeing a Golden Eagle!
Registration: Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Moderate. Registration required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org or by calling 914-302-9713.
View Details

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Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, Ocotber 10, 2026, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory bird outing is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

Prospect Park Fall Migration Saturday Walks
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 7:30am
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Walks typically go into early afternoon or later if the birding is great. Bring water, snacks and/or a sandwich if you plan to stay the whole duration–but feel free to leave whenever you want.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

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Gateway National Parks

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Saturday at 10:30 AM from October 03, 2026 to October 10, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
WEDNESDAY, October 7, 2026, 7:00am – 8:30am
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: Stop by this fall and you will see a variety of species passing through. By September, the offspring of summer’s nesting birds will be on their own. Returning warblers will be in their less flamboyant fall plumage. Catch a glimpse of spot blackbirds, flycatchers, sparrows, vireos, and swallows on the move. By October, be on the lookout for returning waterfowl and raptors heading south. And by November, overwintering feathered denizens return from the north.
View Details

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Hudson River Audubon Society

The Big Sit and Hawk Watch
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 8:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: The goal of the Big Sit is to count as many bird species as possible from one fixed location. We’ll count birds as well as raptors. Meet behind the Lenoir Mansion, 1076 North Broadway, Yonkers. Park in the south lot. Feel free to bring a folding chair and refreshments. Come when you want, stay as long as you like.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details

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Linnaean Society of New York

Floyd Bennett Field
Saturday, October 10, 2026
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places for its historic significance, Floyd Bennett Field’s 1,280 acres feature one of the few remaining grasslands within New York City. Part of the Gateway National Recreation Area and located in southwestern Brooklyn, it is a major birding destination with a freshwater pond, successive upland areas, wooded campgrounds, and extensive coastal views of Jamaica Bay. The number of bird species recorded at Floyd Bennett Field totals 281. October is sparrow season, and we should expect to observe anywhere from 10-14 different species on a good day. Over the grasslands, expect to see American Kestrel, Northern Harrier, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, and more.
Registration: Shelly Xiong — shellylynnx@gmail.com
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Randall’s Island
Sunday, October 11, 2026
Leader: Alan Drogin
Description: Randall’s Island is unique as it provides one of the only salt marshes in the borough of Manhattan. Historically, this location was not known as a popular birding destination for New York City birders. However, the island became a birding hotspot after Alan Drogin discovered Nelson’s Sparrows in the northeast section near the backstop of field 42 in the Bronx Kill salt marsh in 2012. Since then, mid-October has been the time to bird Randall’s for sparrows—Savannah, Swamp, Song, Chipping, Field, and an occasional Vesper, but especially the elusive Ammospiza sparrows of the marshes—Nelson’s, Saltmarsh, Seaside. We also get late-migrating warblers and, sometimes, interesting gulls.
Registration: Dom Ricci — domricci@gmail.com
View Details

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Newtown Historical Society

Fall Migration at Mount Olivet Cemetery
Sunday, October 11, 2026, 9:00am
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: 65-40 Grand Ave., Maspeth. Meet outside main office. Bring binoculars & wear comfortable shoes.
Registration: RSVP or more info - newtownhistory@gmail.com or (718) 366-3715
View Details

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NYC Bird Alliance

WMBD: Early Morning Birding in Marine Park
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 8:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join us at for an early morning at Brooklyn’s largest green space, Marine Park! Consisting of grassland and salt marshes, this park is habitat for a variety of migratory songbirds and waterbirds. This series is hosted in partnership with the Marine Park Alliance.
Registration: Registration page
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WMBD: Fall Birding in Conference House Park, Staten Island
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Discover a diversity of spring migrants with longtime birder and Staten Island resident, Anthony Ciancimino. Expect to see a variety of species of songbirds, including warblers such as Pine & Palm, & Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, and even some lingering waterfowl on the ponds & beach.
Registration: Registration page
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WMBD: Birding at Pelham Bay Park
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 8:30am - 10:00am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance to explore New York City's largest park! Pelham Bay Park's forested areas, salt marshes, and grassy meadows offer rich habitat for a variety of migrating birds.
Registration: Registration page
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WMBD: Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

WMBD: Fall Birding at Kissena Park
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join us as we explore the beautiful Kissena Park in Queens. This green space contains a wide variety of trees as well as a lake that make great habitat for migrating and resident birds alike.
Registration: Registration page
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WMBD: Bilingual Birding at Sunset Park: Mandarin-English\
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 9:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Xinyi Zhang
Description: Join bird guide Xinyi Zhang for a Mandarin-English bilingual bird outing in the small but beautiful Sunset Park. This green space is known to provide breathtaking views of Manhattan, especially at sunset. A wide variety of birds have also been sighted here, including Brown-headed Cowbirds, Cedar Waxwings, and Common Nighthawks.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

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North Shore Audubon Society

Robert Moses State Park
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 7:45am – 11:00am
Leader: Pat & Shai (516) 662-5204 & (631) 241-0749
Description: FALL BIG DAY!
Registration: Limited registration. You must register via email to nsaudubonsociety@gmail.com, and you will receive a confirmation email. If you become unable to attend, please email to allow someone on the waiting list to take your slot.
View Details

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Queens County Bird Club

The QCBC Big Sit at Fort Totten
Sunday, October 11, 2026, 10:00am - 2:00pm
Leader: Mack Chitulescu (347) 572-3119
Description: Since the Battery Harris Platform at Fort Tilden burned down, we will have this year's Big Sit on top of the fort at Fort Totten Park. The Fort Totten Park Visitors Center hours are from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Therefore, the QCBC "Big Sit" will take place from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. You may come and go as you choose. If they let you inside the gate, there is parking on the right before the Abbott Road & Murray Avenue intersection (west of the Fort Totten Playground). If they don't let you through the gate, you will need to park in the Little Bay Park parking lot, take Totten Avenue to the fork on the road (which is Bayside Street). Make a left at Bayside Street, make a right on to Abbott Road, then a left at North Loop (which is the road before the Fort Totten Playground), and then bear right. You will see the entrance to the Fort Totten Visitors Center (which is Lee Road). Sign in at the entrance and the park ranger will give you directions from there.
Registration: You must contact the trip leader to register.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Oceanside Marine Nature Study Area
Saturday, October 10, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From Sunrise Highway in Rockville Centre, turn onto Long Beach Road, traveling south. Proceed to Waukena Avenue and turn left. From this point onward, there are brown signs directing visitors to the sanctuary. Turn right onto Park Avenue (at a traffic light), then turn left onto Golf Drive. Continue on Golf Drive to Slice Drive, turn right, and proceed one short block into the sanctuary.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
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Massapequa Lake
Sunday, October 11, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: Use street parking on the westbound side of Merrick Road. Massapequa Lake is at the south end of Massapequa Preserve, between Lakeshore Boulevard and Ocean Avenue.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, October 10, 2026
Birding in the park with the West Harlem Art Fund at Morningside Park, Manhattan
10:00am–11:30am
Join the West Harlem art Fund in partnership with NYC Bird Alliance on Saturday, October 10th at 10 am for a morning of birding through Morningside Park.
Free

Best of the Fortnight

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 14:00:00 +0000

The 26th & 27th are calling for a rare September nor'easter. Also, I am having a procedure on Monday that will cut into a final "fortnight" period birding. Instead, I've posted what I have so far and scheduled it to go online on the 28th. That said, I think I have a few decent shots from this abbreviated second half of September 2026. Enjoy:

American Kestrel

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Northern House Wren

American Redstart

Magnolia Warbler

Great Blue Heron

Northern Parula

Bathing Red-tailed Hawk

Palm Warbler

Blackpoll Warbler

Clay-colored Sparrow

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Flicker

Red-tailed Hawk

Merlin with prey

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 23:00:41 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, September 26 - Sunday, September 27, 2026:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, September 26, 2026, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory bird outing is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

Prospect Park Fall Migration Saturday Walks
Saturday, September 26, 2026, 7:30am
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Walks typically go into early afternoon or later if the birding is great. Bring water, snacks and/or a sandwich if you plan to stay the whole duration–but feel free to leave whenever you want.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

Scanning the skies from atop Central Park’s Belvedere Castle
Sunday, September 27, 2026, 7:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: A hawkwatch held during the peak migration period for Broad-winged Hawks, when raptors and passerine songbirds are actively moving through the forests surrounding the castle. A favorable wind would make the day truly regal.
Registration: No registration necessary. For info - Prosbird@gmail.com
View Details

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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, September 27, 2026, 6:30am – 8:30am
Description: Stop by this fall and you will see a variety of species passing through. By September, the offspring of summer’s nesting birds will be on their own. Returning warblers will be in their less flamboyant fall plumage. Catch a glimpse of spot blackbirds, flycatchers, sparrows, vireos, and swallows on the move. By October, be on the lookout for returning waterfowl and raptors heading south. And by November, overwintering feathered denizens return from the north.
View Details

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Hudson River Audubon Society

Bill Van Wart Memorial Hawk Watch
Saturday, September 26, 2026, 10:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: Meet behind the Lenoir Mansion, 1076 North Broadway, Yonkers. Park in the south lot. Feel free to bring a folding chair and refreshments.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details

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Linnaean Society of New York

Fall Migration in Central Park’s North End
Saturday, September 26, 2026
Leader: Ursula Mitra
Description: Central Park is known as one of the best birding spots in the world, with the North Woods being its hidden gem. This walking route covers all the major hotspots of the North Woods and provides interesting insights into this lesser-known area of Central Park. The typical route starts at the Great Hill (which has bathrooms). It continues to the Children’s Glades, South Blowdown, Balancing Rock, The Pool, Sparrow Rock, East Blowdown, The Block House, Lily Ponds, The Loch, Wildflower Meadow, Grassy Knoll, the Compost Heap, the Nursery, the Conservatory Garden (another bathroom opportunity), and Harlem Meer (including the recently opened Davis Center), before circling back to the Loch and Pool. Bird species that can be spotted along this walk might include the Black-crowned Night Heron, Cedar Waxwings, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Cooper’s Hawk, American Kestrel, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Swainson’s Thrush, and various warbler and sparrow species.
Registration: Suzanne Zywicki — suzannezywicki@hotmail.com
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Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, 34th Annual Tom Davis Memorial Shorebird Walk
Saturday, September 26, 2026
Leader: Tom Stephenson
Description: This annual memorial walk honors Tom Davis, who was, by many accounts, from the birders who knew him, an incredible observer of wildlife especially interested in shorebirds. He was also well known for imparting his knowledge to others and ensuring that others would see the unique birds he sighted. This year’s walk, led by Tom Stephenson, will also be guided by those principles.
Registration: Amanda Bielskas — bielskas@gmail.com
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Watch Hill, Fire Island
Sunday, September 27, 2026
Leader: Deborah Swamback
Description: Located in the middle of Fire Island, the barrier beach that runs along the south shore of Long Island, Watch Hill is a great place to witness fall migration. Many birds are moving down the narrow barrier strip and often stop to feed. If winds are right, we expect to see raptors, particularly falcons, harriers, osprey, and accipiters. Warblers and other songbirds can fill the thickets, and the beaches and marshes are good for water birds. Some special sightings might include Royal Terns, Glossy Ibis, Saltmarsh Sparrows, and Boat-tailed Grackles. We will meet at the Fire Island ferry for a pleasant 30-minute boat ride to Watch Hill. Bring plenty of water and food, sun lotion, and bug spray, and a hat is strongly suggested.
Registration: Christina Black — christina.black50@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Climate Week: Fall Birding in Alley Pond Park
Saturday, September 26, 2026, 9:00am — 10:30pm
Leader: _____
Description: Alley Pond Park is an ecological treasure. Containing both fresh and saltwater wetlands, forests, tidal flats, meadows, and glacier-formed landscape, this park supports a vast array of birds. Join NYC Bird Alliance to discover this green space for yourself!
Registration: Registration page
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Climate Week: Bilingual Birding at Sunset Park, Mandarin-English
Saturday, September 26, 2026, 9:30am — 11:00am
Leader: Xinyi Zhang
Description: Join bird guide Xinyi Zhang for a Mandarin-English bilingual bird outing in the small but beautiful Sunset Park. This green space is known to provide breathtaking views of Manhattan, especially at sunset. A wide variety of birds have also been sighted here, including Brown-headed Cowbirds, Cedar Waxwings, and Common Nighthawks.
Registration: Registration page
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Climate Week: Accessible Birding at Carl Schurz Park
Saturday, September 26, 2026, 11:00am — 12:00pm
Leader: Alex Wang
Description: Found in the Upper East Side, Carl Schurz Park is a picturesque green space, with promenades, lawns, and peaceful sitting areas. Located right on the coast of the East River, this park offers beautiful sights and sounds of waterbirds, Warblers, sparrows, raptors, and more also use this park as a stopover during migration.
Registration: Registration page
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Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, September 26, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
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9th Annual Raptorama! at Jamaica Bay
Sunday, September 27, 2026, 10:00am — 2:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: It's that time of the year again, join us at Raptorama! Meet at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center to learn all about the birds of prey of Jamaica Bay. See some amazing raptors up close during two live demonstrations led by the Wildlife Center of Long Island. Program includes outings lead by partner organizations and park rangers to look at the raptors that traveling through Jamaica Bay on their fall migration. Park partners and other organizations will have family-friendly activities available at tables outside of the visitor center. Check back for the full program schedule!
Registration: No Registration Required.
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Intro to Birding @ 9th Annual Raptorama!
Sunday, September 27, 2026, 10:00am — 11:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join us as we kickoff the morning with an Intro to Birding outing at this year's Raptorama!
Registration: No Registration Required.
View Details

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North Fork Audubon Society

Inlet Pond County Park
Sunday, September 27, 2026, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Peggy Lauber
Description: Start your Sunday off with birds and nature! Join us for a weekend bird walk with our NFAS President, Peggy Lauber. We hope to spot some Yellow Warblers, Great Egret and Red-tailed Hawk. Open to everyone, no experience needed.
Registration: Registration Page
View Details

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North Shore Audubon Society

Valley Stream State Park
Saturday, September 26, 2026, 7:45am – 11:00am
Leader: Bobby (516) 578-6324
Description:
Registration: Limited registration. You must register via email to nsaudubonsociety@gmail.com, and you will receive a confirmation email. If you become unable to attend, please email to allow someone on the waiting list to take your slot.
View Details

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South Shore Audubon Society

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sunday, September 27, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Southern State Parkway, travel west to the Belt Parkway. Exit at Cross Bay Boulevard (Exit 17) south. Continue south on Cross Bay Blvd. through Howard Beach and over the North Channel Bridge (also known as the Congressman Joseph P. Addabbo Bridge). The entrance to the refuge parking lot is on the right side of the road, at a traffic light approximately one and a half miles past the bridge.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, September 26, 2026
Salt Marsh Saturday at Little Hell Gate Salt Marsh (in Randall's Island Park), Manhattan
9:00am–12:00pm
The marsh pathway gates will be open and our Natural Areas Team will be on site to answer questions, share facts and show off the unique species that call this ecosystem home.
Free

Birding: Fall Migration at Pelham Bay Nature Center (in Pelham Bay Park), Bronx
10:00am–11:30am
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Pelham Bay Park to look for fall migrants that include warblers, raptors and more!
Free

Sunday, September 27, 2026
Birding: Fall Migration at West 116th Street and Riverside Drive (in Riverside Park), Manhattan
1:00pm–2:30pm
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Riverside Park to look for fall migrants that include warblers, raptors and more!
Free

Best of the Fortnight

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 15:19:30 +0000

We had a bit of inclement weather during the start of the month, so not as many pics as usual. I did manage to get out some, so here is a selection of pics from the first two weeks of September.

Immature Red-tailed Hawk

Great Blue Heron

Hibiscus in the rain

Immature Red-tailed Hawk

Prairie Warbler

Great Crested Flycatcher

Scarlet Tanager

Olive-sided Flycatcher

Chestnut-sided Warbler

Monarch chrysalis

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Green Darner

Merlin

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 15:03:28 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, September 19 - Sunday, September 20, 2026:

Bedford Audubon Society

Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 11:00am - 2:00pm
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Join our team for a Field Trip to the Hawkwatch Platform and see what’s moving through the skies above our area. Naturalist Tait Johansson and Hawkwatch Counter Christine Waas will be on hand to help identify and explain the birds we see and provide some context for our observations. We’ll be watching for kettles of migrating raptors, along with other birds passing overhead, from this high vantage point above I-684, with sweeping views across the Arthur Butler Sanctuary and beyond to Long Island Sound. Learn how hawk migration is monitored and why long-term observations like these are important for understanding raptor populations and migration patterns. Come see if we can top last year’s numbers!
Registration: Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Moderate. Registration required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org or by calling 914-302-9713.
View Details

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Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory bird outing is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

Prospect Park Fall Migration Saturday Walks
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 7:30am
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Walks typically go into early afternoon or later if the birding is great. Bring water, snacks and/or a sandwich if you plan to stay the whole duration–but feel free to leave whenever you want.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

Terrell River County Park
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 8:00am (new date)
Leader: Brian Moldashel
Description: Meet at 8:00 am at the parking lot on the south side of Montauk Highway, opposite Kalers Pond in Center Moriches. We will walk the flat, wooded trails south to Moriches Bay and seek out migrating songbirds such as warblers and vireos, while also keeping our eyes out for all other kinds of wildlife in this rich and diverse park.
Registration: Please register with Brian Moldashel for this trip: brian.moldashel@gmail.com
View Details

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Freshkills Park Alliance

iNat Together at Freshkills Park
Sunday, September 20, 2026, 12:30pm - 2:30pm
Leader: Rangers
Description: iNaturalist Together is a global campaign to bring people together and explore local ecology. Join Bonnie Nygard, an AmeriCorps member at Freshkills Park and iNaturalist Ambassador, for a guided walk of North Park Phase One. Whether you are a lifelong naturalist or just getting started, this program is open to everyone.
Registration: Register via Eventbrite.
View Details

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Gateway National Parks

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Sunday at 10:30am from June 07, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Robert Moses Hawk Watch & Jones Beach WE
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 8:00am
Leader: Ken Thompson (631-612-8028) John Gluth (631-827-0120)
Description: Meet at Robert Moses State Park parking field #5 northeast corner. May require a parking fee.
Registration: Text or email to Vera Capogna 516-639-5430 vlvcap@yahoo.com
View Details

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Linnaean Society of New York

Central Park North End Fall Migration Walk
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Leader: Jeffrey Kimball
Description: Central Park is known as one of the best birding spots in the world, with the North Woods being its hidden gem. Join Jeffrey Kimball in exploring some of its hotspots, which could include the Great Hill, Children’s Glades, South and East Blowdown, Pool, Block House, Lily Ponds, Loch, Wildflower Meadow, Grassy Knoll, Nursery, Conservatory Garden or Harlem Meer (including the recently opened Davis Center). Jeff is the producer and director of Birders: The Central Park Effect, a documentary film that focuses on our beloved park. Jeff is also the former President of the Board of the NYC Bird Alliance.
Registration: Suzanne Zywicki — suzannezywicki@hotmail.com
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Sandy Hook Fall Migration
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Leader: Jason Denesevich
Description: Sandy Hook is one of New Jersey’s premier birding spots, with a wide variety of interesting habitats to explore, especially during spring and fall migrations. Three hundred sixty-five different species of birds have been reported here, 43 more than at New York state’s highest hotspot, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. The barrier spit is in a unique location separating lower New York Bay from the Atlantic Ocean and is an excellent location for shorebirds, terns, warblers, and flycatchers.
Registration: Matthew Fischer — matthewwfischer@gmail.com
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NYS State Young Birder’s Club Walk with LSNY on Governor’s Island
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Leader: https://www.govisland.com/
Description: Sponsoring NYSYBC Partner: The Linnaean Society of New York: 172-acre Governors Island is situated in the heart of New York Harbor. Just minutes from Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn waterfront and reachable only by ferry, this car-free and unique destination has a multitude of attractions including an award-winning park with dozens of historic buildings, year-round educational and cultural facilities, a rich arts and culture program, and a 22-acre National Monument managed by the National Park Service. A former Army and Coast Guard base, Governors Island is open to the public year-round.
Registration: Suzanne Zywicki — suzannezywicki@hotmail.com
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Beginners Birding Walk in Central Park’s North End
Sunday, September 20, 2026
Leader: Linda LaBella
Description: Central Park is one of the world’s premier birding spots, especially during spring and fall migrations, and we encourage first-time and beginning birders to join us on a fun, informative and casual field trip where you will learn the basics of birding: using binoculars, field guides, species ID, and birding etiquette. You will be introduced to simple identifying tools like field marks, bird behavior and birdsong. On a good day we’ll see migrating songbirds like warblers, sparrows, vireos and waterfowl. The walk begins and ends in the North End of Central Park at the Pool on the west side, one of the best birding habitats in the park, then typically proceeds along a stream called the Ravine with boardwalks and paved pathways. Appropriate shoes for walking on rass and dirt paths are strongly recommended. Remember to bring a pair of binoculars and your birding questions.
Registration: Catherine Ichord — catherine.ichord@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Birding in Clove Lakes Park, Staten Island
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 8:00am — 10:00pm
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Uncover Clove Lakes Park, a hidden gem nestled in Staten Island, known for its scenic lakes, lush woodlands, and diverse wildlife. Numerous warblers, vireos, tanagers, and other migratory songbirds can be seen here. Clove Lakes Park is home to one of the largest and oldest trees in NYC.
Registration: Registration page
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Birding along the QueensWay
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 9:30am — 11:00am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance and The Trust for Public Land as we explore the QueensWay through birding! The QueensWay is an intiative to transform the LIRR Rockaway Beach Branch that cuts through Forest Park into a new green space.
Registration: Registration page
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New York Botanical Garden Birding Tour
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 11:00am — 12:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance at New York Botanical Garden. Get to see some of NYBG’s diverse landscape and learn why this unique green space is such a vital haven for a great variety of species year-round. The tour will meet at the Reflecting Pool in the Native Plant Garden.
Registration: This tour is included in your admission to the Garden. Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
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NYCHA in Nature: Bushwick Houses
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 10:00am — 11:00am
Leader: _____
Description: NYCHA residents and nearby community members are invited to join NYC Bird Alliance for a morning of beginner-friendly birding to look and listen for birds! We'll slowly stroll through the Bushwick complex, focusing on easy ways to notice birds around us. No experience necessary! Binoculars are available to borrow. Snacks and water will be provided.
Registration: Registration page
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Fall Migration at Calvert Vaux Park
Sunday, September 20, 2026, 9:00am — 1:00pm
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance's Tod Winston on a hike around the wilds of Calvert Vaux Park, right at low tide, as we look for early fall migrants and lingering breeding birds. Cavert Vaux's combination of mudflats, scrubland and lovely vistas onto Coney and Staten Islands can provide a surprising assortment of birds—from waders to warblers to waterfowl.
Registration: Registration page
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Climate Week: Birding in Marine Park
Sunday, September 20, 2026, 9:00am — 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: It's Climate Week! Come explore the beauty of Brooklyn’s largest green space, Marine Park! Consisting of grassland and salt marshes, this park is habitat for a variety of migratory songbirds and waterbirds. This series is hosted in partnership with the Marine Park Alliance.
Registration: Registration page
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Climate Week: Fall Birding in Van Cortlandt Park
Sunday, September 20, 2026, 9:00am — 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance on a bird tour in one of the Bronx's largest green spaces. Participants will look for various species of resident and migrant birds and discuss a wide range of avian topics. This outing is held in partnership with Van Cortlandt Park Alliance.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

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North Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake State Park
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 7:45am – 11:00am
Leader: Bill C (516) 993-7340 & Bill B (516) 767-3454
Description: Hempstead Lake State Park, Meet at Field 3.
Registration: Limited registration. You must register via email to nsaudubonsociety@gmail.com, and you will receive a confirmation email. If you become unable to attend, please email to allow someone on the waiting list to take your slot.
View Details

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Queens County Bird Club

Forest Park
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 8:00am - 1:00pm
Leader: Nelson Pascuzzi (917) 676-8685
Description: Enjoy a jaunt through Forest Park, including a stop at the "Water Hole", which many returning warblers include in their itinerary.
Registration: You must contact the trip leader to register.
View Details

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South Shore Audubon Society

Point Lookout Town Park (and Lido Preserve afterwards)
Sunday, September 20, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Southern State Parkway, exit onto the Meadowbrook State Parkway south. Exit from the Meadowbrook at Loop Parkway (just before the Jones Beach toll booths) toward Point Lookout. The Loop Parkway ends west of Point Lookout at Lido Boulevard. Continue straight across Lido Boulevard into Point Lookout Park. Travel past the ticket booths and curve left into the very large parking lot on the south side of the park. Park in the southeast corner, closest to the private homes of the village of Point Lookout and the beach. We will walk east along the beach toward Jones Inlet. After returning to the parking lot, we will drive west on Lido Boulevard to Lido Beach Passive Nature Preserve on the north side of Lido Boulevard to walk through the bay marsh.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, September 19, 2026
Birding: Fall Migration at Vermont Place Parking Lot (in Highland Park), Queens
11:00am–12:30pm
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Highland Park to look for fall migrants that include warblers, raptors and more!
Free

Sunday, September 20, 2026
Raptor Fest at Foch Boulevard and 155th Street (in Baisley Pond Park), Queens
12:00pm–3:00pm
Experience the thrill of viewing New York’s premier predators live and up close, including eagles, falcons, owls, hawks, and more!
Free

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 14:08:19 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, September 12 - Sunday, September 13, 2026:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory bird outing is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

Prospect Park Fall Migration Saturday Walks
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 7:30am
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Walks typically go into early afternoon or later if the birding is great. Bring water, snacks and/or a sandwich if you plan to stay the whole duration–but feel free to leave whenever you want.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

Celebrating Migration on the 250th Anniversary of the Staten Island Peace Conference in Tottenville
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: We’ll combine history and birding on this walk (held the day after the actual anniversary date) with a visit to Conference House Park (formerly Billopp House Park) at the southern tip of Staten Island—the southernmost point in New York State and a renowned hotspot for fall bird migration.
Registration: Peter Dorosh Prosbird@gmail.com
View Details

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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

Terrell River County Park
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 8:00am
Leader: Brian Moldashel
Description: Meet at 8:00 am at the parking lot on the south side of Montauk Highway, opposite Kalers Pond in Center Moriches. We will walk the flat, wooded trails south to Moriches Bay and seek out migrating songbirds such as warblers and vireos, while also keeping our eyes out for all other kinds of wildlife in this rich and diverse park.
Registration: Please register with Brian Moldashel for this trip: brian.moldashel@gmail.com
View Details

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Gateway National Parks

Big Sit Birding at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 10:00am
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Birding and enjoying the outdoors should be a welcoming and inclusive activity for all people, and for that reason we welcome you to join us while we sit, watch, and listen for as many bird species as possible. People of all experience levels are invited, particularly people who are blind, partially sighted, have low vision, and/or mobility issues. We will be sitting on benches near our pollinator garden, adjacent to the visitor center. Sunscreen and bug spray recommended; binoculars available to borrow.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Sunday at 10:30am from June 07, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Wednesday, September 9, 2026, 6:30am – 8:30am
Description: Stop by this fall and you will see a variety of species passing through. By September, the offspring of summer’s nesting birds will be on their own. Returning warblers will be in their less flamboyant fall plumage. Catch a glimpse of spot blackbirds, flycatchers, sparrows, vireos, and swallows on the move. By October, be on the lookout for returning waterfowl and raptors heading south. And by November, overwintering feathered denizens return from the north.
View Details

Birding in Peace
Sunday, September 13, 2026, 6:30am – 8:30am
Description: Stop by this fall and you will see a variety of species passing through. By September, the offspring of summer’s nesting birds will be on their own. Returning warblers will be in their less flamboyant fall plumage. Catch a glimpse of spot blackbirds, flycatchers, sparrows, vireos, and swallows on the move. By October, be on the lookout for returning waterfowl and raptors heading south. And by November, overwintering feathered denizens return from the north.
View Details

Birding in Peace: Late-Risers Edition (Members Only)
Sunday, September 13, 2026, 10:00am – 11:30pm
Description: If you’ve always wanted to go on a birding tour at Green-Wood but aren’t much of a morning person, this tour is for you! The early bird-er might get the worm, but you can birdwatch at any hour. Join birding expert Rob Jett and a small group of fellow members to roam the grounds while hearing and seeing the many feathered friends of Green-Wood.
View Details

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Hudson River Audubon Society

Lenoir Nature Preserve
Saturday, September12, 2026, 8:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: Fall warblers and other migrants. Meet at the Lenoir Nature Center, 19 Dudley St, Yonkers.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details

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Linnaean Society of New York

Green-Wood Cemetery
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: Situated along the Harbor Hill Terminal Moraine in Brooklyn, this 478-acre National Historic Landmark features hills, valleys, and kettle ponds. Green-Wood Cemetery is a magnet for migrating birds, which makes perfect sense given the more than 500 species of woody plants that qualify it for Class III Arboretum status—one of only 31 in the world. In addition to spotting numerous songbirds, we’ll visit the hawk-watch hill north of the Civil War Monument—a great vantage point to scan for migrating raptors. Thirteen species of raptor, plus both vultures, have been recorded at the cemetery.
Registration: Gillian Henry — gillian.henry@gmail.com
View Details

Fall Migration in St. Nicholas and Jackie Robinson Parks
Sunday, September 13, 2026
Leader: Elijah Shiffer
Description: Expand your Manhattan birding range beyond Central Park and join trip leader, Elijah Shiffer, as we explore his local patch, St. Nicholas Park. The approximately 23-acre park is located in upper Manhattan at the intersection of St. Nicholas Avenue, 127th Street, St. Nicholas Terrace and 141st Street, bordering the neighborhoods of Hamilton Heights, Manhattanville, and Harlem. While relatively under-birded, eBird reports 115 species observed in the park, including a variety of warblers and sparrows. The park can also be a stopping point for Monarch butterflies during their Fall migration as they are attracted to the butterfly bushes which can be found there. We also plan to visit Jackie Robinson Park, one of four spaces designated an Historic Harlem Park, located four blocks north of St. Nicholas.
Registration: Suzanne Zywicki — suzannezywicki@hotmail.com
View Details

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NYC Bird Alliance

Intro to Birding in Marine Park
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 9:00am — 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Explore the beauty of Brooklyn’s largest green space, Marine Park! Consisting of grassland and salt marshes, this park is habitat for a variety of migratory songbirds and waterbirds. This series is hosted in partnership with the Marine Park Alliance.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Rockaway Community Bird Outing
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 10:00am — 11:30pm
Leader: Russell Jacobs
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance to explore the Rockaways, a vital habitat for shorebirds year-round, with our final FREE community bird outing. In the summer, these beaches provide crucial nesting grounds for shorebirds like Piping Plovers, Least Terns, and Black Skimmers, while in the fall, becoming important foraging habitat for sandpipers and other shorebirds making their way south.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Intro to Birding in Crotona Park
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 10:00am — 11:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance this spring to explore beautiful Crotona Park. Its meadows, flowering trees, and sizable pool provide excellent habitats for a variety of birds, including woodpeckers, warblers, and wading birds.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

New York Botanical Garden Birding Tour
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 11:00am — 12:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance at New York Botanical Garden. Get to see some of NYBG’s diverse landscape and learn why this unique green space is such a vital haven for a great variety of species year-round. The tour will meet at the Reflecting Pool in the Native Plant Garden.
Registration: This tour is included in your admission to the Garden. Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis.
View Details

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Birding in East Harlem
Sunday, September 13, 2026, 10:00am — 11:00am
Leader: EsplanadeFriends
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance and EsplanadeFriends to discover the East Harlem Esplanade and its adjacent green spaces. Expect to see many water birds right off the coast.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

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North Shore Audubon Society

Tackapausha Preserve
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 9:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Kris Long (631) 921-1880
Description
Registration: Limited registration. You must register via email to nsaudubonsociety@gmail.com, and you will receive a confirmation email. If you become unable to attend, please email to allow someone on the waiting list to take your slot.
View Details

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Queens County Bird Club

Alley Pond Park
Sunday, September 13, 2026, 7:45am - 12:15pm
Leader: Eric Miller (917) 279-7530
Description: This min-trip includes the forested areas of Alley Pond Park south of the Long Island Expressway. Meet at the east end of the 76th Ave. parking lot - see map.
Registration: You must contact the trip leader to register.
View Details

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South Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake State Park
Sunday, September 13, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Southern State Parkway, take Exit 18 (Eagle Avenue) south to Field 3 (use second park entrance and make an immediate left turn.)
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Sunday, September 13, 2026
Fall Birding at Wave Hill, Bronx
9:30am–11:00am
Fall is peak migration time along the Hudson River, and we have a front seat!
Free

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 17:35:43 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, September 5 - Monday, September 7, 2026:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, September 5, 2026, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory bird outing is for you. Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to learn the basics of birding and search for the dozens of species that visit Prospect Park through all seasons.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

Prospect Park Fall Migration Saturday Walks
Saturday, September 5, 2026, 7:30am
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Walks typically go into early afternoon or later if the birding is great. Bring water, snacks and/or a sandwich if you plan to stay the whole duration–but feel free to leave whenever you want.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

Sunday Bird Outing
Sunday, September 6, 2026
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club to explore Prospect Park in search of the many bird species found throughout the year. Along the way, you’ll learn about the park’s diverse habitats, the birds that depend on them, and seasonal highlights.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

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Gateway National Parks
"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Sunday at 10:30am from June 07, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Linnaean Society of New York

Mushroom Exploration Walk in Van Cortlandt Park
Saturday, September 5, 2026
Leader: Paul Sadowski
Description: Van Cortlandt Park offers various habitats for mushroom exploration. We will walk along marshy areas, fens, lawns, woodlands, and ponds, searching for several types of fungi. We recommend that you bring a hand lens with about 10X magnification. However, you may be able to borrow one from our leader, an instructor in mycology, and a longtime member of the New York Mycological Society.
Registration: Debbie Mullins — deborramullins3@gmail.com
View Details

Staten Island Early Fall Migrants and Sea Watch
Sunday, September 6, 2026
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Join longtime birder and Staten Island resident Anthony Ciancimino for a tour around the south and east shores of the island. We will start at the Great Kills Park bathhouse, where we will have a seawatch (conditions permitting). Here, we can see a variety of waterbirds, such as gulls, terns, and possibly even Brown Pelicans. From there, we will explore the nearby trails for migrating warblers and other songbirds. Depending on activity, we will then move on to check the marshes, where we can see a great variety of wading birds, such as egrets and ibis, as well as shorebirds. There are a plethora of locations on the island we can check, so Anthony will discern which areas will be best on the day of the event. Please wear comfortable shoes, as we will walk on beaches and rocky terrain at times, totalling a few miles or so.
Registration: Matthew Fischer — matthewwfischer@gmail.com
View Details

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NYC Bird Alliance

Accessible Birding in Fort Tryon Park
Saturday, September 5, 2026, 11:00am — 12:00pm
Leader: Alex Wang
Description: Fort Tryon Park offers stunning views of the Palisades and Hudson River from its soaring cliffs of bedrock. Spanning 67 acres, the park features many well-paved walkways designed to accommodate a wide range of mobility needs for birders with stroller, wheelchair, walker, cane, and other mobility aids.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Governors Island Bird Tour
Sunday, September 5, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Intro to Birding in Prospect Park
Sunday, September 6, 2026, 8:30am — 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Are you curious about birding but don’t have much (or any) experience? Join NYC Bird Alliance in Prospect Park, Brooklyn's backyard! This is the perfect time to learn the basics, at the start of fall migration. Binoculars available upon request.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

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South Shore Audubon Society

Oceanside Marine Nature Study Area
Saturday, September 5, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From Sunrise Highway in Rockville Centre, turn onto Long Beach Road, traveling south. Proceed to Waukena Avenue and turn left. From this point onward, there are brown signs directing visitors to the sanctuary. Turn right onto Park Avenue (at a traffic light), then turn left onto Golf Drive. Continue on Golf Drive to Slice Drive, turn right, and proceed one short block into the sanctuary.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

Jones Beach Coast Guard Station Parking Area
Sunday, September 6, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Wantagh State Parkway, travel south. Upon entering Jones Beach State Park, exit at Bay Drive and continue west. Turn right (north) at entrance for Coast Guard Station and West End Boat Basin; turn right again for parking.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Sunday, September 6, 2026
Birding: Urban Birds and Fall Migration at Dred Scott Bird Sanctuary (in Grant Park), Bronx
1:00pm–2:30pm
Join the Urban Park Rangers for an introduction to urban birds at the beginning of the fall migration! We’ll explore the recently renovated Grant Park and the Dred Scott Bird Sanctuary.
Free

Best of the Fortnight

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 12:17:00 +0000

Another selection of my favorite shots. These were taken during the second two weeks of August, 2026:

Twelve-spotted Skimmer

Osprey

Young Gray Catbird

Dog Day Cicada

Young Brown Thrasher

Red-tailed Hawk

Monarch caterpillar eating Butterfly Weed

Clouded Sulphur ('alba' form)

Common Buckeye

Memorial for a young child

Young Wood Ducks

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Chinese Mantis

Spot-winged Glider

Solitary Sandpiper stalking dragonfly

Painted Lady butterfly

Bald Eagle

Young Red-tailed Hawk with pigeon

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Spotted Sandpiper

Groundhog dining

Striped Skunk

Cooper's Hawk

American Goldfinch

Sleeping Black-and-white Warbler

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 19:37:40 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, August 29 - Sunday, August 30, 2026:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Late Summer’s Nature Bounty in Green-wood Cemetery
Saturday, August 29, 2026
Leader: Matthew Wills
Description: An early fall migration outing focusing on warblers, flycatchers, orioles, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, late breeders, and other early migrant passerines, while also observing insects, butterflies, and other natural highlights.
Registration: No registration necessary.
View Details

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Gateway National Parks
"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Sunday at 10:30 AM from June 07, 2026 to August 30, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, August 30, 2026, 6:30am – 8:00am
Description: Stop by this fall and you will see a variety of species passing through. By September, the offspring of summer’s nesting birds will be on their own. Returning warblers will be in their less flamboyant fall plumage. Catch a glimpse of spot blackbirds, flycatchers, sparrows, vireos, and swallows on the move. By October, be on the lookout for returning waterfowl and raptors heading south. And by November, overwintering feathered denizens return from the north.
View Details

Bee the Solution: Community Science with The Bee Conservancy at Green-Wood
Sunday, August 30, 2026, 10:00am – 11:00am
Description: We invite you to join The Bee Conservancy at the Green-Wood Cemetery for an adventure in community science. During this hands-on event, you will capture images of wild bees and other insects, then edit and upload them to the iNaturalist app using your smartphone.
View Details

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Linnaean Society of New York

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, August 29, 2026
Leader: Richard ZainEldeen
Description: The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge includes over 12,600 acres of salt marshes, freshwater and brackish-water ponds, upland fields and woods, an open bay, and islands. It is one of the most significant bird habitats in the northeastern United States and a great place to observe seasonal bird migration and resident species. This walk will likely include visiting the East Pond, which may require mud boots to navigate comfortably.
Registration: Christina Black — christina.black50@gmail.com
View Details

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NYC Bird Alliance

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, August 29, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

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South Shore Audubon Society

Massapequa Preserve
Sunday, August 30, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From Sunrise Highway, turn north onto Broadway, Massapequa. Travel under the Long Island Rail Road overpass, then make the first right onto Veterans Boulevard (headed east). Go past the Massapequa train station and into the parking lot at the east end of the station. The preserve is directly east of the parking lot.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, August 29, 2026
Summer on the Hudson: Birding Tour at 116th Street and Riverside Drive (in Riverside Park), Manhattan
8:00am–10:00am
Monthly walks through birding hotspots in Riverside Park, led by Riverside Park Conservancy Field Staff.
Free

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 15:49:55 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, August 22 - Sunday, August 23, 2026:

Gateway National Parks
"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Sunday at 10:30 AM from June 07, 2026 to August 30, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Hudson River Audubon Society

Butterfly Walk - Lenoir Nature Preserve
Sunday, August 22, 2026, 10:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: Meet at the Nature Center at 10 AM. 19 Dudley Street, Yonkers. We will walk to the Beverly Smith Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden and search for caterpillars and butterflies. Learn about their life cycle and other interesting facts.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details

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NYC Bird Alliance

Rockaway Community Bird Outing
Saturday, August 22, 2026, 10:00am — 11:30am
Leader: Russell Jacobs
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance to explore the Rockaways, a vital habitat for shorebirds year-round, with a FREE community bird outing. In the summer, these beaches provide crucial nesting grounds for shorebirds like Piping Plovers, Least Terns, and Black Skimmers, while in the fall, becoming important foraging habitat for sandpipers and other shorebirds making their way south.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, August 22, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

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South Shore Audubon Society

Mill Pond Park
Sunday, August 23, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: Use street parking on the westbound side of Merrick Road. The park is four blocks west of the Wantagh State Parkway. Meet at the gazebo.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, August 22, 2026
Birding: Shorebird Migration at Entrance - Beach 44th Street and Boardwalk (in Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk), Queens
10:00am–11:30am
Learn more about plovers, terns, oystercatchers and other shorebirds that migrate to Rockaway Beach every year.
Free

Best of the Fortnight

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 12:35:30 +0000

Here are my favorite photos that I took during the first two weeks of August, 2026. Enjoy.

Red-tailed Hawk fledging

Immature Bald Eagle

Eastern Kingbird

Great Blue Heron

Groundhog sniffing the air

Leaf Cutter Bee at Franklin tree

Sleepy Raccoon

Young male Wood Duck

Northern House Wren carrying food

Osprey

Striped Sweat Bee on Butterfly Weed

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail

Young Red-tailed Hawk with rat

American Kestrel

Red-tailed Hawk eating grasshopper

Cicada Killer Wasp

Italian Wall Lizard

Common Buckeye

Spicebush Swallowtail

Sachem Skipper on Ironweed

Young Gray Catbird

Black-and-white Warbler

Twelve-spotted Skimmer

Solitary Sandpiper

Familiar Silhouette

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 12:18:48 +0000

Common Raven

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 14:42:18 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, August 15 - Sunday, August 16, 2026:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Southbound Shorebirds Passing Through Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: The peak wave of shorebirds and water birds, terns, marsh species.
Registration: Peter Dorosh, prosbird@gmail.com
View Details

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Gateway National Parks
"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Sunday at 10:30 AM from June 07, 2026 to August 30, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

21st Annual Shorebird Festival
Sunday, August 16, 2026, 10:00am - 2:00pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Celebrate Jamaica Bay's shorebirds with a free, fun-filled event for birders of all skill levels! Take part in guided birding walks, informational talks and family-friendly activities.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace: Late-Risers Edition (Members Only)
Sunday, August 16, 2026, 10:00am – 11:30pm
Description: If you’ve always wanted to go on a birding tour at Green-Wood but aren’t much of a morning person, this tour is for you! The early bird-er might get the worm, but you can birdwatch at any hour. Join birding expert Rob Jett and a small group of fellow members to roam the grounds while hearing and seeing the many feathered friends of Green-Wood.
View Details

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Hudson River Audubon Society

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sunday, August 16, 2026, 8:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: Wear foot wear that can get muddy and wet. We will walk the edge of the East Pond for shorebirds. Arrive early as this is the same day a the Shorebird Festival.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details

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NYC Bird Alliance

Rockaway Community Bird Outing
Saturday, August 15, 2026, 10:00am — 11:30am
Leader: Russell Jacobs
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance to explore the Rockaways, a vital habitat for shorebirds year-round, with a FREE community bird outing. In the summer, these beaches provide crucial nesting grounds for shorebirds like Piping Plovers, Least Terns, and Black Skimmers, while in the fall, becoming important foraging habitat for sandpipers and other shorebirds making their way south.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, August 15, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

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Queens County Bird Club

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, August 15, 2026, 7:45am - 12:15pm
Leader: Eric Miller (917) 279-7530
Description: This is expected to be a "mini trip" covering Jamaica National Wildlife Refuge, both East and West Ponds, and perhaps other nearby hotspots. Please confirm with trip leader whether packing a lunch is necessary.
Registration: You must contact the trip leader to register.
View Details

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South Shore Audubon Society

Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve
Sunday, August 16, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Meadowbrook Parkway, use the Merrick Road M9 east exit. Enter the Department of Sanitation entrance immediately on right (if you’re driving west on Merrick Road, make a U-turn after Central Boulevard and before the Meadowbrook Parkway). Look for signs to Levy Park and Preserve parking lot.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, August 15, 2026
Kid Birding at Margaret Corbin Circle (in Fort Tryon Park), Manhattan
10:00am–11:00am
Join naturalist Alexandra Wang for a family-friendly birding adventure in Fort Tryon Park! Discover local birds, learn ID skills, and explore nature together.
Free

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 13:50:49 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, August 8 - Sunday, August 9, 2026:

Freshkills Park Alliance

Bird Tour at Freshkills Park
Saturday, August 8, 2026, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Rangers
Description: Join the Freshkills Park Alliance for a birding walk through North Park Phase 1 to North Mound and back. On this two-hour walk, we'll look for and learn about the many different species of birds that visit and call Freshkills Park home.
Registration: Register via Eventbrite.
View Details

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Gateway National Parks
"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Sunday at 10:30 AM from June 07, 2026 to August 30, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, August 9, 2026, 6:00am – 7:30pm
Description: Before our gates open to the public, this early morning walking tour provides special access to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home, some temporarily. Throughout the season, you’ll witness an ever-changing display of wildlife. April brings pine warblers, woodpeckers, and thousands of migrating songbirds among the blooming magnolias and dogwoods, while herons gather at the glacial ponds. May and early June offer peak birding with over 163 species passing through, including ruby-throated hummingbirds and wood warblers. Summer sees young red-tailed hawks taking flight, along with abundant butterflies and dragonflies. By late July, the first migratory birds begin their journey south.
View Details

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NYC Bird Alliance

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, August 8, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, August 8, 2026
Salt Marsh Saturday at Little Hell Gate Salt Marsh (in Randall's Island Park), Manhattan
9:00am–12:00pm
The marsh pathway gates will be open and our Natural Areas Team will be on site to answer questions, share facts and show off the unique species that call this ecosystem home.
Free

Birding: Hawk Watch at Avenue A and St. Marks Place (in Tompkins Square Park), Manhattan
1:00pm–2:00pm
New York City is home to an amazing abundance of wildlife. Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in the urban jungle.
Free

Best of the Fortnight (extended edition)

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 19:47:44 +0000

It has been a while since my last fortnight posting, so decided to make this a double. Went out of town, so some of the pics are not from NYC and vicinity. Enjoy:

Juvenile Bald Eagle

Fledgling Red-tailed Hawk & stranger

Nestling Red-tailed & mom

First summer Glaucous Gull

Common Tern

Fledgling Northern Mockingbird

Osprey with fish

Fledgling Eastern House Wren

Immature Chipping Sparrow

Nestling Red-tailed Hawk

Nestling Red-tailed Hawks sharing food

Young Groundhogs

Bald Eagle calling

Kestrel & flicker conflict

Eastern Bluebird

Field Sparrow

Blue Grosbeak

Pipevine Swallowtail on teasel

Turkey Vulture

Nestling Red-tailed Hawks

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail

Screaming Immature Red-tailed Hawk

Fledgling Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Nestling Red-tailed Hawks

Fledgling Northern Mockingbird

Laughing Gull

Osprey on Parachute Jump

Red-tailed Hawks ready to fledge

Eastern House Wren calling

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 18:45:30 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, July 4 - Sunday, July 5, 2026:

Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, July 5, 2026, 6:00am – 7:30pm
Description: Before our gates open to the public, this early morning walking tour provides special access to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home, some temporarily. Throughout the season, you’ll witness an ever-changing display of wildlife. April brings pine warblers, woodpeckers, and thousands of migrating songbirds among the blooming magnolias and dogwoods, while herons gather at the glacial ponds. May and early June offer peak birding with over 163 species passing through, including ruby-throated hummingbirds and wood warblers. Summer sees young red-tailed hawks taking flight, along with abundant butterflies and dragonflies. By late July, the first migratory birds begin their journey south.
View Details

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Linnaean Society of New York

Staten Island, Purple Martins Plus
Sunday, July 5, 2026
Leader: Seth Wollney
Description: On this summer trip to Staten Island, we will visit several areas with nesting birds, which may include Bank Swallows at Great Kills Park, Purple Martins at Lemon Creek, and possible Clapper Rails, Little Blue Herons, and other marsh birds at Oakwood Beach Tidal Marsh. Another possible park is Mount Loretto Unique Area for nesting Bald Eagles, plus Willow Flycatchers, Orchard Orioles and Indigo Buntings. There will also be opportunities to observe a variety of butterflies and odonates.
Registration: Lisa Kroop — lisakroop2@gmail.com
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Sunday, July 5, 2026
Birding: Beginner Birding at 165th Street and Edgecombe Avenue (in Highbridge Park), Manhattan
1:00pm–2:30pm
Learn a new skill and take up a new hobby as we help you identify some of the most common birds found in our parks.
Free

Best of the Fortnight

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 18:03:51 +0000

Here are my best photos taken during the second two weeks of June 2026. Let me know in the comments if you like them.

Monk Parakeet

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Italian Wall Lizard

Baltimore Oriole feeding nestling

Magnolia Warbler

Northern House Wren fledglings

Eastern Tailed Blue

Red-tailed Hawk chicks

Brown Thrasher with food for young

Red-tailed Hawk fledgling

Young Bald Eagle

Young Striped Skunk

Coneflower Mining Bee

Bumblebee on Mountain Mint

Fledgling Mourning Dove

Cedar Waxwing chick in need of rescue

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:27:44 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, June 27 - Sunday, June 28, 2026:

Gateway National Parks
Birding for Beginners at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, June 27, 2026, 2:00pm — 3:30pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Interested in birds, but feel intimidated about getting into birding? No problem, this is birding for beginners! Together we will take a nature walk, talk about what makes Jamaica Bay such a great place for birds, and give you the tools to learn the basics of bird identification and appreciation. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended, binoculars available.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Sunday at 10:30 AM from June 07, 2026 to June 28, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, June 28, 2026, 6:00am – 7:30pm
Description: Before our gates open to the public, this early morning walking tour provides special access to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home, some temporarily. Throughout the season, you’ll witness an ever-changing display of wildlife. April brings pine warblers, woodpeckers, and thousands of migrating songbirds among the blooming magnolias and dogwoods, while herons gather at the glacial ponds. May and early June offer peak birding with over 163 species passing through, including ruby-throated hummingbirds and wood warblers. Summer sees young red-tailed hawks taking flight, along with abundant butterflies and dragonflies. By late July, the first migratory birds begin their journey south.
View Details

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Hudson River Audubon Society

Nickerson Beach, Lido Beach NY
Sunday, June 28, 2026, 7:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: Look for nesting Piping Plover, American Oystercatcher and Black Skimmer.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
View Details

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Huntington-Oyster Bay Audubon Society

Caumsett State Park - Huntington, NY
Saturday, June 27, 2026 - 7:00am
Leader: Roxana
Description: Join Roxana from the Huntington Oyster Bay Audubon Society for a guided morning bird walk at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve. The bird walk will run approximately 1.5 hours. All ages and birding skill levels are welcome! Please bring binoculars if you have them.
Registration: Registration page
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"Birds & Bugs" at the Cranberry Bog Nature Preserve
Sunday, June 28, 2026 - 9:00am
Leader: Dr. Coby Klein
Description: This former cranberry farm in Riverhead is now home to a variety of rare plant and insect species that can be found on Long Island only in the Pine Barrens.
Registration: Call Dr. Coby Klein 585-880-0915 to register in advance.
View Details

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NYC Bird Alliance

Birding in Midtown Esplanade
Saturday, June 27, 2026, 10:00 am — 11:30am
Leader: EsplanadeFriends
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance and EsplanadeFriends to discover the Esplanade and its adjacent green spaces. Expect to see many water birds right off the coast.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, June 27, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, June 27, 2026
Summer on the Hudson: Birding Tour at 116th Street and Riverside Drive (in Riverside Park), Manhattan
8:00am–10:00am
Monthly walks through birding hotspots in Riverside Park, led by Riverside Park Conservancy Field Staff.
Free

Best of the Fortnight

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 17:36:57 +0000

Here are my personal favorites taken during the first two weeks of June 2026. Comment always appreciated.

Female Blackburnian Warbler

Ruby-throated Hummingbird on nest

Bald Eagle yelling at me

Groundhog peeking

Gray Squirrel napping

Turkey Vulture molting

Pollock-like pond surface

Juvenile Bald Eagle

Red-bellied Woodpecker bringing food to nest

Great Crested Flycatcher calling

Red-tailed Hawk lifting off

Black-crowned Night-Heron

Kestrel harassing Red-tailed Hawk

Northern House Wren at nest

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 15:34:33 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, June 20 - Sunday, June 21, 2026:

Bedford Audubon Society

Field Trip to Fahnestock State Park
Saturday, June 20, 2026, 7:30am - 12:30pm
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Join Naturalist Tait Johansson for a morning of birding in the scenic forests, lakes, and trails of Fahnestock State Park. June is a wonderful time to explore this expansive natural area. We'll search for a variety of forest species while enjoying the park's diverse habitats and beautiful summer landscapes. Whether you're an experienced birder or just getting started, this outing offers a rewarding opportunity to connect with nature and discover the rich birdlife of the Hudson Highlands.
Registration: Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Moderate. Registration required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org or by calling 914-302-9713.
View Details

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Brooklyn Bird Club

Summer Insects at East Arverne in Far Rockaway
Saturday, June 20, 2026
Leader: Rusty Harold
Description: Explore native pollinator meadows and coastal maritime dunes and habitat for insects, butterflies, and dragonflies in this delightful haven at the Far Rockaway nature center and preserve.
Registration: Peter Dorosh, prosbird@gmail.com
View Details

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Gateway National Parks

"Ranger's Choice" Guided Walk at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Every week on Sunday at 10:30 AM from June 07, 2026 to June 28, 2026
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join us for a park ranger-led program highlighting the nature and history of Jamaica Bay. For more information about a week's tour, call the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at 718-318-4340.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

Birding for Beginners at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sunday, June 21, 2026, 2:00pm — 3:30pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Interested in birds, but feel intimidated about getting into birding? No problem, this is birding for beginners! Together we will take a nature walk, talk about what makes Jamaica Bay such a great place for birds, and give you the tools to learn the basics of bird identification and appreciation. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended, binoculars available.
Registration: Reservation or Registration: No
View Details

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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, June 21, 2026, 6:00am – 7:30pm
Description: Before our gates open to the public, this early morning walking tour provides special access to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home, some temporarily. Throughout the season, you’ll witness an ever-changing display of wildlife. April brings pine warblers, woodpeckers, and thousands of migrating songbirds among the blooming magnolias and dogwoods, while herons gather at the glacial ponds. May and early June offer peak birding with over 163 species passing through, including ruby-throated hummingbirds and wood warblers. Summer sees young red-tailed hawks taking flight, along with abundant butterflies and dragonflies. By late July, the first migratory birds begin their journey south.
View Details

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NYC Bird Alliance

Intro to Birding in Marine Park
Saturday, June 20, 2026, 9:00 am — 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Explore the beauty of Brooklyn’s largest green space, Marine Park! Consisting of grassland and salt marshes, this park is habitat for a variety of migratory songbirds and waterbirds. This series is hosted in partnership with the Marine Park Alliance.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, June 20, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Upcoming Trips

noreply@blogger.com (Rob Jett) — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 15:37:35 +0000

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, June 13 - Sunday, June 14, 2026:

Bedford Audubon Society

Field Trip to Bashakill + Shawangunks
Saturday, June 13, 2026, 7:30am - 2:00pm
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Join us for a day of birding at two of New York's premier birding destinations: Bashakill Wildlife Management Area and Shawangunk Grasslands. Led by Naturalist Tait Johansson, we'll explore a remarkable variety of habitats, from marshlands to woodlands to expansive grasslands, in search of nesting birds and summer specialties. June is an excellent time to visit both sites, offering opportunities to observe a diverse array of species while enjoying some of the Hudson Valley's most productive birding hotspots.
Registration: Cost: Free. Level of Difficulty: Moderate. Registration required by emailing Susan at info@bedfordaudubon.org or by calling 914-302-9713.
View Details

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Brooklyn Bird Club

Beach Nesters of Nickerson Beach (Lido Beach, Long Island)
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Leader: Tom Stephenson
Description: Join one of NYC’s top birders exploring an exceptional shorebird and tern breeding location. Bring a camera and enjoy watching beach nesters in the sunshine as you relax, learn, and take in the beauty of these coastal birds.
Registration: Adelia Honeywood email honeywood5@yahoo.com
View Details

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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

ELIAS & South Fork Natural History Museum
Sunday, June 14, 2026, 8:00am
Leader: Brian Moldashel
Description: SoFo & ELIAS join together for the Eric Salzman Memorial Walk. Meet at 8:00 am near the trail head, for a walk along the mowed path around open fields and the bordering woods. The approximately 1.5 mile walk will allow us to hear and see nesting warblers and other song birds.
Registration: Please register with South Fork Natural History Museum on their website: Eric Salzman Memorial Walk
View Details

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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, June 14, 2026, 6:00am – 7:30pm
Description: Before our gates open to the public, this early morning walking tour provides special access to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home, some temporarily. Throughout the season, you’ll witness an ever-changing display of wildlife. April brings pine warblers, woodpeckers, and thousands of migrating songbirds among the blooming magnolias and dogwoods, while herons gather at the glacial ponds. May and early June offer peak birding with over 163 species passing through, including ruby-throated hummingbirds and wood warblers. Summer sees young red-tailed hawks taking flight, along with abundant butterflies and dragonflies. By late July, the first migratory birds begin their journey south.
View Details

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Linnaean Society of New York

Van Cortlandt Park Nature Walk: Birds, Butterflies, and Insects
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Leader: Ken Chaya
Description: Van Cortlandt Park is New York City’s third largest green space. It contains a variety of natural habitats within its 1,146 acres, including woodlands, marshes, meadows, and a lake. Here, we will search for Green Herons, Mute Swans, Red-winged Blackbirds, Tree Swallows, Eastern Wood-Pewees, Double-crested Cormorants, Great Egrets, Gray Catbirds, and Northern Flickers. We will also search for dragonflies and damselflies, including the Ebony Jewelwing, beetles such as the Net-winged Beetle, butterflies including the Banded Hairstreaks, and one of our prime target species, the Silvery Checkerspot butterfly. These species are only a fraction of the bird and insect species encountered during past Linnaean walks. Attendees should bring lunch, water, and insect and sun protection. There is a restroom at the beginning of our walk and another about halfway through the park with a water fountain.
Registration: Dom Ricci — domricci@gmail.com
View Details

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NYC Bird Alliance

Breeding Birds of Inwood Hill Park
Saturday, June 13, 2026, 7:30 am — 11:30am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Come explore the varied habitats of Northern Manhattan’s Inwood Hill Park on an early morning hike. This lovely park's mature forest and open meadows attract nesting species such as Wood Thrush, Hairy Woodpecker, and both Baltimore and Orchard Orioles, while its salt marsh and mudflats draw nesting ducks and foraging herons and shorebirds.
Registration: Registration page
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Spring Birding at Kissena Park
Saturday, June 13, 2026, 9:30 am — 11:00am
Leader: _____
Description: Join us as we explore the beautiful Kissena Park in Queens. This green space contains a wide variety of trees as well as a lake that make great habitat for migrating and resident birds alike.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Queens Botanical Garden Birding
Saturday, June 13, 2026, 930 am — 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Explore Queens Botanical Garden in search of migrants and learn about the resources the Garden offers to birds and other wildlife. These outings are held in partnership with the Queens Botanical Garden.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, June 13, 2026, 2:15pm — 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Did you know that nearly 240 bird species have been spotted on Governors Island? Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover what makes this island an excellent place for birding.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Spring Birding in Van Cortlandt Park
Sunday, June 14, 2026, 9:00am — 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance on a bird tour in one of the Bronx's largest green spaces. Participants will look for various species of resident and migrant birds and discuss a wide range of avian topics. This outing is held in partnership with Van Cortlandt Park Alliance.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

A Greenbelt Walk on the Yellow and Blue Trails
Sunday, June 14, 2026, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Leader: Don Recklies
Description: Meet in the High Rock Park parking lot at the end of Nevada Avenue. We’ll make a loop passing Pumphouse Pond and Hourglass Pond to see what growing things summer has brought us. We will return by way of Orbach Lake.
Registration: For more information call Don Recklies at (646) 675-5787.
View Details

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Queens County Bird Club

Nickerson Beach
Saturday, June 13, 2026, 7:30am - 12:30pm
Leader: Mike Zito (516) 507-9419
Description: The first part of this trip is Nickerson Beach, where we will view various species of terns, hopefully some that are rare to our area. Common Terns, which nest on this beach, will be abundant. If you are ready for more birding afterwards, head over to the Marine Nature Study Area in Oceanside, where we will look for Seaside and Saltmarsh sparrows, as well as wading birds. Ian Resnick will lead wherever we go afterwards.
Registration: You must contact the trip leader to register.
View Details

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South Shore Audubon Society

Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve
Sunday, June 14, 2026
Leader: Members of SSAS
Description: From the Meadowbrook Parkway, use the Merrick Road M9 east exit. Enter the Department of Sanitation entrance immediately on right (if you’re driving west on Merrick Road, make a U-turn after Central Boulevard and before the Meadowbrook Parkway). Look for signs to Levy Park and Preserve parking lot.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details

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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, June 13, 2026
Salt Marsh Saturday at Little Hell Gate Salt Marsh (in Randall's Island Park), Manhattan
9:00am–12:00pm
The marsh pathway gates will be open and our Natural Areas Team will be on site to answer questions, share facts and show off the unique species that call this ecosystem home.
Free
Birding: Shorebird Families at Entrance - Beach 44th Street and Boardwalk (in Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk), Queens
11:00am–12:30pm
New York City is home to an amazing abundance of wildlife. Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in the urban jungle.
Free

Sunday, June 14, 2026
Birding: Hawk Watch at Unisphere (in Flushing Meadows Corona Park), Queens
10:00am–11:30am
Experience the majesty of NYC’s top aerial predator. Join us to learn about Red-Tailed Hawks and other raptors of NYC and hopefully catch a glimpse of a nesting pair.
Free