Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, November 14 - Sunday, November 15, 2026:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, November 14, 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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Pre-Thanksgiving Birding in Prospect Park
Sunday, November 15, 2026, 8:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Tina Alleva
Description: In this transitory period of fall to winter birds, the walk focuses on early typical late autumnal species, namely finches, chickadees, woodpeckers, nuthatches, creeper, wrens, ducks and other waterfowl, plus occasional raptors.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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Freshkills Park Alliance

Nature Walk
Sunday, November 15, 2026, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Rangers
Description: Join us for a 2+ mile walk through Freshkills Park, where spectacular views await!
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 November 29, 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
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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Morton National Wildlife Reserve
Saturday, November 14, 2026, 9:00am - 5:00pm
Leader: Bob Grover (516) 318-8536, Ken Thompson (631) 612-8028
Description: Sunrise Highway east past Shinnecock Canal. Look for a North Sea Road Noyack sign and bear left on CR52. Stay on CR52 and then turn left at light onto CR38. After 1.4 miles on CR38, turn right onto Noyack Road after 5 miles turn left onto refuge.
Registration: Text Bob Grover 516-318-8536
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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, November 15, 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.
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Linnaean Society of New York

Shirley Chisholm State Park and Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, November 14, 2026
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: This trip features visits to several coastal sites ringing Jamaica Bay, including Shirley Chisholm State Park and Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. The bays and salt marshes offer many waterbirds, woodland, and brush-loving birds. In the past, we were treated to a Vesper Sparrow and an Ash-throated Flycatcher at Shirley Chisholm, while the East Pond in Jamaica Bay offers at least sixteen duck species, sometimes including an Eurasian Wigeon. One of the most intriguing sights in East Bay is the three Tundra Swans, which are unusual in this area. The itinerary for this trip often changes from year to year, adding to the excitement and fun.
Registration: Cheryl Craddock — cheryl.craddock@gmail.com
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Staten Island Hot Spots and Fall Migrants
Sunday, November 15, 2026
Leader: Seth Wollney
Description: Staten Island is a wonderland of habitats and a spectacular place to see birds, particularly during fall migration. The island’s southern shore offers fantastic coastal birding, and the Greenbelt, located at the center of the island, boasts a 2,800-acre network of forests. Trip locations are selected each year based on recent sightings and known hotspots. Past trips included stops at Conference House Park, overlooking Raritan Bay at the southernmost point of New York State; Mount Loretto (Cape May, Blackpoll, Nashville, and Pine Warblers, in addition to Purple Finchs and Indigo Buntings); Great Kills Park (Common Nighthawks); Miller’s Field (gulls, terns, and sandpipers); and anywhere else that our leader expects to find interesting birds.
Registration: Miriam Rakowski — rakowskimiriam@gmail.com
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Gull ID Study at Coney Island
Sunday, November 15, 2026
Leader: Roberta Manian and Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Coney Island as you brush up on your basic gull ID skills, just in time for the Christmas Bird Count. Gulls are often one of the most challenging species to master as their plumage changes dramatically over the first several years of their life. This workshop will teach essential skills to identify common winter gulls in all their cycles. Along the way, we will likely see other wintering waterfowl, including dabbling and diving ducks, grebes, loons, Purple Sandpipers, and possibly alcids.
Registration: Dom Ricci — domricci@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Fall Birding in Alley Pond Park
Saturday, November 14, 2026, 9:00am - 10:30am
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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Winter Waterfowl Workshop @ Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, November 14, 2026, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: Winter is the season for ducks, geese, loons, grebes, and other waterbirds. Over 35 waterfowl species have been recorded as visiting the refuge during the cold months. Join Don Riepe and NYC Bird Alliance's Tod Winston for a slide program and walk around the ponds to view waterfowl as well as other winter birds. Learn about their behavior, migration, and biology and how wildlife adapt to the cold. This special program is a partnership between NYC Bird Alliance, American Littoral Society, and the National Park Service.
Registration: Registration page
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Birding at Floyd Bennett Field with Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy
Sunday, November 15, 2026, 9:30am - 11:00am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance and Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy at Floyd Bennett Field! This former airfield-turned-natural haven offers a variety of habitats, from marshes to meadows, making it the perfect place to spot visitors like shovelers, scoters, and mergansers. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars or a scope if they have them.
Registration: Registration page
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North Shore Audubon Society

Stehli Beach
Saturday, November 14, 2026, 9:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Lindy (516) 628-1315
Description: Bayville Ave, Bayville
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.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Oceanside Marine Nature Study Area
Saturday, November 14, 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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Mill Pond Park
Sunday, November 15, 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
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...Read more

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, November 7 - Sunday, November 8, 2026:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, November 7, 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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Exploring the Bronx: A boat ride to Ferry Point Park in Throgs Neck
Saturday, November 7, 2026
Leader: Chris Laskowski
Description: Ferry Point Park is a debut destination for the BBC, offering members the chance to explore a new location during a rare visit to the Bronx. The 40-minute ferry ride north on the East River from the East 34th Street terminal provides scenic views throughout the journey. Once there, Ferry Point Park’s expansive open spaces make it an ideal place to look for the bird species typically found in November.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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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 November 29, 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
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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Suffolk County Farm
Saturday, November 7, 2026, 8:30am - 5:00pm
Leader: John Gluth (631-827-0120) Vera Capogna (516-639-5430)
Description: Take Sunrise Highway to exit 57N, Horseblock Rd. Bear right onto County Road 21, Yaphank Ave. Travel approximately one mile to the Cornell Cooperative Extension on the left. Turn left onto the entrance road. Take your first right and follow down and meet at the visitors parking area on your left.
Registration: Text Ken Thompson 631-612-8028
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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, November 8, 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


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NYC Bird Alliance

Intro to Birding in Marine Park
Saturday, November 7, 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
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Intro to Birding @ 9th Annual Raptorama! at Jamaica Bay
Saturday, November 7, 2026, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: Alex Wang
Description: Join us as we kickoff the morning with an Intro to Birding outing at this year's Raptorama! Then stay to see some amazing raptors up close during a live demonstration led by the Wildlife Center of Long Island. Other programs 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
Registration: Not required.
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Intro to Birding in Crotona Park
Saturday, November 7, 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
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9th Annual Raptorama! at Jamaica Bay
Saturday, November 7, 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: Not required.
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Accessible Birding at Carl Schurz Park
Saturday, November 7, 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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Fall Migration at Van Cortlandt Park
Sunday, November 8, 2026, 8:00am - 11:30am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance's Tod Winston for a deep exploration of one of the Bronx's largest green spaces, Van Cortlandt Park. Participants will spend the morning searching for resident birds, late fall migrants, and early wintering species.
Registration: Registration page
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Birding at Brookfield Park, Staten Island
Sunday, November 8, 2026, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Discover a diversity of wintering birds with longtime birder and Staten Island resident Anthony Ciancimino. Expect to see a variety of species of waterfowl and raptors that utilize the important marsh habitat found at the park.
Registration: Registration page
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Bilingual Birding at Kissena Park: Mandarin-English
Sunday, November 8, 2026, 9:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Xinyi Zhang
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance's Xinyi Zhang, for a Mandarin-English bilingual bird outing! We will 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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North Shore Audubon Society

West Hills County Park
Saturday, November 7, 2026, 9:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Julie Barton (631) 742-0558
Description: West Hills County Park, Sweet Hollow Rd, Huntington Station, NY 11747
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.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Massapequa Preserve
Sunday, November 8, 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
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, November 7, 2026
Fall Migration at Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
10:00am–11:30am
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a birding adventure around Salt Marsh Nature Trail to look for fall migrants that include warblers, raptors and more!
Free
Sunday, November 8, 2026
Fall Birding at Wave Hill, Bronx
9:30am–11:00am
Explore Wave Hill’s gardens, woodlands, and the skies overhead to look for resident and migrating birds.
Free
...Read more

Green-Wood Cemetery Video

The Office of the Mayor produced a very nice video about Green-Wood Cemetery. I feature in the second half of it. Enjoy:

Best of the Fortnight

Here is my selection of "best of" photos that I took during the second two weeks of October 2026. The images are presented in chronological order:

Field Sparrow

Nashville Warbler

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Nelson's Sparrow

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Song Sparrow and Jesus

Chipping Sparrow

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Immature Red-tailed Hawk

White-breasted Nuthatch

Song Sparrow

Cooper's Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Angry Merlin

American Woodcock

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, October 31 - Sunday, November 1, 2026:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, Ocotber 31, 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

Halloween Bird “Tweets” in Green-wood Cemetery
Saturday, Ocotber 31, 2026
Leader: Megan Thornton
Description: The peak of sparrow movement, raptors, woodpeckers and early winter transition species; late straggling warblers as well. Historically, 179 species have been recorded in October.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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Sunday Bird Outing
Sunday, November 1, 2026, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Valerie Masten and Michele T.
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.
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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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Hudson River Audubon Society

Lenoir Hawk Watch
Saturday, October 31, 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
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Linnaean Society of New York

Staten Island Hot Spots and Fall Migrants
Sunday, November 1, 2026
Leader: Seth Wollney
Description: Staten Island is a wonderland of habitats and a spectacular place to see birds, particularly during fall migration. The island’s southern shore offers fantastic coastal birding, and the Greenbelt, located at the center of the island, boasts a 2,800-acre network of forests. Trip locations are selected each year based on recent sightings and known hotspots. Past trips included stops at Conference House Park, overlooking Raritan Bay at the southernmost point of New York State; Mount Loretto (Cape May, Blackpoll, Nashville, and Pine Warblers, in addition to Purple Finchs and Indigo Buntings); Great Kills Park (Common Nighthawks); Miller’s Field (gulls, terns, and sandpipers); and anywhere else that our leader expects to find interesting birds.
Registration: Miriam Rakowski — rakowskimiriam@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Birding at Pelham Bay Park
Saturday, October 31, 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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Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, October 31, 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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North Shore Audubon Society

Uplands Farm Sanctuary
Saturday, October 31, 2026, 9:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Kathy (917) 683-7101
Description: Uplands Farm Sanctuary, 250 Lawrence Hill Rd, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724
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.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Point Lookout Town Park (and Lido Preserve afterwards)
Sunday, November 1, 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
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Wild Bird Fund

Central Park Fall Bird Walks
Saturday, October 31, 2026, 8:30am - 12:00pm
Leader: Carine Mitchell and Hendrik Weideman
Description: Please join expert birders Carine Mitchell and Hendrik Weideman for a Halloween bird walk 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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Upcoming Trips

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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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

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

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

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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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