Best of the Fortnight

Here is my second installment of favorite photos for the month of May. Enjoy:

Savannah Sparrow

Emerging Purple Iris

Brown Thrasher

Yellow and Purple Iris

Great Egret

Wood Thrush

Angry Wilson's Warblers

Mourning Warbler

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Meadow Rue

Bay-breasted Warbler

Red-tailed Hawk on Angel's Wing

Willow Flycatcher spies a fly

Groundhog kits with mom

Wild Peony

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, May 31 - Sunday, June 1, 2025:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, May 31, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club. These outings will start at The Audubon Center at the Boathouse.
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk 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. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
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On the Rich Birding trails of Bear Mountain State Park and Seven Lake Drive
Saturday, May 31, 2025, 7:30am - 1:00pm
Leader: Max Epstein
Description: You’ll spend the morning along the trails of Harriman and Bear Mountain State Parks, seeking out the local breeders of the Lower Hudson Valley; With Doodletown road trail closed for the season, we’ll find a productive alternative. Expect 6-7 miles of walking on wide and mostly flat trails. Depending on weather and timing, perhaps a walk through Iona Island or other spots in the vicinity.
Registration: Danielle Khalife email daniellek97@gmail.com
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First Sunday Bird Outings
Sunday, June 1, 2025, 8:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club
Description: Join a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club in search of dozens of species that visit the park through all seasons. Learn about the different habitats in Prospect Park and why they are important for all types of birds.
Registration: All are welcome. No registration necessary.
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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, June 1, 2025, 6:00am - 7:30am
Description: 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.
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Meet Your Green Neighbors
Sunday, June 1, 2025, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Description: Whether you’re a budding botanist or simply enjoy wandering through Green-Wood, you’ve likely noticed a remarkable diversity of plants and flora at every turn. Learning how to identify them can seem daunting, but with a little guidance and close observation, you can make connections in no time!
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Linnaean Society of New York

Central Park Botany Walk in the North End
Saturday, May 31, 2025
Leader: Regina Alvarez
Description: Be prepared for a fascinating journey into botany and the symbiotic relationships between the different organisms, from the majestic Tulip Tree to the tiny flowers of Duckweed covering The Pond. We begin by examining the reproductive parts of flowering plants and learning how they are designed for pollination and seed dispersal. We will also learn which plants are native and which are non-native. Along our route, we will look at ferns that produce spores on the backs of their fronds and non-plants, such as lichens, fungi, and more.
Registration: Anne Lazarus — amlazarus47@gmail.com
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Great Swamp N.W.R.
Sunday, June 1, 2025
Leader: Richard ZainEldeen
Description: The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a 12-square-mile natural oasis of varied habitats and diverse wildlife only 26 miles from New York City, surrounded by the suburbs of Morris County, New Jersey. A haven for nesting heron species, the site ranges from open marshes to woodlands. The refuge is an outstanding area for migrating waterfowl to stop, rest, and feed on their travels. A variety of raptors, including Bald Eagles, can be seen soaring overhead. Not to be outdone, passerines, such as several swallow species, including Purple Martins, can be found within its borders.
Registration: Lisa Kroop — lisakroop2@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Black Birders Week: Birding at the Bronx River Forest
Saturday, May 31, 2025, 9:00am - 11:00am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance and Bronx River Alliance for a bird outing in the Bronx River Forest! Extending south into the New York Botanical Garden, The Bronx River Forest is a remnant of the original forests and floodplains that once blanketed the Bronx River corridor. Recent projects led by NYC Parks and the Bronx River Alliance to restore the river's corridor and increase habitat have made it a perfect place to spot birds and other wildlife!
Registration: Registration page
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NYCHA in Nature: Yellow-Crowned Night Heron Surveying at Hammel
Saturday, May 31, 2025, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join us for a special and fun event that combines both NYC Bird Alliance's NYCHA in Nature and Harbor Herons programs. In recent years, Yellow-Crowned Night Herons have built their nests in the Rockaways, specifically at the Hammel and Redfern NYCHA housing complexes. We invite local residents to join NYC Bird Alliance scientists to learn about these rare birds and help us count heron nests and chicks. Counting of these nests and chicks helps us keep track of their population and protect them.
Registration: Registration page
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NYCHA in Nature: Yellow-Crowned Night Heron Surveying at Redfern
Saturday, May 31, 2025, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Leader: ______
Description: Join us for a special and fun event that combines both NYC Bird Alliance's NYCHA in Nature and Harbor Herons programs. In recent years, Yellow-Crowned Night Herons have built their nests in the Rockaways, specifically at the Hammel and Redfern NYCHA housing complexes. We invite local residents to join NYC Bird Alliance scientists to learn about these rare birds and help us count heron nests and chicks. Counting of these nests and chicks helps us keep track of their population and protect them.
Registration: Registration page
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Breeding Birds of Calvert Vaux Park
Sunday, June 1, 2025, 7:30am - 11:30am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Meet at Calvert Vaux Park and explore this Brooklyn waterside site on an early morning stroll. We'll arrive just after low tide and look for foraging Osprey, waders, and terns in Coney Island Creek. A surprising variety of nesting landbirds have also been found at Calvert Vaux Park in recent years, including Willow Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Baltimore Oriole, and Indigo Bunting.
Registration: Registration page
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LGBTQ+ History and Birding in the Vale
Sunday, June 1, 2025, 10:00am - 11:00am
Leader: _____
Description: In partnership with the Prospect Park Alliance and Brooklyn Community Pride Center, join NYC Bird Alliance for a history and birdwatching tour of the Prospect Park Vale. This nature walk explores the Vale’s significance as a queer gathering space and important wildlife habitat. Learn more about its history, current restoration efforts, and the impact of queer placemaking in Brooklyn.
Registration: Registration page
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LGBTQ+ History and Birding in the Vale
Sunday, June 1, 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: In partnership with the Prospect Park Alliance and Brooklyn Community Pride Center, join NYC Bird Alliance for a history and birdwatching tour of the Prospect Park Vale. This nature walk explores the Vale’s significance as a queer gathering space and important wildlife habitat. Learn more about its history, current restoration efforts, and the impact of queer placemaking in Brooklyn.
Registration: Registration page
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North Shore Audubon Society

Marine Nature Study Area (Oceanside)
Saturday, May 31, 2025, 9:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Alissa (516) 578-3058
Description: Marine Nature Study Area, 500 Slice Dr, Oceanside, NY 11572
Registration: Contact leader for more information.
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Queens County Bird Club

Ward Pound Ridge
Sunday, June 1, 2025
Leader: Eric Miller (917) 279-7530
Description: QCBC's annual trip to Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in northern Westchester County.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Mill Pond Park
Sunday, June 1, 2025
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.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, May 31, 2025
Black Birders Week: Birding at the Bronx River Forest at Burke Bridge (in Bronx Park), Bronx
9:00am–11:00am
Black Birders Week - Birding in Bronx River Forest.
Free

Idlewild Park Black Birders Week Bird Walk at Idlewild Park Preserve Environmental Science Learning Center (in Idlewild Park)
9:00am–11:00am
Celebrate inclusivity in outdoor spaces! Join New York City Bird Alliance educator Ronnie Almonte and Parks staff for a Black Birders Week bird and plant walk in Idlewild Park.
Free

McGolrick Bird Club at Monsignor McGolrick Park (in Msgr. McGolrick Park), Brooklyn
9:00am–11:00am
Free birding walks are held every Saturday at 9am, year-round. Meet at the Russell & Driggs entrance to McGolrick park.
Free

Riverside Park Birding Club at 116th Street and Riverside Drive (in Riverside Park), Manhattan
9:00am–10:30am
Monthly walks through birding hotspots in Riverside Park, led by Riverside Park Conservancy Field Staff.
Free

Summer on the Hudson: Uptown Birding Walks at West 157th Street and Broadway, Manhattan, NY
9:00am–10:30am
Explore Fort Washington Park on family-friendly birding tours suitable for all ages. Celebrate Black Birders Week in May, and observe the fall migration in October!
Free

Black Birders Week Celebration: Birds & Bites at Icahn Stadium (in Randall's Island Park), Manhattan
10:00am–1:00pm
Celebrate #BlackBirdersWeek at Randall’s Island Park with a day of bird-themed fun and activities!
Free

Rockaway's Black Birders Week Celebration at The Garden by the Bay, Queens
10:00am–4:00pm
Join the garden group by celebrating Black Birders and Nature Enthusiasts who enjoy the outdoors with a guided Bird Walk Tour, Botanical Making, Bird Feeder Crafting, and more!
Free

Sunday, June 1, 2025
Birding: Fascinating Feathers at Hanover Avenue and Palma Drive (in Eibs Pond Park), Staten Island
11:00am–12:30pm
Rangers will lead a hike that will highlight the unique adaptations that birds have developed for flight, insulation, camouflage, and display.
Free
Birding: Shorebird Families at Entrance - Beach 44th Street and Boardwalk (in Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk), Queens
1:00pm–2:30pm
Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. Learn more about plovers, terns, oystercatchers and other shorebirds that nest on the beach shoreline.
Free
...Read more

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Wednesday, May 21 - Sunday, May 25, 2025:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, May 24, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club. These outings will start at The Audubon Center at the Boathouse.
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk 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. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
View Details

Prospect Park Saturday Spring Migration Walks
Saturday, May 24, 2025, 7:30am - 1:00pm
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Meet 7:30 am at the “Pergola” entrance on Ocean and Parkside Avenues.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
View Details


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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

Manorville Hills
Saturday, May 24, 2025, 8:00am
Leader: Tom Moran
Description: Meet at 8:00 am in the first parking area from the main entrance off Rt 111. There is an overflow lot past this lot if needed. Primarily forested habitat where we’ll find local residents and migrants. Distance covered is about 2.5 miles and should take about 3 hours.
Registration: Tom Moran, tjmoran101@gmail.com
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Connectquot County Park
Sunday, May 25, 2025, 8:00am
Leader:
Description: More information to come.
Registration: Please register with Eileen Schwinn for this trip (beachmed@optonline.net)
View Details


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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 6:00am - 7:30am
Description: 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

Birding in Peace
Sunday, May 25, 2025, 6:00am - 8:30am
Description: 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

Shawangunk Grasslands N.W.R.
Saturday, May 24, 2025
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge, which protects 597 acres in Ulster County, NY, was established in July 1999 to support grassland-dependent migratory birds and wintering raptors. With views of the majestic Shawangunk Ridge, the refuge is among a dwindling number of sites in NY State (one of only two in the Hudson Valley) large enough to support the entire assemblage of northeastern grassland birds. This spring trip will search for migratory and grassland-dependent breeding birds, butterflies, and odonates. We will likely see and hear Grasshopper Sparrows, Bobolinks, Eastern Meadowlarks, Eastern Bluebirds, and more. To the delight of many, the Henslow’s Sparrow was found singing here a few years ago.
Registration: Christina Black — christina.black50@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Spring Birding in Van Cortlandt Park
Saturday, May 24, 2025, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Joe McManus
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 event is held in partnership with Van Cortlandt Park Alliance.
Registration: Registration page
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Bilingual Birding at Kissena Park: Mandarin-English
Saturday, May 24, 2025, 9:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Xinyi Zhang
Description: Join Xinyi Zhang 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. This outing will be held in both Mandarin-English.
Registration: Registration page
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Accessible Birding in Fort Tryon Park
Saturday, May 24, 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Alex Wang
Description: Birding guide and educator Alexandra Wang (Avian Alex), M.S. Ed., leads an inclusive tour, offering specialized resources such as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) pamphlets, Braille guides, and plush bird replicas, ensuring an enjoyable and enriching birdwatching experience for everyone. Further accommodations can be requested in advance by emailing Alex at alexmwang1992@gmail.com.
Registration: Registration page
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Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, May 24, 2025, 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 Great Kills Park
Sunday, May 25, 2025, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: If you love nature, you’ll love Great Kills Park. This park has everything: sandy beaches, green woodlands, wet saltmarshes, trails for biking and hiking, and more. Part of the Gateway National Recreation Area's Staten Island unit, this park offers much-needed habitat for a diverse array of bird species.
Registration: Registration page
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Black Birders Week: Beginner Birding at Shirley Chisholm State Park
Sunday, May 25, 2025, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance and NYS Department of Parks as we kick off the week with a morning outing in Shirley Chisholm State Park. The largest state park in New York City, it is named after the trailblazing Shirley Chisholm—Brooklyn native, first African American Congresswoman, and the first woman and African American to run for President. Built on what was once a landfill, the park is now a thriving spot full of wildlife, including hawks, waterfowl, wetlands, and native plants. Come out and enjoy the beauty of this amazing space while honoring Shirley Chisholm’s incredible legacy! This outing will be beginner-focused, but all levels are welcome!
Registration: Registration page
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Queens Botanical Garden Birding at Dusk
Sunday, May 25, 2025, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Leader: _____
Description: Explore Queens Botanical Garden in search of migrant songbirds 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


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North Shore Audubon Society

Muttontown (Bill Patterson Nature Center
Saturday, May 24, 2025, 9:00am – 11:00am
Leader: Ellen (917) 683-7101
Description: 34 Muttontown Ln, Syosset, NY 11791
Registration: Contact leader for more information.
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Queens County Bird Club

Bashakill and Shawangunk
Saturday, May 24, 2025
Leader: Ian Resnick (917-626-9562)
Description: All day trip. Explore the Bashakill Wildlife Management Area in Sullivan County, NY, featuring extensive marsh and forested areas between two mountain ranges. Plus a side trip to Shawangunk Grasslands NWR.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake State Park
Sunday, May 25, 2025
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, May 24, 2025
McGolrick Bird Club at Monsignor McGolrick Park (in Msgr. McGolrick Park), Brooklyn
9:00am–11:00am
Free birding walks are held every Saturday at 9am, year-round. Meet at the Russell & Driggs entrance to McGolrick park.
Free

Sunday, May 25, 2025
Birding: Black Birders Week at Manhattan Avenue and West 110th Street (in Morningside Park), Manhattan
1:00pm–2:30pm
Learn about prominent Black naturalists who have helped shape the field of ornithology while identifying some local bird species in Morningside Park.
Free

...Read more

Best of the Fortnight

Here is a selection of my photographs taken during the first two weeks of May 2025, arranged in chronological order from oldest to most recent:

Red-headed Woodpecker

Green Heron

Scarlet Tanager

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Common Grackle

Northern Waterthrush

Merlin with Baltimore Oriole prey

Red-tailed Hawk

Possum and skunk carcass

Horsechestnut bloom

Italian Wall Lizard

Ovenbird

Purple Irises in the rain

Spotted Sandpiper

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Wednesday, May 14 - Sunday, May 18, 2025:

Bedford Audubon Society

Field Trip to Sterling Forest
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 7:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Follow the madness north with us. Migration Madness continues with Naturalist Tait Johansson’s Field Trip to Sterling Forest, an unbroken deep-forest habitat important for the survival of many resident and migratory bird species. On this trip last year, Tait recorded sightings of Black-billed and Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Double-crested Cormorant, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Great Crested Flycatcher, Ovenbird, and too many warblers to count!
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

Golden-Winged Warblers on their Breeding Grounds of Sterling Forest
Saturday, May 17, 2025
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: For Peter’s 50th birding anniversary, a search for Golden-winged warblers and hybrids along with the avian dwellers of beautiful Sterling Forest during the long day.
Registration: Peter Dorosh Prosbird@gmail.com or Prosbird@aol.com
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Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club. These outings will start at The Audubon Center at the Boathouse.
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk 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. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
View Details

Prospect Park Saturday Spring Migration Walks
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 7:30am - 1:00pm
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Meet 7:30 am at the “Pergola” entrance on Ocean and Parkside Avenues.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
View Details


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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

Shoreham Beach, Brookhaven Town Park
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 8:00am
Leader: Tom Moran
Description: Park along the road inside the gate. We’ll walk along the road to the beach looking for spring migrants. We’ll have a very good chance of hearing the beautiful song of the Wood Thrush. The road is bounded on each side by forest with low shrubs. At the end of the road is a view of the Long Island Sound. The walk is approximately 1.8 miles.
Registration: Tom Moran, tjmoran101@gmail.com
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Fire Island – Watch Hill
Sunday, May 18, 2025, 8:00am
Leader: Debra Swamback and Paul Sweet
Description: Certainly off the beaten path! At the end of the ferry trip across Great South Bay, we will walk a boardwalk to see/hear rails, vireos, wrens, and warblers. This field trip is limited to 15 participants. Details on ferry times will be provided as we get closer to the trip date. This field trip will be a little longer than most, and involve a fee for transportation.
Registration: Please register with Eileen Schwinn for this trip (beachmed@optonline.net)
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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Sterling Forest & Bashakill
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 7:00am
Leader: Vera Capogna, John Gluth
Description: Join us for a wonderful bird walk as we head out to Sterling Forest & Bashakill for an early morning adventure.
Registration: You must register for this trip. Text or email to Vera Capogna 516-639-5430 vlvcap@yahoo.com
View Details


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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 6:00am - 7:30am
Description: 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

Birding in Peace
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 6:00am - 7:30am
Description: 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

Birding in Peace
Sunday, May 18, 2025, 6:00am - 8:30am
Description: 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.
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Wings & Wonders: Family Birding
Sunday, May 18, 2025, 10:00am - 11:30am
Description: Gather your flock and join us for a one-of-a-kind adventure! We’re teaming up with Jeana Fucello of The Feminist Bird Club for an unforgettable exploration of the feathered wonders that grace the grounds of Green-Wood.
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Linnaean Society of New York

Sterling Forest State Park
Saturday, May 17, 2025
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Sterling Forest State Park is part of New York State’s Bird Conservation Area Program, having “considerable biodiversity including a diversity of bird species.” On our visit we can expect to see and hear the lovely songs of the birds that nest there, including Golden-winged Warblers, Blue-winged Warblers, Prairie Warblers, Cerulean Warblers, Indigo Buntings, Acadian Flycatchers, and Yellow-billed Cuckoos, as well as Broad-winged and Red-shouldered Hawks.
Registration: Lisa Kroop — lisakroop2@gmail.com
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Inwood Hill Park
Sunday, May 18, 2025
Leader: Joseph DiCostanzo
Description: Inwood Hill Park is the northernmost point in Manhattan. Bounded on the north by the Spuyten Duyvil Creek and on the west by the Hudson River, the 196-acre park comprises a hilly forest, a tidal estuary, rock formations, and ball fields. According to eBird, 249 bird species have been listed, including waterfowl, gulls, and shorebirds in the estuary, Spuyten Duyvil Creek, and along the Hudson River. Songbirds and owls frequent the forest, with several species nesting there. The upper ridge trail on the park’s western side affords magnificent views of the Hudson River and the New Jersey Palisades. Raptors are often seen soaring over the cliffs.
Registration: Amanda Bielskas — bielskas@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Birding in Clove Lakes Park
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 8:00am - 10:00am
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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NYCHA in Nature: Birding in Wyckoff Gardens and Gowanus
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 9:00am - 10:00am
Leader: _____
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance, Gowanus Canal Conservancy, and the Public Housing Community Fund to look and listen for birds! We'll stroll through the Gowanus and Wyckoff Gardens NYCHA complexes, which are full of large trees and lush vegetation, perfect habitat for song birds. The group will meet in front of the Wyckoff Gardens Community Center at 280 Wyckoff Street.
Registration: Registration page
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NYCHA in Nature: Yellow-Crowned Night Heron Surveying at Hammel
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 10:00am - 11:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Join us for a special and fun event that combines both NYC Bird Alliance's NYCHA in Nature and Harbor Herons programs. In recent years, Yellow-Crowned Night Herons have built their nests in the Rockaways, specifically at the Hammel and Redfern NYCHA housing complexes. We invite local residents to join NYC Bird Alliance scientists to learn about these rare birds and help us count heron nests and chicks. Counting of these nests and chicks helps us keep track of their population and protect them.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

NYCHA in Nature: Yellow-Crowned Night Heron Surveying at Redfern
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Leader: _____
Description: Join us for a special and fun event that combines both NYC Bird Alliance's NYCHA in Nature and Harbor Herons programs. In recent years, Yellow-Crowned Night Herons have built their nests in the Rockaways, specifically at the Hammel and Redfern NYCHA housing complexes. We invite local residents to join NYC Bird Alliance scientists to learn about these rare birds and help us count heron nests and chicks. Counting of these nests and chicks helps us keep track of their population and protect them.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 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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The Birds of Woodlawn Cemetery
Sunday, May 18, 2025, 8:00am - 13:00am
Leader: Tod Winston, Joe McManus, and Susan Olsen
Description: Join us for a morning bird outing and tour of this beautiful cemetery. Tod Winston and Joseph McManus will look for spring migrants and year-round residents on the expansive grounds, while Woodlawn Cemetery Director of Historical Services Susan Olsen will share fascinating stories about the cemetery’s history and the interesting mixture of individuals interred there. This event is held in partnership with the Woodlawn Conservancy.
Registration: Registration page
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Birding on the QueensWay
Sunday, May 18, 2025, 9:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Woo Sung Park
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance's Woo Sung Park and The Trust for Public Land and explore The QueensWay! The QueensWay is an intiative to transform the LIRR Rockaway Beach Branch that cuts through Forest Park into a new green space. This blossoming new park is sure to attract many bird species this fall.
Registration: Registration page
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9th Annual Horseshoe Crab Festival
Sunday, May 18, 2025, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: We're back with the 9th Annual Jamaica Bay Horseshoe Crab Festival! This festival celebrates the ancient mating ritual of these charismatic "living dinosaurs" that come to our shores each year, helping provide a vital food source for migrating shorebirds like the endangered Red Knot!
Registration: Registration information coming soon
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North Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake State Park
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 7:45am – 11:00am
Leader: Bill B. (516) 993-7340 & Bill C. (516) 631-682-7404
Description: Tranquil park with playgrounds, equestrian, biking & hiking trails & an old-school wooden carousel.
Registration: Contact leader for more information.
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Queens County Bird Club

Doodletown/Sterling Forest
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 6:30am - 4:00pm
Leader: Ian Resnick (917) 626-9562
Description: All day trip. Historic, scenic Doodletown is a magnet for warblers, including Hooded and Cerulean. Involves some easy hiking on hilly paths. Please pack your own lunch. Contact trip leader for meeting time. Use link above for trailhead parking location.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Massapequa Lake
Sunday, May 18, 2025
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
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, May 17, 2025
McGolrick Bird Club at Monsignor McGolrick Park (in Msgr. McGolrick Park), Brooklyn
9:00am–11:00am
Free birding walks are held every Saturday at 9am, year-round. Meet at the Russell & Driggs entrance to McGolrick park.
Free

Sunday, May 18, 2025
Wings Over Wave Hill at Wave Hill, Bronx
9:00am–5:30pm
Join us for a full day of amazing bird encounters!
Free
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

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Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, May 10 - Sunday, May 11, 2025:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Spring World Migratory Bird Day Birdathon
Saturday, May 10, 2025
Leader: For more information, and to donate: https://givebutter.com/brooklyn-bird-club-2025-spring-birdathon
Description: The annual Birdathon asks birders to form teams of up to 6 members and count bird species in Brooklyn in support of a cause that helps the birds we love. Everyone is welcome ─ hardcore birders, backyard feeder watchers, and beginners! Like a walkathon, participants collect pledges and donations from friends and family for finding and counting bird species on the day of the Birdathon. Instead of getting a pledge per mile walked, Birdathon participants ask for a pledge for each bird species seen by the team.
Registration: Please register your team by sending team members, your day’s goal, and a team name to Bobbi Manian birdathon@brooklynbirdclub.org by Tuesday, May 6.
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Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: A member of the Brooklyn Bird Club. These outings will start at The Audubon Center at the Boathouse.
Description: Whether you’re just starting out or have already joined the birding ranks, this introductory walk 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. All levels are welcome.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
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Prospect Park Saturday Spring Migration Walks
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 7:30am - 1:00pm
Leader: Dennis Hrehowsik
Description: Meet 7:30 am at the “Pergola” entrance on Ocean and Parkside Avenues.
Registration: No registration necessary. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

Hubbard County Park
Sunday, May 10, 2025, 8:00am
Leader: Brian Moldashel
Description: Meet at 8:00 am at the trail head on Red Creek Road, Hampton Bays, this area features pine/oak forest, beetle-ravaged clearings, tidal creeks, high and low salt marsh and Peconic Bay. The walk is approximately 2.5 miles over level – but maybe muddy – trails. This exciting area to explore showed us a Red-headed Woodpecker last year, spotted initially by one of the walk participants!
Registration: Please register with Eileen Schwinn for this trip (beachmed@optonline.net)
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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Alley Pond Park
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 7:00am
Leader: Mike Cooper, John Gluth
Description: Join us for a wonderful bird walk as we head out to Ally Pond Park for an early morning adventure.
Registration: _____
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Connetquot River SPP Bird and Breakfast
Sunday, May 11, 2025, 8:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Jack Carlson, Ken Thompson
Description: Join us as we head out to Connetquot River SPP for an early morning adventure.
Registration: _____
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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Satyrday, May 10, 2025, 6:00am - 8:30am
Description: 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.
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Birding in Peace: Late-Risers Edition (Members Only)
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 10:00am - 11:30am
Description: You may know birding expert Rob Jett from his Birding in Peace tours. You know, the ones that meet at 6am? Always wanted to go on a birding tour at Green-Wood but not much of a morning person? This tour is for you! 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.
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Birding in Peace
Sunday, May 11, 2025, 6:00am - 8:30am
Description: 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.
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Hudson River Audubon Society

Hillside Woods and Its New Deer Exclosure
Saturday, May 10, 2025 , 7:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: We’ll look for spring migrants, both in and out of the deer exclosure. We’ll note the difference in habitat where deer can’t graze the understory.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
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Mother’s Day Warbler Walk
Sunday, May 11, 2025 , 8:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: Our annual bird walk in celebration of Mother’s Day.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
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Linnaean Society of New York

Clove Lakes Park, Staten Island
Saturday, May 10, 2025
Leader: Richard ZainEldeen
Description: Clove Lakes Park was created in the 1930s by filling in marshland and damming up a brook that ran to the Kill van Kull. Almost half of its 198 acres include some excellent bird habitat, in the form of Brooks Pond, Martling Pond, Clove Lake, streams, and one hundred acres of hilly woodlands. Paved pedestrian roads encircle the lakes, and an informal network of dirt trails wind through the woods. The Park’s name is derived from the Dutch word “kloven,” meaning a stream-cut valley. Birding is particularly good during spring migration, especially if you are looking for warblers. On spring days, it is possible to see 15-20 warbler species, including Louisiana Waterthrush (early in spring) and Cerulean, Prothonotary, Kentucky, and Mourning (later in spring) Warblers. Also watch for Scarlet and Summer Tanagers, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Empidonax flycatchers, and more.
Registration: Miriam Rakowski — rakowskimiriam@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Dawn Chorus in Central Park
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 5:00am - 8:00am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: This World Migratory Bird Day, rise before the sun, and join NYC Bird Alliance's Tod Winston for a very early morning adventure! We'll meet before dawn and enter the park together, to experience the sounds of birds as they awaken. (Bring a foldable blanket or mat to sit on in Strawberry Fields.) Then as the sun rises, we'll explore the Ramble and other nearby spots in a small group, looking and listening for warblers, vireos, tanagers, orioles, and more.
Registration: Registration page
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World Migratory Bird Day Bronx Zoo Outing
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: _____
Description: Join the NYC Bird Alliance, in partnership with the Bronx Zoo, for an exclusive early access to explore the zoo grounds and search for migratory birds. During this special event, guests will explore the World of Birds exhibit to discover the zoo's diverse avian collection. Learn about the challenges these birds face in the wild and hear about the Wildlife Conservation Society’s global efforts to protect them.
Registration: Registration required on the Bronx Zoo's website
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Bilingual Birding at Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader:
Description: Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with the NYC Bird Alliance, led by naturalist Oliver Lopez, in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Begin at the iconic Unisphere and explore the diverse bird species that call this vibrant Queens park home.
Registration: Registration page
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World Migratory Bird Day: Intro to Birding in Marine Park
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 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: No registration required. No limit. Free.
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World Migratory Bird Day in Jamaica Bay
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Don Riepe
Description: Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with longtime birder and educator Don Riepe at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge! Explore this gem of New York City, home to dozens of warblers like Yellow and Yellow-rumped Warblers, and up to seven species of wading birds, such as Great Egrets and Great Blue Herons. We'll traverse the refuge trails and observe these species and many more on their breeding grounds.
Registration: Registration page
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Accessible Birding in Fort Tryon Park
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 8:00am - 10:00am
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 on World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 2:15pm - 3:45pm
Leader: _____
Description: Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day on Governors Island! With nearly 240 bird species spotted on Governors Island, learn what makes the island an excellent habitat all year round. Whether you’re an expert birder or a beginner, these tours will help you discover all of the birdlife the island has to offer. Binoculars are available to borrow but limited.
Registration: Registration page
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North Shore Audubon Society

Global Big Day Alley Pond Park
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 6:30am – 4:00pm
Leader: Ian (917) 626-9562
Description: 76th Ave. parking lot. After lunch, the day continues.
Registration: Contact leader for more information.
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Garvies Point
Saturday, May 10, 2025 9:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Lindy (516) 628-1315
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.
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Queens County Bird Club

Big Day - Multiple Queens Sites
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 6:30am - 4:00pm
Leader: Ian Resnick (917-626-9562) & Eric Miller (917-279-7530)
Description: Big Day is an informal competition in which we try to see as many species as possible in one day.
Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sunday, May 11, 2025
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
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, May 10, 2025
McGolrick Bird Club at Monsignor McGolrick Park (in Msgr. McGolrick Park), Brooklyn
9:00am–11:00am
Free birding walks are held every Saturday at 9am, year-round. Meet at the Russell & Driggs entrance to McGolrick park.
Free
Bird Bonanza at Urban Farm (in Randall's Island Park), Manhattan
10:00am–1:00pm
Fly over to Randall’s Island Park to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day at our annual Bird Bonanza!
Free
Migratory Bird Hike at Greenbelt Nature Center - Hike Start Point (in Blood Root Valley), Staten Island
10:00am–11:30am
We will be celebrating International Migratory Bird Day by birding around the Greenbelt.
Free

Sunday, May 11, 2025
Mother's Day Birding at Forest Park at Buddy Monument (in Forest Park), Queens
9:00am–12:00pm
Join NYC Parks, the Queens County Bird Club, and the Forest Park Trust for a Mother's Day birding event in Forest Park's natural areas!
Free
Spring Birding at Wave Hill, Bronx
9:30am–11:00am
Welcome migratory birds back to Wave Hill this spring! Explore the gardens and woodlands with birders Gabriel Willow and Ryan Mandelbaum to look for resident and rare birds as they pass through on their northern journey or settle down for the season.
Free
Mother’s Day 2025 at Wave Hill, Bronx
10:00am–5:30pm
Celebrate Mother's Day at Wave Hill!
Free

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