Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, September 20 - Sunday, September 21, 2025:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, September 20, 2025, 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 Saturday Fall Migration Walks
Saturday, September 20, 2025, 7:30am - 12:00am
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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Eastern Long Island Audubon Society

Watch Hill, Fire Island
Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 10:15 Ferry from Patchogue
Leader: Debbie Swamback
Description: Join Debbie Swamback and others as ELIAS makes a return visit via Ferry, to part of the Fire Island National Seashore. We will walk the over one mile of boardwalk through marsh, dunes and fresh-water ponds which host many migrating warblers on their way south. There is a cost for the ferry, which leaves from West Ave, Patchogue at 10:15 am, with plans to return via ferry at 4:15 pm. For those who wish to leave earlier, there is a 1:00 pm boat. Our highly successful trip this Spring offered terrific leadership, and a chance to learn about the park and the habitat that makes this so unique.
Registration: Contact Eileen Schwinn, Beachmed@optonline.net, to register.
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Gateway National Parks

Hawk Watch
Every week on Saturday, September 20, 2025 to September 27, 2025
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Join a park ranger for the chance to see birds of prey like Osprey, Peregrine falcons, Bald eagles and more as they fly overhead during peak fall bird migration. Learn to identify them by silhouette and at rest. Meet at the overlook above Battery Harris at Fort Tilden. Rain will cancel this event.
Registration: Not required.
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Birding for Beginners
Every week on Saturday until September 27, 2025, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Interested in birds, but feel intimidated about getting into birding? No problem, this is birding for beginners! Together we will take a nature walk, talk about what makes Jamaica Bay such a great place for birds, and give you the tools to learn the basics of bird identification and appreciation. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended, binoculars available.
Registration: Not required.
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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Connetquot River SPP Bird and Breakfast
Saturday, September 20, 2025, 8:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Jack Carlson, Helga Merryman, Ken Thompson, Edith Wilson
Description: Join us as we head out to Connetquot River SPP for an early morning adventure.
Registration: Reservations required 4$ – Reservations at Eventbrite.com search #NatureEdventure, plus $8 parking fee per car – unless you have yearly Empire Pass.
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Hudson River Audubon Society

Hawk Watch
Saturday, September 20, 2025 , 10:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: For all Hawk Watches: Meet behind the Lenoir Mansion in the Lenoir Nature Preserve. Use Lenoir Preserve’s south parking lot at 1109 North Broadway, Yonkers, it’s right next to the field behind the Mansion where the watch is held. The Hawk Watch will continue through November.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
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Linnaean Society of New York

Starr Saphir Memorial Fall Migration Walk, Central Park
Saturday, September 20, 2025
Leader: Jeffrey Kimball
Description: This memorial walk honors the legendary Central Park birder, Starr Saphir. An inspiration to many, Starr led walks for nearly forty years and taught her birding skills and techniques to many Linnaean Society and NYC Bird Alliance members. This walk will follow her traditional paths through the Ramble in Central Park and teach her fundamental principles, including how to describe the location of a bird and her famous mantra, “Please don’t point at the birds!”
Registration: Suzanne Zywicki — suzannezywicki@hotmail.com
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Central Park Family Walk
Sunday, September 21, 2025
Leader: Eric Ozawa
Description: Many scientists come to a love of nature first as children. With that in mind, this walk is for children and their families: parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins—all are welcome. After meeting on the Great Hill, near the restrooms, we’ll walk down to the Pool and into the Loch before circling back to our starting point. Together, we will look for the birds migrating through the park and learn how to identify some of these spectacular visitors. We’ll also pay attention to the plant and insect life we see. Binoculars are helpful if you have them, but they are not required.
Registration: Yoming Lin — yoming79@gmail.com
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Beginners Birding Walk in Central Park’s North End
Sunday, September 21, 2025
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 grass and dirt paths are strongly recommended. Remember to bring a pair of binoculars and your birding questions.
Registration: Savannah Conheady — conheady@outlook.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Latino Conservation Week: Bilingual Birding in FMCP
Saturday, September 20, 2025,8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Andrea Trigueros
Description: Únete a NYC Bird Alliance para una salida especial en Flushing Meadows Corona Park, dirigida por Andrea Trigueros, miembro de nuestro equipo de conservación. Andrea ayuda a monitorear los espacios verdes en toda la ciudad de Nueva York y guiará al grupo por este vibrante parque en Queens.
Registration: Registration page
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Latino Conservation Week: Bilingual Birding at Governors Island
Saturday, September 20, 2025, 2:15pm - 3:34pm
Leader: NYC Bird Alliance
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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Climate Week: Intro to Birding at Marine Park
Sunday, September 21, 2025, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Xinyi Zhang
Description: Join us from September 21-28 for Climate Week NYC, where NYC Bird Alliance will host outings and green roof tours that will focus on the importance of biodiversity for a climate-resilient future. More than half of U.S. bird species are in decline, and climate change is a major threat. 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.
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Climate Week: Birding in the Midtown Greenway
Sunday, September 21, 2025, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Leader:EsplanadeFriends
Description: Join us from September 21-28 for Climate Week NYC, where NYC Bird Alliance will host outings and green roof tours that will focus on the importance of biodiversity for a climate-resilient future. More than half of U.S. bird species are in decline, and climate change is a major threat. Join NYC Bird Alliance (formerly NYC Audubon) and EsplanadeFriends to discover the birds that can be found on the esplande and flying over the East River! This green corridor spans from 53rd to 61st Street.
Registration: Registration page
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North Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake SP
Saturday, September 20, 2025, 9:00am – 12:00pm
Leader: Bill B. (516) 993-7340 and Bill C. (631) 682-7404
Description: Hempstead Lake State Park, Eagle Ave, West Hempstead, NY 11552
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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Protectors of Pine Oak Woods

Dragonfly Talk and Walk
Sunday, September 21, 2025, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Leader: Paul Lederer
Description: Join naturalist Paul Lederer and explore the lives of dragonflies, insects that have inhabited our planet millions of years before dinosaurs walked the earth. Paul will discuss the biology, life histories and identification of these creatures of wonder and then conduct a “dragonfly safari” to the shores of Lake Ohrbach. Bring binoculars if you have them and dress appropriately for the woods and trails of the great outdoors. It is recommended that you bring water/hydration fluids, insect repellent and sunblock. Participants will meet in the main Pouch Camp parking lot along Manor Road, beside the Boy Scout store.
Registration: Spots are limited so call Paul Lederer at (718) 354-9200 to confirm your registration.
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, September 20, 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

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

Sunday, September 21, 2025
Intro to Birding at Salt Marsh Nature Center (in Marine Park), Brooklyn
9:00am–10:30am
Learn how to use binoculars to spot amazing birds that live around the salt marsh with an expert from NYC Bird Alliance. Families welcome.
Free

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

Here's my picks for favorite photos taken during the first 2 weeks of September. I hope you like them:

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Watching Red-tailed Hawks bathe

Black-and-white Warbler

European Mantis

Downy Woodpecker eating Kousa dogwood fruit

Ovenbird picking bits of Kousa dogwood fruit

White M Hairstreak

Bald Eagle

Blue Dasher

Common Yellowthroat

Chestnut-sided Warbler in fall plumage

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Red-eyed Vireo

Black-throated Green Warblers

Cape May Warbler in fall plumage

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Common Nighthawk sleeping in Tulip tree

Red-tailed Hawk

Common Buckeye on Boneset flower

American Kestrel on Civil War monument

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Wednesday, September 10 - Sunday, September 14, 2025:

Bedford Audubon Society

Field Trip to Central Park
Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 7:15am - 1:30pm
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Birds migrating along the East Coast in fall flock to Central Park as a welcoming place to rest and store up energy for the next leg of their journey. Join Tait Johansson on our fall Field Trip to Central Park to discover the ecological value of the park's man-made bird habitats, which include meadows, grassy knolls, rocky outcrops, woodlands, ravines, streams, ponds, lakes, and a reservoir. The park is a truly exceptional birding location for migrating warblers, thrushes, sparrows, and many other songbirds.
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

Searching for American Golden Plovers on Jersey sods: Golden Target Bird #5 in a celebratory year
Saturday, September 13, 2025
Leader: Peter Dorosh and Larry Zirlin
Description: In 2025, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the leader’s birding journey, which began in 1975 with his spark bird, the Scarlet Tanager. To mark this special milestone, the theme of the year’s celebrations will focus on bird species with the name “golden,” along with all birds that continue to inspire joy and wonder. Throughout the year, seven “golden” bird species will be featured in walks and trips, honoring nature, the outdoors, and the many birds that enrich our lives. This summer trip will spotlight the American Golden Plover, a long distance shorebird that frequents upland freshwater mudflats and grass flats, hence its nickname “grasspiper”.
Registration: Peter Dorosh email Prosbird@gmail.com.
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Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 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 Saturday Fall Migration Walks
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 7:30am - 12:00am
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 air and songbirds passing Southward through Green-wood Cemetery
Sunday, September 14, 2025, 7:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Matthew Wills
Description: Fall migration at the cemetery! The peak period for all species including passerines and early raptors.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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Gateway National Parks

Birding for Beginners
Every week on Saturday until September 27, 2025, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Interested in birds, but feel intimidated about getting into birding? No problem, this is birding for beginners! Together we will take a nature walk, talk about what makes Jamaica Bay such a great place for birds, and give you the tools to learn the basics of bird identification and appreciation. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended, binoculars available.
Registration: Not required.
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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Robert Moses Hawk Watch & Jones Beach WE
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 8:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: John Gluth, Ken Thompson
Description: Join us for a wonderful bird walk as we head out to Robert Moses State Park & Jones Beach WE for an early morning Hawk Watch & Adventure.
Registration: info@greatsouthbayaudubon.org
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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 6:30am - 8:00am
Description: Stop by this fall and you’ll 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. You’ll also 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, you’ll see the return of our overwintering feathered denizens from the north.
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Birding in Peace
Sunday, September 14, 2025, 6:30am - 8:00am
Description: Stop by this fall and you’ll 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. You’ll also 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, you’ll see the return of our overwintering feathered denizens from the north.
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Birding in Peace: Late-Risers Edition (Members Only)
Sunday, September 14, 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 6 am? Always wanted to go on a birding tour at Green-Wood but not much of a morning person? This tour is for you! Stop by this fall and you’ll 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. You’ll also 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, you’ll see the return of our overwintering feathered denizens from the north.
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Hudson River Audubon Society

Bill Van Wart Memorial Hawk Watch
Saturday September 13, 2025 , 10:00am
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: Meet behind the Lenoir Mansion. Use Lenoir Preserve’s south parking lot at 1109 North Broadway, Yonkers, it’s right next to the field behind the Mansion where the watch is held. This watch is held in the memory of Bill Van Wart, a long and loyal member of Hudson River Audubon. Bill passed away in 2024.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
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Linnaean Society of New York

Green-Wood Cemetery
Saturday, September 13, 2025
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: Situated along the Harbor Hill Terminal Moraine in Brooklyn, this 478-acre National Historic Landmark features hills, valleys, and kettle ponds. Green-Wood Cemetery is a magnet for migrating birds, which makes perfect sense given the more than 500 species of woody plants that qualify it for Class III Arboretum status—one of only 31 in the world. In addition to spotting numerous songbirds, we’ll visit the hawk-watch hill north of the Civil War Monument—a great vantage point to scan for migrating raptors. Thirteen species of raptor, plus both vultures, have been recorded at the cemetery.
Registration: Gillian Henry — gillian.henry@gmail.com
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Prospect Park
Sunday, September 14, 2025
Leader: Tom Stephenson
Description: Prospect Park, one of New York State’s Important Bird Areas, is a must-visit destination for every New York City birder, especially during migration time. We will explore the park at a leisurely pace, pointing out park exits and subway lines for those who may need to leave early. Our previous walks have been filled with unique sightings, including a Yellow-billed Cuckoo, a Common Nighthawk, and numerous warbler species. And remember, fall is a prime time to spot sparrows.
Registration: Amanda Bielskas — bielskas@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Snug Harbor Birding
Saturday, September 13, 2025,8:00am - 9:30am
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance at Staten Island's beloved Snug Harbor. This botanical garden and cultural center is sure to be teeming with avian visitors during fall migration.
Registration: Registration page
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Intro to Birding in Morningside Park
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 8:30am - 10:30am
Leader: NYC Bird Alliance
Description: Are you curious about birding but don’t have much (or any) experience? Join NYC Bird Alliance in Morningside Park, also designed by Central Park's architects Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted! This is the perfect time to learn the basics, at the start of fall migration. Binoculars available upon request.
Registration: Event Registration is closed.
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Accessible Birding in Carl Schurz Park
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 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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New York Botanical Garden Bird Tour
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Leader: Debbie Becker
Description: Join us and the New York Botanical Garden for Bird Tours throughout the year! Get to see some of NYBG’s diverse landscape and learn why this unique green space is such a vital haven for a great variety of species year-round. The tour will meet at the Reflecting Pool in the Native Plant Garden.
Registration: This tour is included in your admission to the Garden. Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis. A limited number of binoculars will be available. Learn more about this tour and see the entire schedule on the Garden's website.
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Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, September 13, 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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Fall Migration at Calvert Vaux Park
Sunday, September 14, 2025, 8:00am - 12:00am
Leader: Tod Winston
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance's Tod Winston on a hike around the wilds of Calvert Vaux Park, just past low tide, as we look for early fall migrants and lingering breeding birds. Cavert Vaux's combination of mudflats, scrubland and lovely vistas onto Coney and Staten Islands can provide a surprising assortment of birds—from waders to warblers to waterfowl.
Registration: Registration page
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Birding in Pelham Bay Park
Sunday, September 14, 2025, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Jack Rothman
Description: This Fall, 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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Bilingual Birding at Kissena Park: Mandarin-English
Sunday, September 14, 2025, 9:00am - 10:30am
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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Queens Botanical Garden Birding
Sunday, September 14, 2025, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Explore Queens Botanical Garden in search of fall migrants and learn about the resources the Garden offers to birds and other wildlife. These outings are held in partnership with the Queens Botanical Garden.
Registration: Registration page
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North Shore Audubon Society

Garvies Pt. Preserve
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 8:00am – 11:00am
Leader: Andrew (302)-528-0198
Description: Garvies Point Museum & Preserve - 50 Barry Dr, Glen Cove, NY 11542
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

Alley Pond Park
Sunday, September 14, 2025, 7:45am - 12:45pm
Leader: Eric Miller - (917) 279-7530
"Description: This min-trip includes the forested areas of Alley Pond Park south of the Long Island Expressway. Meet at the east end of the 76th Ave. parking lot - see map.
" Registration: Please contact trip leader for meeting time and location.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Hempstead Lake State Park
Sunday, September 14, 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
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Sullivan County Audubon Society

Nature Walk: Zane Grey Museum
Sunday, September 14, 2025, 8:00am
Leader: Annie D'Arcy
Description: Annie D'Arcy, Upper Delaware River NPS intern, will lead us on a walk near the Zane Grey Museum. Leave from Minisink Battleground Park (17 Monument Rd., Barryville, NY. Once you turn into the park, follow the road until you see the parking lot on your left.)
Registration: RSVP to Maura Muller at 845-707-6088 or meadowhavenflowers@gmail.com.
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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, September 13, 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, September 14, 2025
Birding: Fall Migration at 39th Ave Alley Creek Trail, Queens
9:00am–10:00am
Come explore Alley Creek as hundreds of migratory birds use the wetland as a resting place on their way back down south for the winter.
Free

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

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, September 6 - Sunday, September 7, 2025:

Bedford Audubon Society

Bedford Hills Memorial Park
Sunday, September 7, 2025, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Leader: Tait Johansson
Description: Join us for the first of our Sunday Afternoons in the Park with Bedford Audubon! Step outside with us and discover the wonder of birds and wildlife right in your own backyard! Join Naturalists and volunteers for a free, family-friendly guided nature program series at Bedford Hills Memorial Park, cosponsored by our friends at Town of Beford Department of Recreation and Parks.
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

Friends Remembering Isabel Conte: A Prospect Park Memorial Bird Walk
Saturday, September 6, 2025, 7:45am - 12:00pm
Leader: _____
Description: A tribute to a long time bird club member who passed away on March 27th, Isabel Conte. Isabel was a loyal fixture on many Prospect Park walks, especially the Tuesday walks and others. She called the Brooklyn Bird Club her “family”. Quiet, yet very well liked by her birding peers, she possessed great humanity and positive energy with keen humor.
Registration: No registration necessary.
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Introduction to Birdwatching
Saturday, September 6, 2025, 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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First Sunday Bird Outings
Sunday, September 7, 2025, 8:00am - 11:30am
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: No registration necessary.
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Gateway National Parks

Birding for Beginners
Every week on Saturday until September 27, 2025, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Interested in birds, but feel intimidated about getting into birding? No problem, this is birding for beginners! Together we will take a nature walk, talk about what makes Jamaica Bay such a great place for birds, and give you the tools to learn the basics of bird identification and appreciation. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended, binoculars available.
Registration: Not required.
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Hudson River Audubon Society

Beverly Smith Memorial Butterfly Walk, Lenoir Nature Preserve, Yonkers
Saturday, September 6, 2025 , 1:00pm
Leader: Michael Bochnik
Description: We will take a leisurely walk in the butterfly garden and search for Monarchs and other Butterflies. Beverly Smith started the garden along with her husband Neil.
Registration: bochnikm@cs.com
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Linnaean Society of New York

Mushroom Exploration Walk in Van Cortlandt Park
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Leader: Paul Sadowski
Description: Van Cortlandt Park offers various habitats for mushroom exploration. We will walk along marshy areas, fens, lawns, woodlands, and ponds, searching for several types of fungi. We recommend that you bring a hand lens with about 10X magnification. However, you may be able to borrow one from our leader, an instructor in mycology, and a longtime member of the New York Mycological Society.
Registration: Mary Braza — brazamary@gmail.com
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Staten Island Early Fall Migrants and Sea Watch
Sunday, September 7, 2025
Leader: Anthony Ciancimino
Description: Join longtime birder and Staten Island resident Anthony Ciancimino for a tour around the south and east shores of the island. We will start at the Great Kills Park bathhouse, where we will have a seawatch (conditions permitting). Here, we can see a variety of waterbirds, such as gulls, terns, and possibly even Brown Pelicans. From there, we will explore the nearby trails for migrating warblers and other songbirds. Depending on activity, we will then move on to check the marshes, where we can see a great variety of wading birds, such as egrets and ibis, as well as shorebirds. There are a plethora of locations on the island we can check, so Anthony will discern which areas will be best on the day of the event. Please wear comfortable shoes, as we will walk on beaches and rocky terrain at times, totalling a few miles or so. Attendees should bring insect repellent as well.
Registration: Matthew Fischer — matthewwfischer@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, September 6, 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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Intro to Birding in Central Park
Saturday, September 6, 2025, 8:30am - 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Are you curious about birding but don’t have much (or any) experience? Join NYC Bird Alliance in Central Park, a birding hotspot, where you’ll learn the basics and spot everything from lively warblers to finches, woodpeckers, ducks, and more!
Registration: Registration page
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Rockaway Birding
Saturday, September 6, 2025, 9:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Russell Jacobs
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance (formerly NYC Audubon) to explore the Rockaways - a vital habitat for shorebirds. In the summer, these beaches provide crucial nesting grounds for shorebirds like Piping Plovers, Least Terns, and Black Skimmers, while in the fall, becoming important foraging habitat for sandpipers and other shorebirds making their way south. The extensive dune vegetation provides habitat for a variety of sparrows and other birds stopping over in New York City, while sea ducks, grebes, and loons overwinter just offshore.
Registration: Registration page
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Intro to Birding in Prospect Park
Sunday, September 7, 2025, 8:30am - 10:30am
Leader: _____
Description: Are you curious about birding but don’t have much (or any) experience? Join NYC Bird Alliance in Prospect Park, Brooklyn's backyard! This is the perfect time to learn the basics, at the start of fall migration. Binoculars available upon request.
Registration: Registration page
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Fall Birding in Forest Park
Sunday, September 7, 2025, 9:00am - 10:30am
Leader: Woo Sung Park
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance at Forest Park. Its mix of woodlands and meadows makes it a prime stopover for migrating birds each fall.
Registration: Registration page
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Fall Birding at Floyd Bennett Field
Sunday, September 7, 2025, 9:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Heydi Lopes
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance at Floyd Bennett Field, one of NYC's top spots for spotting winter wildlife! This former airfield-turned-natural haven offers a variety of habitats, from marshes to meadows, perfect for spotting everything from raptors and warblers to shorebirds.
Registration: Registration page
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NYC Queer Birders

Marine Park Salt Marsh
Saturday, September 6, 2025, 9:00am
Leader: Ryan Mandelbaum
Description: Meet at the Saltmarsh entrance.
Registration: Registration not required.
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South Shore Audubon Society

Massapequa Preserve
Sunday, September 7, 2025
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, September 6, 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

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Best of the Fortnight

Here's my selection of photos that I took from August 15-28, 2025. Enjoy:

Upland Sandpiper

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Immature Red-tailed Hawk

Painted Skimmer

Monarch

Black-and-white Warbler

Northern Waterthrush

Spotted Beebalm

Chinese Mantis

Red-eyed Vireo

American Redstart

Eastern Giant Swallowtail

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Wilson's Warbler

Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, August 30 - Sunday, August 31, 2025:

Brooklyn Bird Club

“Tail” -end Shorebird tour from Plumb Beach to Jamaica Bay
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Leader: Peter Dorosh
Description: The waning peak of shorebirds and water birds, terns, marsh species.
Registration: Peter Dorosh, email Prosbird@gmail.com or Prosbird@aol.com
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Gateway National Parks

Birding for Beginners
Sundays, July 06, 2025 to August 31, 2025, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Interested in birds, but feel intimidated about getting into birding? No problem, this is birding for beginners! Together we will take a nature walk, talk about what makes Jamaica Bay such a great place for birds, and give you the tools to learn the basics of bird identification and appreciation. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended, binoculars available.
Registration: Not required.
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Green-Wood Cemetery

Birding in Peace
Sunday, August 31, 2025, 6:30am - 8:00am
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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NYC Bird Alliance

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, August 30, 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
View Details


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South Shore Audubon Society

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Sunday, August 31, 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
View Details


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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, August 30, 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

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
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Upcoming Trips

Below are the birding/nature trips from Saturday, August 23 - Sunday, August 24, 2025:

Brooklyn Bird Club

Early Fall Songbirds at Green-wood Cemetery
Sunday, August 24, 2025
Leader: Rob Jett
Description: The beginning of the southern migration for neotropic warblers, flycatchers, orioles, shorebirds and other songbird species.
Registration: Peter Dorosh, email Prosbird@gmail.com or Prosbird@aol.com
View Details


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Gateway National Parks

Birding for Beginners
Sundays, July 06, 2025 to August 31, 2025, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Leader: Park Rangers
Description: Interested in birds, but feel intimidated about getting into birding? No problem, this is birding for beginners! Together we will take a nature walk, talk about what makes Jamaica Bay such a great place for birds, and give you the tools to learn the basics of bird identification and appreciation. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended, binoculars available.
Registration: Not required.
View Details


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Great South Bay Audubon Society

Jamaica Bay Nature Walk
Saturday, August 23, 2025, 8:00am - 10:00am
Leader: Mike Cooper, John Gluth
Description: Please join us as we head out to Jamaica Bay for an early morning adventure.
Registration: You must register for this trip. Text or email to Vera Capogna 516-639-5430 vlvcap@yahoo.com
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Linnaean Society of New York

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, 32nd Annual Tom Davis Memorial Shorebird Walk
Saturday, August 23, 2025
Leader: Tom Stephenson
Description: This annual memorial walk honors Tom Davis, who was, by many accounts, from the birders who knew him, an incredible observer of wildlife especially interested in shorebirds. He was also well known for imparting his knowledge to others and ensuring that others would see the unique birds he sighted. This year’s walk, led by Tom Stephenson, will also be guided by those principles.
Registration: Christina Black — christina.black50@gmail.com
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NYC Bird Alliance

Governors Island Bird Tour
Saturday, August 23, 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
View Details

Rockaway Birding
Saturday, August 23, 2025, 9:30am - 11:00am
Leader: Russell Jacobs
Description: Join NYC Bird Alliance (formerly NYC Audubon) to explore the Rockaways - a vital habitat for shorebirds. In the summer, these beaches provide crucial nesting grounds for shorebirds like Piping Plovers, Least Terns, and Black Skimmers, while in the fall, becoming important foraging habitat for sandpipers and other shorebirds making their way south. The extensive dune vegetation provides habitat for a variety of sparrows and other birds stopping over in New York City, while sea ducks, grebes, and loons overwinter just offshore.
Registration: Registration page
View Details

Intro to Birding on the QueensWay
Sunday, August 24, 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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South Shore Audubon Society

Mill Pond Park
Sunday, August 24, 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. Meet at the gazebo.
Registration: Registration is required by calling Joe Landesberg at 516-467-9498
View Details


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Urban Park Rangers

Saturday, August 23, 2025
Birding in Bucks Hollow at Greenbelt Nature Center (in Blood Root Valley), Staten Island
8:30am–10:00am
Discover the birds of the Greenbelt on a short hike through Bucks Hollow.
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

Hudson River Park's Park Tours: Nature Walks at Christopher St. Fountain, Manhattan
10:00am–11:00am
Learn about Hudson River Park’s wildlife by joining knowledgeable naturalists on guided nature walks along the Park’s esplanade. Hudson River Park is home to many plant and animal species including over 100 species of birds. Peek into some of our gardens to discover butterflies, dragonflies and other interesting insects.
Free

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In Memoriam

I just learned the sad news that longtime Brooklyn birder, naturalist, painter and former president of the Brooklyn Bird Club, Paul Keim has passed away after a long battle with cancer. Peter Dorosh has posted something on his blog here:

In memoriam: Paul Keim

Paul was the trip leader for the very first bird walk I ever attended back in the '90s. I remember asking him about a strange, out-of-place looking lump of wood that I had spotted. His astonished response, at first, baffled me. He then explained that it was a sleeping Common Nighthawk, not something easy to find. Beginner's luck, I suppose. Paul was more than just a birder, that is why I referred to him as a naturalist; he seemed to be an encyclopedia of knowledge on bats, birds, botanics and almost everything in between. He leaves this world having made a positive impression on many.

Resting in Nature