Birding is a fun activity that everyone can enjoy! From Montauk to Buffalo, New York is home to a vast array of amazing habitat that supports over 450 bird species. Bird watching is one of the fastest growing outdoor recreational activities that can be enjoyed by all ages and experiences, plus it's a great way to get outdoors. Join the fun! Get out and try bird watching in your neighborhood today. It's easy to get started.
2021
I Bird NY Challenges are open now!
Are you 16 years or younger and live
in New York State? If you have an interest in birds, try the I Bird NY
challenge! Find 10 common New York bird species and we'll send you a special
certificate for taking the challenge. You will also be entered into a random
drawing for birding accessories. Download our I Bird NY Beginner's Challenge form (PDF) and get started today. The Beginner's Challenge is
also available in Spanish (PDF).
The Experienced Birder Challenge: If
you are already a birder, take your birding to the next level by taking the I
Bird NY Experienced Birder Challenge! The wide variety of habitats found in New
York State support more than 450 different bird species. Find any 10 (or more)
different bird species to complete the challenge. Find a lifer? Let us know!
Complete and submit the Experienced Birder
Challenge entry sheet (PDF) for a
chance to be entered in a random drawing for birding accessories. The Experienced Birder's Challenge is also available
in Spanish (PDF).
Both challenges are open through
September 30th. All entries must be received by October 14th.
READ MORE: Check out Birdability which promotes birding for everyone
Upcoming Birding Events
Friday, September 10: Backyard Birding at Joseph Davis State Park from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Friday, September 17: Summer on the Hudson: Birding Tour at Riverside Park, Manhattan at 5:30 p.m.
Ongoing events
Guided bird walk for beginners at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute in Jamestown at 9:00 a.m., learn more on the Roger Tory Peterson Institute website.
Governors Island Bird Walks on Saturdays from July 10 through October 30 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Bird Conservation Area Sites
The New York State Bird Conservation Area Program (BCA) was established in the late 90s to safeguard and enhance bird populations and their habitats on state lands and water. An area can be designated as a BCA if it is judged an important enough site for one or more species. In general, a site is nominated because of its importance to large numbers of waterfowl, pelagic seabirds, shorebirds, wading birds, or migratory birds. A site may also have high species diversity, importance to species at risk, or importance as a bird research site. DEC has a listing of designated BCAs where you can visit free of charge.
READ MORE: Great spots you can watch birds in the Hudson Valley