Discover the thrill of birding across New York State and unlock a new hobby that everyone can enjoy. New York’s wide-ranging habitats, from the Atlantic Ocean’s sandy beaches and Great Lakes shorelines to the majestic Catskill and Adirondack peaks, create a birder’s paradise that supports over 450 different bird species. Birding, also known as birdwatching, is one of the fastest-growing outdoor recreational activities. It can be enjoyed by all ages and experience levels and is a great way to get outdoors.
Because birds can be observed wherever people live, work, or recreate, birding is an accessible activity that does not require transportation or the purchase of specialized equipment. While binoculars can help, many birds can be identified without them.
In 2022, 7.4 million residents enjoyed wildlife watching close to home and 2.7 million visitors travelled to New York to experience its diverse birding opportunities. Join the fun! Get out and try birding in your backyard or nearby park today. It’s easy to get started.