I Bird New York

Area parks may be closing due to overwhelming human capacity during this COVID-19 outbreak but spring bird migrations are just amping up (and they're allowed!) so it’s a perfect time to fill those bird feeders, grab a pair of binoculars and see the feathered wonders in our own backyards.

“While New Yorkers are spending more time close to home during the COVID-19 public health crisis, we can stay healthy by getting outside and enjoying nature. Studies show spending time enjoying the outdoors can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, improve mood, energy, and sleep, and boost the immune system. Birding is a fun recreational activity that can be enjoyed by New Yorkers of all ages and abilities from anywhere in the state.”

— DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos

New York is located along the “Atlantic Flyway” a main migration route for birds heading to their summer breeding grounds. From Montauk to Buffalo, over 450 different bird species call New York home. Help track their movements with the I Bird NY challenge: Find any 10 or more of the 50 bird species as part of the Experienced Birder Challenge.

To keep up with real-time bird migration forecasts, check out BirdCast from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and tag HVNY in your photos.

Source: http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/109900.html