Spring is an ideal time to observe bird migrations. New York is conveniently located along the Atlantic Flyway, a main migration routes, a great opportunity to observe birds flying to their summer breeding grounds. Grab binoculars and check out these hot spots:
• Northern Montezuma Wildlife Management Area (WMA), Cayuga, Seneca, Wayne counties — a stopover for many species of ducks who are headed farther north. You can see shorebirds, raptors, waterfowl, and songbirds at this WMA.
• Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, Genesee and Orleans counties — see many species of waterfowl.
• Derby Hill Bird Observatory, Oswego County — known for migrating hawks.
• Bashakill WMA, Orange County — view hawks, marshbirds, and waterfowl.
• Central Park, NYC — see warblers, in addition to many other species.
It’s impossible to list all the great bird viewing locations but look for an Important Bird Area or Bird Conservation Area near you.
Did you know that sanitizing your bird feeder helps to limit the spread of disease?
It is good practice to clean your bird feeders regularly. Several diseases are commonly spread at bird feeders. Clean bird feeders every two weeks with a warm, soapy solution and brush to remove solid particles, then sanitize for 10 minutes with a 10% bleach solution (one part household bleach, nine parts water). Allow the feeder to dry thoroughly before refilling it with feed.
Note: In areas where black bears occur, DEC recommends removing feeders in April, so they do not attract hungry black bears emerging from hibernation.
