Mark your calendars for the 2026 I BIRD NY Challenge taking place March 1-November 1! Identify 10 species of birds anywhere in New York State, submit online or by mail, and receive a commemorative patch, sticker, and certificate. You will also be entered to win birding-related prizes. This year’s challenge patch will feature the Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus).
Get to know our featured feathered friend for this year’s challenge:
• Great Horned Owls are large birds of prey that are found throughout New York State and get their name from their two prominent feathered tufts on their head.
• These owls prefer woody habitat—including forest edges, mixed forests, suburban yards, urban parks, and places with younger forests.
You’ll hear or see them throughout the year, as they stay in New York State year-round, nesting in tree cavities.
• They are fierce predators, eating anything from skunks, squirrels, other owls, and even Peregrine Falcons—their strong talons require a force of 28 pounds to open!
• They are approximately 18-25 inches in length, have a 4- to 5-foot wingspan, and weigh around 3 pounds.
Want to level up the challenge? Identify 10 new species to you in New York state to add to your life list, identify 10 warblers, waterfowl, or birds of prey, or identify all 10 species at a New York State Birding Trail location.
