Taking FLight: birding in the catskills

“The Northern Catskills are a birding hotspot for both native and migrating species throughout the region. Watch broad-winged hawks effortlessly soar thermals over the Hunter-West Kill Wilderness, or tick off that endangered Bicknell’s Thrush from your life list on top of Hunter Mountain. You need not be a hiker, however, to enjoy birding in Greene County as the lakes, rivers and marsh areas attract over 270 bird species. Whether you are looking for a relaxing birding weekend away or you are looking to grow your life list or year list, a birding trip to the Catskills is well worth your time.

Spring: Nesting Season
Spring migration is one of the best times to go birding in the Catskills. As plumage becomes more vivid, birds can easily be spotted amongst the trees that have not fully achieved leaf-out. Spot displaying males strutting their stuff trying to attract a mate. Or keep your eye out for first-of-the-season arrivals eager to find the perfect nesting location.

Adventurers will love a climb up Hunter Mountain to look for higher elevation birds such as Blackpoll Warblers and Bicknell’s Thrush. If you are lucky, you may even spot a Great Horned Owl perched solemnly in a treetop. Some of the top eBird hotspots in the region are located at lower elevations for a more relaxed day of birding. Coxsackie Creek Grasslands Preserve offers the opportunity to scan the tree tops for colorful Scarlet Tanagers and Baltimore Orioles. Marshy locations such as RamsHorn-Livingston Sanctuary can offer glimpses of variety of Flycatchers, Common Yellowthroats, Swamp Sparrows, and the elusive American Bittern. Around dusk, tune your ear to the split voice melodies of the Wood and Hermit Thrush. These ethereal singers will provide a pleasant backdrop to the evening.”