DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the launch of the new NYS Birding Trail to highlight world-class birding opportunities across the state. Birding or birdwatching is one of the fastest-growing recreation and tourism activities and requires little to no experience or equipment to get started.

The New York State Birding Trail provides information on places anyone can go to find birds amid beautiful natural settings across the state. The trail is not a physically connected or built trail but a network of promoted birding locations that can be accessed by car or public transportation and provides an inclusive experience for all.

New York City is the first region to be announced, with future announcements expected over the next year.

Learn about other places to watch wildlife near you and some of DEC’s watchable wildlife tips. Find a birding event near you, or participate in Global Big Day and Global Migratory Bird Day on Saturday, October 9 from your window, backyard, or other green space.

Thank you to our partners NYC Parks, NYS Parks, and National Park Service (Gateway Recreation Area).

Accessibility Resources in the Outdoors

Birdability is a nonprofit group that advocates and promotes a welcoming, safe, and inclusive atmosphere in the birding community for people of all abilities. Their vision is “birding truly is for everybody and every body, regardless of disability or other health concerns.”

There are many resources on the site, including a Birdability map, documents to facilitate inclusion, including information on welcoming and inclusive birders, adaptive birding equipment information, and even upcoming event listings.

Two resources available in the “More Resources” section worth further reading are Mindful Birding and Racism in Birding (provides understanding about issues people experience and promotes diversity).

Participate in Birdability Week 2021 from Monday October 18 – Sunday October 24, or anytime during the month of October to celebrate inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility in birding.