55+ Living Guide Winter 2018 Winter 2018 55+ issue for Joomag | Page 20

Winter Birding
in the Capital Region
Written by
Claudette Thornton
& Elizabeth Burns,
Audubon New York
PerigrinE Falcon – photo by Richard Deveran
During the long cold months of winter, outdoor activities
are an excellent way to beat cabin fever. Studies show that
spending time in nature has multiple health benefits and if
you’re willing to brave the chill of a Northeast winter, the
Capital Region offers tremendous birding opportunities
the whole family can enjoy, regardless of one’s experience
level or age.
As one of the country’s fastest growing past times, birding is
an easily accessible activity—a hobby that can be taken up
no matter where you live. In New York, over 450 bird species
rely on a variety of habitats that offer a treasure trove of year-
round birding trips. To join in on the fun, you’ll only need
a few things: binoculars, a notebook, a field list, bird guide,
warm winter layers, and an adventurous spirit.
It’s true that many birds head south to Mexico and beyond
during the fall migration. However, a lot of species also
stay here to overwinter, and some even travel here from
further points north such as Canada and the arctic to find
food and shelter during the winter months. The diversity of
birds in the winter may vary from what you can see during
the spring and summer, but it’s no less spectacular. In this
article we will offer you tips, tricks and prime locations
for experiencing the winter wonders of birding.
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If you’re just starting out, birding can be intimidating,
but rest assured that all it takes to become an expert is
practice and a good ear. Finding birds is mostly a matter
of being aware and knowing where to look, and there are
many locations within the Capital Region that are perfect
for honing your skills, including Important Bird Areas
(IBAs).
These areas sometimes coincide with state park lands and
are recognized and conserved as part of an international
program that links global and local conservation efforts,
providing critical habitat for native bird populations.
When going out, be aware of your surroundings and try
thinking like a bird. It may sound silly, but it works! If you
go out with a group, finish chatting and stand still. Put
everything away except your binoculars and soak in your
surroundings and listen. Your ears are just as valuable as
your eyes when it comes to finding elusive species. When
scanning the area, pay special attention to snags and tree
tops. And don’t forget to scan the skyline for raptors on
the search for food. Birders are also a very welcoming
group and are happy to help you spot something you hear,
or direct you to an exciting find. If you encounter other
birders on a trail, don’t be afraid to introduce yourself.