Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Beginners and "birders" alike will be led on short walks near the Humphrey Nature Center to find the increasing number of returning birds of the spring. Binoculars will be available to borrow. Meet at 8 am.

Beginners and "birders" alike will be led on short walks near the Humphrey Nature Center to find the increasing number of returning birds of the spring. Binoculars will be available to borrow. Meet at 8 am.

Come for a hike in Minnewaska amongst the blooming mountain laurel. For this approximately four mile hike, participants will walk on three historic carriage roads to reach Echo Rock, a spanning scenic vista which offers commanding views of the Palmaghatt Ravine and the Wallkill Valley. Along the way, we'll also look for quick-moving wood warblers and once at Echo Rock, we'll look for soaring or resting raptors. Participants may want to bring a snack and water, along with comfortable hiking shoes or boots. A few binoculars will be available for loan during this program. Meet at the Minnewaska Nature Center.

Macomb Reservation State Park is home to different species of ducks! Join Grace Mayhew, park naturalist, to explore how these ducks feed in the pond ecosystem, and what makes them unique. We'll begin in the nature center, (recreation hall), located on the day-use side of the park for a quick introduction on waterfowl.Naturalist's Notes - June 2017 This month's topic: OrnithologyThen take a walk around the trails to observe the wetland ecosystem, and hopefully see some ducks! This is a light walk appropriate for all ages! Please bring binoculars (the park can provide a few pairs), water bottle, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear.

Have you ever seen an owl? How about a hawk? Join Mark Manske outside of the nature center for his raptor presentation! There will be a Eurasian eagle owl, screech owls, and a Harris's hawk. It will be about a 2 hour presentation. All ages are welcome to come! Please remember that these are live birds, we must be respectful of them, and their space. For more information about Mark's work visit www.adkrpators.org

Designed for birding enthusiasts or those just looking to learn the basics, this series will offer various outings led by experienced birding volunteers and park naturalists. Participants will meet at the Minnewaska main entrance and should come prepared with binoculars. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program.

Join our naturalist at the nature center (recreation hall) on the day-use side of the park. The activity is to make a bird feeder out of recycled materials. Participants are asked to bring a recycled milk or juice carton; all other supplies will be provided. For all ages!

Interested in birds and learning how to identify different bird species? Learn to recognize by sight and sound, how to focus binoculars and navigate through field guide books, then, go on a guided trail walk to try out your new skills and identify local bird species. Binoculars recommended. Meet at the Overlook Gazebo. (1 hour, 1 mile)

Enjoy a walk with Della and Alan Wells of the Rockland Audubon Society. These birding experts will lead us through the diverse bird habitats found at the Stony Point Battlefield. First-time birders are welcome. Bring binoculars, or borrow an extra pair from the group. Weather permitting.

8:00am & 10:00am

In this unique illustrated presentation, Dr. Alan Wells of the Rockland Audubon Society will discuss the fascinating and colorful array of birds documented at Stony Point through the past few centuries. Beginning with early period letters and diaries, he will trace observations of avian arrivals and departures to the present day.

Thomas Lake, a Naturalist for NY's DEC will present an illustrated lecture on the American Bald Eagle's reestablishment and the preservation of our national symbol in the Hudson Valley.