Brooklyn
22 Dec, Sunday
18°F

Bird-watching in Prospect Park.

Bird-watching in Prospect Park.

Prospect Park, nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, is a green oasis amidst concrete and traffic. It offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. Spanning over 500 acres, the park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. Over 250 species of birds inhabit Prospect Park. Every first Sunday of the month, from December through June bird enthusiasts gather at the park’s Audubon Center for bird-watching in Prospect Park. You can go for a guided tour or use their handy Prospect Park Bird Checklist and be your own guide.

The event is free and open to the public.

The event is free and open to the public. It is an accessible and affordable way for Brooklynites to enjoy the great outdoors. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors including hiking, biking and bike rentals, fishing, boat rentals, picnicking, and bird watching. For avid birders, or those less experienced, Prospect Park hosts a monthly bird-watching event you simply must go to.

An American Tree Sparrow cheerfully hopping along a muddy patch near a pond. Captured while bird-watching in Prospect Park.
An American Tree Sparrow is the proper name, but I call ’em Brown Eyed Chickadees.

The tour is led by an experienced naturalist who provides insight into the various species found within the park.


The tour is led by an experienced naturalist who provides insight into the various species found within the park. The park’s diverse habitats, include woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. These attract a wide array of avian life for bird watching in Prospect Park. During the winter months, visitors may spot species such as the American Tree Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, and the Northern Cardinal. During the spring and summer species such as the Baltimore Oriole, Eastern Bluebird, and the American Goldfinch are viewable.

For those interested in taking their bird-watching experience to the next level, the Prospect Park Alliance offers a Birding Basics Workshop.

For those interested in taking their bird-watching experience to the next level, the Prospect Park Alliance offers a Birding Basics Workshop. The workshop is designed for beginners. It provides an overview of the equipment needed for birding. As well, it explains how to use a field guide and tips for identifying common bird species. The workshop is led by experienced birders and includes a guided tour of the park to practice newly learned skills.

Beyond organized bird-watching events in Prospect Park, visitors can explore avian beings themselves.

Beyond organized bird-watching events in Prospect Park, visitors can explore avian beings themselves. The Prospect Park Bird Checklist gives you all you need to know to have an enjoyable bird watching experience. It’s available at the Audubon Center. It includes a comprehensive list of all bird species observed within the park. Providing information on each species’ habitat and behavior, the checklist is an invaluable resource for novices and pros alike.

Bird-watching in Prospect Park offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to explore the diverse avian life within the park’s borders.


Bird-watching in Prospect Park offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to explore the diverse avian life within the park’s borders. The monthly bird-watching event, guided tours, and bird checklist make it easy for visitors of all skill levels to engage in the activity. Additionally, the park’s (almost) natural beauty and other recreational opportunities definitely make it a must-visit destination. It’s almost natural because essentially every aspect of the park was designed. However, for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle it is essential. So grab your binoculars and head to Prospect Park for an unforgettable experience.


According to data from the Audubon Society, over 45 million Americans identify as birders.


According to data from the Audubon Society, over 45 million Americans identify as birders. Bird-watching is one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities in the country. This trend is reflected in New York City, where bird-watching has become increasingly popular over the years. Prospect Park is undoubtedly a prime destination for bird-watching in the city.

Naturally, one of the most popular bird-watching events at Prospect Park is the annual “Birdathon”.



Naturally, one of the most popular bird-watching events is the annual “Birdathon”. It takes place in May and is a dual bird-watching event and fundraiser for the park’s Audubon Center. It invites participants to form teams and compete to see who can spot the most bird species in a 24-hour period. In total the event raised over $33,000 to support the center’s educational and conservation programs.


To many bird-watching is more than just a hobby; it’s a way of life.



To many bird-watching is more than just a hobby; it’s a way of life. For David Barrett, founder of the eBird database, bird-watching has been a lifelong passion. “Bird-watching is a way to connect with the natural world,” Barrett says. “It’s a way to slow down and appreciate the beauty and complexity of the world around us.” Barrett is just one of the many birders who have discovered the joys of bird-watching in Prospect Park.

Beyond birdwatching in Prospect Park, the park also offers a variety of other activities.


The park’s beauty and recreational opportunities make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. The park is home to several scenic trails for hiking and biking. There’s a lake for fishing and boating, and several areas designated for barbecuing. It is the perfect destination for a family outing or a romantic picnic for two. Moreover, it hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, outdoor movie screenings, and holiday-themed celebrations.

Ending on a profound green note, Prospect Park offers a unique and enriching experience for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.


Ending on a profound green note, Prospect Park offers a unique and enriching experience for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The park’s diverse habitats, guided tours, and bird checklist make it easy for visitors of all skill levels to engage in the activity. The park’s annual “Birdathon” and other events provide opportunities for birders to connect with each other and support conservation efforts. So grab your binoculars, download the checklist, and head to Prospect Park for an unforgettable bird-watching experience. Who knows? You might even discover a new passion or a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

A sparrow is perched on a thin branch, surrounded by spring foliage.
I can’t tell you what kinda bird this is, but it’s perched majestically on that branch.

Find out more about bird-watching in Propsect Park and Brooklyn at large:

https://www.prospectpark.org/news-events/events/

http://brooklynbirdclub.org/events/category/field-trips/list/

Read our article about the Cherry Blossoms of the Brooklyn Botanical Garden:

https://172-234-236-52.ip.linodeusercontent.com/life-is-but-a-flower/