Dear ambitious bird watchers,
I find keeping up with the weather in New York state quite challenging. It often feels like Mother Nature is testing us with all the rain, snow, and heatwaves she can muster, just to see how we handle it.
Well, this bird-watcher plans to ignore the weather report this summer and check out some parks in the area where I can find birds that don’t want to come and feast at the all-day buffet hanging from my patio roof.
The birds in Onondaga County seem to pose for photos in the spring. The forests here look like they belong in fairy tales. In fact, you might want to swing by Syracuse Orchestra where they are performing a show called Fairy Tales.
But first, enjoy your own show of clear lakes and stunning waterfalls, making this a perfect area for bird lovers and nature fans. Onondaga County has many places to enjoy, whether you’re a skilled birder or just trying to make your friends laugh with your amazing bird calls.
Winter and early spring are the best times to see Bald Eagles at Onondaga Lake, near Syracuse. These are real bald eagles, not the popular Eagles band that might be losing their hair these days. This seasonal display in Onondaga County is worth seeing.
It’s not far from Destiny Mall where you can buy binoculars and cameras at Dick’s Sporting goods.
Green Lakes Birding Conservation Area (BCA) in Green Lakes State Park features mature forests and large grasslands, the biggest in New York State, great for birdwatching. Visitors might see breeding Eastern Meadowlark, Bobolink, and Grasshopper Sparrow, as well as Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks, Eastern Wood-Pewees, and Redstarts. Pick up a checklist at the park office to record sightings and memories.
West of Syracuse, Baltimore Woods is a bird lover’s paradise that could make even the most serious ornithologist crack a smile. Keep an eye out for the lively Common Yellowthroat and the quirky Blue-winged Warbler. In spring, you might spot the elusive American Woodcock at dawn or dusk, doing their cool aerial dance for the ladies, complete with loud calls make their message loud and clear. The center keeps the fun going year-round with activities like Project FeederWatch and guided tours.
Known for its glacial lake and unique landscape, Jamesville Park is a haven for birds. You might see great blue herons, swallows flying around, and occasionally a red-headed woodpecker showing off its bright red head. During migration seasons, look out for American pipits or white-winged crossbills. Clark Reservation is a great spot for lovely scenery and interesting bird sightings. It’s like a Broadway show, but with birds. I’d love to see humans dressed as birds, singing and dancing, wouldn’t you?
Just 15 minutes northwest of Syracuse, Beaver Lake is so amazing, even the birds are shocked. Home to nine miles of trails, this Baldwinsville sanctuary is the ideal spot to catch a glimpse of Ospreys, Belted Kingfishers, and thousands of Canada Geese. Take a kayak or canoe out on the lake or join a guided birding tour to make the most of your experience.
All these parks are not even an hour away from me, yet I have not seen over half of these birds in real life. I need to leave my recliner, ignore the ugly weather and get out there. No matter what season we’re in Central New York, nature is always waiting to be enjoyed by all.
Next time you’re in Onondaga County, hopefully you’ll stop at one of these beautiful parks.
Let me know if you do!
