ILNY Travel Guide - Summer 2013 - (Page 34)

Discover New York’s Wild Side! New York State’s watchable wildlife brings you closer to nature DIRKX ©LAURIE With millions of acres of protected open space and thousands of species calling New York home, opportunities to see wildlife up close are endless—whether you are interested in birds, mammals, or even reptiles and amphibians! For kids, nothing beats the thrill of seeing a deer in the wild, or discovering a spotted salamander along the side of a pond. But whatever your age, the pure enjoyment of watching wildlife can be as simple as an afternoon watching birds at a nearby state park or as focused as planning a vacation that includes several of New York State’s Watchable Wildlife sites. New York State has millions of acres of state forests, forest preserves and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and offering tremendous opportunities for wildlife watching. Just head out on one of New York’s many trails or waterways. Chances are it will lead to thrilling encounters with some of the state’s furred and feathered inhabitants, especially if you are a persistent, sharp-eyed observer. ©WAYNE JONES ©PHOTOS: BACKGROUND TOP: NYSOPRHP/JOHN ROZELL. UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED, ALL OTHER PHOTOS: NYSDEC What makes New York such a great wildlife viewing state? If you’re not sure where to begin, check out DEC’s Watchable Wildlife website at NewYorkWatchableWildlife.org. There you will find suggested sites for wildlife viewing in seven geographic areas throughout New York. It also includes wildlife species that you may see, the best times for viewing, recreational opportunities like hiking and fishing, photography tips and an events calendar. If you prefer a guidebook, look for DEC’s New York Wildlife Viewing Guide available for purchase at a bookstore near you. Here’s a sample: Long Island Region: Fire Island National Seashore, Patchogue, Suffolk County Fire Island is a diverse barrier beach ecosystem and popular migratory rest stop for more than one-third of the bird species in North America. From pods of whales off the shores to horseshoe crabs on the beach and piping plovers flying overhead, wildlife surrounds you. New York City Region: Prospect Park, Brooklyn, Kings County Prospect Park is home to dozens of forest and water birds, including red-tailed hawks, black-crowned night herons and American coots. Anglers can catch largemouth bass and other freshwater fish. The next time you’re in New York City, visit Prospect Park. Catskill Region: Mongaup Valley WMA, Sullivan and Orange Counties Bald eagles are often seen from accessible blinds, as this is a popular winter location for the birds. Visitors may also see white-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes and beavers, or enjoy other recreational opportunities at this site. Hudson Valley Region: Stewart State Forest, Newburgh, Orange County Stewart is a unique place for animals needing a mixture of habitats—birds and butterflies that love grasslands and 34 • 800/CALL-NYS  http://www.NewYorkWatchableWildlife.org

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of ILNY Travel Guide - Summer 2013

ILNY Travel Guide - Summer 2013
Contents
11 Vacation Regions
Getaway Ideas
Outdoors
Watchable Wildlife
New York State Canal System
Art+Culture
Path Through History
Food+Drink
Sports
Regional Attractions
Summer Events Calendar
Camping
Regional Travel Information
New York State Map
Autumn Preview
Autumn Events Calendar

ILNY Travel Guide - Summer 2013

https://www.nxtbookmedia.com