Spot migrating birds in the Rochester region. Here's where

Tina MacIntyre-Yee, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
·2 min read
A Northern Saw-whet owl sleeps among pine trees in the Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area despite sun shining on its face.

Feeling restless? Have you noticed the sun setting later in the day and the grass getting greener despite fluctuating temperatures?

You might be itching to get outside, but with many tennis courts still without nets and the weather not quite warm enough for a beach day, what can you do? Why not try watching the spring migration? During these in-between months, birds of all kinds stop in the region on their way back or while resting before reaching their final destination. Bird watching is a wonderful way to enjoy nature, explore new trails, and see birds not commonly found in the area.

For hikers, there are plenty of local places to trek and bird watch. Mendon Ponds Park, Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area, and Hamlin State Park are just a few spots where you can find a variety of birds, from songbirds to owls. Don't forget to explore smaller parks and take a walk around your neighborhood, as you never know what you might find. Recently, an American Kestrel, the smallest and most common falcon, was spotted in Buckland Park in Brighton.

If you prefer driving or have mobility challenges, Long Pond, Cranberry Pond, and Buck Pond, as well as the larger Lake Ontario and Irondequoit Bay, are great places to spot migrating birds from your vehicle. Once the ground dries up, several of these trails are wheelchair accessible.

Here are some resources to make your birding adventures more enjoyable:

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Spot migrating birds in the Rochester NY region. Here's where