Pete Thayer's Favorite Hot Spots:


Braddock Bay

43.30 N   77.70 W
Just northwest of Rochester on the Lake Ontario shore, this hot spot has waterfowl, wading birds and raptors. The hawk watch platform is often crowded in the spring during migration.

Central Park, New York City
40.47 N   73.58 W
Birds? In New York City? During spring migration, Central Park is a welcomed island of green trees in the middle of a concrete desert. Warblers, Tanagers, Grosbeaks (and maybe a Rock Dove).

Derby Hill Bird Observatory
43.52 N   76.26 W
This lookout spot on Lake Ontario is a Mecca for hawkwatchers in the springtime. Broad-winged Hawks number in the thousands on many days.

Jamaica Bay National Wildlife Refuge
40.37 N   73.52 W
Nestled between Brooklyn and the JFK Airport , in the shadow of the Statue of Liberty, is a wonderful wetland area officially called Gateway National Recreation Center. Great for migrants. Something rare is always turning up here. You can even bird by subway!

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
42.98 N   76.74 W
This small refuge is in the Finger Lakes region of Central New York. Eagles and waterbirds congregate here, especially in the fall. The 3.5 mile Wildlife Drive is a good place to start your visit.

Niagara Falls
43.08 N   79.07 W
Winter gulls are the attraction here. Rarities are always showing up each winter. Between the falls and Fort Niagara State Park on Lake Ontario you will see thousands of gulls! When finished, cross the river and start building up your Canada list!

Source:http://www.wildbirds.com/FindBirds/StatebyStateInformation/EasternUSStates/NewYorkBirding/tabid/158/Default.aspx