Guided bird walking in Central Park

We invite you to join us to watch and study the more than 100 species of birds that either live year-round in Central Park, winter here, or visit New York City during the spring and fall migrations. The walks starting at Conservatory Gardens cover the quieter, wilder, and less populated north end of Central Park. Locations visited often include Harlem Meer, the North Woods, The Loch, Great Hill, Wildflower Meadow, and The Pool. There is no set end point to these walks. When it's time to leave, someone will be able to give you directions out of the park, east or west, to wherever you need to go.

The atmosphere of the walks is friendly and informal. While there are many "regulars," newcomers of all abilities -- from beginner to expert -- are always welcome. We enjoy meeting, and learning from, birders from all over the country and the world. Bob & Deb are both excellent educators, and the more experienced birders enjoy helping those just beginning. The Bob birdwalks truly have become a community, and many valuable and lifelong friendships have resulted. In fact, many come along as much for the people and camaraderie as for the birds.

Walks last approximately three hours, but you're free to leave anytime, of course. The Sunday walks continue throughout the winter, and are only cancelled for the most severe weather conditions. We are a hardy bunch! Bob sometimes has extra binoculars that can be rented for $10 per walk. Please contact seller to reserve a pair.

Directions to Conservatory Garden:

Walks in the north end of the park, usually Friday mornings, start at Conservatory Garden. We meet inside the huge gate and just down the steps at 105th Street and 5th Avenue. There are bathrooms open year-round at Conservatory Garden, which is good. Easiest way to get there by subway is to take the #2 or #3 train to 110th street and Central Park North. Then walk south along the east side of the Harlem Meer (or down 5th Avenue) until you reach Conservatory Garden. You can also take the #6 train to Lexington Avenue and 103rd street. Walk west for three blocks and then north by two. Finally, buses run up Madison Avenue regularly, too.

The Central Park bird walks are hosted by Dr. Robert DeCandido, PhD, better known as "Birding Bob". Bob leads these walks along with Deb Allen, a noted New York City bird and nature photographer. Bob & Deb are both excellent educators, and the more experienced birders enjoy helping those just beginning. The Bob bird walks truly have become a community, and many valuable and lifelong friendships have resulted. In fact, many come along as much for the people and camaraderie as for the birds.