Prospect Park is located along the Atlantic Flyway for North American bird migration and has been designated as an Important Birding Area by the National Audubon Society. Over 200 species of birds can be spotted in the Park each year. The Park’s significant native and migratory bird population contributed to its selection as the site for the nation’s first urban Audubon Center, opened in April 2002.

Some of the rarest birds to make an appearance in the Park include the Pied-billed Grebe, the American Bittern and the Saw-whet Owl. Other more common inhabitants include the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, the Green Heron, the Red-tailed Hawk, and 18 duck species. Check out our Interactive Map to locate the best birding sites. Click here for more information on wildlife in the Park.

Click here for Prospect Bird Sightings, a birdwatching blog about the Park.

The Audubon Center hosts Introduction to Birdwatching tours every Saturday from 12 to 1:30 p.m.

 The New York Times goes winter birdwatching around NYC, including Prospect Park.
 

Birding Guidelines

• The welfare of the birds and their environment comes first. The Park is a breeding ground for birds and home to many small animals.
• Stay on roads, paths, woodchips, and marked trails. Walking off-path compacts the soil and destroys plants and young trees.
• Do not chase or startle birds.
• Respect the rights and interests of other birders and Park users.
• Support the protection of bird habitats.
• If you witness unethical birding behavior, notify Parks personnel. It is illegal to capture birds.
• Birdwatch in small groups to limit the impact on the environment and other Park users.

Contact
• Prospect Park Audubon Center: (718) 287-3400
• Brooklyn Bird Club