The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is inviting birdwatchers of all ages to participate in the 2025 I BIRD NY Challenge, which kicks off March 1. The program encourages both new and experienced birders to explore New York’s diverse birding habitats while working toward the goal of identifying 10 bird species. Participants who complete the challenge will receive a commemorative patch and a chance to win birding-related prizes.
“No matter where you live or where you come from, birdwatching is a fun, easy, and affordable activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, abilities, identities, and backgrounds,” DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said. “Now with nearly 400 locations across New York State, the NYS Birding Trail welcomes new and experienced birders to enjoy both migrating and resident birds in a diverse variety of habitats.”
As part of the program’s expansion, DEC announced 14 new locations to the NYS Birding Trail, including Rye Nature Center in the Hudson Valley and 13 Nassau County parks, recreation, and museum properties on Long Island. The additions bring the total number of birding hotspots in New York to nearly 400, offering countless opportunities to observe more than 450 bird species throughout the year.
Birdwatching continues to grow as a popular outdoor activity. According to the 2022 National Survey of Hunting, Fishing, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation, 7.4 million wildlife watchers generated $10.8 billion in New York State alone, marking a significant increase from the $6.4 billion spent in 2016.
The I BIRD NY program, launched in 2017, aims to increase access to birding resources and promote free and low-cost outdoor recreation. Last year, the challenge saw its highest participation rate yet, with more than 1,800 people taking part.
To complete the 2025 challenge, birders must identify 10 species of their choice and submit a challenge sheet to DEC by Nov. 1. Entries can be submitted online via Survey Monkey, email, or mail. Youth and adult participants will be entered into a drawing for additional prizes, and those who submit a photo documenting their experience will receive an extra entry. Challenge forms are available in Spanish as well.
Birders looking for more resources can visit the I BIRD NY website to access challenge sheets, event information, a beginner’s guide to birding, and more. The DEC also offers a monthly birding newsletter, Words of a Feather, for enthusiasts looking to stay updated on birding tips and NYS Birding Trail recommendations.
DEC reminds participants to be mindful of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), which remains widespread among wild birds and mammals. The agency advises avoiding direct contact with sick or deceased wildlife and using proper protective equipment when handling carcasses. More information on HPAI and wildlife safety can be found on DEC’s Animal Diseases webpage.
As always, outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to Love Our New York Lands by practicing Leave No Trace™ principles and ensuring safe and sustainable recreation.
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