A guided winter nature walk will give residents a closer look at birds and wildlife thriving along Onondaga Lake later this month.
The Onondaga Lake Conservation Corps will host a nature excursion on Saturday, February 21, from 10 a.m. to noon along the West Shore Trail, focusing on newly restored habitats and the species that depend on them during winter.
The 1.5-mile walk will explore flat sections of the trail that may be snow covered. National Audubon Society staff and volunteers will help participants identify winter songbirds, waterfowl, birds of prey, and other wildlife while also discussing why protecting the lake’s habitats matters.
Onondaga Lake is designated as an Audubon Important Bird Area and provides critical food, water, and shelter during cold months. Species commonly seen in winter include bald eagles, common mergansers, American black ducks, greater and lesser scaup, common goldeneye, bufflehead, hooded merganser, mallard, redhead, and ring-necked duck.
The event will begin at the Long Branch Road Parking Lot at 392 Long Branch Road in Syracuse. Participants are encouraged to bring their own binoculars.
The cost is $10 for adults and $8 for children. Space is limited, and advance registration is required.
Questions about the event can be directed to the Montezuma Audubon Center by phone or email.
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