9 Best Destinations For Wildlife Spotting in New York
While New York might not be at the top of the list for most nature lovers, there are plenty of underrated and underappreciated places in New York State that are certainly worth a visit for those trying to get in better touch with nature. New York is brimming with stunning towns, rivers, and mountains that all serve as great places to spot local wildlife. Uncover the best destinations throughout the Empire State for wildlife spotting.
Lake Ontario
Sitting along the northern border of New York is the mighty Lake Ontario. One of the five Great Lakes. Lake Ontario is one of the best places to observe wildlife in New York. Migratory birds like Canadian Geese, loons, and ducks can be seen here regularly.
Birds of prey like hawks and eagles are not uncommon either. These predators often prey on the many fish that call the lake home. Seeing one of these birds in action is an experience like no other.
Oneida Lake
You can find Onedia Lake just a short drive north of Syracuse. Here you will encounter all manner of waterfowl such as ducks and swans. Taking a short walk around the perimeter of the lake will give you the chance to run into other animals as well.
Woodland creatures like squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits all live nearby as well. If you are lucky you might come across a group of deer. As long as you are quiet, the deer may not bolt, as the ones around Oneida Lake are generally accustomed to humans.
Lake George
Fish are not the only kinds of animals that are swimming around Lake George. Lake George is home to dozens of different types of reptiles and amphibians too. Frogs, salamanders, and snakes all tend to live on the shallow shores of the lake and are not too hard to spot.
Turtles are in apple supply as well. While most are harmless be careful you are not approaching a Snapping Turtle. They are known to be quite aggressive and can even sever a finger if you are not careful. It's best to appreciate these animals from afar.
Hudson River
The Hudson River is best known for being one of the main geographical features of New York City, but in Upstate New York, the river become almost unrecognizable. Turtles, birds of prey, and crabs all call the Hudson River home.
Unbeknownst to some, river otters can be a common sighting in the Hudson as well. Known to travel in groups called bevies or romps, if you are lucky enough you could come across a whole family of otters feasting on the crustaceans that live in the river.
Mt Marcy
Located between the towns of Plattsburgh and Ticonderoga is the famed Mt Marcy. The area surrounding the mountain is some of the best that New York has to offer. Those who decide to climb to the summit will be greeted with truly breathtaking views.
Tons of wildlife inhabit the region. Woodpeckers and white-winged crossbills live in the tall pine trees that cover the forests. Plenty of mammals can be seen too. Keep an eye out for pine martens and porcupines.
Adirondack Park
One of the most serene parts of New York, the Adirondack Park is teeming with all kinds of different animals. The small ponds and streams around the park are home to families of beavers. These critters are well known to block the flow of water in order to build their homes/dams.
Black bears are known to roam around the area. Always be careful of the surroundings and if you come across one give it plenty of space to go by. Black bears tend to be quite timid but will attack if they feel threatened or their cubs are in danger.
Finger Lakes National Forest
Sandwiched between Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake is the lovely Finger Lakes National Forest. All manner of woodland creatures and waterfowl call this region home. Wild turkeys are known to roam the area. They can usually be heard long after they are spotted thanks to the endless gobble noises they make.
Bobcats have also been reported in the area. Seeing one of these large cats is incredibly rare. Usually only seen on trail cameras, bobcats are famous for being elusive and staying as far away from people as possible.
Allegany State Park
Not far from the border with Pennsylvania lies the majestic Allegany State Park. The size of the park is truly massive. Allegany State Park covers an obscene 65,000 acres of land, most of which is covered in thick forests.
White-tailed deer and coyotes are probably the most numerous mammals that you will see in the park. Coyotes are generally not dangerous to humans but have been known to attack dogs and small children. If you take your canine friend with you, make sure they are on a leash.
Watkins Glen State Park
Just outside of the town of Watkins Glen, is the state park that bears the same name. Watkins Glen is famous for its abundance of streams and creeks that run through the park. These are home to dozens of various reptiles and lizards.
Newts, salamanders, and frogs are all over the wetlands that cover the parks. If you follow the creeks long enough you will also encounter the main attraction of the park, the series of waterfalls and rapids.
New York State is one of the most underrated places in the United States when it comes to wildlife spotting. Despite being known for the mass metropolis that is New York City, outside of that much of New York is untouched wilderness just waiting to be explored.
