This coming Saturday, May 3, nature enthusiasts are invited to take part in Beginning Birder Walk, a free guided hike designed to connect the public with the fascinating world of birds. The event will take place at Bear Mountain State Park, located about six miles from downtown Peekskill. It is open to participants aged 12 and older, as the walk will be of considerable length.

The meeting point will be outside the Bear Mountain Inn, starting at 7:30 am. There, participants will begin preparations for the hike, which is expected to last approximately an hour and a half. Before the walk begins, guides will provide an introductory briefing and a short course on how to properly use binoculars.

The walk will officially start at 8:00 am, taking participants around the scenic Hessian Lake. The main goal of this beginner-focused activity is to help identify as many bird species as possible by recognizing their physical characteristics and songs. Along the way, guides will share information about bird behaviors, including which species are endemic to the area and which ones are just passing through as part of seasonal migrations.

In addition to birdwatching, participants will learn about the habitats that support these species—such as forests, lakes, and wetlands. Bear Mountain State Park, nestled in the Hudson River Valley, is an ideal location for birdwatching, especially in the spring, when many migratory species visit the region.

Although the event is free, advance registration is required through the official link. Participants do not need to bring binoculars, as equipment will be provided by the organizers. Comfortable clothing and footwear are highly recommended.

The park is also home to the Trailside Museums and Zoo, which offers year-round programming for the whole family. For more information on this and other activities, visit the official website of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.