NYC Audubon | Explore the Birds of Governors Island

Broadway Stages is committed to supporting environmental sustainability in the boroughs in which we operate and across the city. A local organization that shares this core value is the New York City Audubon, a nonprofit that has worked to protect wild birds and habitat in the wetlands, forests, and grasslands across the City’s five boroughs for more than 40 years. Our own Gina Argento (Broadway Stages’ president and CEO) is proud to be part of NYC Audubon’s leadership team as a member of the board of directors. This week, we highlight birding and other attractions on Governors Island.

The Hills of Governors Island provide a spectacular view of New York Harbor and an array of birding spots across 172-acres. PHOTO: simplethrill/CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Located south of Manhattan, Governors Island is a 172-acre island in New York Harbor open to the public year-round. This green space is popular for birding, with over 216 species documented there in just the past few years. Not only is it a spot for birding, but it is also a destination for history buffs, with Native American, military histories and more. You can find three historical military forts on the island— Fort Jay, Castle Williams, and the South Battery. NYC Audubon provides an online guide to Governors Island that includes listings of the various birds seen there by season, indications of how productive the birding is during the seasons, and a link to eBird hotspot records. You can also find a brief history of the island’s numerous points of interest, as well as a link to directions and visiting info.

In the summer, birding on Governors Island is rated productive for Nesting Common Tern, Herring and Great Black-backed Gulls, Yellow-crowned Night-Heron, Fish Crow, Eastern Kingbird, Warbling Vireo, Barn and Tree Swallows, Gray Catbird, Yellow Warbler, Foraging Laughing Gulls, and Chimney Swifts. Looking ahead to fall, you can expect very productive birding during fall migration including raptors, freshwater sandpipers, woodpeckers, flycatchers, grassland birds, warblers, and other songbirds.

Visit the seasonal nature center at Nolan Park House 17 on Saturdays through October 29, from Noon - 4:30 p.m. to learn about birds and participate in a variety of activities, including making art. You can also join free bird walks through October 29, from 2 - 3:30 p.m. See website for more information.

Visit the NYC Audubon Governors Island page to learn more about birding and other opportunities available at this fabulous local natural and historical location. Note: Visitors to Governors Island from lower Manhattan or Brooklyn must reserve their ferry tickets in advance. View Governors Island ferry information and make a reservation. NYC Ferry also offers service to Governors Island.

How you can support NYC Audubon
Consider supporting NYC Audubon by making a tax-deductible financial donation. Other ways to provide your support are by becoming a member or volunteering. For more information about NYC Audubon, visit their website or scan the QR code below with your mobile phone camera. Be sure to follow them on Instagram and Facebook. Happy birding!