02-03-2025
DEC announces 2025 BIRD NY Challenge
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced this year's I BIRD NY Challenge on Saturday to encourage New Yorkers to enjoy birding this spring. BIRD NY Challenge is for people of all ages and abilities. The challenge will allow the public to have the opportunity to learn about birds, identify them, and then challenge finishers will be given a commemorative BIRD NY Challenge patch and a chance to win birding-related prizes.
The I BIRD NY program was launched in 2017 to build on the State's efforts to increase access to New York's vast natural resources and promote no- and low-cost opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Those with the DEC say those who take part in the challenge get to connect with nature, whether marveling at owls in woodlands, spotting shorebirds along coastlines, or seeing eagles by rivers.
According to the 2022 National Survey of Hunting, Fishing, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation, 7.4 million wildlife watchers generated $10.8B in New York State in 2022.
'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.'
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