The Preserve is about 1600 acres and only 30 miles north of Manhattan with diverse habitats, making the land an important bird sanctuary. The park is home to over 200 species and is designated by Audubon as an Important Bird Area (IBA). Here’s 3 species you may see today.
Double-crested cormorants have a black or iridescent body and an orange throat pouch. These birds float low on the surface of the water and dive to catch small fish. Between fishing and flying, birds must perch on logs or rocks to dry their wings. In the wild, cormorants live about 6 years.
Great blue herons appear blue-gray from a distance, with a wide black stripe over the eye. Hunting herons stand statue-like, stalking fish, and other prey in shallow water. Their static legs are disguised as sticks to the heron’s under water prey. In flight, herons are an unmistakable image with their slow wingbeats, tucked-in neck, and trailing legs.
Didn’t see either? Birds can be hard to spot unless you’re here at the right times. I bet you can find painted turtles in the lake. These are the most widespread native turtle of North America. Fossils show that the painted turtle existed 15 million. The turtles mate in both spring and autumn. If you ever have to move a turtle across a road, hold it by the shell, and move it to the side of the road that it was facing. In the traditional tales of Algonquian tribes, the turtle played the part of a trickster.
If you have time, take a walk around the Swan Lake and take notice of each bird you see today. If you don’t know what it is, take a picture and send it to Julia.jardine@parks.ny.gov, who can share it with the Park staff that may know.
If you’re interested in bird watching, check in with the office or Saw Mill River Audubon for upcoming bird walks at the Preserve. No experience or knowledge is necessary! Newcomers are encouraged.
Dogs are allowed on leash.
There is a $6 daily parking fee, unless you have a New York State Empire Pass, A Golden Park Pass, or a Group/Individual Access Pass.
Additional Information: Very busy area of preserve – stealth needed here. This cache is not part of the 2018 Taconic Region Geocaching Challenge. It has been placed for your geocaching pleasure. Enjoy!!! Thanks to West End 2 for placing and maintaining this cache!