Cow Meadow Park and Preserve

New York · Northeast

Habitat
GrasslandUrban Park
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Cow Meadow Park and Preserve is a productive birding destination in New York, with 206 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and urban park habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

American Goshawk

Astur atricapillus

3/6/2026Jones Beach SP--Hawkwatch1 observed

Chipping Sparrow

Spizella passerina

3/6/2026Floyd Bennett Field1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

3/6/2026Floyd Bennett Field1 observed

Iceland Gull (kumlieni)

Larus glaucoides

3/6/2026Floyd Bennett Field1 observed

Wild Turkey

Meleagris gallopavo

3/5/2026Home1 observed

Black-headed Gull

Chroicocephalus ridibundus

3/4/2026Point Lookout--Town Park1 observed

Short-eared Owl

Asio flammeus

3/4/2026Jones Beach SP--West End1 observed

Red-shouldered Hawk

Buteo lineatus

3/4/2026Massapequa Preserve1 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Cow Meadow Park and Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Cow Meadow Park and Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cow Meadow Park and Preserve?
Notable species at Cow Meadow Park and Preserve include Eastern Meadowlark, Dickcissel, Grasshopper Sparrow, Northern Harrier, Bobolink. The area supports grassland, urban park habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cow Meadow Park and Preserve?
Birding at Cow Meadow Park and Preserve is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Cow Meadow Park and Preserve?
Cow Meadow Park and Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.