Spot America’s National Symbol Soaring in New York State through March

02-17-2009

THE BALD AND THE BEAUTIFUL

NEW YORK, February 17, 2009 – The Bald Eagle, America’s national symbol, is soaring high above the Empire State during the months of February and March.  More than 150 migratory bald eagles are making their way through various regions of New York State during the month of February and I LOVE NEW YORK (www.iloveny.com), New York State’s tourism promotion agency, has determined some of the best locations from which to spot the magnificent creatures.  

            According to a report published in 2008 by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, nearly a third of the U.S. population – 71 million people – enjoyed closely observing, feeding, and photographing wildlife.  In addition to contributing significantly to the enjoyment of the outdoors, wildlife watching has a substantial impact on New York State’s economy with the state ranking fifth among all 50 states in number of wildlife-watching participants and fifth in economic output.

            “Eagle-watching is one of the state’s most rewarding – and affordable – activities for winter visitors,” said Thomas Ranese, chief marketing officer of Empire State Development. “Wildlife viewing is a growing trend and one of the most popular outdoor recreational activities for New York State getaways,” added Ranese.  “To witness the flight of these awe-inspiring birds is a unique way to learn about New York State’s wildlife.”

            A series of affordable guided tours, habitat excursions, and educational workshops are available through The Eagle Institute, a non-profit, volunteer organization dedicated to the protection of the bald eagle and other birds of prey.  From now through March, 31, 2009, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., group rates are available for eagle watching in their natural habitats.  The institute presents slides, field excursions, workshops and on-site interpretive programs on weekends.

            To learn more about opportunities through The Eagle Institute, visit www.eagleinstitute.org or call 570-685-5960.

            According to New York State’s Department of Environmental Conservation, The Empire State provides an ideal habitat for eagles with significant amounts of open water and food.  The chilliest months of the year are the best for viewing, particularly in the following areas: 

Hudson Valley

• Riverfront Park, Peekskill, NY
• Charles Point/China Pier, Peekskill, NY
• Verplanck waterfront
• George’s Island Park parking area, Verplank, NY
• Constitution Island from North Dock, West Point, NY
• Norrie Point State Park, Hyde Park, NY
• Iona Island, Westchester County. 

 

Upper Delaware River

DEC maintains two, well-marked viewing areas in the Mongaup Valley on the Rio and Mongaup Falls reservoirs.  An information booth is stationed at Mongaup Falls.  For more information visit www.nps.gov/upde.

 

Eagles can also be found at New York’s two upstate national wildlife refuges:

• Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge Visitor’s Center, Basom, NY

            www.fws.gov/northeast/iroquois

• Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Seneca Falls, NY

      www.fws.gov/r5mnwr/mnwr7.html

 

Additional Viewing Points:
-Norrie Point State Park, Hyde Park, NY
-Constitution Island from North Dock, West Point, NY
-Riverfront Park, Peekskill, NY
-Charles Point/China Pier, Peekskill, NY
-George’s Island Park, Verplank, NY

-Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Seneca Falls, NY

-Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, Basom, NY

 

For more information on these viewing areas, visit www.dec.state.ny.us.  For more information
on a getaway in New York State, visit www.iloveny.com.

About New York State
New York State features 11 beautiful vacation regions.  New York’s attractions span from landmarks such as Niagara Falls, to the wine trails of Hudson Valley and treasures like the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.  Whether it’s wide-ranging outdoor activities for the whole family like fishing, hiking and boating, culinary wonders and farm-to-table fresh foods, or the rich history and culture of one of the 13 original colonies, New York State offers diverse activities for all travelers.  For more information visit www.iloveny.com.  Media can find press releases and more at thebeat.iloveny.com.

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