THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE October / November / December 2013

Includes Calendar of Ranger Free Weekend Adventures 2 NYCParks nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

As the one year anniversary of Superstorm test your angling skills at the Midland Message From Sandy approaches, Staten and our pier; relax on a bench on city have been changed forever. Over the the fully-restored boardwalk at South Adena Long last year, we were forced to confront and Beach; let your dog run leash-free at our rethink where we live, how we use our land, renovated dog run; or swing your tennis and what steps we can take to make our racket at our refurbished tennis courts Borough Commissioner city more sustainable for the future. at Wolfe’s Pond Park. Staten Islanders have always been This autumn, I encourage you to get passionate about their parks, outside and enjoy Staten Island parks with and natural areas, and that has never an Urban Park Ranger as your guide. Each been more true than now, since weekend the Urban Park Rangers offer Superstorm Sandy threatened to take exciting “Weekend Adventures” in a park many of them away from us. In Staten near you. These programs enable adults Island, we sustained almost $200 million and families to experience the natural in damages to our 7,200 acres of parkland. world in new and unexpected ways. The With the tremendous work, spirit and variety of these activities is as vast as dedication of NYC Parks staff, help from the parks themselves. Urban Park Ranger volunteers from every corner of the world, program topics include astronomy, hiking, and temporary staff funded through the history, viewing, and nature art, U.S. Department of Labor, we have dug as well as special programs for kids and out, reclaimed and begun to rebuild. families. With an Urban Park Ranger as Every day, we continue to make our your guide you will discover all that shorelines and other park spaces better, City’s parks have to offer. stronger and more prepared for future weather incidents. I invite you to discover for yourself why As we head into the fall season, be sure Staten Island is affectionately known as to take some time to enjoy all that Staten the “Borough of Parks.” Island has to offer, and especially the amenities we have restored and made better in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy: run, walk or ride the Midland Beach Promenade or East Shore Greenway; ©Photo by Michael P. Schnall | NYC Parks

BROOKLYN continued STATEN ISLAND Urban Park Ranger Fort Greene Visitor Center: Blue Heron Nature Center: . Enter the park at Myrtle . 222 Poillon Avenue, Nature and Avenue and Washington Park. 718.722.3218 between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard. Visitor Centers 718.967.3542 High Rock Ranger Station: : High Rock Park. Park in the lot at the end of Bronx . 79th St., mid-park. Nevada Avenue, off Rockland Ave., and Crotona Nature Center: 212.628.2345 follow signs. . Enter the park at Charlotte St. and Crotona Park East. 718.378.2061 Inwood Hill Nature Center: For hours, call the specific location. . Enter park at West 218th Nature Center: St. & Indian Road. Under Renovation due to . Section 2 of Orchard Super-Storm Sandy Beach. 718.885.3466

Pelham Bay Ranger Station: Pelham Bay Park. Bruckner Blvd. and Adventure Center: Wilkinson Ave. 718.319.7258 Alley Pond Park. Enter at Winchester Blvd., THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE under the . Van Cortlandt Nature Center: 718.217.6034 or 718.217.4685 Urban Park Rangers . Enter the park at 1234 West 246th St. & . 718.548.0912 10029 Visitor Center: Forest Park. Woodhaven Blvd. and Forest Park Drive. 718.846.2731 Director Deputy Director Sarah Aucoin Richard Simon Salt Nature Center: Visitors Center: Marine Park. East 33rd St. and Avenue U. Deputy Director Graphic Designer Fort Totten Park. Enter park at fort entrance, Bonnie McGuire Elizabeth Green 718.421.2021 north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. and follow signs. 718.352.1769

Front cover: behind the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum in Pelham Bay Park. ©Photo by Michael Feller | NYC Parks URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers NYC Parks 3

Jamaica Bay Science & Resilience Institute Announced This past August, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell, and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Shaun Donovan announced the selection of a consortium led by the City University of New York to lead a new Science and Resilience Institute at . This builds on the partnership between NYC Parks and the that was announced Mayor Bloomberg and NYC Parks Commissioner in July of 2012 to cooperatively manage the 10,000 acres of White with members of the Jamaica Bay/ Rockaway Parks Restoration Corps. federal and city-owned parks in and around Jamaica Bay. ©Photo by Edward Reed/NYC Mayor’s Office

The Institute will be a top-tier research nearly 300 restoration corps members by The Jamaica Bay–Rockaway Parks center, integrating cutting-edge research combining resources and taking advantage Conservancy is chaired by longtime efforts from across the natural and social of each agency’s hiring practices. The National Park Service philanthropist Tom sciences; drawing upon climate science, combined restoration corps work throughout Secunda, and its initial Board includes engineering, sustainability and resilience City and Federal park properties helping the representatives from many of the City’s studies to create a comprehensive program region recover from the effects of Hurricane most respected not-for-profit organizations of research, monitoring and education; Sandy by restoring natural areas, planting and institutions. as well as outreach. It will host visiting Spartina grasses and removing debris. scientists, provide lab facilities for students The beach grass pilot program, with and researchers, and convene events to The Mayor and Secretaries also announced philanthropic support raised by the share research findings. plans for a beach dune grass nursery Jamaica Bay–Rockaway Parks Conservancy, at Field and details of a will collect native seeds from Jamaica Bay Even as the City and NPS look to the future, public-private partnership that has been and Rockaway and create a nursery to grow the benefits of the partnership can already established to raise funds for the planning beach dune grass. The grass production be seen. This year NYC Parks and the and development of the Jamaica Bay-area would support efforts for coastline National Park Service are together fielding parklands and waters. restoration in the region and citywide.

What do you enjoy most about being Red-tailed Hawks during nesting season. Ranger in the a Ranger? In Central Park, the famous nest My favorite part of the job is helping is an exciting place to watch the hawks Spotlight patrons discover something new and unique raising young. The best view is from the in the parks. I really enjoy connecting New Conservatory Waters. During summer, Rob Mastrianni Yorkers to the and wildlife that you’ll find many fledgling Red-tailed Hawks they didn’t realize was right here in our city. leaving their nests and exploring the parks Urban Park Ranger It’s especially fun for me to experience the for their first time. enthusiasm of patrons that get to see a is a great place to witness the fledglings bald eagle, a hawk or an owl for their in action. In the fall, raptors migrate from first time. the north to various large parks, including Pelham Bay, Forest Park, Central Park, Blue What are your favorite programs? Heron Park, and . Some of I love teaching the Urban Raptors program the migrants that arrive in the fall include because I have a passion and fascination the Merlin, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Coopers with birds of prey. I helped create the Hawk, , and . Winter Raptors curriculum for the Urban Park is perfect for finding migrating owls. It is Rangers’ Natural Classroom programs, and common to find Barred Owls, Great Horned also started the Winter Eagle Watch Owls, Long Eared Owls, Snowy Owls and at Inwood Hill Park. Northern Saw-whet Owls in Central Park, Pelham Bay Park, Inwood Hill Park, Prospect What should New Yorkers know about Park, and Alley Pond Park. It is very birds of prey? important to enjoy owls from a distance We are very lucky to have a healthy with a spotting scope or binoculars, and population of raptors in all five boroughs. not to disturb the owls with loud noise or These include American Kestrels, Great- flash photography. horned Owls, Eastern Screech Owls, Peregrine Falcons and the most commonly Anything else you would like to share? seen Red-tailed Hawks. Red-tailed Hawks You don’t have to travel to Alaska to observe can be found perching, soaring or hunting bald eagles. This winter, make some time to in most large city parks. visit Inwood Hill Park for our Winter Eagle Watch program. Watching a bald eagle soar What are the best places and times of year over the is an absolutely to see birds of prey? unforgettable experience! Spring is great for watching the resident ©Photo by Elizabeth Green | NYC Parks 4 NYCParks nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

Astronomy and Night Sky Programs

The wonders of the universe are ready to be discovered and New York City parks are the perfect place to stargaze and explore the night sky. Our Urban Park Rangers will be your guides to the solar system, discussing the science, history and folklore of the universe. Learn about the effects of light pollution and discover the best places in NYC for amazing views of the sky. Fall and winter are the best times to observe meteor showers, the phases of the moon, and many planets of the Milky Way.

Astronomy programs feature the use programs highlight the history and folklore of telescopes and binoculars to observe of the solar system, using the naked eye to specific astronomical events. Many locate stars and planets. Programs are best programs feature astronomy experts and enjoyed on clear nights, so please call all equipments is provided. Night Sky ahead if weather conditions are not clear.

©Photo by Marc Sanchez | NYC Parks

BRONX BROOKLYN continued MANHATTAN continued Saturday, October 26 Saturday, December 7 Saturday, December 21 Astronomy / Van Cortlandt Park 7 p.m. / Astronomy / Marine Park 6 p.m. / Salt Night Sky: Winter Solstice / Central Park Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and 5 p.m. / Belvedere Castle, Street and Broadway Avenue U and mid-park

Sunday, November 10 Saturday, December 14 The Night Sky / Pelham Bay Park 6 p.m. / The Night Sky / Prospect Park 6 p.m. / QUEENS Meet near the dog run at Middletown Road Picnic House, Fifth Street and West Drive Saturday, October 12 and Stadium Place Astronomy / Fort Totten 7 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Saturday, December 14 MANHATTAN Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center Astronomy / Van Cortlandt Park 6 p.m. / Saturday, October 5, 2013 Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Astronomy / Inwood Hill Park 7 p.m. / Saturday, November 23 Street and Broadway Park entrance at Isham Street and The Night Sky / Fort Totten 6 p.m. / Fort Seaman Avenue Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and . Follow signs to BROOKLYN Saturday, November 9 Visitor Center Saturday, November 2 Urban Starfest with the Amateur Astronomy / Brooklyn 7 p.m. / Astronomers / Central Park 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday, December 28 Pier 1, Furman St. and Old Fulton / , 67th Street and Astronomy / Fort Totten 6 p.m. / Fort West Drive Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center

STATEN ISLAND Saturday, October 19 Astronomy / Wolfe’s Pond Park 6 p.m. / Comfort Station west of Cornelia Avenue

Saturday, November 9 Astronomy / Wolfe’s Pond Park 6 p.m. / Comfort Station west of Cornelia Avenue

Saturday, November 30 The Night Sky / Wolfe’s Pond Park 6 p.m. / Comfort Station west of Cornelia Avenue

©Photo by Elizabeth Green | NYC Parks URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers NYC Parks 5

Nature Art and Photography

It has been said that art takes nature as its model. The beauty of nature has inspired many great Americans to create artistic masterpieces. From the wildlife portraits of John James to the stunning black and white photography of Ansel Adams, nature has been a muse to artists for centuries. Our Urban Park Ranger nature art and photography programs allow you to interpret the natural world through artistic expression, while learning about nature and the environment.

Art programs may include drawing, painting, journaling and nature art projects. All supplies are provided unless otherwise indicated. All art programs are family friendly, but may be challenging for younger children. All photography programs are for digital cameras and you must provide your own camera, DSLR preferred, but all cameras are welcome.

©Photo by Daniel Avila | NYC Park

BRONX MANHATTAN QUEENS Sunday, October 20 Sunday, October 6 Saturday, October 5 Nature Photography: Fall Foliage / Pelham Nature Photography / Nature Photography: Fall Foliage / Park 1 p.m. / Pelham Bay Nature 1 p.m. / South entrance to the Heather Meadows-Corona Park 1 p.m. / Meet inside Center, Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Garden at Margaret Corbin Circle the park, at the Unisphere Avenue Saturday, November 2 Sunday, November 17 Sunday, November 24 Nature Photography: Fall Foliage / Central Beginner Impression Painting / Fort Totten Nature Photography / Pelham Bay Park Park 1 p.m. / Dana Discovery Center, 110th 1 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor Center, Totten 1 p.m. / Pelham Bay Nature Center, Street between Lenox and 5th Ave. Road and Cross Island Parkway. Follow Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue signs to Visitor Center Sunday, December 8 Sunday, December 22 Nature Drawing / Fort Washington Park Sunday, December 1 Winter Photography: Black & White / Van 11 a.m. / Pedestrian bridge at 181st Street Nature Photography: Winter Landscapes / Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / Van Cortlandt and Rockaway Beach 11 a.m. / Beach 67 Street Nature Center, West 246th Street on Boardwalk and Broadway

STATEN ISLAND BROOKLYN Sunday, November 3 Sunday, October 27 Nature Photography: Fall Foliage / Nature Photography / Prospect Park 1 p.m. 1 p.m. / Playground at / Picnic House, Fifth Street and West Drive Ramona Avenue and Lenevar Avenue

Sunday, November 10 Saturday, November 23 Nature Drawing: Fall Foliage / Fort Greene Nature Drawing / Von Briesen Park 11 a.m. Park 11 a.m. / Fort Greene Visitor’s Center, / Bay St. & School Rd. parking lot Myrtle Avenue and Washington Sunday, December 29 Nature Photography / Bloomingdale Park Sunday, December 15 1 p.m. / Playground at Ramona Avenue and Nature Journaling / Marine Park 1 p.m. / Lenevar Avenue Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U

©Photo by Richard Simon | NYC Park 6 NYCParks nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

Wilderness Survival and Emergency Preparedness

What would you do if you found yourself lost in the woods? Do you know how to build your own shelter, or start a fire without matches? What would you eat and where would you find water? Do you have what it takes to survive in the wild? Our Urban Park Rangers are skilled in the techniques of wilderness survival and emergency preparedness. On these fun, family friendly programs you will learn tips and tricks that will enhance your knowledge of the natural world, and might just save your life. Whether you are preparing for an extended journey through the woods or just want to be more prepared for any situation, a wilderness survival program is perfect for you.

Wilderness Survival programs take place programs feature hands-on activities in an in the fall and winter. All programs are outdoor setting. Please dress appropriately family friendly, but are recommended for for cold weather. ages 8 years and older. Wilderness survival

©Photo by Jeff Billak | NYC Parks

BRONX BROOKLYN continued MANHATTAN continued Sunday, November 17 Saturday, November 9 Saturday, November 23 Emergency Preparedness: Knot Tying and Emergency Preparedness: Knot Tying and Emergency Preparedness / Central Park Fire / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Van Map Reading / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / 1 p.m. / Dana Discovery Center, 110th Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Prospect Park Audubon Center, East Drive Street B/W Lenox and 5th Ave and Broadway and Lincoln

Sunday, December 1 Sunday, December 29 QUEENS Wilderness Survival / Pelham Bay Park Wilderness Survival / McCarren Park Saturday, November 2 1 p.m. / Pelham Bay Nature Center, 11 a.m. / Meet at Lorimer Street and Wilderness Survival / Forest Park 1 p.m. / Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue Berry Street Forest Park Visitor Center, Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive Saturday, December 28 Wilderness Survival / Van Cortlandt Park MANHATTAN Saturday December 21 1 p.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West Saturday, October 19 Wilderness Survival / Alley Pond Park 246th Street and Broadway Wilderness Survival / Inwood Hill Park 1 p.m. / Alley Pond Park Adventure Center, 1 p.m. / meet at Park entrance at Isham Winchester Boulevard, under the and Seaman Avenue Central Parkway BROOKLYN Sunday, October 20 Sunday, November 10 Wilderness Survival / Marine Park 1 p.m. / Wilderness Survival / Inwood Hill Park STATEN ISLAND Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street 1 p.m. / meet at Park entrance at Isham Saturday, October 5 and Avenue U Street and Seaman Avenue Wilderness Survival / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard

Saturday, November 16 Emergency Preparedness: Knot Tying / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard

Sunday, December 8 Emergency Preparedness: Knot Tying / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard

©Photo by Daniel Avila | NYC Parks URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers NYC Parks 7

Hiking

Hiking is the ultimate way to enjoy the outdoors and reduce stress. Regardless of the intensity level, it is a great way to burn calories and stay fit. Our Urban Park Ranger hiking guides will introduce you to the hidden gems of New York City and places often off limits to the general public. On our hikes, you may explore nature, discover our City’s rich history and diverse culture, or just unplug from the world to clear your head.

On Nature Exploration Hikes we will discover ranging from light (a leisurely stroll on mostly the plants and animals that inhabit the paved paths), to moderate (longer, faster urban forest. Our Night Hikes allow paced hikes on rugged terrain), to vigorous participants to see parks in a different light, (long distance, with hills and rugged terrain). and are great for families. Fitness Hikes For all hiking programs we recommend feature less talking and more walking, for wearing comfortable shoes or boots, and those who don’t mind a vigorous two hour packing water and a light snack. hike. Hiking programs feature intensity levels

©Photo by Malcolm Pinckney | NYC Parks

BRONX MANHATTAN continued QUEENS continued Saturday, November 9 Saturday, December 14 Saturday, November 30 Hiking: John Muir Trail (vigorous) / Van Nature Exploration (moderate) / Fitness Hike (vigorous) / Alley Pond Park Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Mosholu Ave Riverside Park 11 a.m. / 11 a.m. / Alley Pond Park Adventure Center, and Broadway and Riverside Drive Winchester Boulevard, under the Grand Central Parkway Saturday, November 30 Sunday, December 22 Hiking: Putnam Trail (moderate) / Van Nature Exploration (light) / Central Park Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Van Cortlandt 11 a.m. / Doris Friedman Plaza 5th Avenue STATEN ISLAND Nature Center, West 246th Street at 60th Street Saturday, October 26 and Broadway Fitness Hike (moderate) / 11 a.m. / Eton Place and Sunday, December 8 QUEENS Richmond Avenue Nature Exploration: Sunday, October 6 (moderate) / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Nature Exploration Hike (light) / Kissena Sunday, November 10 Orchard Beach Nature Center, Section 2 Park 1 p.m. / Rose Avenue and Nature Exploration (light) / Bloomingdale of Orchard Beach Avenue entrance Park 1 p.m. / Playground at Ramona Avenue and Lenevar Avenue Saturday, November 16 BROOKLYN Fitness Hike (vigorous) / Sunday, December 15 Saturday, October 5 11 a.m. / Parking lot on Union Turnpike and Fitness Hike (vigorous) / Nature Exploration (moderate) / Prospect 196th Street 1 p.m. / Park Drive and Clove Road Park 11 a.m. / Picnic House, Fifth Street and West Drive

Sunday, November 17 Nature Exploration (light) / Marine Park 1 p.m. / Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U

Sunday, December 1 Nature Exploration (light) / Canarsie Park 11 a.m. / Remsen Avenue and Seaview Ave

MANHATTAN Sunday, November 24 Nature Exploration (vigorous) Inwood to Fort Washington / Inwood Hill Park 11 a.m. / Park entrance at Isham Street and Seaman Avenue

©Photo by Richard Simon | NYC Parks 8 NYCParks nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

History

Ice-age glaciers, Native Americans, Dutch traders, British Redcoats, and the Underground Railroad have all left their mark on New York City. Their stories can be found in the names of our streets, our architecture, and our parks. Urban Park Rangers specialize in interpretation of historic turning points, both natural and man-made, in our city’s long history. Revolutionary New York programs focus on the history of New York during the pre and post Colonial Period. Historic New York programs highlight the history of selected neighborhoods or parks. Architecture and the history of the Hudson River are explained at Manhattan’s Little Red Lighthouse and . Native American culture is celebrated in special programs throughout the five boroughs.

All programs are historic walking tours programs have limited space and may unless otherwise noted. Certain popular require registration. ©NYC Parks

BRONX BROOKLYN continued QUEENS Sunday, October 27 Sunday, November 24 Sunday, November 3 Historic New York: Split Rock / Pelham Bay Historic New York: Bay Ridge / John Paul Historic New York: Fort Totten Tunnel Tour / Park 1 p.m. / Bartow-Pell Mansion (Shore Rd) Jones Park 11 a.m. / The Monument at Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor 101st Street and 4th Avenue Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Saturday, November 16 Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center. Historic New York: Estates of Pelham / Sunday, December 22 To register, please visit www.nyc.gov/parks/ Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Orchard Beach Historic New York: Prospect Heights / rangers/register on Wednesday, October 23rd. Nature Center, Section 2 of Orchard Beach Grand Army Plaza 11 a.m. / The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch Saturday, December 7 Saturday, November 23 Historic New York: Highlights Historic New York: Native Americans / / Astoria Park 1 p.m. / Parking lot on Hoyt Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Pelham Bay MANHATTAN Ave. and 19th St. Nature Center, Bruckner Boulevard and Saturday, October 12 Wilkinson Avenue. Little Red Lighthouse Festival / Fort Sunday, December 8 Washington Park 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. / Historic New York: Native Americans / Enter the park at 181st Street and Rockaway Beach 11 a.m. / Beach 67 and BROOKLYN Plaza Lafayette Boardwalk Far Rockaway Saturday, October 12 Open House New York: Prison Ship Martyrs Saturday, October 12 Monument / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. - Open House New York: The / STATEN ISLAND 2 p.m. / Prison Ship Martyrs Monument, Central Park 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. / 64th Street Sunday, October 20 Park entrance at Myrtle Avenue and and 5th Avenue Historic New York: Sylvan Grove Cemetery Washington Park Avenue / Independence Park 1 p.m. / Victory Blvd and Alberta Avenue

Saturday, November 2 Historic New York: Native Americans / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard

Saturday, December 7 NYC Heroes of World War II / Wolfe’s Pond Park 1 p.m. / Comfort Station west of Cornelia Avenue

©NYC Parks URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers NYC Parks 9

Kids and Family

We connect children with nature to encourage active exploration of the natural world. Children who spend time outdoors develop strong imaginations and learn to socialize better with others. Urban Park Rangers are role models who encourage children to let their imaginations run wild in a safe, supportive atmosphere.

While nearly all of our programs are family friendly, the programs highlighted here are specifically designed for young children and families. Whether enjoying a family friendly beach exploration, freeing your imagination playing in nature, or learning about conservation through eco-crafts, a free Ranger program is the perfect addition to your family’s weekend. All supplies provided.

©Photo by Dan Chan | NYC Parks

BRONX MANHATTAN continued QUEENS continued Sunday, October 6 Saturday, November 30 Saturday, October 26 Kids Orienteering / Van Cortlandt Park Storytelling Walk / Central Park 11 a.m. / Haunted Lantern Tours / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West Delacorte Clock, enter at 64th Street and 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor 246th Street and Broadway 5th Avenue Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center Sunday, November 3 Native American Crafts / Van Cortlandt QUEENS Sunday, November 24 Park 1 p.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, Friday, October 25 Kids Scavenger Hunt / 1 p.m. West 246th Street and Broadway Haunted Lantern Tours / Fort Totten / Rose Avenue and Oak Avenue entrance 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor Sunday, December 15 Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Sunday, December 29 Holiday Nature Crafts / Pelham Bay Park Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center Family Nature Crafts / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / 1 p.m. / Pelham Bay Nature Center, Fort Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue Cross Island Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center

BROOKLYN Saturday, October 26 STATEN ISLAND Creepy, Crawling Halloween Nature Crafts / Sunday, October 6 Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / Fort Greene Kids Scavenger Hunt / Clove Lakes Park Visitor’s Center, Myrtle Avenue and 1 p.m. / Park Drive and Clove Road Washington Park Avenue Sunday, October 27 Sunday, December 8 Creepy Crawly Insect Hike / Blue Heron Colonial Games / McCarren Park 11 a.m. / Park 1 p.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, Lorimer Street and Berry Street 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard Saturday, December 28 Recycle and Reuse: Wearable Art and Saturday, December 1 Masks / Marine Park 6 p.m. / Salt Marsh Family Nature Crafts / Blue Heron Park Nature Center, East 33rd Street and 11 a.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Avenue U Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard

MANHATTAN Sunday, October 27 Creepy, Crawling Halloween Nature Crafts / Riverside Park 11 a.m. / River Run Playground at 83rd Street and Riverside Drive

©Photo by Sarah Aucoin | NYC Parks 10 NYCParks nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

Wildlife Viewing

New York City is home to an amazing abundance of wildlife. From falcons and salamanders, to deer and seals, wildlife viewing opportunities exist year-round in all of our parks and beaches. Wildlife viewing is a perfect activity for any age. Our Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in New York City.

We offer birding programs throughout the year and our Exploration series focuses on unique wildlife viewing opportunities during particular seasons. Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. To enhance your experience we encourage you to bring binoculars and field guides, or ask a Ranger to borrow a pair.

©NYC Parks

BRONX BROOKLYN continued QUEENS Saturday, October 5 Saturday, November 30 Sunday, October 27 Birding / Van Cortlandt Park 8 a.m. / Van Birding / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / Picnic Birding / Alley Pond Park 11 a.m. / Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street House, Fifth Street and West Drive Alley Pond Park Adventure Center, and Broadway Winchester Boulevard, under the Grand Central Parkway Saturday, November 2 MANHATTAN Birding / Van Cortlandt Park 8 a.m. / Van Sunday, October 20 Saturday, November 9 Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Nocturnal Wildlife Exploration / Central Birding: Shore Birds / Rockaway Beach and Broadway Park 7 p.m. / Belvedere Castle, 79th Street 11 a.m. / Beach 67 and Boardwalk Far and mid-park Rockaway Saturday, December 7 Birding / Van Cortlandt Park 8 a.m. / Van Sunday, November 17 Saturday, December 14 Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Birding: Fall Migrants / Central Park Birding: Waterfowl / and Broadway 9 a.m. / Belvedere Castle, 79th Street 1 p.m. / Parking lot on Baisley Boulevard and mid-park and Sunday, December 29 Seal Exploration / Pelham Bay Park 2 p.m. / Sunday, December 1 Sunday, December 15 Orchard Beach Nature Center, Section 2 of Birding / Riverside Park 10 a.m. / 116th Urban Wildlife Exploration / Forest Park Orchard Beach Street and Riverside Drive 11 a.m. / Forest Park Visitor Center, Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Saturday, December 7 Park Drive BROOKLYN Urban Hawks and Wildlife Exploration / Sunday, October 6 Washington Square Park 1 p.m. / The Arch, Birding / Marine Park 9 a.m. / Salt Marsh 5th Avenue and Washington Square STATEN ISLAND Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Park North Saturday, October 12 Avenue U Birding: Raptor Migrants / High Rock Park 11 a.m. / High Rock Ranger Station, park Sunday, November 3 in lot at the end of Nevada Avenue, off Birding: Raptor Migrants / Spring Creek Rockland Avenue and follow signs 2 p.m. / Enter the park at Erskine Street and Seaview Avenue Saturday, December 21 Winter Birding / Willowbrook Park 11 a.m. / Saturday, November 16 Eton Place and Richmond Avenue Birding: Raptor Migrants / Fresh Creek Park 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Seaview Avenue Sunday, December 22 and Louisiana Avenue Animal Tracking / Wolfe’s Pond Park 1 p.m. / Comfort Station west of Cornelia Avenue

©Photo by Rob Mastrianni | NYC Parks URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers NYC Parks 11

Ranger’s Choice

Our bright and talented Urban Park Rangers are what make our Weekend Adventure programs so amazing. This fall we are featuring some of our Ranger’s favorite Weekend Adventure experiences. From stunning wildlife viewing to behind the scenes access, these programs are not to be missed.

Space is limited on all Ranger’s Choice programs and registration is required. Visit www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers/register to register.

©Photo by Richard Simon | NYC Parks

BRONX QUEENS STATEN ISLAND Saturday, December 21 Sunday, November 10 Sunday, November 24 Owls / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Orchard Willow Lake / Flushing Meadows-Corona Turkey and Waterfowl Watching / Midland Beach Nature Center, Section 2 of Park 11 a.m. / Mauro Playground Beach 1 p.m. / Midland Avenue and Father Orchard Beach at Park Drive East and 73 Terrace Capodanno Boulevard Orchard Beach’s Hunter Island is home to Hike the newly restored Pat Dolan Willow Scores of wild turkeys roam freely many different species of nesting Owls. Lake Preserve trail at Flushing Meadows- around Staten Island’ Midland Beach. Come with the Rangers on this special Corona Park for a “behind the scenes” Spend an afternoon with the Rangers program as we walk the trails of Hunter wildlife viewing experience. Willow Lake learning all about this unique New York Island to get a close look at the nesting Preserve is home to various species of City site. Later, learn how to identify pairs of Great Horned Owls, Barred Owls, waterfowl and mammals. To register, please migrating waterfowl using binoculars Long-Eared Owls, and Saw-Whet Owls. visit www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers/register and field guides. To register, please visit To register, please visit www.nyc.gov/ on Wednesday, October 30th. www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers/register parks/rangers/register on Wednesday, on Wednesday, November 13th. December 11th.

BROOKLYN Saturday, November 23 Forensic Flora & Fauna / Marine Park 1 p.m. / Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U Bugs, plants and animals have all helped solve crimes. Discover just how sharp Mother Nature’s detective skills are. To register, please visit www.nyc.gov/ parks/rangers/register on Wednesday, November 13th.

MANHATTAN Saturday, November 16 Belvedere Castle by Candlelight / Central Park / 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. / Belvedere Castle, 79th Street and mid-park Historic Belvedere Castle is nestled in the heart of Central Park, offering beautiful views from its tall spires. Join the Rangers for a rare evening exploring this hidden gem. To register, please visit www.nyc.gov/ parks/rangers/register on Wednesday, November 6th. ©Photo by Malcolm Pinckney | NYC Parks

THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Raptor Fest Sunday, October 13 Prospect Park Peninsula Noon - 3 p.m.

Experience the thrill of viewing New York’s premier predators, live and up close with the Urban Park Rangers and the Prospect Park Audubon Center. Enter the park at Prospect Park Southwest and Vanderbilt Street and follow Wellhouse Drive.

©Photo by Malcolm Pinckney | NYC Parks