April and May are prime months for observing birds in New Jersey, which is a major stopover for birds migrating north each year.
In the Garden State, four county-level National Audubon Society chapters lead free, public walks—which everyone from beginner birders to those who are experienced can attend and enjoy. They also host events and offer optional memberships ranging from $10 to $20 a year, with funds going benefitting local conservation efforts.
Check websites for walk times, meeting spots and pre-registration requirements.
Bergen County Audubon Society
April 3: Mill Creek Marsh (Secaucus)
April 10: Frank Chapman Birding Trail (Teaneck)
April 13: New Overpeck County Park (Leonia)
April 17 & 22: Richard W. DeKorte Park (Lyndhurst)
April 24: “Birding for Beginners” at New Jersey Botanical Garden (Ringwood)
April 28: Borg’s Woods Nature Preserve (Hackensack)
Monmouth County Audubon Society
April 10: Sandy Hook
May 7: Thompson Park (Lincroft)
Washington Crossing Audubon Society
April 3: Washington Crossing State Park (Hopewell Township)
April 9: Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park (Hopewell Township)
April 16: Mount Rose Preserve (Hopewell Township)
April 23: Institute Woods and Charles H. Rogers Wildlife Refuge (Princeton)
April 30: Abbott Marshlands (Hamilton Township)
May 7: Institute Woods and Charles H. Rogers Wildlife Refuge (Princeton)
May 14: Annual Fundraiser Birdathon
May 21: Whitesbog (Pine Barrens)
May 28: Delaware Water Gap
Atlantic Audubon Society
Walks leave from the Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center in Oceanville every Saturday at 8 am in April and May. They generally last for four hours.
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