Birding: Join Ken Chaya and NPSNJ Programs to observe Spring Migration at Central Park’s North End.
May 21 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
The north end of Central Park is Ken’s favorite escape in New York City—and once you visit in spring, it’s easy to see why. This quieter corner of the park comes alive with migration, as thousands of birds pass through, drawn to its rich mix of native trees and diverse habitats.
Winding waterways like the Pool, the Loch, and the Harlem Meer shimmer with activity, while the Ravine and North Woods offer shelter and song beneath a leafy canopy. Nearby, open spaces like the Great Hill and Wildflower Meadow become feeding grounds for finches, sparrows, thrushes, and brilliantly colored warblers.
Best of all, the north end feels like a hidden world—less crowded, more serene, and deeply immersive. In the height of spring migration, it’s nothing short of magical. And tucked within it all, the Conservatory Garden adds another layer of beauty, buzzing with birds and pollinators alike.
About
Ken Chaya is an artist, art director, cartographer, and urban naturalist who has produced numerous books on travel, American history, and nature. He has extensive experience working on projects in the New York City area, and recently created Central Park Entire, The Definitive Illustrated Map, which locates over 19,000 trees and identifies them by species. He is currently President of the Linnaean Society of New York.
