Sterling Forest State Park
New York · Northeast
Moderate
May-September
Free
Dawn to dusk daily
About This Location
Sterling Forest State Park encompasses nearly 22,000 acres of forested highlands in Orange County, forming part of the largest contiguous forest in the New York-New Jersey Highlands region. The park is recognized as a globally significant Important Bird Area for its breeding populations of forest-interior species, particularly Cerulean Warblers, which nest in the mature deciduous canopy.
The diverse habitats range from rocky ridgetop forests to hemlock-shaded ravines and open wetlands, supporting over 200 bird species. Fall hawk migration is spectacular from the fire tower, with Broad-winged Hawks, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and occasional Golden Eagles riding thermals along the ridgeline. Breeding season brings Worm-eating Warblers, Hooded Warblers, and Blue-winged Warblers to the understory.
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
Little Blue Heron
Egretta caerulea
Blackpoll Warbler
Setophaga striata
Olive-sided Flycatcher
Contopus cooperi
Mourning Warbler
Geothlypis philadelphia
Red-headed Woodpecker
Melanerpes erythrocephalus
Recent Observations
Species reported at this location in the last 14 days
Green Heron
Great Blue Heron
Pileated Woodpecker
Eastern Wood-Pewee
Black-capped Chickadee
American Goldfinch
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Blue Jay
Tufted Titmouse
White-breasted Nuthatch
American Robin
Common Grackle
Northern Cardinal
American Crow
Gray Catbird
Baltimore Oriole
Black-and-white Warbler
Tree Swallow
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Osprey
Birding Tips
- 1
Hike the Fire Tower Trail for fall hawk watching from the summit
- 2
Listen for Cerulean Warblers singing from the tallest canopy trees in late May
- 3
The Indian Hill loop trail passes through prime breeding warbler habitat
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
- Greenwood Lake
- Harriman State Park
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