It’s that time of year when the first robins are popping up in the local parks. That heralds the start of the annual birding migration through New York City. Some of the arrivals are here to stay for the summer, like red-winged blackbirds, cardinals, blue jays and Carolina wrens, but other species are just passing through during the migration period. Several beautiful species of warblers, finches and thrushes stop briefly in the city during their migration north in April and May, and then return on their journey south in August and October. Although the birding community in the Bronx is not as visible as some other boroughs, the large, forested areas of the Bronx are prime landing sites for our feathered friends. Here are some of the best places for birdwatching in the Bronx.

Pelham Bay Park

For birders in New York City, Pelham Bay Park is hard to beat. As the city’s largest park, it offers an exceptional mix of habitats—salt marshes, woodlands, meadows, and shoreline—all in one place. This diversity attracts a wide range of species year-round, from wading birds and shorebirds along the coast to warblers and thrushes during migration. Its position along the Atlantic Flyway makes it a prime stopover for migratory birds, meaning you never quite know what might turn up. Whether you’re scanning the marsh for herons or listening for songbirds in the woods, Pelham Bay Park delivers some of the richest and most rewarding birding in the Bronx. We recommend exploring the trails around Orchard Beach, or traversing the part of the park north of Country Club.

New York Botanical Garden

New York Botanical Garden offers a unique birding experience that blends curated landscapes with pockets of true wilderness. Its mix of habitats—lush gardens, wetlands, and a stretch of old-growth forest along the Bronx River—creates an inviting refuge for both resident and migratory birds. During spring and fall, warblers, vireos, and thrushes pass through in impressive variety, while year-round species thrive in the garden’s quieter corners. With well-maintained paths and diverse ecosystems packed into a relatively compact space, the New York Botanical Garden is an ideal spot for birders to encounter a wide range of species without ever leaving the city. Also, don’t forget that access to garden’s parkland is free for Bronx residents!

Van Cortlandt Park

For those interested in birdwatching in the Bronx, Van Cortlandt Park stands out as one of the Bronx’s top destinations. Its expansive mix of habitats—woodlands, open fields, wetlands, and a freshwater lake—supports an impressive range of species throughout the year. During migration, the park’s forested areas come alive with warblers and other songbirds, while its meadows attract sparrows and raptors. In winter, hardy species and occasional owls add to the appeal. With its size, ecological diversity, and relatively less crowded feel, Van Cortlandt Park offers birders a chance to explore and discover new species on nearly every visit.

Soundview Park

Overlooking the East River, Soundview Park offers a distinctive birding experience shaped by its coastal setting. The park’s mix of waterfront, marshy edges, and open green space attracts a variety of species that aren’t always found in more inland parks. Birders can spot gulls, waterfowl, and wading birds like herons along the shoreline, while migration brings in passing songbirds and occasional surprises. With wide views of the water and fewer crowds than some larger parks, Soundview Park provides a peaceful vantage point to watch both resident birds and seasonal visitors moving along the city’s edge.

Crotona Park

Crotona Park is a smaller but surprisingly productive spot for birding. Its mix of mature trees, open lawns, and a central lake creates a compact habitat that attracts a steady stream of species, especially during spring and fall migration. Songbirds often drop into the tree canopy to rest and refuel, while the water draws ducks, herons, and other waterbirds. Because of its manageable size and accessible paths, Crotona Park is a great place for birders of all levels to get close looks at birds and experience migration without traveling far.

Hope you enjoyed our list of the best places for birdwatching in the Bronx!