The Birdathon is a great way to celebrate the arrival of spring migration and to get friends and family involved in one of America's fastest-growing pastimes. It is also a fundraising drive, and an important source of support for NYC Audubon's conservation, research, and education programs.

Now more than ever, we need your help--and what better way to raise money than by getting out there and enjoying your favorite activity? If you enjoy birds and nature in New York City, tell your friends and family! And ask them to support your day of birding. Here are some expert tips to get you started in raising pledges.

Half-Day, Full-Day and Overnight Birdathon Trips

Requested Pledge $250 and up

This year NYC Audubon is offering special guided Birdathon trips all over the five boroughs and beyond. Our staff has so much fun doing a Birdathon together each year that we want to help our members and friends get together and celebrate spring migration with friends (and with friends you haven't met yet). Best of all, van transportation and accomodations are included. Join us in visiting:

• Jamaica Bay
• Staten Island
• Van Cortlandt Park
• Manhattan, Battery to Inwood Park
• The Hudson Valley (overnight)

For a full schedule of trips, locations, and guides, click here.

Birdathons for Beginners

requested pledge $25

Want to take part in the fun and challenge of the Birdathon but can't tell a pigeon from a peregrine? No problem. Our expert guides will help you enjoy the colorful warblers of spring migration. School groups and first-time birders welcome.

• Central Park
• Prospect Park
• Jamaica Bay

For a full schedule of trips, locations, and guides, click here.

26th Annual Do It Yourself Birdathon

Requested Pledge $25

This Birdathon option gives you the greatest level of flexibility. Simply go birding by yourself or with a group, anywhere in the five boroughs, anytime in May! Count the number of bird species you see, and report your results to NYC Audubon for our final tally. To register, click here.

Help NYC Win America's Birdiest City!

Birdathons are held nationwide during the same week in May, and have led to an official competition for the title of America's Birdiest City. In 2006, New York City captured first place in the Large East Coast City category with 193 species. Be a part of the action and help NYC win again in 2010!