Birds of Inwood

Earlier this week, the locals experienced two full days and nights of over 300,000 birds flying through New York County. Many flycatchers, warblers, vireos, and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks landed in Inwood Hill Park during these days, especially at the top of the forest. The birds found plenty of seeds and insects to replenish their diets.

Many of these migratory birds prefer to explore the tops of the forest canopy, so I spent the early mornings high up on the ridge. I found a particularly good observation spot along the highest stretch of the old walled trail that leads to the Clove at the bottom and a parapet at the top. In the 1930s, members of the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed the walls on this unpaved trail as part of a public works project. Aside from the historical interest, climbing this trail feels like a camping adventure. 

While high on the trail, I heard and observed several Eastern Wood-Pewees. Last week, I got a good look at one as it flew up from its perch to catch flies. This week, a Rose-breasted Grosbeak was particularly adept at catching the dreaded Spotted Lanternfly. The invasive bug is harmful to plants and trees.

I encountered additional birds of note along the higher paths, including a Magnolia Warbler in fall plumage, several Black-and-white Warblers, Red-eyed Vireos, a Cape May Warbler, and several woodpeckers. I was thrilled to see a Black-throated Blue Warbler on Friday morning. I first spotted it on the trail ahead of me before it landed in the branches. 

The view from the top of the park is turning autumnal these days. A few leaves fell gracefully from the canopy above. The weather had been exceptionally conducive for long walks. I spent a little time each morning camped out at the top of the park during the chillier hours. I was loafing, for the most part. The birds were doing the real work of catching flies.

This morning, the weather started feeling like summer again, suggesting that this past week constituted a fall preview. The weather forecast for the coming week, for humans and for migrating birds, still looks promising for more nature excursions in high places.

Down on Earth, life at the Salt Marsh continues its summer-to-fall rhythm. The Osprey frequently lands on its tree, and the herons have been around. This morning, a Black-crowned Night Heron seemed particularly focused on catching something in the water.    

For more about this trail, see a related post, An Autumn Walk in Inwood Hill Park.

Cover: A Rose-breasted Grosbeak catches a Spotted Lanternfly. September 9, 2025. 8:02 a.m.

September 2025 Sightings

For more sightings, see the monthly page.

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