Fall is the ideal time to go out and get a good look at the many birds on Long Island.
Why? Because this little island that sticks out into the Atlantic is in the jet stream, and, more important, in the flight path of birds coming from the north and the west.
Before you head into the wild, you need to know a few things to make the trip more successful and enjoyable.
Bring binoculars, a birding book, water and a snack. Also, carry along birdseed and nuts. Wear comfortable shoes. Dress in layers because there may be a lot of standing and waiting.
While it is a kid-appropriate hobby, it isn't always kid-friendly because of the waiting. You might want to start the younger ones out with a bird feeder in the backyard.
Here are some events and groups for novice and midlevel birders (yes, that's what you're called).
South Shore Audubon Society
516-486-7667
ssaudubon.org
Where: Various parks and preserves (Oct. 12 at Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve; Oct. 19 at Massapequa Preserve)
When: 9:30 a.m. Sundays
Cost: Parking fees apply.
What you might see: Plovers, egrets, herons, peregrine falcons, merlins, hawks
Why go: Weekly walks with past president Elliott Kutner. Canceled only for rain, snow or temperature colder than 30 degrees. "Long Island sticks 125 miles into the ocean," says Kutner, who co-founded the group 39 years ago. "We're one of the few places migrating birds can stop, feed up and move on." On nonstrenuous walks, birders will see creatures migrating south and east.
Also try: From the North Fork to Huntington, Long Island has active Audubon societies. Many host similar nature walks; visit
audubon.org.
Garvies Point Preserve
50 Barry Dr., Glen Cove
516-571-8010
garviespointmuseum.com
When: 8:30 a.m.-dusk
