Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve
Audubon Society Important Bird Area
Designated an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society, over 200 bird species have been observed at the Preserve, particularly wetland birds like the Green Heron, Virginia Rail, American Bittern, Least Bittern and Sora.
Migratory birds include the Warbler, Flycatcher, Common Nighthawk, Swallow, Blackbird and an occasional Bald Eagle.
A 1.5-mile loop designated birdwatching trail that begins and ends at the Whipple Truss Bridge leads past marshlands, the Erie Canal, the Mohawk River, and through wooded areas. The trail incorporates four special birding habitats:
Cattail Marsh Habitat
The River & River Edge Habitat
Open Water Habitat
Upland Forest Habitat
Shrub Habitat, also established as four stops on the Mohawk Towpath Audio Tour. While at the preserve, also explore 4.5-mile main loop trail starting at the Whipple Bridge Entrance leading past interpretive panels that explain Double Lock 19, Clute’s Dry Dock, Fort’s Ferry, and the old Canal Towpath.
More Featured Bird Watching Spots
Peebles Island State Park
Located at the confluence of the Hudson and Mohawk rivers, Peebles Island is a migratory stop for many species of birds including Bald Eagles, Barred Owls, Ospreys and Great Blue Herons.