Local Birding

The greater Rochester region and Genesee Valley offer abundant opportunities for bird watching, and the RBA offers many resources to help people find birds and document their sightings.

Birding Hotspots

Are you wondering where to start looking, or when is the best time to head into the field?  Check out our month-by-month suggestions and our list of local hotspots.

Tufted Titmouse – Mendon Ponds Park – © Alan Bloom – Feb 26, 2022

Field Trips

Birders may choose from more than 50+ field trips to these destinations all year long. Attendance is free and open to the public.

Eastern Towhee – Mendon Ponds Park – © Alan Bloom – July 30, 2022

Recording & Reporting Sightings

Whether you use paper checklists or eBird to record your sightings, we’ve got you covered! We also offer hints on how to share your sightings with others or to report and document rare birds.

Common Grackle – Camp Eastman – © Eunice Thein – May 13, 2022

Historical Records

The RBA has been keeping detailed records on trends and sightings for many years, and we publish them on our website and in the Little Gull.

Clay-colored Sparrow – Hamlin – © Eunice Thein – May 05, 2022

Local Bird Surveys

Throughout the seasons, Rochester birders participate in various surveys and monitoring projects. These provide an opportunity to be outside, collect useful data, and do meaningful work with other birders in a fun environment.

Great Egret – Irondequoit Bay Park West – © Eunice Thein – May 02, 2022