Shawangunk Grasslands NWR

Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge is one of NYS's top areas for observing grassland birds. Several grassland species use the refuge as a nesting, wintering or migratory stopover. This 597 acres site in Ulster County, NY, was established in July 1999 to support grassland-dependent migratory birds and wintering raptors. It is among a dwindling number of sites in NYS (one of only two in the Hudson Valley) large enough to support the entire assemblage of northeastern grassland birds. The refuge is a Biodiversity Focus Area and an Important Bird Area, a designation given only to places that support significant abundance and diversity of birds. Many of these species are listed as endangered, threatened, special concern or priority species, including the Short-eared Owl, Northern Harrier, Upland Sandpiper, Henslow’s Sparrow, Grasshopper Sparrow, Vesper Sparrow, Horned Lark, and Bobolink.

In winter, make sure you include a late afternoon visit to watch the Host eared Owls hunting the Refuge's fields.

Northern Harriers can be seen almost anytime of year but a clear winter sunset helps show just how striking their plumage is as they hover low over the grasslands.

American Kestrel can be found at the Refuge year round, they are very visible in March through July as they set up their nests and then hunt constantly to feed their young

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