Bear Spring Wildlife Management Area | Birding Hotspot Delaware County, NY| Holistic Birding

Bear Springs Mountain Wildlife Management Area

Overview

Bear Spring Mountain Wildlife Management Area encompasses over 7,000 acres of upland habitat in Delaware County. The property contains a mix of forest, fields, streams, and small ponds, creating a diverse range of habitats for birds. Mature hardwood forests, hemlock-covered ridges, old orchards, and open areas provide habitat for a variety of species throughout the year.

After turning in, follow the road until you come to an intersection- instead of going straight make the left (if you choose, take a side trip straight on Beers Brook Rd, another birdy road that deserves to be a hotspot).

The entire length of the road can be very productive. Be sure to pull off to the side of the road as far as possible, when possible. While it’s rare to see other cars on the road, the weekends can be a little heavier.

There are also small parking areas. Be sure to stop at the first small dirt pull off on the left (just after the large grassy area) and explore the John Whalen Trail on the right side of the road. This is a great spot for Mourning Warbler and Acadian Flycatcher.

The variety of habitat within the WMA hosts a nice mix of birds including nesting Mourning Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Black-throated Blue and Black-throated Green Warblers, Ruffed Grouse and Alder Flycatcher. The area is not heavily birded, but 129 species have been documented thus far.

Visitor Information

Facilities

Restrooms are available at the nearby campgrounds when open. When the campgrounds are closed, restrooms are available at the McDonald’s in Walton.

Accessibility

Trails are primarily dirt and can be rocky in places. However, much of the area can be birded from the car or by pulling off safely along the road, making it possible to enjoy the wildlife without navigating the trails. One of the joys of Bear Spring Mountain is its peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere, making it a wonderful destination for those seeking a quieter birding experience.

Fees

None