Holistic Birding
Bear Springs Mountain Wildlife Management Area
East Trout Brook Road
Beers Brook Road
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 is a newly separate 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 131 species have been documented thus far.
Note: please use the separate hotspots and not the general one. There is also a separate hotspot for the Launt Pond and Campground.
Visitor Information
Facilities
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Restrooms are available at the nearby campgrounds when open. When the campgrounds are closed, restrooms are available at the McDonald’s in Walton.
Accessibility
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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
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None
Check out a map of the area here.
For current sightings and more on this hotspot on eBird (be sure to check out Beers Brook Road too!)
