Holistic Birding
Iona Island
Overview
Located within Bear Mountain State Park in Rockland County, Iona Island is a remarkable natural area situated in the heart of the Hudson Highlands. Designated as an “Important Bird Area” the 556-acre site is surrounded by important tidal wetlands, including Salisbury and Ring Meadows, Doodletown Bight, and extensive shallow waters and mudflats along the Hudson River.
The island and surrounding wetlands protect a diverse collection of habitats, including brackish intertidal mudflats, brackish tidal marsh, freshwater tidal marsh, and deciduous forest. These habitats support a wide variety of plants and wildlife and have earned Iona Island recognition as both part of the Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve and a National Natural Landmark.
Birding Iona
Iona Island is one of the Hudson Valley’s premier wetland birding locations. The combination of tidal marshes, mudflats, shallow waters, and forested uplands creates habitat for a nice diversity of birds throughout the year.
During spring and summer, listen carefully in the marsh for secretive species such as Sora and Virginia Rail. Marsh Wrens sing their bubbly, jubilant songs from the grasses, Orchard Orioles can be seen along the edges, and Least Bitterns may be heard calling from the reeds. In late fall, be sure to check out the Eastern Red Cedars-Eastern Bluebirds and Yellow-rumped Warblers can be seen devouring the Juniper berries!
Bluebirds can be found in the surrounding habitats, while Beaver activity adds another layer to the wetland experience.
During migration, the mudflats along the access road can be productive when tides are low, attracting shorebirds stopping along the Hudson River corridor.
Visitor Information
Restrooms
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No
Accessibility
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Birding can be done along the paved road. There is not a lot of traffic, however, when driving the access road, be careful as it is basically a one lane road and trucks do come and go.
Fees
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None
The access road and surrounding wetlands are affected by water levels. During especially high, weather-related tides, portions of the road may flood. Check conditions before visiting.
Respect seasonal restrictions and stay within designated access areas to help protect this important wetland habitat.
Please note that the upper/main area of Iona Island is closed to the public. Stay within designated access areas — visitors who wander into restricted areas will be escorted out.
For more information, including directions, visit the NYSDEC website.
For recent bird sightings and more information, visit eBird.
