The Linnaean Society of New York

The Linnaean Society of New York provides a forum for the sharing and advancement of science-based knowledge through a program of lectures and field trips. It fosters an appreciation of the natural world with a special emphasis on birds. Founded in 1878, the Society comprises dedicated amateurs and professionals interested in the study, preservation, and enjoyment of nature and the environment.

The Linnaean Society of New York presents programs on natural history topics online via Zoom or at the American Museum of Natural History monthly from September through May, except March. Our meetings are open to the public and free of charge. The programs feature richly illustrated talks in layman’s language, by leading naturalists and scientists.

Ardith Bondi presenting A Tale of Many Penguins, January 2020

– We’ve gone birding for the summer.  Our programs will resume in September. –

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The Linnaean Society of New York field trips, led by expert members, focus on birds and also on plants, bats, and butterflies. More than 80 trips are offered each year, ranging from bird walks in Central Park, Jamaica Bay, and other New York City parks to excursions by car to diverse seasonal hotspots in the tri-state area. Field trips are open to non-members as guests, if space permits.

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The Linnaean Society Voices Its Support for the Horseshoe Crab Protection Act

In June, both houses of the New York state legislature passed the Horseshoe Crab Protection Act (S.3185A/A.10140), sponsored by Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assembly Member Deborah Glick. The bill is now in the hands of Governor Kathleen Hochul, whose signature is needed for the legislation to become law.

Horseshoe crab eggs are a critical food source for migratory shorebirds, especially the Red Knot, listed as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Years of overharvesting have caused horseshoe crab numbers to plummet, and with the loss of crab eggs, Red Knot populations are also declining.

Read more in News>Conservation.

2024 LSNY Homecoming Picnic

The Linnaean Society had a great turnout of members and their guests for the 2024 Homecoming Picnic held at Summit Rock in Central Park on September 22. We were lucky to have a beautiful fall day for the gathering.

It was heartwarming to greet old friends and fellow birders after a long summer. Much fun was had by all as members competed for prizes during the birding trivia game, snacked on good food, and participated in bird walks led by Debbie Becker, Peter Davenport, Ursula Mitra, and Junko Suzuki. We look forward to seeing everyone again on one of our field trips and on the monthly Zoom meetings.