Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026

Leader: Joseph DiCostanzo
Transportation: Carpool Trip: Jamaica Bay is accessible via public transportation. However, an effort will be made by the registrar to provide rides, though there is no guarantee of enough volunteer drivers to accommodate all participants. Registrar will also inform participants of the carpool fee, which is based on the trip location.
Meeting Point: After your registration is confirmed, the Registrar will share directions, the exact meeting place, and time with attendees.
Schedule: The trip duration is variable, but it always lasts into the afternoon, sometimes the late afternoon, depending on birding reports, and it may be extended for those who want to continue to Riis Park. Public transportation allows for flexibility in timing.
Relative Difficulty: Expect to walk 3-4 miles on mostly flat terrain. Muck boots likely necessary for the East Pond area and there can be mosquitoes.

Trip Description: The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge includes over 12,600 acres of salt marshes, freshwater and brackish-water ponds, upland fields and woods, an open bay, and islands. It is one of the most significant bird habitats in the northeastern United States and a great place to observe seasonal bird migration and resident species. This walk will likely include visiting the East Pond, which may require mud boots to navigate comfortably.

Registration: Registration opens at 9 am on Monday, October 12. After that time, click here to register. Registration closes at 6 pm on Wednesday, October 21. Members (and those who have applied for membership) will be prioritized over non-members.

Please read the About Our Trips page, if you’re going on a field trip for the first time. It details our field trip policies, recommends what to bring on a trip, and offers other useful information, pro tips, and tricks.

If after visiting the About Our Trips page, you still have questions, feel free to contact the Registrar via email.