Meet at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge and search the mudflats and ponds of Jamaica Bay (the NYC locale with the most recorded species of birds) for breeding herons and egrets, Forster's and Common Terns, Clapper Rail, and American Oystercatcher, as well as the many migratory plovers and sandpipers that will already be headed south from their arctic breeding grounds. By this date there should be a mix of adult birds in worn plumage and juveniles in crisp fresh plumage, an interesting comparison. Learn the finer points of identifying these challenging and fascinating species.

Bring binoculars and a spotting scope if you have them (binoculars can also be provided to those who don’t have a pair on a first-come first-serve basis), plus water, snacks, sunscreen, and shoes you don't mind getting muddy. Walking will be about 1-2 miles, over flat but potentially muddy ground and gravel paths.

$45. Limited to 15 people.