Natural History & Birding

The Berkshires boasts six distinct ecoregions: Taconic Mountains, Western New England Marble Valleys, Lower Berkshire Hills, Berkshire Highlands, Vermont Piedmont, and Berkshire Transition. There are no shortage of naturalism opportunities to be found in the Berkshires. From moonlit snowshoe explorations of owls and their behavior at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary to tracking with the local branch of Keeping Track, the region is abound with learning opportunities. Between BNRC and Mass Audubon alone, there is a constant schedule of classes and programs to participate or get involved in. If you are looking for more formal birding opportunities, Mass Audubon’s Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Lenox, Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary in Pittsfield, and Lime Kiln Farm Wildlife Sanctuary in Sheffield all offer programs for the whole scope of experience levels. There are even opportunities to set-up your own custom program through these Sanctuaries. There are also a number of bird clubs like the historic Hoffmann Bird Club which offer field trips and resources for the Berkshire Birder. Other popular spots to bird include Mount Greylock State Reservation where very rare thrushes breed and Bartholomew’s Cobble where you can view the raptor migration or woodland species alike.