Birds

Gateway is Great for Birds and Birdwatchers

Gateway has over 325 species of birds, most of them visiting as they migrate along the Atlantic Flyway. They find food, shelter and protection within the borders of this national park.

Great birding spots include the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, Floyd Bennett Field's North Forty, Great Kills Park, and Sandy Hook.

Protecting Plovers

 

Birds of Gateway

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  Piping Plovers

  This threatened species uses the beaches of Sandy Hook and Fort Tilden to nest.

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  American Oystercatcher

  American Oystercatchers need extensive space to breed since they are very territorial.

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  Osprey

  Osprey return to Gateway to nest every summer

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  Tree Swallows

  Tree swallows are iridescent blue on top and white below and can be found throughout the park.

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  American Woodcock

  American Woodcocks can be found at Gateway in the spring and summer.

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  Killdeer

  Killdeer can be found throughout Gateway in grassy fields and parking lots.