Sprain Ridge Park, Yonkers
A 278-acre Westchester County Park containing mature woodlands bordered by a grassy and bushy power-line. The edge of the woods bordering the power-lines is especially good for migrants. The power-line trail has breeding Prairie Warblers and sparrows in the fall. Some low wet woodlands (former breeding site for Kentucky Warbler).
The park is excellent for spring and fall passerine migration. Some hawk migration along the ridge in the fall. Sunny days warm up the edge of the power-line path and woods at first light, concentrating migrants there.
Some interesting breeders occur for a park so close to the city. They include: Veery, Wood Thrush, Red-eyed, White-eyed, and Warbling Vireo, abundant Prairie and Blue-winged Warblers along with occasional Orchard Oriole, Pileated Woodpecker, Scarlet Tanager, Chestnut-sided and Black-and-white warblers, Ovenbird and Rose-breasted grosbeak.
Great-horned Owls are year round and can be found in the pines in the southern section of the park and the Cedars can hold Saw-whets in the fall and winter. Formerly had Ruffed Grouse (80's). Wild Turkey is becoming common.
To bird the site, head towards the east side of the park to
pick up the power-line trail. From the pool parking lot, go back
past the pool to the entrance road. A paved road leads steeply up
into the woods on the left. This is a fire road that divides the
park in half heading directly south. Half way up the hill on the
left is a wide dirt trail that leads to the power-line trail.
Head south and bird along trail. It will eventually turn back
into the woods. The first main path on the right is a short cut,
back to the fire road, but continue on. The trail merges back to
the fire road, which is now gravel and dirt. Turn right to head
back.
Access to the park in summer when the pool is open is restricted to Westchester residents holding a park pass. Foot access can be obtained from the northbound rest stop on the New York State Thruway (87) north of Tuckahoe Road. Look for the path just south of the gas station. This footpath consists of a steep uphill climb.
Directions: From the Sprain Brook Parkway exit at Jackson Avenue. Turn west and take Jackson Ave. ~1/2 mile to the entrance on the left.
For more information on the park check out Westchester County Park's Web Site