Overview
Madison County, located in the central portion of the upper area of the State of New York, is a predominately rural area with agricultural pursuits taking a significant portion of daily life here.
Although it's not a part of Madison County, Lake Oneida's eastern end lies just north of the county. Along with the birding opportunities this offers, Madison has a number of parks and trails within it's boundaries which offer a variety of recreational amenities as well as the associated birding possibilities.
In addition to the County's recreational and birding attributes, there are approximately 16 towns, villages, and municipalities that may offer other parks and facilities with birding potential. [2][3]
Birds
Notable Species
Leading off the discussion of birds in general, let us first consider the Eastern Bluebird, which was designated as the State Bird of New York in 1970.
Birding popularity in Madison County is evidenced by the approximately 20 eBird Hotspots recorded within it's boundaries. The County's landfill is a Hotspot with approximately 50 different species reported as having been sighted there with 114 separate checklists having been filed for that particular location. The European Starling, American Crow, and Canada Goose lead the count there. In addition, species of eagles and turkeys have been reported as being present. [1][2]
Rarities
As of 24 November 2020 no species have been noted as rare here. But some of the less commonly seen species can include the Killdeer, Northern Cardinal, Lapland Longspur, American Robin, Blue Jay, American Kestrel, and Cooper's Hawk.[1]
Check-list
Birds you can see here include:
European Starling, American Crow, Canada Goose, Ring-billed Gull, Least Sandpiper, American Herring Gull, Common Redpoll, Red-tailed Hawk, Horned Lark, Red-winged Blackbird, Iceland Gull, Turkey Vulture, Mallard, Bald Eagle, Common Raven, Barn Swallow
Other Wildlife
A visitor to the area might get the opportunity to see species of deer in addition to a variety of other animals. [2]
Site Information
History and Use
Madison County, New York was founded on 21 Marth 1806 from what had been part of Chenango County and was named in honor of United States President James Madison. [3]
Areas of Interest
Great Swamp Conservancy
The Great Swamp Conservancy is a nature center in Madison County with approximately 7 miles of trails and habitat sufficient to have been given the distinction of being designated an IBA – Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society. [2]
Nelson Swamp Unique Area
This is an area in the west-central portion of the county with unique environmental values. It has a 0.7 mile/1 km Interpretive Trail that enables those with disabilities to experience a northern white cedar swamp along with it's nature and history. [2]
Charles Baker State Forest
Takes in 9400 acres/3804 hectares in the southeast section of the county. Within it's acreage, lies a significant portion of the Brookfield Trail System which offers access for horses and snowmobiles in season as well as having a reported potential for species of turkey, Ruffed Grouse, and some species of migratory songbirds. [2]
Access and Facilities
Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) is the closest major airport to Madison County that offers regular, scheduled airline service.
As always, be sure to consult a trusted travel professional for specific, up-to-date information regarding travel to this area.
References
- eBird – Madison County Landfill – https://ebird.org/hotspot/L1299048
- Madison County New York Tourism - https://www.madisontourism.com/
- Madison County New York Official Website - https://www.madisoncounty.ny.gov/
- New York State Library - http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/emblems/bird.htm
Recommended Citation
- BirdForum Opus contributors. (2025) Madison County. In: BirdForum, the forum for wild birds and birding. Retrieved 2 May 2025 from https://www.birdforum.net/opus/Madison_County
Maps
Content and images originally posted by loglivingincny
