Watchable Wildlife: Mongaup Valley Wildlife Management Area

The Mongaup Valley Wildlife Management Area, located in the Catskills 75 miles northwest of New York City, was designated a Bird Conservation Area because of its unique combination of habitats important to bird species, including forests, reservoirs, and river habitat where bald eagles nest and overwinter.

Eagle viewing blinds are located on Mongaup Falls Reservoir and Rio Reservoir, allowing visitors to watch the eagles without disturbing them. Concentrations of eagles peak in January and February, and eagles are most active between 7 am to 9 am and 4 pm to 5 pm. White-tailed deer, turkey, ruffed grouse, coyote, fox, porcupine, black bear, and waterfowl are also found at the area.

Before you go, read some tips and best practices for watching eagles in winter.

Photo of Mongaup Falls Reservoir courtesy DEC.