For anyone interested in getting away from city streets for a bit, or anyone hooked on watching bird cams at home and then getting the itch to see a few birds in person, or for those who may enjoy uncommon views of the city skyline from a distance, a trip to the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is in order. A major bird sanctuary in the Northeast, the wildlife refuge on Broad Channel in Jamaica Bay, part of the Gateway National Recreation Area , supports a variety of bird habitats, including a salt marsh and fresh water ponds. The area is home to a variety of small animals, butterflies, and bugs. The latter include mosquitos and, according to a park ranger on a recent visit, a type of tick known as the Lone Star. So, when venturing out to Broad Channel to look at birds, please be sure to bring along a can of insect repellent, especially if you're concerned about Texas-size biting bugs. The Manhattan skyline from the Jamaica Bay National Wildlife Refuge W hile spring and fall are
A strolling guide to New York City by Teri Tynes