River otters and coyotes are back in New York City, and Staten Island is where it is happening first, on wetland and forest that never got paved. This free Ranger-led session at Blue Heron Nature Center walks through why the comeback is under way, what it does to the food web, and how to read the ground for tracks and scat. If you have ever argued about whether there are really coyotes in the city, come get the actual answer.
What to expect
Gather at the Blue Heron Nature Center at 222 Poillon Avenue for a 90-minute session with an Urban Park Ranger covering the mammals returning to Staten Island's wetlands. Expect a mix of explanation and time outdoors looking for field signs across the park's ponds and woodland. The nature center itself anchors the trails through Blue Heron Park.
Good to know
- Free with no advance registration; just show up at the nature center
- The nature center sits at 222 Poillon Avenue on the island's South Shore
- Trails run through wetland, so wear shoes you do not mind getting muddy
- Bring insect repellent; the ponds attract mosquitoes in late summer
- Good for families with kids interested in animals and tracking
- Pair it with the raptor walk the day before for the full National Wildlife Weekend
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Common questions
Are there really coyotes on Staten Island?
Yes. NYC Parks lists coyotes among the species making a comeback across the borough's forests and wetlands, alongside foxes, river otters and chipmunks. The Rangers cover how and why.
How long does it last and is it a walk?
It runs about ninety minutes and combines talk with time outdoors in Blue Heron Park looking for signs of the animals.
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