The Berkshires in Western Massachusetts is a bird-lovers paradise. And we love sharing that joy with our guests. Plus, birding is a great way to enjoy your fare feathered friends while social distancing. Whether you’re planning a birding getaway or you just want to enjoy them at your leisure, opportunities abound at Devonfield Inn. Read on for the best birding spots in the Berkshires of Massachusetts.
Local Resources
Attend a program by the Massachusetts Audubon at their Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Lenox, just fifteen minutes from our inn. MA Audubon offers educational opportunities about birds themselves, the local ecology our birds call home, and ways to improve your birding experiences. Plus, they offer guided bird walks, kayak tours, and even a songbird 101 class. If you can’t make it to a local program, no problem. They also offer a location-specific bird checklist that you can take with you during your birding out. This checklist will help you keep track of which birds you’ve found, and offer ideas of what to look for.
Best Birding Spots in the Berkshires
- Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary—Beyond the programs offered at this location, there are also mountain trails to explore, canoe trips to enjoy along the Housatonic River. You might even be able to spot their active beaver colony from the Pike’s Pond viewing platform.
- Lime Kiln Farm Wildlife Sanctuary—This refuge offers two hiking trails that will lead you through forests and meadows, dazzling you with the variety of plants, birds, and bugs that call this area home.
- Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary—If you enjoy hiking along the water, this is the spot for you. Home to warblers, turtles, ospreys, and otters, you’re almost guaranteed to see something beautiful and interesting. What’s more, this 3-mile path is mostly shaded – perfect for the warmer months.
- Tracy Brook Wildlife Sanctuary—While this wildlife sanctuary does not offer trails, you’ll still have the opportunity to glimpse some of the effects of the beaver activity and the wetlands they have created with their dams. Folks have also reported seeing active Great Blue Heron nests as well as bobcats, bears, and otters.
Best Berkshires Lodging
Devonfield Inn is centrally located near all the natural beauty of the Berkshires. So, there’s no better way to experience western Massachusetts than by staying at our beautiful property. Enjoy breakfast in our charming dining room, and then soak in the songs of the birds before you strike out on your adventures for the day. Book your stay today!
