The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is launching I Bird NY challenges for young people and older enthusiasts.

The DEC beginners birding challenge is open to children age 16 and younger to encourage kids to get outside.

A new I Bird NY challenge tasks birders with finding at least 10 of 50 listed bird species found in New York State.

The challenge shouldn't be too hard if avian admirers know their birds or are armed with a handy reference book, given over 450 species of birds call the Empire State home and the state has 59 bird conservation areas.

Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News
Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News
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Participants will receive a special certificate, bracelet and are entered into a drawing for a spotting scope.

Entries must be received by September 30.

For more information on I Bird NY, visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation online at www.dec.ny.gov.

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