Muttontown Preserve Presents Two Hikes in May

The Muttontown Preserve will host two guided hikes in May, announced Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi. The first, “Woodland Wildflowers,” takes place on Sunday, May 11, from 10 a.m. until noon, Along the trails, participants will be able to enjoy nature’s colors in bloom, including such flowers as Solomon’s Seal, Canada May, Lily of the Valley, and violets. The walk is approximately 3 miles in length over slightly hilly terrain.

The second hike, “Early Bird Walk,” takes place on Sunday, May 18, from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m., with a focus on the spring migration of birds in the woods and meadows. As part of the hike, there will be a demonstration of bird banding and displays of captured birds (that will be subsequently released). A discussion of migration patterns will also take place. The walk is approximately 3 miles over mostly flat terrain; participants are encouraged to bring binoculars.

Enrollment for the walks ($3) is limited and pre-registration is required by calling 516-571-8500 weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The walk will begin at the Bill Paterson Nature Center on the preserve. Muttontown Preserve is located on Muttontown Lane, south of 25A, in East Norwich.

Comprising 550 acres of fields, woodlands, ponds and estate grounds, Muttontown is Nassau County’s largest nature preserve and one of the most beautiful settings on Long Island.

The preserve includes miles of marked nature trails with local wildflowers, trees, birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Muttontown also has several structures, including the renovated Chelsea estate, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Long Island Press has named Muttontown Preserve the “Best Nature Walk” on Long Island. The County’s 423-acre Massapequa Preserve on the South Shore was named “Best Nature Preserve.”