Biodiversity of Westchester County, New York facts for kids

Westchester County, New York is a special place in southern New York State. It shares its southern border with New York City and its northern border with Putnam County. To the west, you'll find the Hudson River, and to the east, the Long Island Sound and Fairfield County in Connecticut.

This county covers about 500 square miles (1,300 km2). Most of it, 430 square miles (1,100 km2), is land, and 69 square miles (180 km2) is water. Westchester County is full of different kinds of plants and animals, making it rich in biodiversity. In 1978, environmental writer Alex Shoumatoff called it the "most richly diversified deciduous forest in the world." He estimated it had 4,200 plant species back then!

Many natural areas here attract wildlife. These include the Marshlands Conservancy and the Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary is 179 acres along the Long Island Sound, which is a path for migrating birds. In winter, over 5,000 ducks visit its 85-acre lake. Audubon New York has recognized this important spot.

Plants of Westchester County

Westchester County is home to many different plants. The Parks Department has recorded 1,168 types of vascular plants here. Some of these plants need special protection.

Endangered Plants

These plants are in danger of disappearing forever.

Threatened Plants

These plants could become endangered if we don't protect them.

Special Concern Plants

These plants need special attention to make sure their populations stay healthy.

Invasive Plants

Invasive plants are a big problem for the natural plants and animals in Westchester County. These plants are not native to the area and can take over, harming the local ecosystem. To help protect hundreds of native species, Westchester County works with the Lower Hudson Partnership for Invasive Species Management (LHPRISM). They gather information about these harmful plants. The Cornell Cooperative Extension of Westchester is a great place to learn how to spot and track these invasive species.

Birds of Westchester County

Westchester County is a fantastic place for birdwatching! The Parks Department has documented 311 different bird species. The local Audubon Society chapter has even recorded 368 bird species here.

Endangered Birds

These bird species are at high risk of disappearing from the area.

Threatened Birds

These birds are likely to become endangered in the near future if conservation efforts aren't successful.

Special Concern Birds

These birds need careful monitoring to ensure their populations remain stable.

Mammals of Westchester County

There are 33 different types of mammals living in Westchester County.

Special Concern Mammals

These mammals are being watched to make sure their numbers stay healthy.

Reptiles of Westchester County

Westchester County is home to 19 different species of reptiles.

Endangered Reptiles

These reptiles are facing a very high risk of extinction.

Threatened Reptiles

These reptiles are likely to become endangered soon.

Special Concern Reptiles

These reptiles need special attention to protect their populations.

Insects of Westchester County

Insects, especially butterflies, are an important part of the ecosystem.

Butterflies

Endangered Butterflies

These beautiful butterflies are in danger of disappearing.

Threatened Butterflies

These butterflies could become endangered if we don't help them.

Special Concern Butterflies

These butterflies are being monitored to ensure their survival.