The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™
We're working with you to make a positive impact around the world in more than 30 countries, all 50 United States and your backyard. Support our work
New York
Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary
Open to the Public
Yes
Things To Do
Plants and Animals View All
Plan Your Visit
Preserve Map View All
Get Directions
This land’s rugged outcrops and boulder-strewn hills provide a solid foundation for deciduous forests, flowing streams, and swamps teeming with flora and fauna.
Why We Selected This Site
In 1954, Mrs. Butler donated 225 acres of land to The Nature Conservancy in honor of her husband, making it the organization’s first donated preserve and the first wildlife refuge in the town of Bedford. Since then, it has grown through additional donations and purchases to its present size.
What We Do Here
Each fall, visitors flock to the preserve to observe migrating birds of prey. The Nature Conservancy posts interpretive materials that explain the phenomenon of mass migration and help to identify the many raptor species passing overhead.
Things To Do
There are six forest communities on the preserve: oak-dominant mixed hardwood, oak-hickory, mixed mesophytic, hemlock-mixed hardwood, hemlock dominant and wetland swamp forest. There are also several areas of white pine and Norway spruce plantations.
The Robert J. Hammershlag Hawkwatch is an excellent spot to observe a variety of hawks, falcons and other raptors during the autumn hawk migration. Other animals on the preserve include white-tailed deer, red fox, coyote, great-horned owls, barred owls and screech owls. The summer brings songbirds such as wood thrush, warblers and scarlet tanagers.
Plan Your Visit
This 363-acre preserve is located in Bedford, Westchester County, New York. Download a preserve map to help plan your visit to the Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary.
Directions
- From I-684 to exit 4 (Route 172) west towards Mt. Kisco.
- After 0.3 miles, turn left onto Chestnut Ridge Road and go 1.2 miles.
- Turn right over bridge into parking area.
Discussion
Have you been to this preserve? Are you thinking of visiting? See what others are saying about their experiences and add your comments below.
Add Your Comments
Time for you to join the discussion. Tell us about your experience at this preserve. What plants and animals did you see? When did you go? You can help others plan their visit when you share your thoughts. And thank you for visiting one of our nature preserves!
* Required Fields
Read More
We need to act now, before it's too late. Watch the Video, Take Action
We're addressing Latin America's most pressing conservation issues. Read the Story
Share
Donate to The Nature Conservancy
When you donate today, you’ll help The Nature Conservancy protect the most vital habitats on Earth.