About the Collection
A comprehensive collection of the species of earth would be incomplete without a significant section dedicated to birds. However, the translation into museum-style presentation is not quite as successful as other species. They are smaller, making diorama less dramatic and the craft of taxidermy more difficult to give a sense of life--particularly the eyes. And much of the beauty of birds is in the movement of their flight--something lost in the snapshot of a diorama. The museum's collection is impressive, particularly with rare or extinct species, and its efforts to present them in a natural habitat are significant. But birds just don't cage well, alive or dead.
What You Will See
The collection of birds is split into three major halls: Birds of New York State, Birds of North America, Birds of the World. The Birds of the World contains the largest and most detailed dioramas, but the fewest number of featured species--the penguins are the most charming exhibit. The Birds of New York State is comprehensive in its collection but the specimens are displayed without fanfare or backdrop--but still worth exploring to see the tragic exhibit on Passanger Pigeons. The Birds of North America returns to a diorama model, but much smaller exhibits and a larger number of birds. If you just have time for one, visit North America. Here you will see the icons of America: the Blad Eagle, the wild Turkey, and the Califonrnia Condor.
Why You Should Go
The Mammal Galleries are a better way to spend your time in the animal kingdom if you cannot visit all the galleries on your visit--and few can. The Hall of North American Mammals, in particular, surpasses the Bird halls in detail, information and the charisma of the featured animals. Two giant moose locked in combat is a more striking view than a few dozen rare and beautiful birds in a tree. THey are impressive and if you have the time--or you are a birder at heart--explore the collection and find familiar favorites. Otherwise, plan your route to other parts of the museum through them and get just a taste.
