Parade with African dancers at the Bronx Zoo, or come face-to-face with real life sharks at the NY Aquarium.

The appellate court has stayed the eviction of Elizabeth Street Garden, halting the construction of Haven Green, a project for affordable senior housing, amid community contestation.

A young alligator was rescued from a creek in Garnerville, NY, and is now in care at the Hudson Valley Humane Society after a successful operation by Haverstraw Police. The origin of the alligator is unknown.

Malt Drive Park, a new waterfront park in Long Island City, offers local amenities and is built to be flood-resistant, while also promoting local ecology and being adjacent to a residential development with affordable housing units.

A humpback whale was spotted under Brooklyn Bridge, a rare sighting confirmed by the U.S. Coast Guard, drawing attention and caution from onlookers and researchers alike.

The article discusses whether apes can ask questions, highlighting that despite their sign language skills and understanding, apes like Koko and Washoe haven't shown this behavior, suggesting it may be a uniquely human trait.

Spotted lanternflies in NYC may be fewer but are still a concern, with increased lifespans and potential for more reproductive cycles. Predators and human efforts may combat their spread.

Animal welfare advocates question the care of "Honey," a bear euthanized at Holtsville Ecology Center, amid allegations of mistreatment and calls for reform.

The Suffolk County DA is investigating alleged abuse at Holtsville Ecology Site after a bear's death, amid claims of neglect and poor care at the refuge.

A fence on Staten Island's Martling Avenue Bridge, which blocked views of Clove Lakes Park, is being removed after community protests and a successful campaign for its dismantlement.

Staten Island Chuck predicts an early spring for 2025, contrasting with Punxsutawney Phil's longer winter forecast. The event also reflects on past incidents with former Mayor Bill de Blasio.

A stranded, underweight Risso's dolphin died on Long Island despite rescue efforts. Its necropsy will provide insight into ocean health and species behavior.

Books about Flaco the owl detail his life post-escape from Central Park Zoo and his impact on New Yorkers, including legislation related to urban wildlife.

NYC residents are pushing for a certification program to protect bodega cats while maintaining food safety, providing veterinary care and managing expenses for their upkeep. The petition reflects the community's affection for these local felines.

Central Park will undergo renovations to improve space allocation for pedestrians and cyclists, introducing new paths and traffic signals, with work commencing mid-March.

Construction begins on a $48 million animal shelter in East New York, Brooklyn, aiming to improve animal welfare with state-of-the-art features, and set to open next fall.

The NYC Council approved a project to transform parking lots at Citi Field into an entertainment complex with a casino, generating jobs and providing public green space.

Elizabeth Street Garden in Little Italy faces eviction as NYC plans to develop affordable senior housing on the site, despite legal appeals and community opposition.

Cherry blossoms are blooming across New York City, with trackers and reports highlighting various locations, including parks and gardens, where nature's spectacle can be enjoyed.

Hoboken bird advocates aim to build an artificial island for Common Terns to replace their deteriorating pier habitat, amidst fundraising and awareness efforts.

Astoria, the wild turkey known for her urban exploits, was spotted strutting through Midtown Manhattan, possibly searching for a mate, to the surprise of locals.

The New York City Council has passed a bill for adding 1,000 public restrooms by 2035, addressing the city's facilities shortage. The plan follows a $5.6 million renovation of Tompkins Square Park's restrooms and raises discussions on maintenance.

A wild turkey, possibly known as "Astoria" or "Rosie," disrupted Manhattan traffic during rush hour, evading capture and attracting attention from locals familiar with her city appearances.

Central Park unveils the new Davis Center at Harlem Meer, replacing Lasker Rink and Pool, offering diverse outdoor activities, a swimming pool, and an ice-skating rink to New Yorkers.

The new Davis Center opens at Harlem Meer in Central Park, replacing the old Lasker Rink with a year-round pool and ice rink, serving as a community hub.

Prospect Park's century-old elms battle Dutch elm disease, with three lost despite efforts by the Prospect Park Alliance to inoculate and preserve them. The Alliance also combats Beech Leaf Disease and adapts to environmental challenges.

The New York Restoration Project is distributing 1,000 blight-resistant hybrid chestnut trees to NYC residents to revive the nearly extinct American chestnut species.

Zygi Wilf's Garden Homes faces local opposition in New Jersey for a proposed 496-unit development on the Watchung Mountains, with concerns over potential increased flooding and environmental impact.

Jacob Riis Park in Queens faces continued beach closure due to erosion and hazardous conditions, with no immediate plans for sand replenishment, despite past incidents and local infrastructure concerns.

Bryant Park's free movie series returns this summer, starting June 9th with "Pretty in Pink." Films will be shown every Monday night through August 11th.

Castle Hill in the Bronx opened its first dog park, offering a space for dogs and fostering community among residents. The event included a barbecue and activities.

New York Governor Hochul announces a $10.4 million grant to improve animal shelters, indicating strong state support for animal welfare and shelter facility enhancements.

The NYBG exhibit "Van Gogh's Flowers" combines Vincent van Gogh's artwork with live flora, offering interactive, multi-sensory experiences and events like Starry Nights.

Governor Hochul announces over $10 million in funding to enhance New York's animal shelters, benefiting 30 organizations through the state's Companion Animal Capital Fund.

New York City beaches open for Memorial Day weekend with enhanced safety measures, including increased lifeguard hiring and the potential use of drones for rescue operations.

Long Island's farms prepare for summer festivals, with the 70-year-old Mattituck Strawberry Festival and activities like watermelon feasts and lavender events drawing local participation.

A section of East River Park in Manhattan has reopened with new amenities after an uplift for flood prevention, part of the $1.5 billion East Side Coastal Resiliency Project.

Mayor Eric Adams announced the "Central Park Conservancy Partnership" to improve the park by coordinating agencies and raising awareness on issues like illegal peddling and noise.

Iris Rodriguez-Rosa is appointed as NYC's first Latina Parks Commissioner, succeeding Sue Donoghue, to manage the city's 30,000 acres of parkland. She aims to address a lifeguard shortage and enhance community engagement in green spaces.

Brooklyn’s Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Memorial Arch undergoes a $8.9 million restoration, its first in nearly 50 years, including a new roof, repointed granite, and refurbished staircases.

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden celebrates 100 years of its bonsai collection with the "Bonsai 100" exhibition, showcasing both old and new specimens and highlighting the collection's history.

The new Gottesman Pool at Central Park's Davis Center near Harlem Meer is ready for public use, providing a versatile recreational space transformed seasonally into a turf field and ice rink.

A family of swans in Brooklyn's Prospect Park attracts visitors, yet raises concerns about human impact on wildlife and the swans' invasive species status.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams inaugurated the outdoor pool season, with new Gottesman Pool in Central Park among 64 others. The city now has 680 lifeguards and the "Learn to Swim" program is expanded.

Nassau County has stepped up beach patrols and technologies to prevent shark encounters after a local shark bite, despite skepticism from some beachgoers.

Governor Hochul inaugurated the $25 million renovated Lincoln Park Pool in Albany as part of the $10 million NY SWIMS initiative, aiming to provide safe recreation in underserved areas and enhance water safety education.

Staten Island's coastlines symbolize both Hurricane Sandy's devastation and the community's resilience, healing, and transformation to vibrant life, despite persistent reminders of the storm's impact.

Nassau County increases shark surveillance at Jones Beach following a shark bite incident, deploying drones and other assets to ensure safety during the July 4th celebrations. Enhanced measures also address other ocean dangers, like rip currents.

Shark sightings at Rockaway Beach prompted closures and a swift response from officials, ensuring public safety with the aid of drones and vigilant monitoring.

Shark sightings at Rockaway Beach prompted closures over the Fourth of July weekend; no injuries were reported and officials used drones for monitoring.

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is celebrating 100 years of bonsai with an exhibit, featuring over 400 specimens and honoring its first bonsai curator, Frank Okamura.

New York City announces a 20-year plan to improve Hart Island, including a welcome center and climate resilience measures. The public cemetery aims to enhance accessibility and honor the over one million buried there.

Governor Hochul announced the start of construction at Sojourner Truth State Park, including a swimming facility, slated to open by summer 2026. The park's amenities celebrate local heritage and promote accessibility.

Prospect Park's LeFrak Center in Brooklyn will reopen with updates but will no longer host Dreamland Roller Disco, causing community disappointment. New activities and amenities will be added, managed by Ekstein Development Group.

Collective Retreats Governors Island in NYC opens for its 2025 season, offering serene glamping near Manhattan with various accommodation options and activities.

A Kemp's ridley sea turtle named Elton was released at Coney Island after recovering from hypothermia, marking the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society's 91st release in five years.

Green Central Knoll Park in Brooklyn struggles with dog waste and holes due to pet owners ignoring rules and letting dogs off-leash, disrupting baseball games and park cleanliness.

The Central Park Conservancy supports a bill to ban horse-drawn carriages in Central Park, citing safety and maintenance concerns after recent horse accidents.

A NYC woman found a 2.3-carat diamond in Arkansas' Crater of Diamonds State Park, planning to use it for an engagement ring after three weeks of searching. She had prepared by training and setting up camp.

New York Governor Hochul announces a $10 million investment in the state's parks and recreation through the MPR Grant Program for various local projects.

The Red Hook public pool in NYC is set to reopen after being closed due to a broken water line since late June. Repairs were delayed by the need for specially fabricated parts for the 1930s pool.

Governor Hochul bans swimming at some Long Island beaches due to Hurricane Erin, with state park restrictions in place. Safety amid dangerous conditions is prioritized.

The Central Park Conservancy is advocating for the ban of horse-drawn carriages in Central Park, citing safety and welfare issues, while the TWU proposes alternatives to protect jobs. The issue has become a topic in the mayoral race.

Alex Rolon created "Rio Manhattan," an unofficial water park in Washington Heights using a fire hydrant, gaining popularity and police support, despite being illegal.

New York City beaches reopened after Hurricane Erin, but officials warn of persistent high rip current risks. Lifeguards are on duty, and some areas remain closed for safety.

Central Park's "Furever Tree," a pet memorial, was removed due to damage from environmental stress and decorations, with new memorial options considered.

Central Park playgrounds are being overrun by bold rats that forage through strollers and approach people, causing unease among parents and children, despite a citywide decrease in rat sightings.

A horse-drawn carriage incident in Central Park, where a horse ran loose, leads to safety concerns and debates about the future of the carriage industry.

An alligator was found abandoned in a Long Island pond, prompting concerns over illegal exotic pet disposal and ecosystems' safety. Authorities captured and are caring for the reptile.

Governor Hochul has unveiled the renovated Whelan Park in Malverne, featuring a $6.3 million upgrade for recreation and resilience against storms and flooding.

A proposed 72-story tower near Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn is raising concerns over potential shadows and local infrastructure strain, sparking debate amid the need for affordable housing.

A study highlights the decline of horseshoe crab populations in Long Island Sound, attributing the decrease to climate change, habitat loss, and overharvesting, with a yearly decline of 2-9%.

NY4P's Daffodil Project in NYC distributes bulbs and seeds for citywide planting, honoring 9/11 victims and advocating for park funding.

Bank of America Winter Village opens at Bryant Park on October 24, offering ice skating, shopping, and dining.

The Town of Oyster Bay named a park after Omer Neutra, a fallen soldier and Plainview native, featuring a basketball court honoring his love for the sport.

Long Island's Holtsville Ecology Center is closing due to budget issues and allegations of animal neglect, despite being a popular educational resource for nearly 50 years.

Governor Hochul announces Watkins Glen State Park's camping season to open early on May 8-10, 2026, to coincide with the NASCAR Cup Series race weekend.

The Erie Canal's 200th anniversary sparks discussions on its future, balancing historical significance, ecological impact, and its shift from commerce to recreation.

The Native Nursery under New York's Kosciuszko Bridge thrives, cultivating native plants and supported by concert revenue, fostering urban biodiversity and community engagement.

Manhattan's East River parking lot is being converted into an outdoor gym and community space, part of a wider initiative to revitalize Kips Bay and the waterfront.

Mayor Eric Adams has designated the Elizabeth Street Garden as official NYC parkland, potentially complicating plans for affordable senior housing on the site.

NYC Councilmember Holden is pushing to ban horse-drawn carriages, citing animal welfare and safety, while facing opposition from workers and legal challenges from TWU against animal rights group NYCLASS.

Developers sue Mayor Eric Adams over his declaration of the Elizabeth Street Garden as parkland, arguing it circumvents the formal city land-use process and hampers affordable housing plans.

New York distributed 1,650 trees to municipalities and agencies as part of a goal to plant 25 million trees by 2033, focusing also on aiding disadvantaged areas.

Mayor Eric Adams and partners have opened an $11 million athletic field, the "Harlem Field of Dreams," at the Charles Young Playground in Harlem to engage youth and foster community relations.

Mayor Eric Adams announces a $68 million plan to improve flood mitigation in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, turning the area into a tool for climate resilience with construction set to start in 2029.

Nearly $30M is allocated for Staten Island's parks and cultural sites upgrades in FY 2026 Budget, including improvements to Bloomingdale Park, Snug Harbor, Staten Island Zoo, and Noble Maritime Collection.

Lake Sebago Beach's $95.8 million reconstruction in NY has progressed with the awarding of a construction contract, aiming for a 2027 reopening post-Irene closure.

A coyote was seen strolling on Central Park's frozen Turtle Pond in NYC, highlighting the park's role as a wildlife sanctuary within the urban environment.

New York Governor Hochul announces a $10 million fund from the Environmental Bond Act for the Municipal Parks and Recreation Grant Program, enhancing outdoor spaces for public recreation.

Governor Kathy Hochul announces $67.5 million NY PLAYS grant program to build and revamp playgrounds in New York State, targeting municipalities and nonprofits, with a focus on underserved communities.

A horse carriage accident in Midtown NYC has reignited debate over horse-drawn carriages in the city, with calls for legislative change and references to Ryder's Law for their phase-out.

Hempstead Lake State Park has reopened for public ice skating after over 30 years, with safety measures in place and visitors required to bring their own skates.

A proposal to build the Brooklyn Skate Garden at Mount Prospect Park has split Prospect Heights, with neighbors warning of lost green space and backers promising a nature-forward, inclusive skate facility.

NYPD Harbor Unit officers pulled a bald eagle from Hudson River ice; the bird is now in very serious condition at The Raptor Trust in Millington.

A wild turkey briefly stopped an MTA bus at Victory Boulevard and Forest Avenue before sauntering away unharmed.

Eastchester police and state wildlife officials warned after coyotes were reported approaching or attacking dogs near Twin Lakes Park. Officials urge supervising pets and securing attractants.

New cameras and brighter lights are now up at Williamsbridge Oval Park after months of pressure following a fatal stabbing. Neighbors say it’s a start but want more before summer.

Local leaders honored the teams behind the $141M Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center, a new LEED-certified hub with a pool, gym, teaching kitchen and media lab.

Green‑Wood’s Green‑House visitor center opens April 18, 2026, pairing a restored 1895 greenhouse with new gallery and classroom space and free opening‑week programming.

A $1.45 billion rebuild has reshaped East River Park into a coastal defense — offering new protection while reopening old fights over lost trees and public space.

Westchester County’s concept to expand the Marshlands Conservancy nature center and parking has drawn objections from preservationists and the Jay Heritage Center.

The NYS DEC's prohibited plant roster covers 56 species — from knotweeds to giant hogweed — and restrictions on sale and movement aim to curb ecological and public‑health risks.

Ramon Aponte Park may reopen in phases after a nearby scaffold collapse, but the main climbing structure will remain fenced until DOB inspections clear new scaffolding.

A 40,000‑sq‑ft, mass‑timber recreation center is planned for Walter Gladwin Park, aiming to close a neighborhood “recreation desert” and serve tens of thousands nearby. The city has posted procurement notices as designers finalize plans.

Foley Square’s small Thomas Paine Park is cracking and cluttered: locals and inspection records say the plaza has broken pavement, faulty lights and overflowing trash. The city says it’s aware and is seeking solutions.

A 1,200-square-foot Classroom has opened inside the Wagner Park Pavilion, offering harbor views and programming from immersive performances to neighborhood meetings.

Three Falls State Park is a new 90‑acre park on Cayuga Lake that folds waterfalls, half‑mile shoreline and future docks, trails and a nature center into a public space at the former Camp Barton. The site is open for passive recreation while upgrades are phased in.

Over 100 advocates rallied at City Hall in the rain, demanding at least 1% of the city budget for parks to shore up staffing and maintenance.

The West 133rd Street playground in St. Nicholas Park was named one of ten sites to share in a $50M Community Parks Initiative investment. The rebuild will follow community design and is expected to take a few years.

City health officials have raised water‑quality and safety questions about the East River +POOL pilot, prompting extra testing and changes to the timeline. Regulators want more proof before swimmers can dive in.

Randall's Island athletic fields reopened Friday with new turf and repaired walkways after being used as temporary migrant housing; a community day welcomed students back.

Neighbors say Brighton Beach’s boardwalk is pocked with broken planks and holes. Crews will replace boards section by section while a $1B reconstruction is planned.

Pickleball returns to Central Park next week as Wollman Rink is converted into 14 courts. CityPickle's 2026 lineup includes daily play, clinics and community sessions.

A $13.4M reconstruction of the Haffen Park Pool in Baychester has broken ground, funded by NY SWIMS and mayoral capital and expected to reopen by summer 2027.

Mamdani’s Urban Forest Plan aims to grow NYC’s canopy to 30% and prioritize the hottest neighborhoods, but funding and long‑term maintenance are unsettled. Local plantings have already begun.

Williamsburg will help decide how roughly $15M is spent to remake the cracked McCarren Park asphalt field, pairing underground stormwater fixes with community‑chosen amenities.

A Dover Plains trailhead has been blocked after a private landowner closed the Route 22 right‑of‑way, leaving the historic Dover Stone Church unreachable. Town officials and conservation partners are negotiating to reopen access.

A buck-and-doe piebald pair was photographed in the Long Island Pine Barrens. Experts say piebalds are rare and explain how to watch and report sightings.

Fourteen juvenile keel‑billed toucans seized at the Otay Mesa border were rehabilitated at the Bronx Zoo; ten were relocated and two are now on display.

Syringes and orange caps were spotted along a Coney Island stretch of sand, alarming neighbors and prompting a 311 cleanup response.

One year after a $160M makeover, the Davis Center at Harlem Meer has drawn more than 170,000 visitors and reshaped Central Park’s north end.

New York released a final 30x30 plan to protect 30% of land and water by 2030, but state figures show a roughly 2.44M‑acre shortfall and steep yearly targets.

A judges' parking lot on parkland is stalling a $21M effort to remake Columbus Park in Downtown Brooklyn.

The Orchard Beach Pavilion has reopened after a $114M overhaul, returning terraces, ADA ramps and new vendor space to the Bronx Riviera. The restoration revives a long‑closed landmark just before beach season.

Large sections of Kissena Park lack working drinking fountains and restrooms as summer begins. Neighbors say repairs could cost millions and want interim fixes now.

After months in quarantine, the Bronx Zoo’s transatlantic stowaway fox has been cleared of illness and nicknamed Basil following treatment. The zoo will monitor him while arranging next steps.

Happy, the Bronx Zoo elephant who helped prove mirror self-recognition in elephants, was euthanized at 55; a necropsy found arthritis and inoperable uterine tumors.

Breakneck Ridge trailheads and the small Metro‑North platform will stay closed through the summer while crews build a connector, bridge and station upgrades.

A new analysis finds nesting wading birds in the NY–NJ harbor have plunged; the black-crowned night heron’s losses threaten local disappearance by 2035.

Governor Hochul announced NY Kicks, a $6M fund pairing $5M for building soccer pitches with $1M for gear and coaching to boost access in disadvantaged communities.

A beaver was filmed swimming near the Gansevoort Peninsula — the first confirmed beaver sighting in Hudson River Park’s estuarine sanctuary.

A new Parks & Trails New York study finds the 750‑mile Empire State Trail drives $1.87 billion in annual economic activity and nearly 9.8 million visits. The report highlights jobs, tax revenue and health benefits across New York.

A carriage horse was found dead inside Central Park near 72nd Street, NYPD says. The death comes amid renewed calls to phase out horse‑drawn rides.

A coyote dug under a six‑foot fence and injured a family dog in Irvington, then reportedly approached a toddler. Local police and village officials are urging vigilance during pupping season.