If you have visited Rockland Cemetery in Sparkill, New York, you have had the pleasure of witnessing the wide variety of wildlife that call our cemetery home. From the smallest butterflies to the occasional black bear, the cemetery’s 32 acres of rolling hills and mature trees provide a unique habitat for many different species.
One of the most fascinating and delicate creatures found at the cemetery is the butterfly. The cemetery’s many flower gardens, which are lovingly tended by our dedicated staff, provide a welcoming environment for a variety of butterfly species. Visitors to the cemetery can often spot the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, a large and striking butterfly with bright yellow wings and black stripes. The delicate Black Swallowtail, with its intricate black and blue markings, is also commonly seen in the cemetery’s gardens. Other butterfly species found at the cemetery include the Spicebush Swallowtail, the Red-spotted Purple, and the Monarch butterfly, known for its incredible migration from Canada to Mexico.
In addition to the butterflies, the cemetery is home to many other species of insects, including bees, wasps, and dragonflies. These important pollinators play a crucial role in the cemetery’s ecosystem, helping to pollinate the many flowers and trees found throughout the grounds. Visitors to the cemetery can often see bees buzzing among the flowers or dragonflies darting across the pond.
The cemetery is also home to a variety of small mammals, such as chipmunks, squirrels, and rabbits. These curious creatures can often be seen darting among the gravestones or foraging for food among the trees and shrubs. Visitors to the cemetery should be aware that these animals are wild and should not be approached or fed. While they may seem cute and friendly, they are still wild animals and should be treated with caution and respect.
One of the more unexpected visitors to the cemetery is the occasional black bear. While rare, sightings of these majestic creatures have been reported in the area surrounding the cemetery. Black bears are typically shy and will usually avoid contact with humans. However, visitors to the cemetery should be aware of their presence and take appropriate precautions, such as staying on marked paths and avoiding any encounters.
The cemetery’s location near the Hudson River and the Palisades provides a unique habitat for a variety of bird species. From the majestic Bald Eagle to the tiny Ruby-throated Hummingbird, the cemetery is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors to the cemetery can often spot the Great Blue Heron, a large and impressive wading bird that can often be seen fishing in the cemetery’s pond. The Yellow Warbler, a small and brightly colored bird, is also commonly spotted in the cemetery’s gardens and woodlands. Other bird species found at the cemetery include the American Goldfinch, the Eastern Bluebird, and the Carolina Wren.
The cemetery is also home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians, including the Eastern Box Turtle and the Green Frog. The Eastern Box Turtle is a native species that can often be seen basking in the sun on warm days or hiding in the shade on hot afternoons. The Green Frog is a large and striking amphibian that can often be heard croaking in the cemetery’s pond. Visitors to the cemetery should be aware of their presence and avoid disturbing their habitats.
In conclusion, Rockland Cemetery in Sparkill, New York is not only a place of rest for the departed but also a haven for wildlife. From the smallest butterflies to the occasional black bear, the cemetery’s natural beauty provides a unique habitat for a wide variety of species. Visitors to the cemetery can enjoy observing and learning about the fascinating animals that call this place home. Whether it’s a delicate butterfly or a majestic bird, the wildlife at Rockland Cemetery is beautiful.
