The Albany Pine Bush has been designated as a national natural landmark because of being an outstanding example of a globally rare ecosystem by the National Park Service. The region along the Thruway west of Albany joins 596 other sites across the country recognized as landmarks and is home to pitch pines and scrub oaks.
It is perhaps not surprising then, that such regions are great examples of unique and fascinating biological and geological phenomenon. Most interestingly, the Pine Bush provides support to more than 1300 species of plants, 156 species of birds, more than 30 species of mammals and 20 species of amphibians and reptiles. It is thus one of the world’s best examples of inland pine barren ecosystems. It also harbors the beautiful but sadly endangered Karner blue butterfly.