As the OP is interested in birds - and while its been a good 20 years since last I have been consider the "World of Birds" exhibit at the Bronx Zoo:

The Bronx Zoo's World of Birds, a two-story bird house completed in 1972, is a huge, landscaped, indoor free-flight exhibit. The one-way flow pattern in the exhibit moves the visitors through twenty-five birds habitats, ranging from desert to tropical forest. Each setting recreates with impressive fidelity the microculture of the birds that fly merrily about within their diorama world, complete with living plants. Five of the aviaries are completely open: in two of the largest the uncaged public walks through the habitat with birds freely overhead

From 103rd and Central Park West (if your bird walk starts and ends in same place) - make your way to 103 street and Broadway (short walk) - take the 1 train Downtown direction one stop to 96 street - go upstairs and back downstairs to change for the 2 train UPTOWN - take this to East 180 street I think (please double check) - this will only take you about 30 minutes and you will be at the Bronx Zoo.

Before heading up to the Zoo (or even if you dont go to zoo) as you are "in the area) go to 112th street and Amsterdam to The Cathedral of St John The Devine - it's one of the most beautiful Cathedrals anywhere in the world - there was some fire damage a few years ago where some of the inside could not be visited - I am unsure if this has been fixed or not.


For some nice views - you can go to top of Marriott Hotel in Times square - there is a revolving restaurant. Grab a drink and enjoy.

Ofcourse - Top of the Rock is fabulous - you can buy a "dual ticket" that allows you 2 seperate admissions - one at day and one at night.