Newburyport Birders

Most programs require advance registration. Contact Sue at newburyportbirders@comcast.net or 978-462-4785 or by via the Newburyport Birders’ webpage www.newburyportbirders.com.

This fall, North Shore Community College in Danvers, MA will be offering an introductory course in ornithology. The course is designed to provide the student with a foundation of knowledge in avian biology, enhance students’ ornithological field skills and increase students’ appreciation of birds. The laboratories/field trips emphasize bird identification and field techniques while the lectures will cover taxonomy, evolution, anatomy and physiology, feathers and flight, migration, behavior, vocalizations, distribution, reproduction and development and populations and conservation. For additional information, please contact Instructor Steve Haydock at 978-363-5457 or SHAYDOCK01@northshore.edu or North Shore Community College: www.northshore.edu.

To register please visit: www.massaudubon.org.

Bald Eagle Adventures Along the Lower Merrimack River

February 14 to 28, 2010
Morning & afternoon outings available – arrange yours today by contacting Sue
Fee: $20 per person
Meeting Location: Riverside Cafe in the Towle Building at 260 Merrimack Street, Newburyport

This year by popular demand, Newburyport Birders has increased its offerings of Bald Eagle programs so you can arrange a small, private tour with your family and friends! These are limited enrollment programs. Please don’t delay; reserve yours today by contacting Sue.

Bald Eagles move south to the swift-moving Merrimack River which provides ideal, winter habitat for these majestic birds. We’ll search along the river’s edge and protected islands for our national symbol.

The Merrimack River and Bald Eagles

Northern Essex Community College
Sunday, February 21, 2010 – 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm

Each winter, Bald Eagles from northern New England move south to the lower Merrimack River which provides perfect, winter habitat for these majestic birds. These spectacular birds soar high over the water and then stoop to secure prey with their sharp talons. We’ll visit Bald Eagle habitat along the lower Merrimack River.

Dress in layers for outdoor weather, including waterproof boots, wool socks, hat and gloves. This program will be conducted outside along the river's edge. We'll be walking on snow and unimproved trails.

To register or to learn more, please contact Northern Essex Community College at 978-556-3000.

Bald Eagles & The Lower Merrimack River

North Shore Community College
Saturday, February 13, 2010 – 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm

The Bald Eagle is one of our national symbols. Each winter, Bald Eagles from northern New England move south to the lower Merrimack River which provides perfect, winter habitat for these majestic birds. These spectacular birds soar high over the water and then stoop to secure prey with their sharp talons. We'll visit Bald Eagle habitat along the lower Merrimack River.

Dress in layers for outdoor weather, including waterproof boots, wool socks, hat and gloves. This program will be conducted outside along the river’s edge. For more information and to register, please contact North Shore Community College at 978-236-1200.

To learn more please visit: www.capeannchamber.com/birdingweekend.

Birds, Sunset & Hot Chocolate — Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Saturday, January 23, 2010 — 3:00 pm to dusk
Meeting location: Salisbury Beach State Reservation Boat Ramp Parking Lot
No registration required – Fee: $10

Enjoy Salisbury Beach State Reservation’s birds, the sunset & hot chocolate. We’ll discuss the natural history of the birds encountered. Please bring your favorite mug, and we’ll provide the hot chocolate. Dress in layers and wear warm footwear.

Birds, Sunset & Hot Chocolate — Plum Island

Saturday, January 16, 2010 — 3:00 pm to dusk
Meeting location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Parking Lot #1
No registration required – Fee: $10

Join us for a birds, sunset & hot chocolate at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. We’ll discuss the natural history of the birds encountered. Please bring your favorite mug, and we’ll provide the hot chocolate. Dress in layers and wear warm footwear.

Birds of Nelson Island

Sunday, November 29, 2009 – 2:30 pm to dusk
Fee: 2 participants for $20 ~ Share The Great Marsh with a friend!
Please register early!
Meeting Location: Stackyard Road, Rowley ~ park at the junction of Stackyard & Patmos Roads

You’ll learn birding skills and feel the thrill of finding and identifying birds as we search for birds on our walk to Nelson Island, a portion of Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. Join Sue and discover your love of learning and the thrill of birding. Dress in layer for the weather and be prepared with sturdy, waterproof, walking shoes for walking on unpaved and often wet, unimproved trails. There are no facilities at this site. Bring binoculars or borrow ours.

Wings of Autumn on Plum Island

Saturday, November 28, 2009 – 2:30 pm to dusk
Fee: 2 participants for $20 ~ Bring a friend birding!
Please register early!
Meeting location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge’s Parking Lot #1.

Discover the wings of autumn at this slow-paced program. It will include tips on bird identification and the natural history of species on the Refuge, one of the premiere birding sites in the country. Dress in layers for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.

A minimum of 30 people is needed, and the maximum will be 50 so the boat won’t be too crowded. Cost: $65 for NH Audubon members; $85 for non-members. Contact Massabesic Audubon Center by phone at: 603-668-2045, or by email at: mac@nhaudubon.org to register.

Friday Evenings at Plum Island

Fridays, May 1, 8, 22 & 29, 2009 – 6:00 pm to Dusk
Meeting Location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge’s Hellcat parking lot
Fee: $15.
Limited enrollment – register early – please contact Sue.

We’ll enjoy of the sights and sounds of Plum Island during these May evenings. What a wonderful end to your work day! We’ll enjoy the variety of resident and migrant birds during the peaceful evening hours in the shrubby, low vegetation that offers protection and ideal foraging habitat for birds. May is one of the “birdiest” months on this refuge.

Morning Ramble Along The Little River Trail

Sunday, May 17, 2009 – 7:00 am to 10:00 am
Fee: $15.
Limited Enrollment – register early – call or email to register – please contact Sue
Meeting Location: Hale Street in Newburyport at the small pull-off (after both Cabot Stain entrances) on the right just 1.1 miles from the Low & Hale Street junction.

Yes, this is one of Newburyport’s best kept, birding spots. Seldom do you hear of groups birding the Little River Trail; during this program, we’ll show you this lesser explored, birding hot-spot. We look forward to introducing you to new vistas and interesting observations at this “secret” gem of a location. No facilities are available at the meeting location or birding site.

Woodcock Watching With A Friend

Friday, April 3, 2009 and Sunday, April 5, 2009 – 6:30 pm to 8:00pm
(April 5th is also the rain date for the 3rd)
Fee: 2 participants for $20
Meeting Location: Provided upon registration
Limited enrollment, register early ~ call or email to register.

The American Woodcock’s “PEENT” is one of the most magical, evening sounds of spring, and American Woodcocks engage in one of the most demonstrative and unusual courtships. Males of this cryptic, secretive shorebird species perform an impressive, aerial display flight at dusk. First we’ll learn about the natural history of these birds, and then we’ll walk to nearby fields to watch and listen to this remarkable display. We will also search for early spring migrants. Bring your sense of wonder and binoculars; be prepared to walk on unpaved, possibly wet and uneven terrain.

Sunday Morning at Wet Meadows’ Platform

Sunday, April 5, 2009 – 8:00 am to 10:00 am
Fee: $12
Meeting Location: Platform at the Wet Meadows on Scotland Road in Newbury about 1/2 mile east of the Route 95/Scotland Road intersection opposite #102 Scotland Road in Newbury.

Join Newburyport Birders at this new, viewing platform at the Common Pasture Wet Meadow. This platform was installed by the Essex County Greenbelt Association and dedicated in memory of the Honorable H. Lawrence Jodrey and Gerald Soucy in the fall of ’08. Both Larry and Jerry were life-long conservationists and renowned Essex County birders.

Novice birders are welcome to join us on this Sunday morning program We’ll assemble on the new platform overlooking the lovely wet meadow, a cherished birding location which has been preserved by the cooperative efforts of Essex County Greenbelt Association, Parker River Clean Water Association, The Trust for Public Land, Town of Newbury, City of Newburyport, Massachusetts Audubon Society, Brookline Bird Club, Essex County Ornithological Club and so many, individual donors.

Spring on the Ipswich Necks

Saturday, March 21, 2009 – 10:00 am to 1:00 pm (FULLY SUBSCRIBED)
Fee: $15
Meeting location: Ipswich Town Wharf parking lot on East Street in Ipswich.

Limited enrollment – advance registration is required – please contact Sue.

Join Sue on an exploration of scenic Great and Little Necks in Ipswich. You’ll learn to identify birds, and we’ll discuss the birds we encounter. We’ll scan Eagle Hill River, Clark Pond and the Plum Island Sound. Dress in layers for the weather. All levels of bird enthusiasts are welcome. There are no facilities at this location.

Birding on the Ides of March

Sunday, March 15, 2009 — 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Fee: $12
Meeting Location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Parking Lot #1

Registration is required – please contact Sue

We’ll search for lingering winter birds and early arriving, spring migrants. Birds on this Refuge are abundant and offer excellent observation opportunities. Birders will learn aids needed to begin bird identification: special characteristics, bird behavior and habitat preference.

Celebrate the Longer Days With the Birds!

Sunday, March 8, 2009 – 3:00 pm to dusk
Meeting Location: Parking Lot # 1 on Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Join Sue for this natural history program. March is a great time to start birding and celebrate the longer days. We’ll search for birds and the wildlife of Plum Island. If you have binoculars or a field guide, please bring them along. Please dress in warm clothing and waterproof shoes.

Birds and Birders on Our National Wildlife Refuges

Mass Audubon’s 17th Annual Birders Meeting
Saturday, March 7, 2009 – 8:30 am to 4:45 pm
Worcester Technical High School, Worcester, MA

Featured presenters include: Lee Allen Peterson, son of the late Roger Tory Peterson and internationally known birder and author Kenn Kaufman.

Afternoon breakout sessions will feature breakout sessions on birds and climate change, avian research on MA National Wildlife Refuges, invasive plants and birds, where and how birds sleep, Worcester County changes in breeding birds, and more.

Vendor tables will include optics, bird books and nature gift items, natural history travel, bird photographers, and information on local bird clubs.

For more information, to view the program schedule or to register, visit http://massaudubon.org/birdersmeeting or call Linda Cocca at 781-259-2150.

This year’s Birders Meeting offers anyone with an interest in birds the opportunity to learn more about the rich resources that comprise the National Wildlife Refuge System, along with some of the challenges and opportunities constantly facing resource managers.

Also, in recognition of the 100-year anniversary of the birth of Roger Tory Peterson – “America’s greatest naturalist” – this year’s Birders Meeting will feature reflections by Lee Allen Peterson, son of the late Roger Tory Peterson. In addition, a presentation by internationally known birder and author, Kenn Kaufman, will make this an event not to be missed.

Co-sponsored by Mass Audubon and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with support from Houghton Mifflin Company and Birds & Beans Coffee.

Bald Eagle Adventures on the Lower Merrimack River

February 15 – 22, 2009
Morning and afternoon outings available &ndash Arrange yours by contacting Sue.
Fee: $20
Meeting Location: Park & Ride – Exit 57 off Route 95 – Route 113 (Storey Avenue) in Newburyport

This year Newburyport Birders has increased its offerings of Bald Eagle programs so you can arrange a small, private tour with your family and friends!

The Bald Eagle is one of our national symbols. Each winter Bald Eagles from northern New England move south to the lower Merrimack River which provides perfect, winter habitat for these majestic birds. These spectacular birds soar high over the water and then stoop to secure prey with their sharp talons.

We’ve got tours planned during the week and on weekends to meet everyone’s needs. These limited enrollment programs are very popular &ndash don’t delay; reserve your place today by contacting Sue; the contact information is in the signature block at the end of this newsletter.

Learn to Love Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Saturday, February 14, 2009 — 9:00 am to 11:30 am
Fee: $15 Meeting location: Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge Parking Lot
Registration is required – Please contact Sue

Join us for a bird watching program at the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge which was established in 1992. This Refuge is located on the eastern shore of Newington’s Great Bay. This rich habitat encompasses upland and open water. In the upland habitat, we’ll search for wintering songbirds along with American Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon and Northern Harrier. In the bay, we’ll look for Bald Eagle, loon and waterfowl. This slow-paced walk will introduce you to this birding area, and we’ll discuss the natural history of the species we encounter. Dress in layers and wear sturdy, waterproof boots and be prepared for the weather.

Directions: Take Exit 1 off Route 16 or the Spaulding Turnpike and turn onto Pease Blvd., heading into Pease International Tradeport. Go through one stoplight to a stop sign and turn right onto Arboretum Drive. Follow the Refuge signs for 3 miles to the Refuge parking lot.

Cape Ann Winter Birding Weekend

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, January 30 – February 1, 2009
For registration information and to see the schedule of activities, check out www.capeannchamber.com/birdingweekend.

Cape Ann is known to birdwatchers worldwide for its exciting concentrations of winter seabirds. Loons, grebes, gannets, sea ducks, alcids and the gulls gather in impressive concentrations and variety, and a careful exploration of the area’s gorgeous coastal geography is quite likely to turn up such winter bird specialties as our logo bird, the Harlequin Duck. Mass Audubon is partnering with the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce to plan a weekend filled with opportunity for bird lovers of all skill levels. We invite you to join expert guides on a tour of Cape Ann’s birding hot spots, including a sea trip on the Seven Seas Whale Watch boat, “Privateer IV”. See you there!

Nature — New Year’s Day

Thursday, January 1, 2009 — 2:00 pm to dusk
Meeting Location: Parking Lot # 1 on Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. Please bring warm clothing, waterproof shoes/boots, binoculars and a snack.

Join Newburyport’s Sue McGrath, the Essex County Ornithological Club’s President, for a complimentary, natural history program. January is a great time to start birding and celebrate winter’s natural beauty. We’ll search for wintering birds and usher in 2009 with the wildlife of Plum Island. What a fine way to start off 2009!

Explore Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Sunday, December 7, 2008 – 9:00 am to 11:30 am
CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER
Fee: $15
Meeting location: Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge Parking Lot.
To register please contact Sue at newburyportbirders@comcast.net or at 978-462-4785.

Join us for a bird watching program at the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This slow-paced walk will introduce you to this birding area, and we’ll discuss the natural history of the birds encountered. Dress in layers for the weather.

Directions: Take exit 1 off Route 16 or Spaulding Turnpike and turn onto Pease Blvd. heading into Pease International Tradeport. Go through one stoplight to a stop sign and turn right onto Arboretum Drive. Follow the Refuge signs for 3 miles to the Refuge parking lot.

Wings of Autumn on Plum Island

Sunday, November 30, 2008 – 1:30 to 3:30 pm
Audience: Ages 8 and older accompanied by an adult
Meeting location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Sub-headquarters parking lot.

Join Newburyport birder and refuge volunteer Sue McGrath for a free, birding tour and discover the “wings of autumn”! This slow-paced program will include tips on bird identification and natural history of species on the refuge, one of the premiere birding sites in the country. Dress in layers for the weather.

Alaska Wilderness – A Canoe Journey into the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

Sunday, November 2, 2008 – 2:00 p.m.
Fee: $10/person; $8/seniors & children under 12
Location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters Auditorium, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport
No advance ticket sales ~ come early and enjoy the exhibits!

Visit Alaska’s storied Arctic National Wildlife Refuge with two seasoned naturalists! In this land of 24-hour summer sun, you’ll meet some of the mammals, birds, plants and insects that thrive in our continent’s most remote wilderness. You’ll also have up close and personal looks at a LIVE Snowy Owl. Newburyport Birders is thrilled to bring Mark and Marcia Wilson to Newburyport to share their 19 day canoeing adventure on the Canning River on the western edge of the Arctic NWR. Paddling north from a gravel riverbank that served as an airstrip in the Brooks Range, they navigated a 17-foot, folding canoe to explore 70 miles of Arctic wilderness.

The Wilsons are a charismatic team who photograph, write about, teach and share their passion for the natural world. Both are avid naturalists with biology degrees and a keen focus on birds. Local and national groups have enjoyed this often standing-room-only, fast-moving, 75 minute, colorful slide presentation with an interactive introduction to the ambassador of the Arctic, a Snowy Owl. A touch table of Arctic treasures will be on display.

You’ll be treated to intimate views of Snowy Owls at the nest, Caribou maneuvering icy river crossings and Barren Ground Grizzly Bear foraging the tundra. Close-ups of Musk Ox introduce you to a rarely seen species of prehistoric appearance. Peregrine Falcons, Yellow-billed Loons, King Eiders and Buff-breasted Sandpipers join the nesting fray. Meet Lemmings, Jaegers and Arctic Foxes. This is your opportunity to learn how light, weather, mosquitoes and lemmings play into the symphony of life in this remote, Arctic ecosystem.

Veasey Park Ramble – Groveland

Birds on this property are abundant and offer excellent observation opportunities. Veasey Park offers over 40 acres of conservation land. Birders will learn aids needed to begin bird identification: special characteristics, bird behavior and habitat preference.

Directions:

From Rt 95: Take Exit 54 onto Rt. 133 to Georgetown/Rowley onto East Main Street. Follow through downtown Georgetown onto Groveland. Once you have passed Groveland Grounds on your left and Water’s Edge Vet on your right. Take Left onto Salem Street (at Tea Garden and Groveland Gas) for about 1.8 miles and take a Left onto Washington Street. Veasey Park is about a half mile down on the right. Take a right and go up long driveway to Veasey.

From Rt 495: Take the Haverhill Exit 48 for Ward Hill/Bradford. Take Rt 125 N and travel through Bradford and at the Bradford Common, bear right and take right onto Salem Street. Follow Salem Street past Carter’s Ice Cream on your left and continue past Bradford Ski on your right and then at Price-Rite Auto take a Right onto Washington Street. Veasey Park is about a 1/4 mile up on your right go up the long driveway to Veasey.

Walker’s Marsh Evening Ramble – Salisbury

Date: Sunday, October 5, 2008, 4:00 pm to dusk
Fee: $10
Meeting location: At the end of Sweet Apple Tree Lane off Ferry Road in Salisbury.

During this slow-paced walk, you’ll be introduced to Salisbury’s saltmarsh. We’ll discuss the natural history of the birds encountered. Sue will help you with field identification tips and will discuss bird behavior. Bird enthusiasts of all levels are encouraged to participate. Dress in layers and wear sturdy, warm footwear. Interpretive materials will be provided. There are no facilities at this site.

Creek Brook Wetland Evening Ramble – Haverhill

Friday, October 3, 2008, 4:00 pm until dusk
Fee: $10
Meeting Location: Creek Brook Wetland on Computer Drive in Haverhill.

Join Sue at this Essex County, productive wetland. A portion of the program fees will be donated to conservation efforts in Essex County. Please wear long-sleeved shirts, sturdy walking shoes and long pants. There are no facilities at this location.

Directions: Take Rte 495 south to exit #50 [Rte 97/Broadway]; proceed toward Salem, NH for just a 1/4 mile; take a right onto Computer Drive. We’ll meet where Computer Drive dead ends.

Bird Biology (Ornithology)
North Shore Community College

Course: Introduction to Bird Biology, Bio-150
Semester: Fall 2008: September 3 – December 13
Credits: 3 semester (course may be audited for no credit)
Campus: Danvers, 1 Ferncroft Road, 978-762-4000
Times: Lectures – Wednesdays, 6:30pm-8:15pm; Labs/Field Trips &ndash Saturdays, 8am – 10am

Description: A survey course in avian biology with an emphasis on birds of North America. Topics include field techniques, taxonomy, evolution, anatomy & physiology, feathers & flight, migration, behavior, vocalizations, distribution, reproduction & development and populations & conservation.

Registration: Proof of a communications proficiency is required. Visit or call the Enrollment Office (Danvers Campus) at 978-762-4000 x. 4315, 4458, or 4336. Early registration is strongly encouraged.

Additional Information: Steve Haydock, Instructor, Telephone: 978-363-5457, email: SHAYDOCK01@northshore.edu, North Shore Community College: www.northshore.edu

Newman Road Evening Ramble – Newbury

Sunday, September 21, 2008, 5:00 pm – dusk
Fee: $10
Meeting Location: Newbury’s Lower Green at the junction of Newman and High Roads.

Accompany Sue on a leisurely walk in the Newman Road area as we search for birds in an area that Native Americans called “Quascacunquen”, meaning waterfall, referring to the falls on the Parker River. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. There are no facilities at this site.

River Road Evening Ramble – West Newbury

Saturday, September 20, 2008, 5:00 pm - dusk
Fee: $10
Meeting location: Coffin Street & River Road junction. Coffin Street is off Route 113.

During our program, we’ll explore habitat along the Merrimack River and conservation land in search of birds. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. There are no facilities at this site.

Pelagic Trip out of Rye, NH &ndash September 11, 2008

Want to be a birding pioneer?

Then come aboard MV Granite State with New Hampshire Audubon to explore an area where birders don’t go very often: Jeffrey’s Ledge, 20-25 miles off the New Hampshire coast. Long known as a good area for whale-watching, Jeffrey’s Ledge can also be a fruitful area for seeking pelagic seabirds. We’ll depart from Rye Harbor at 7:30AM on Thursday September 11th and spend all day at sea, returning to port around 5:30-6:00PM. Master birder Steve Mirick will lead us in searching the waters along Jeffrey’s Ledge for seabirds (and other things of interest) we can find.

What can we expect to see?

Your guess is as good as ours! We hope to find Greater, Manx, and Sooty shearwaters, Northern Gannets, Wilson’s Storm-petrels, and Red-necked Phalaropes. Less likely but still possible are Northern Fulmars, Pomarine and Parasitic Jaegers, Black-legged Kittiwakes, and Red Phalaropes. Rare prizes might include Leach’s Storm-petrel, Long-tailed Jaeger, and Sabine’s Gull.

What to Bring: Binoculars and bird guide, of course. Bring a lunch if you like. Weather on the open water is unpredictable: sometimes hot, sometimes rather chilly. In September, chilly is more likely, but still, prepare for both. Certainly bring sunscreen and sunglasses. Bring motion-sickness pills if you’re vulnerable to seasickness.

Fee: $60 for NH Audubon members, $80 for non-members Contact Massabesic Audubon Center (603-668-2045) to register.

MV Granite State is a day-excursion boat owned by Granite State Whale Watch and based in Rye Harbor, NH. She’s 65 feet long, with an onboard snack bar, enclosed main cabin, two passenger decks, and a full set of navigation and safety equipment. Twin diesel engines give her a cruising speed of 12-13 knots.

All Wings Considered

Saturdays, August 23 & 30, 2008, 7:30 am – 10:30 am
Fee: $30 each or $50 for both
Meeting Location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge in Newburyport at the observation deck next to the Visitor’s Information Center at Parking Lot #1

Explore the various habitats at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge during these longer, interpretative programs. Sue will focus on field marks, where these birds have been and where they are migrating to and behavior at this premier, birding destination. Long-sleeved shirt and long pants are suggested.

Thousands of Swallows

Saturday, August 23, 2008, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Fee: $20
Meeting Location: North Pool Overlook at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

At Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Tree Swallows aggregate in large, pre-migratory, communal roosts prior to migrating to their wintering grounds. They are extremely graceful in flight, making abrupt changes in speed and direction as they feed on the wing, catching insects in their wide mouths. In the fall, their diets change, and the bayberries of Plum Island are a vital food source. To learn more about the swallows of Plum Island, please join Sue. You’ll be thrilled with the sounds and sights of Tree Swallows. Bring your lawn chair with you, and we’ll provide light refreshments.

Birding for Breast Cancer Research

Sunday, August 24, 2008, 8:00 am – 10:00 am
Fee: $30 – Please make your check out to The Susan G. Komen Foundation
Meeting Location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge in Newburyport at the observation deck next to the Visitor’s Information Center at Parking Lot #1

This fundraiser is in memory of Nancy McGrath Kelleher, Sue’s sister. Please join Sue for this two-hour, morning walk at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. Please wear your favorite pink shirt or hat. Long-sleeved shirt and long pants are suggested. Light refreshments will be provided at the conclusion of our program.

Free Thursday Evening Birding Program

Thursday, August 14, 2008, 6:00 pm – 8:00pm

Meeting location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge’s Parking Lot #1 Observation Platform next to the building

Join Sue McGrath of Newburyport Birders for a free guided bird walk exploring this Important Bird Area. We’ll discuss the variety of birds we encounter along our ramble. Interpretive materials are provided. Families with children age 8 and older are welcome.

Join the Friends of Parker River National Wildlife Refuge for an evening coffee house and lecture series in July! Bird-friendly coffee and pastries will be available for sale and the proceeds will benefit the Friends of Parker River, a non-profit organization that supports the Refuge. Lectures will be informative and entertaining and will be held in the Visitor’s Center Auditorium, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. Registration is not necessary for these free programs.

Global Climate Change in the Northeast

Thursday, July 17, 2008, 7:00 – 8:00 pm

In the future, could our refuge be under water? Will the nests of our state bird disappear? Join Erika Spanger-Siegfried, Northeast Climate Project Manager with the Union of Concerned Scientists for this informative and enlightening presentation on climate change and its potential impacts in Massachusetts and on Plum Island.

“There She Scoons”: New England Coasting Schooners

Thursday, July 31, 2008, 7:00 – 8:00 pm

Join William Fowler, History Professor from Northeastern University, to learn about the history of the coasting trade in New England, Merrimack Valley and Newburyport.

North Shore Community College
Birds of Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Instructor: Sue McGrath
Saturday, June 21, 2008, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Meeting Location: Parking Lot # 1 at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge in Newburyport

Birdwatching at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is excellent! Begin to observe, appreciate and identify birds at this program. This is a four-hour class is held at Sue’s favorite outdoor classroom, Parker River National Wildlife Refuge in Newburyport. Newburyport has prime habitat for birds due to the Merrimack River estuary area. New birders will learn aids to begin the lifelong hobby of bird watching – special characteristics, bird behavior, habitat preference and vocalizations. We’ll observe the birds at this productive bird watching site. We’ll focus on bird identification techniques. We’ll be walking over gentle terrain at a slow pace. Sturdy shoes are necessary. A long-sleeved shirt, long pants, hat, insect repellent and sunscreen are required. Bring snacks and beverages. Each student will be provided with interpretative materials.

Learn more and register by calling North Shore Community College at 978-762-4000.

Birds Along the Amesbury Riverwalk

Sunday, June 8, 2008, 6:30 pm – sunset
Fee: $10 – No registration is needed – see you there!

Join Sue McGrath on a ramble along this scenic riverway. It borders the Powwow River where we’ll have the opportunity to look for nesting activity. There are no facilities at this site.

Meeting Location: West end of the Carriagetown Marketplace parking lot behind Acapulcos Mexican Family Restaurant in Amesbury

Northern Essex Community College
Introduction to Birdwatching

Instructor: Sue McGrath
Lecture: Saturday, June 7, 2008, 9:00 am – noon
Field Class: Sunday, June 8, 2008, 9:00 am – noon
Location: Veasey Park, Groveland

Northern Essex Community College is offering this class at Veasey Park in Groveland. The property is largely a glacial drumlin and has a variety of wildlife habitat – meadow, marsh, forest and upland. Johnson’s Pond, a public water reserve, borders the park & offers a nice spot for waterfowl observation.

Sue will help you learn how to watch birds. Birdwatching can be an eye- opening experience! This program consists of two, three-hour components; the first class is a three hour lecture, and the second class is a three hour field component in the “outdoor classroom”, Veasey Park. The lecture provides new birders with the aids needed to begin bird identification: special characteristics, bird behavior, habitat preference and bird vocalization. In the field class, we’ll observe the birds at this productive birdwatching site, focusing on observation and bird identification techniques.

Our field study will require walking over gentle terrain at a slow pace; sturdy shoes are required. Dress for the weather; long-sleeved shirts, long pants, hat, sunscreen and insect repellent are suggested. Please bring a snack and beverage.

To learn more and register, call Vanessa Pepin at Northern Essex Community College at 978-556-3807.

Saturday Evening Birding

Saturday, June 7, 2008, 6:30 pm – sunset
Meeting location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge &ndash Parking Lot One

Register by calling the PRNWR Headquarters at 978-465-5753. Please register early – limited enrollment.

Join Refuge Volunteer, Sue McGrath, for a guided bird walk exploring this Important Bird Area. We’ll discuss the birds and see a variety of birds that nest on the Refuge. Interpretive materials are provided. Families with children age 8 and older are welcome.

Sunday Morning with the Birds

Sunday, May 18, 2008, 8:00 am – 10:00 am
Meeting location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge – Parking Lot One

Register by calling the PRNWR Headquarters at 978-465-5753. Please register early – limited enrollment.

Accompany Refuge Volunteer, Sue McGrath, for a guided bird walk exploring the Refuge’s varied habitats. We’ll see many species of birds and enjoy the hues of the saltmarsh. Interpretive materials are provided. All skill levels are welcome including children age 8 and older accompanied by an adult. Wear sturdy, walking shoes.

Birds Along the Salisbury Historic Rail Trail

Friday, May 9, 2008, 6:30 pm – sunset
Fee: $10 – No registration is needed – looking forward to seeing you!

Spring is a wonderful time to explore and to spark your curiosity about birdwatching. Join Newburyport Birders on the Old Eastern Marsh Trail section of the Salisbury Historic Rail Trail. This trail provides stunning views of The Great Marsh and some upland, wooded islands.

Meeting Location: Friedenfels Street in Salisbury; meet at the parking area just prior to the granite, railroad bridge. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. There are no facilities at this site.

Birds Along Newman Road in Newbury

Sunday, May 11, 2008, 8:00 am – 10:00 am
Fee: $10 – No registration is needed – I’ll see you there!

Accompany Sue McGrath of Newburyport Birders on a leisurely walk on Newman Road as we search for birds in an area that Native Americans called “Quascacunquen” [meaning waterfall, referring to the falls on the Parker River]. This salt marsh crossed by tidal creeks was created in the lowlands and valleys. This unusual, half-upland, half-marine landscape makes for a rich and diverse ecosystem. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. There are no facilities at this site.

Meeting Location: Newbury’s Lower Green at the junction of Newman and High Roads

North Shore Community College
Introduction to Birdwatching

Instructor: Sue McGrath
Lecture: Saturday, April 26, 2008, 9:00 am – noon
Field Component: Sunday, April 27, 2008, 9:00 am – noon

Birdwatching can be an eye-opening experience, and early spring is an excellent time to begin to appreciate the world of birds! This program consists of two, three-hour components. The first class is a three- hour lecture, and the second class is a three-hour field component in an “outdoor classroom”. The lecture component provides new birders with the aids needed to begin bird identification -- special characteristics, bird behavior, habitat preference and bird vocalization. In the field component, we’ll observe the birds at a productive bird watching site, focusing on observation and bird identification techniques. Our field study component may have a parking or admission fee and will require walking over gentle terrain at a slow pace. Sturdy shoes are necessary. A long-sleeved shirt, long pants, hat, insect repellent and sunscreen are suggested for the field component. Bring a snack and a beverage. Students will need to provide their own transportation to the outdoor classroom.

To learn more about these classes, please call North Shore Community College at 978-762-4000.

“Focus On” Field Study Programs for 2008

You asked us for longer field programs, and we’ve designed several new “Focus On” field programs that will allow you to gain more knowledge about bird life. We’ll be introducing more of these 3-hour field programs in 2008. You can register for one or for all four programs. The four program, special fee is $100; each individual program is $30. Join us at all four and save! You’ll improve your identification skills and your birding knowledge. The program times are: 9:00 am – Noon on the following dates:

• Sunday, January 13, 2008: Focus on the Head
• Sunday, February 10, 2008: Focus on a Feather at a Time
• Sunday, March 9, 2008: Focus on Bills
• Sunday, April 13, 2008: Focus on the Art of Field Identification

All programs are conducted at our favorite, outdoor classroom, Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, and interpretive materials are provided. Limited enrollment; advance registration required. Contact Sue McGrath by email or by phone at 978-462-4785.

Woodcock Watching with a Friend

Sunday, April 13, 2008, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Fee: 2 participants for $20
Meeting Location: Provided upon registration

Each spring American Woodcock engage in one of the most demonstrative and unusual courtships. Males of this cryptic and secretive shorebird species perform an impressive, aerial display flight at dusk. First we’ll hear a little natural history about these birds, and then we’ll walk to nearby fields to watch and listen to their remarkable display.

The American Woodcock’s “PEENT” is one of the most magical, evening sounds of spring. Bring your sense of wonder and binoculars; be prepared to walk on unpaved, wet, uneven terrain.

Limited enrollment and pre-registration required; contact Sue at newburyportbirders@comcast.net or at 978-462-4785.

Sunday Evening Birding

Sunday, April 13, 2008, 5:30 pm to sunset
Meeting location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge’s Maintenance Area Parking Area

Register by calling the PRNWR Headquarters at 978-465-5753. Please register early – limited enrollment.

Accompany Refuge Volunteer, Sue McGrath, for a guided bird walk exploring the Refuge’s varied habitats. We’ll see many species of birds – newly arriving migrants and lingering winter birds. Interpretive materials are provided. All skill levels are welcome. Dress in layers for the weather and wear sturdy, walking shoes.

Spring Hawk Watch

Sunday, April 13, 2008, 11:30 am – 2:00 pm
Location: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Parking Lot #1
Free Program

Join Shawn Carey and Craig Jackson of Eastern Mass Hawk Watch and learn about the millions of birds of prey that migrate north in the spring to their summer grounds. Of those millions of hawks moving north, thousands of them migrate through Massachusetts and New England. Want to learn more about the spring hawk migration that takes place every year at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge? This promises to be an educational and fun time for anyone interested in raptors!