UPCOMING BIRD CLASSES AND WALKS
Join Maeve for informative, energetic and interesting classes and programs about birds and birding.
Thursday March 7 at 6:30PM - Does Your Garden Need Some Hügelkultur? We’ve all heard about raised beds for gardens. But how about hügelkultur? Learn everything you need to know about the history of this ancient growing method, its purpose, how to make a mound on your own property, and what crops you might want to grow on it. Step-by-step instructions with photos. Go to CVU Access to sign up.
Thursday April 11 at 6:30 - Vermont's Raptors, Large and Small - They're big (usually), they're dramatic (always), and they're hungry (just about always). Join me for gorgeous photos of hawks, falcons, eagles and owls from birders and photographers all over Vermont. Information and stories about the dramatic and beautiful birds that catch and eat live prey. Go to CVU Access to sign up.
May 2 - 300 Reasons to Come to Vermont for Birding! - Tiny Vermont, at one-27th the size of Texas, has more than half the number of bird species as that huge state. Maeve is doing this program for San Antonio Audubon - to entice those distant birders to come here!
COMING SOON - The first in a series of Love Stories of the Burlington Bird Club, by Maeve. Vermont's own BBC is fictional, of course, but the members seem delightfully real and vibrant. Wild Rose Press will be publishing the first novel late this spring. More news to come!
Spring or summer 2024: Stay tuned for a third Birders Helping Birds morning - this one at a new location (not Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area, where we've met in the past). Invasive honeysuckle:
• Outcompetes other plants
• Forms dense thickets
• Inhibits forest regeneration
• Fills the forest understory
• Isn’t good for birds
• Provides no food for native wildlife
We're not sure of the next date yet, but we'll let people know!
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Completed Classes and Outings
January 4, 2024 - 6:30 - Great Finds in Nature - Branching out a bit from birds to other wonderful and exciting wildlife! Maeve will share some of her most thrilling experiences with birds, and then Bernie Paquette will share amazing photos and stories about insect wildlife. "Inverting" is the new birding! Free, but please register at https://www.greenmountainaudubon.org/events
Thursday September 21 11AM - 1PM - Hawk-Watching on Mt. Philo - As sun warms the land, and hot air starts rising, raptors of all kinds fill the air. We’ll meet in the lower parking lot and carpool up the mountain just in time to watch. (Participants may arrive early and hike up if they’d prefer.) We’ll have extra binoculars, spotting scopes and field guides. NOTE: The short walk from the upper parking lot to viewing locations is over uneven terrain. Restrooms are available. For more information and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
And now for something completely different! Wednesday May 24 5:30-6:30 Hügelkultur 101: Sustainable Raised Bed Gardening In this online class, learn everything you need to know about the history of this ancient growing method, its purpose, how to make a mound on your own property, and what crops you might want to grow on it. Step-by-step instructions with photos. A hügelkultur garden done right is self-watering, self-fertilizing and space-saving, and never requires tilling. To register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Thursday June 8 - Field Trip to North Hero State Park - AM - exact time to be decided - We'll meet at the entrance and then drive slowly to the lake, with many stops to get out, walk, watch and listen to birds. Sponsored by Island Arts. Information and registration will be posted soon on their website.
Thursday July 8 - evening program - time to be announced - Birds of the Night and Almost Night - Photos and stories about owls, nighthawks, timberdoodles and many more! Sponsored by Island Arts. Information and registration will be posted soon on their website.
Thursday August 24 - evening program - time to be announced - Vermont's Raptors, Large and Small - Gorgeous photos from birders and photographers all over Vermont! Information and stories about the dramatic and beautiful birds that catch and eat live prey. After this program, you will be ready for autumn hawk migration! Sponsored by Island Arts. Information and registration will be posted soon on their website.
Tuesday September 19 5:30-6:30PM Vermont’s Raptors, Large and Small - In this online program, learn about Vermont’s birds of prey, such as hawks, owls and falcons. Discover how they live, what they eat, and how to identify them through a series of gorgeous photographs taken by local birders and photographers from all over Vermont. Enjoy the on-line program by itself - or sign up to use your new ID skills for some mid-day hawk watching atop Mt. Philo as well! For more information and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Thursday March 30 1:30PM - Kenai and Churchill: Whales, Ptarmigans and Polar Bears - Join Maeve for this travelogue about two places that were on her Must See list for years, and that she finally got to visit. Lots of photos and stories! Free. Presented by the Community Senior Center of Richmond, Bolton and Huntington. (NOTE: This is an afternoon program.)
On Tuesday March 14, from 6-7PM, Maeve will present a program called Does Your Garden Need Some Hügelkultur? We’ve all heard about raised beds for gardens. But how about hügelkultur? Learn everything you need to know about the history of this ancient growing method, its purpose, how to make a mound on your own property, and what crops you might want to grow on it. Step-by-step instructions with photos. Go to CVU Access to sign up.
Wednesday March 8 6:00 - 7:30 Bird Nests: Custom-Designed and Custom-Built for the Growing Family Bird nests come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, locations and materials. Let’s look into many nests that can be found here in our state and learn something about the birds that make them. Go to CVU Access to sign up and be a part of this program!
Tuesday February 28 7PM - What's In a Name? Most of us have found ourselves wondering, “How on earth did that bird get that name???” Join us for a fascinating look into bird names: what they mean, where they come from, how they came about – and why significant changes might be coming soon. Free. To sign up, go to Rutland Audubon's website.
Tuesday February 21 5:30 - 7:00 Winter's Big Beautiful Flying Objects Vermont in the winter has many big, bold and beautiful flying objects, Spend an evening with owls, ducks, ravens, hawks and more. Learn local places to see each species right now, and enjoy many beautiful photos. Participants may follow up with a leisurely walk along Burlington’s Waterfront on 2/24 in the morning. Go to OLLI-UVM to sign up and be a part of this program!
Tuesday February 7 6-7:30 What's In a Name? Most of us have found ourselves wondering, “How on earth did that bird get that name???” Join us for a fascinating look into bird names: what they mean, where they come from, how they came about – and why significant changes might be coming soon. Go to CVU Access to sign up and be a part of this program!
Thursday August 18 at 7PM - Birding Bonanza Day! August in Vermont is a great time to find and watch and enjoy birds. Our year-round birds are here, of course. Neotropical migrants that nested and raised young here are still around. And lots of migrants that nested farther north are heading south again and stop over in Vermont to fatten up for the next stage in their migration. Join me for a celebration of mid-August: Vermont’s Birding Bonanza! Lots of beautiful bird photos, from big raptors and geese to tiny hummingbirds. Part of summer programming for Island Arts. Read more and register at Island Arts' website.
Thursday July 14 at 7PM - The Nature of Awe, the Awe of Nature - What kinds of excitement does nature, especially birds, bring to us? Breath-held awe! Disbelief and wonder! Amusement. Delight. Understanding! Join Maeve for photos and stories of some of her favorite birding experiences, and the lessons those experiences have taught her. Part of summer programming for Island Arts. Read more and register at Island Arts' website.
Thursday July 7 starting at 9AM - Birders Helping Birds - Join us for a morning of removing shrub honeysuckle at the Brilyea access of Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area. This invasive plant:
• Outcompetes other plants
• Forms dense thickets
• Inhibits forest regeneration
• Fills the forest understory
• Isn’t good for birds
• Provides no food for native wildlife
Come with loppers, pruners, handsaws - or just come with your own two hands and you can be part of the crew that drags the cut plants away. Rain date Friday July 8. Contact Maeve for more info: maevulus at aol dot com.
Thursday June 16 at 7PM - Yards that Sing, and Buzz, and Bloom! How to Make Your Yard Part of Vermont's Natural Habitats - with lots of photos of plants and birds and bugs, and lots of ideas for your yard! Part of summer programming for Island Arts. Read more and register at Island Arts' website.
Our Beautiful (and Endangered) Grassland Birds - part of the annual Migratory Bird Day celebration at Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge - This program can be seen anytime on YouTube (at https://youtu.be/R3v0lp1pEG8 )
Thursday June 9 at 8:30AM - Bird Walk in Shelburne - We'll walk either the Ti-Haul Trail (flat wide cinder path) or the Shelburne Rec Trail (a few hills, dirt), depending on which appears to have fewer people. Lots of birds on both trails! Masks are required, even though this is an outdoors event. For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Wednesday March 30, 2022 at 6PM Coming Soon to a Neighborhood Near You! While we're sitting in our warm homes, ZOOM-ing, the birds are zooming toward us - all those beautiful migratory birds that deserted cold Vermont last fall. Meet and greet many of the beauties that will be showing up in your yards and neighborhoods any day now. This program will start with migrants that show up in March and continue into June, giving us spring in all its rich and gorgeous variety. To sign up, go to CVU Access. (Note: If you're a member of the Community Senior Center of Richmond, Bolton, Huntington, this same program will be part of your April 14 meeting.)
Thursday March 17, 2022 at 6:30 What’s In a Name? Free Program - Most of us have found ourselves wondering, “How on earth did that bird get that name???” Join us for a fascinating look into bird names: what they mean, where they come from, how they came about – and why significant changes might be coming soon. Go to GMAS website to sign up and be a part of this program!
Thursday January 27, 2022 at 6:30 - Free Program - The Birds and the Bees in Birdland Have you ever wondered how to tell male birds from females? We’ll look at lots of beautiful photos as we talk about sexual differences and similarities in many families of Vermont birds. We’ll also talk a bit about courtship displays and mating. Go to GMAS website to sign up and be a part of this program! (Note: Some people had difficulty accessing the first program in this series, which was offered in December. I think GMAS has fixed the problem.)
Thursday February 24, 2022 at 6:30 - Free Program - Bird Nests: Custom-Designed and Custom-Built for the Growing Family – Bird nests come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, locations and materials. Let’s look into many nests that can be found here in our state and learn something about the birds that make them. Go to GMAS website to sign up and be a part of this program!
Thursday December 9 at 6:30 - Free Program - Introduction to Winter Birding - There’s a lot to see and enjoy during Vermont’s cold and windy winter months! Join us for a visit with large flocks of little birds, small groups of large birds, and humongous rafts of diving birds. Part of Green Mountain Audubon's Beginning Birder series. Go to GMAS website to sign up and be a part of this program!
Wednesday November 3, 6-7:30PM - Bird Watching in Winter?? - YES!!! There’s Still a Lot to See! – The cold weather’s coming, and many Vermonters are ready to hole up in their cozy homes until spring. But winter is a great time to get out and enjoy birds. There are thousands of diving ducks on Lake Champlain, hundreds of small flitting birds in agricultural fields, and big, big beauties like eagles and hawks. This ZOOM program will get you ready for winter 2021! For more information and to register, go to CVU Access.
Wednesday October 6, 6-7:30PM - Let's Visit OUR National Wildlife Refuges! There are over 500 NWRs nationwide, with over 150 million acres of wetlands, forests, prairies and sheer beauty. Join Maeve for a virtual visit to several very special refuges, including the two here in Vermont. For more information and to register for this ZOOM program, go to CVU Access.
Thursday September 16, 5:30PM Yards that Sing, and Buzz, and Bloom! - How to Make Your Yard Part of Vermont's Natural Habitats Learn many ways to brighten your back, front and side yards so they attract more and more beautiful birds and more of our state’s all-important pollinators. Lots of photos of plants, birds, butterflies! This ZOOM program will be followed by a separate in-person visit to two Jericho gardens. Register at OLLI-UVM.
Saturday September 18, 10AM - Spend a morning in two beautiful yards that really sing and buzz and bloom! Stroll the gardens, talk with the gardeners, see some of the birds and pollinators for yourself. Group limit 15. Open to participants in the 9/16 class as well as anyone else! Register at OLLI-UVM.
Wednesday June 9, 7PM - Let's Go Birding! A Virtual Birding Adventure on a Conserved - The northern woods are home to one of the richest assortment of bird species in the world. In this program, we'll talk about the importance of forests and take a virtual bird walk at an amazing forest that's been conserved by the Vermont Land Trust - and, of course, we'll enjoy photos of wonderful birds! Free. For anyone who wants to explore the natural world, from elementary school students through adulthood. Register with VLT.
Tuesday June 15 at 5:30 - Birding by Ear: How and Why Birds Make Noise Ever wonder how birds make all their various noises? Or why? Let’s spend time with bird song, bird calls, bird chips, and a whole lot of sounds that don’t fit any category. We’ll also talk about how we humans can get better at recognizing, identifying and learning bird sounds. Sign up with OLLI-UVM.
Wednesday, June 23 7PM Wings of a Bird, Words of a Poet (with Angela Patten, Burlington poet) – Birds have inspired poets, novelists and song writers for hundreds of years. Hear poems both lyrical and humorous while seeing photos of the birds. Angela will join us to read some verses from her brand new book! Part of the summer 2021 line-up of programs by Island Arts. To register, go to the Island Arts website.
Wednesday May 5 6:00 - 7:30 - Why Are So Many People Watching Birds These Days? Stress-reduction! Lower blood pressure! Improved attention and focus! Forest therapy! Meditation in nature! There are more and more reasons why so many people young and old are taking to the fields, woods and beaches to watch birds. In this class, learn about the basics of birdwatching: how to get started, how to choose your equipment, and where to go in this part of Vermont and farther afield. For more info and to sign up, go to CVU Access.
Friday May 14 time TBA - An Armchair Visit to Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge - Sit back, get comfy, and tour this large and wonderful area in the northwest corner of the state. Missisquoi features wetlands, forests, agricultural fields, beautiful and well-maintained trails - and lots and lots of birds!!! The free program will be part of the Friends of Missisquoi's annual celebration of International Migratory Bird Day. More information to come!
Tuesday, April 6 The Nature of Awe, The Awe of Nature - FULL
Wednesday April 7 6:00-7:45 The Nature of Awe, the Awe of Nature - What kinds of excitement does nature, especially birds, bring to us? Breath-held awe! Disbelief and wonder! Amusement. Delight. Understanding! Join Maeve for photos and stories of some of her favorite birding experiences, and the lessons those experiences have taught her. For more info and to sign up, go to CVU Access.
Thursday April 8 6:30 - 7:30 Cheeps, Chirps, Hoots and Whistles: How and Why Birds Make Noise Ever wonder how birds make all their various noises? Or why? Let’s spend time with bird song, bird calls, bird chips, and a whole lot of sounds that don’t fit any category. We’ll also talk about how we humans can get better at recognizing, identifying and learning bird sounds. Part Four in Green Mountain Audubon Society's New Birder series. Free. Just sign up on the GMAS website.
Tuesday, April 13 7PM Birds in Native American Myths – Birds show up in SO many myths and legends from around the world. We’ll hear several myths and talk about the peoples that told those myths throughout history. By request from several neighbors in a Burlington neighborhood, but since it's going to be ZOOMed rather than in someone's living room, it's open to all. Contact Maeve at maevulus@aol.com
Tuesday, April 20 7PM The Birds and Bees in Bird Land - It’s spring! That means that a young bird’s fancy turns to love! All around us, birds will soon be courting and mating. Let’s spend an evening with Vermont’s breeding birds. We’ll enjoy some of the differences, and the similarities, between males and females. We’ll investigate courtship rituals and mating. And we’ll see lots of pictures of our beautiful local birds. By request from several neighbors in a Burlington neighborhood, but since it's going to be ZOOMed rather than in someone's living room, it's open to all. $5/person - Contact Maeve at maevulus@aol.com
Tuesday, March 16 7PM Cheeps, Chirps, Hoots and Whistles – How do birds make noise? Why do they make noise? What birds make what noises? By request from several neighbors in a Burlington neighborhood, but since it's going to be ZOOMed rather than in someone's living room, it's open to all. $5/person - Contact Maeve at maevulus@aol.com
Thursday March 25 5:30 - 7:00 Birds of Vermont's Forests and Mountains (and related conservation issues) - Who's watching us when we're hiking, walking, driving, skiing or snowshoeing in Vermont's woods and peaks? It’s not always easy to find them, but they certainly reward us when we do! Scarlet Tanagers glow in red, thrushes sing like flutes and oboes, warblers flit in and out of the foliage like flying jewels. Learn about some of the wonderful birds that hide out in our state’s highest and most heavily wooded areas, and learn about some of the conservation challenges these birds present. For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Tuesday, March 30 7PM Wings of a Bird, Words of a Poet (with Angela Patten, Burlington poet) – Birds have inspired poets, novelists and song writers for hundreds of years. Hear poems both lyrical and humorous while seeing photos of the birds. Angela will join us to read some verses from her brand new book! By request from several neighbors in a Burlington neighborhood, but since it's going to be ZOOMed rather than in someone's living room, it's open to all. $5/person - Contact Maeve at maevulus@aol.com
Wednesday March 31 1:30 PM - A Virtual Visit to Monhegan Island - Join the Community Senior Center of Richmond, Huntington and Bolton for a leisurely stroll on this scenic island off the coast of Maine. Learn a bit about the island's history, places to stay, and its exciting bird life. Click here, then go to Programs, then Travelogues.
Thursday March 11 6:30-7:30 - Coming Soon to a Neighborhood Near You! They're on their way, all those beautiful migratory birds that deserted cold Vermont last fall. Meet and greet many of the beauties that will be showing up in your yards and neighborhoods any day now. Part Three in Green Mountain Audubon Society's New Birder series. Free. Just sign up on the GMAS website.
Tuesday, March 9 7PM Winter Duck Show - There are thousands, sometimes tens of thousands, of diving ducks on Lake Champlain in the winter, along with loons, grebes and other birds. We’ll see wonderful photos of many of them and talk about some of the birds’ fascinating behaviors. By request from several neighbors in a Burlington neighborhood, but since it's going to be ZOOMed rather than in someone's living room, it's open to all. $5/person - Contact Maeve at maevulus@aol.com
Thursday February 25 5:30 - 7:00 - Birding Hotspots in Our Area - What’s a birdwatching “hotspot”? What makes them hot? We’ve got many, many hotspots here in Chittenden County. In this class, you’ll learn where they are, how to get there, how accessible they are, and what wonderful birds you can find in each place. This class will interest a wide range of people. It will also be a good follow-up for people who took the beginning birding class in November 2020! For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Thursday February 11 - 7PM - Tune in to Bird Tales, a presentation of several different birders, each with a story to tell - amusing, touching, inspiring! Free. To sign up, just click here: Friends of Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge.
Wednesday February 17 6:00-7:45 - The Winter Duck Show! From the warmth and comfort of your own home, enjoy some of the tens of thousands of diving birds that hang out on Lake Champlain during the coldest part of the year. Ducks! Loons! Grebes! maybe even an eagle or two! For more info and to sign up, go to CVU Access.
originally scheduled for Thursday January 21, 2021 - rescheduled for Thursday February 4 6:30-7:30 - What's All the Excitement About? Why Are So Many People Watching Birds These Days? Beauty! Nature! Stress-reduction! Lower blood pressure! Improved attention and focus! Forest therapy! There are more and more reasons why so many people young and old are taking to the fields, woods and beaches to watch birds. In this class, learn about some of the basics of birdwatching: how to get started, what equipment you might need, and what the benefits might be to you. Part One in Green Mountain Audubon Society's New Birder series. Free. Just sign up on the GMAS website. (Note: The link isn't available yet, but it should be by Monday February 1.)
Tuesday February 9 6:30 - Gear Talk: Tools and Equipment to Get Started with Birding - Learn about how to choose and use binoculars and how to choose a birding field guide (in book form or as an app). Learn about other resources to help you with bird song.
Part Two in Green Mountain Audubon Society's New Birder series. Free. Just sign up on the GMAS website.
Thursday January 14 6:00-7:45 Wings of a Bird, Heart of a Poet - Birds have inspired poets, dreamers and song writers for all of human history. For this unusual class, join Maeve in enjoying beautiful bird photos paired with quotes that are often touching, often thought-provoking, and sometimes silly. For more info and to sign up, go to CVU Access.
Wednesday 10/7 5:30 - 7:00 Shorebirds in Vermont??? - YES!! We tend to think of shorebirds as little birds that race back and forth on ocean beaches like little wind-up toys, daring the waves to catch them. But we can see many kinds of shorebirds right here in Vermont - right now! Many come through the state every fall on their way from wintering grounds to the south to their breeding areas on the Canadian tundra. Others are here all summer! Enjoy great photos of these charismatic beauties, learn about their fascinating life histories, and leave with a list of places you can go to see shorebirds in Vermont. For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Thursday June 6, 9:30 - 11:00 and Saturday June 9, 9:00 - noon - Warblers: The Jewels of Burton Island - First, we'll have an indoor class somewhere in the Champlain Islands (location TBA) to learn all about nature's jewels, the amazing green, red, orange, yellow, charcoal, blue and yellow warblers. The Burton Island expedition had to be changed because the park isn't open yet (very high water!) so we'll be birding at Pelots Natural Area in North Hero instead. Go to Island Arts for more information and to register.
Monday May 6 and Sunday May 19 - field trips to follow a series of classes held in a home in the "Five Sisters" area of Burlington. Three hours of morning birding on each day at locations to be determined; $10/person for each outing.
5/6 details: Meet at 7:30AM at Woodside Nature Area in Essex Junction.
5/19 details: Meet at 7AM at Geprags Nature Park in Hinesburg (about a half mile west of the intersection of Route 116 and Shelburne Falls Road). Dress for high grass that's wet and probably tick-y!
The class sessions were full, but we may have extra slots for the field trips. Contact Maeve (maevulus@aol.com) if you'd like to join us!
Friday May 17, 6:30 - Birds and Beef and Brussels Sprouts: Vermont's Long Agricultural History and Its Relation to Birds - sponsored by the Friends of Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, at the Visitor Center on Tabor Road in Swanton, to kick off International Migratory Bird Day - What creatures roamed Vermont after the last Ice Age? How did our state’s wildlife change as humans entered the picture? What birds did native Vermonters know and enjoy? What about the first European colonists? How did the coming of agriculture affect birds and other wildlife? What about the many changes in the state’s agricultural landscape? What role do modern-day farmers have in preserving the state’s iconic bird species? - After Friday night's program, come back up to MNWR for a full schedule of field trips on Saturday!
Monday May 6 Beautiful, Tuneful, Delightful, and In Danger: Vermont's Grassland Birds 6:00-7:45 - CVU - Spend an evening with bobolinks, meadowlarks, grasshopper sparrows and many more. Learn about why grasslands are so important worldwide and here at home, and about what's being done to conserve and protect them. Go to CVU Access for information and to register.
Tuesday April 16 and Tuesday April 23, 5:30 - 7:00 in Jeffords Hall UVM, and Saturday April 27 10AM - noon - Birding in Vermont - Two indoor classes about the birds of Vermont's mountains and forests, and birds of our grasslands and open spaces, followed by a field trip. OLLI-UVM
Tuesday April 16 - Cheeps, Chirps, Hoots and Whistles: How and Why Birds Make Noise - 7:30-9:00 PM. This class is the last of a series to be held in a home in the "Five Sisters" area of Burlington. $30 for the three sessions, with a follow-up field trip to be scheduled in May. To sign up, e-mail Mary Ann Samuels at msamuels@burlingtontelecom.net This class is full. If you're interested, though, contact Maeve at maevulus@aol.com and we might be able to arrange a second session.
Tuesday April 9 - Nature's Jewels, Vermont's Warblers! - Gorgeous photos from many birders and photographers capture the beauty of these little flying gems. 7:30-9:00 PM. This class is the second of a series to be held in a home in the "Five Sisters" area of Burlington. $30 for the three sessions, with a follow-up field trip to be scheduled in May. To sign up, e-mail Mary Ann Samuels at msamuels@burlingtontelecom.net
This class is full. If you're interested, though, contact Maeve at maevulus@aol.com and we might be able to arrange a second session.
Tuesday April 2 - Spring Migration In All Its Wonder! - Follow migration in Vermont from the earliest birds to return from wintering areas down south to their northern breeding territories. This class is the first of a series to be held in a home in the "Five Sisters" area of Burlington. 7:30-9:00 PM. $30 for the three sessions, with a follow-up field trip to be scheduled in May. To sign up, e-mail Mary Ann Samuels at msamuels@burlingtontelecom.net This class is full. If you're interested, though, contact Maeve at maevulus@aol.com and we might be able to arrange a second session.
Monday April 8 - The Birds In The Backyard –6:00-7:45 - CVU - They’re amazing! If you’re a beginner and aren’t sure how to identify everyday birds, this class will give you lots of tips. And if you’re not a beginner, you’ll learn things that will astound you, giving you a deep appreciation for common birds, their intelligence, and their personalities! Go to CVU Access for information.
Saturday March 30 - Winter Birds! Snow Buntings? Bald Eagles? Canada Geese and maybe even a Snow Goose or two! Meet at 9:30 at the Goose Viewing area (large parking lot) off Route 17 in Addison. Three hours, 2-4 leisurely miles of walking followed by time for longer looks at birds through a spotting scope. Optional second walk after lunch. Sponsored by Green Mountain Club.
Monday April 1, 2019 - Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston VT, 6:30PM - Birds and Beef and Brussels Sprouts: Vermont's Long Agricultural History and Its Relation to Birds - sponsored by Audubon VT - What creatures roamed Vermont after the last Ice Age? How did our state’s wildlife change as humans entered the picture? What birds did native Vermonters know and enjoy? What about the first European colonists? How did the coming of agriculture affect birds and other wildlife? What about the many changes in the state’s agricultural landscape? What role do modern-day farmers have in preserving the state’s iconic bird species?
Saturday January 19, 2019 - at Green Mountain Club Burlington Section Annual Meeting - Who's Watching Us When We're Out on Vermont's Trails??? - When you’re skiing or hiking anywhere in the 26-million acre Northern Forest, you’re right in the midst of some of the greatest richness of bird life in the continental U.S. We’ll look at some of the beautiful wildlife that’s watching you when you’re out in Vermont’s woods. - GMC welcomes everyone to the Annual Meeting, whether you're a member or not! Enjoy chatting with other lovers of the outdoors and have a wonderful supper ($5 donation). After a brief business meeting, you'll sit back and enjoy the program!
[cancelled due to snowstorm - maybe next January?] Wednesday January 9, 2019 - 1PM - after lunch program for the Smugglers Notch 55+ Ski Club - Who's Watching Us When We're Out on Vermont's Trails??? - When you’re skiing or hiking anywhere in the 26-million acre Northern Forest, you’re right in the midst of some of the greatest richness of bird life in the continental U.S. We’ll look at some of the beautiful wildlife that’s watching you when you’re out in Vermont’s woods.
Wednesday October 3, 5:30-7:00 - MMU - Hotspots Near You Want to watch birds? Learn about some wonderful locations not far away from home! Enjoy photos of the areas, the trails, and the birds. Go to MMU After Dark for more information.
Two Tuesdays and a Saturday with OLLI - October 9 and 16, 5:30-7:00, and Saturday October 20, 10:00-noon - Avian Mysteries: Migrating and Migraines - two classroom sessions and a field trip for OLLI-UVM - First we'll spend an evening with fall migration in all its majesty. Then we'll consider "nature's curve balls": all the sneaky tricks nature plays to keep us from seeing and enjoying the birds we love. This light-hearted program will end with a lot of strategies for dealing with the "curve balls". The two classes will be held in Waterman. Room 202. Saturday's field trip will a visit to migrating birds.
Wednesday October 10, 5:30-7:00 - MMU - Vermont's Birds and Our Agricultural Heritage - What did Vermont look like WAAYYYY back after the last Ice Age? What birds did native Vermonters know and enjoy? What about the first Europeans? And what important roles do modern farmers play in preserving the state's iconic bird species? Go to MMU After Dark for more information.
Monday 10/15, 6:00-7:45 - CVU - Hotspots in Our Area!! - Learn about some of the "birdiest" places in Chittenden County. Relish photos of these special places and enjoy lots of pictures and sounds from some of the birds that make them special. Go to CVU Access for information.
Wednesday October 17, 5:30-7:00 - MMU - Birding When Nature Plays Dirty! - Nature doesn't treat birders fairly! She doesn't nicely pose birds on low branches in perfect light and leave them there until we get really good looks. No! She throws in all sorts of impediments. In this light-hearted class, learn some of these impediments AND how to cope with them! Go to MMU After Dark for more information.
Monday 11/12, 6:00-7:45 - CVU - Birding When Nature Plays Dirty! - Nature doesn't treat birders fairly! She doesn't nicely pose birds on low branches in perfect light and leave them there until we get really good looks. No! She throws in all sorts of impediments. In this light-hearted class, learn some of these impediments AND how to cope with them! Go to CVU Access for information.
Monday 12/10, 6:00-7:45 - CVU - As it gets colder and darker outdoors, as so many of our birds desert us for warmer climates, spend some time with sun and warmth and brilliantly-colored birds as we Bird Arizona's Sky Islands. Lots and lots of gorgeous photos as well as tips if you decide to take a break from winter and head south to Arizona this winter. Go to CVU Access for information.
Wednesdays June 20 and 27, 5:30-7:00 and Saturday June 30 8:00-10:00 AM- three-session class for OLLI-UVM - First, we'll visit with many of Vermont's most colorful and charismatic birds as well as some of our most elusive, as we spend an evening with Birds of Vermont's Swamps, Lakes, Rivers and Streams. Then we'll spend an evening with brilliant, beautiful, glowing warblers - and talk about how we can all help conserve "nature's flying jewels". The Saturday field trip will be either to a local wetland or a local park.
Monday June 4 - 6:00-7:45 PM - Warblers: Nature's Jewels - CVU Access at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg
Saturday June 9 (rain date Sunday June 10) - A Day On Burton Island!!! - This lovely state park on an island is bursting with nesting birds in May and June. We'll take the 9AM Island Runner ferry from Kill Kare State Park and walk the Nature Trail. Contact Island Arts to register and for additional information.
Saturday June 2, 7:00-10:00AM - walk at the UVM Horticulture Farm on Green Mountain Drive in South Burlington - This lovely piece of property features open fields, orchards, forest and a pond.
Sunday June 3, 10:00AM-noon - field trip for OLLI-UVM Backyard Birds class - (We had to reschedule the April field trip due to ice, sleet and snow!) - Visit Maeve and Bernie's birdy back yard to see some of Vermont's common backyard birds, enjoy feeding hummingbirds, look for and at nesting birds on the property, and learn how to make a bird-friendly yard.
5/24/2018, Friday 5/25, Saturday 5/26 - Plum Island Excursion!! - Over 400 species of birds have been seen at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on Plum Island (off Newburyport MA). The island in May draws birders and photographers from around the world. Last spring over twenty Vermonters joined Maeve and Bernie for two splendid days of birding at the Refuge. We're planning an extra outing this year, with three guided walks (7-11:00, $20/person). Early bird-ers may join us at 5:30 for extra hours in the salt air and bird sound and beauty! - For photos, go to our Plum Island posting.
Friday May 18 - Nature's Super Habitats: Wetland Conservation and the National Wildlife Refuge System - talk at Missisquoi NWR visitor center on Tabor Road in Swanton, 6:30PM, to get a headstart on International Migratory Bird Day - Then, starting early the next morning, take part in guided walks on the refuge! Details at the refuge web page. You can also contact the Friends of Missisquoi NWR.
Saturday May 19 - Birding When Nature Throws Curve Balls - noon - Enjoy lunch at Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge visitor center on Tabor Road in Swanton while you share some laughs about all the devious and sneaky tricks nature plays to keep us from getting good looks at the birds we love. The event is part of International Migratory Bird Day. COME EARLY AND GO ON ONE OF THE FIELD TRIPS!
Friday May 11 and Saturday May 12 - Cheeps, Chirps, Hoots and Whistles: How and Why Birds Make Noise - indoor class and outdoor field trip (rain date for field trip Sunday May 13) - Class 5/11 10-11:30 at the North Hero Methodist Church - Field Trip 5/12 8-10:30 at Landon Community Trail in South Hero - To register, email academy@islandarts.org.
Thursday April 12 - OLLI-UVM - Backyard Birds - Learn unexpected and wondrous things about Vermont's common backyard birds, and learn how to make a bird-friendly yard. [The field trip to follow this class had to be rescheduled to Sunday June 3.]
Monday 3/12/18 - Cheeps, Chirps, Hoots and Whistles: How and Why Birds Make Noise - 6-7:45PM - CVU Access at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg
Wednesdays 3/14 and 3/21 and Saturday Field Trip 3/24 - three-session class for OLLI-UVM - From Wetlands to Dry Lands: Birds Are Everywhere!!
Monday 3/19/18 - Birds of Vermont's Forests and Mountains (and related conservation issues) - 6-7:45PM - CVU Access at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg
Monday 3/26/18 - Busting Out All Over: Spring Migration In All Its Beauty - 6:00-7:45 PM - CVU Access at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg
Thursday March 29 - Birding When Nature Throws Curve Balls - Birds of Vermont Museum - 6:30PM - A light-hearted look at all the nasty things that can get in the way of seeing and identifying birds, with suggestions on how to deal with nature's curve balls!
Tuesday February 20 at 1:15PM - Those Beautiful and Amazing Backyard Birds - at Westview Meadows in Montpelier - For residents and their guests.
Wednesday 1/24/2018 - Vermont's Birds and Our Long Agricultural Heritage - presentation for Green Mountain Audubon Society, at the Burnham Library in Colchester - 6:30-8:00 - Join Maeve for a quick trip through Vermont's past from the last Ice Age to thep present, with emphasis on how human land use has affected the birds that breed in, feed in, and visit our state.
Sunday 1/28/18 - That Wild, Windy, Wonderful Winter Duck Show - presentation for AudubonVT at Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center in Burlington - 1:00 - 2:15 indoors, followed by a short trip to the waterfront with spotting scopes and binoculars
October 2 Monday - 6-7:45PM - Vermont Birds and Our Agricultural Heritage - CVU Access, at CVU in Hinesburg - A trip through the history of our area, starting WAY back in prehistory: What birds might have been here? Why? How has human use of the land changed Vermont's bird life?
June 21 Wednesday– 10-noon – Family Nature Walk sponsored by Island Arts - For further info, go to http://www.islandarts.org/
Wednesday 10/7 5:30 - 7:00 Shorebirds in Vermont??? - YES!! We tend to think of shorebirds as little birds that race back and forth on ocean beaches like little wind-up toys, daring the waves to catch them. But we can see many kinds of shorebirds right here in Vermont - right now! Many come through the state every fall on their way from wintering grounds to the south to their breeding areas on the Canadian tundra. Others are here all summer! Enjoy great photos of these charismatic beauties, learn about their fascinating life histories, and leave with a list of places you can go to see shorebirds in Vermont. For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Wednesday 10/28 6:00 - 7:45 Yards that Sing, and Buzz, and Bloom! - How to Make Your Yard Part of Vermont's Natural Habitats Learn many ways to brighten your back, front and side yards so they attract more and more beautiful birds and more of our state’s all-important pollinators. Maeve's partner Bernie, who is an excellent gardener, will join her for this presentation! For more info and to sign up, go to CVU Access.
Tuesday November 3 6:00-7:45 The Birds and the Bees in Bird Land - We'll spend an evening with Vermont’s breeding birds. We’ll enjoy some of the differences, and the similarities, between males and females. We’ll investigate courtship rituals and mating. And we’ll see lots of pictures of our beautiful local birds. For more info and to sign up, go to CVU Access.
Thursday 11/12/20 5:30 - 7:00 Why Are So Many People Watching Birds These Days? Stress-reduction! Lower blood pressure! Improved attention and focus! Forest therapy! Meditation in nature! There are more and more reasons why so many people young and old are taking to the fields, woods and beaches to watch birds. In this class, learn about the basics of birdwatching: how to get started, how to choose your equipment, and where to go in this part of Vermont and farther afield. For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
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All of the following spring and summer classes were cancelled because of COVID-19.
Thursday November 19 6:00-7:15
Quiet Waters: Paddling in Northern Vermont Our state has many, many rivers, lakes, ponds, swamps and streams. Join us while we show you our favorite places for kayaking or canoeing, with tips about when to go and how best to enjoy them. Join Maeve and her partner Bernie as we share some of the favorite memories and some of the favorite wildlife photos from our paddles. For more info and to sign up, go to CVU Access. Note: This same program will be repeated December 8, 2020, at 1:30PM, for the Community Senior Center of Richmond, Huntington and Bolton.
Wednesdays 3/11/20 and 3/18/20 and Saturday 3/21 - Birds of Passage: Vermont's Migratory Birds - Here they come!! In March, thousands and thousands of beautiful birds are winging their way northward and will soon light up Vermont's skies, woods and backyards with color and song. In the first of the two classroom sessions, we'll talk about what birds come back to our state when. Then we'll learn about great birding locations in Vermont's Champlain Islands, followed by a field trip up to the islands.
2/8 presentation has been rescheduled for 3/20/20 at 6PM - Quiet Waters - Bernie and Maeve will team up to present a short program for the Jericho-Underhill Social Club, about our favorite places for kayaking and canoeing. Jericho Town Hall - parking in front and also in back of the adjacent church
Wednesday 3/25 - 6PM - The Birds and the Bees in Bird Land - It’s spring! That means that a young bird’s fancy turns to love! All around us, birds will soon be courting and mating. We'll spend an evening with Vermont’s breeding birds. We’ll enjoy some of the differences, and the similarities, between males and females. We’ll investigate courtship rituals and mating. And we’ll see lots of pictures of our beautiful local birds. More info at CVU Access.
Wednesday 4/1/20 - 6PM - Wings of a Bird, Heart of a Poet - Birds have inspired poets, dreamers and song writers for all of human history. For this unusual class, join Maeve in enjoying beautiful bird photos paired with quotes that are often touching, often thought-provoking, and sometimes silly. More info at CVU Access.
Friday 5/15/20 - 6:30PM - Every spring, Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge joins other refuges, preserves, conservationists, and nature-lovers to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day. This year's theme is Birds Connect Our World. We'll kick off the celebratory weekend with a Friday evening talk about Nature's Jewels - the beautiful warblers that truly connect our world! (And come back to Missisquoi NWR Saturday for great field trips!)
Wednesday June 17 and Saturday June 20 Why Are So Many People Watching Birds These Days? – Stress-reduction! Lower blood pressure! Improved attention and focus! Forest therapy! Meditation in nature! There are more and more reasons why so many people young and old are taking to the fields, woods and beaches to watch birds. In this class, learn about the basics of birdwatching: how to get started, how to choose your equipment, and where to go in this part of Vermont and farther afield. For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Saturday June 27 - BURTON ISLAND FIELD TRIP!!
Island Arts again offers this great chance to stroll the nature trails at Burton Island State Park and ogle birds. Sign up at Island Arts.
Wednesday July 22 and Saturday July 25 - Shorebirds in Vermont?? - YES!! We tend to think of shorebirds as little birds that race back and forth on ocean beaches like little wind-up toys, daring the waves to catch them. But we can see many kinds of shorebirds right here in Vermont. Many come through the state every fall on their way from wintering grounds to the south to their breeding areas on the Canadian tundra. Others are here all summer! Enjoy great photos of these charismatic beauties and learn about their fascinating life histories. We’ll follow up a classroom session with a field trip. For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Thursday August 13 and Saturday August 15 - Birding the Champlain Islands They're so close! They're so diverse! They're so rich in habitats and birdlife! We'll learn about all the wonderful places to walk and watch birds in the Islands and then take a field trip. For more information and to sign up, go to Island Arts.
2/8 presentation has been rescheduled for 3/20/20 at 6PM - Quiet Waters - Bernie and Maeve will team up to present a short program for the Jericho-Underhill Social Club, about our favorite places for kayaking and canoeing. Jericho Town Hall - parking in front and also in back of the adjacent church
Wednesday 3/25 - 6PM - The Birds and the Bees in Bird Land - It’s spring! That means that a young bird’s fancy turns to love! All around us, birds will soon be courting and mating. We'll spend an evening with Vermont’s breeding birds. We’ll enjoy some of the differences, and the similarities, between males and females. We’ll investigate courtship rituals and mating. And we’ll see lots of pictures of our beautiful local birds. More info at CVU Access.
Wednesday 4/1/20 - 6PM - Wings of a Bird, Heart of a Poet - Birds have inspired poets, dreamers and song writers for all of human history. For this unusual class, join Maeve in enjoying beautiful bird photos paired with quotes that are often touching, often thought-provoking, and sometimes silly. More info at CVU Access.
Friday 5/15/20 - 6:30PM - Every spring, Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge joins other refuges, preserves, conservationists, and nature-lovers to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day. This year's theme is Birds Connect Our World. We'll kick off the celebratory weekend with a Friday evening talk about Nature's Jewels - the beautiful warblers that truly connect our world! (And come back to Missisquoi NWR Saturday for great field trips!)
Wednesday June 17 and Saturday June 20 Why Are So Many People Watching Birds These Days? – Stress-reduction! Lower blood pressure! Improved attention and focus! Forest therapy! Meditation in nature! There are more and more reasons why so many people young and old are taking to the fields, woods and beaches to watch birds. In this class, learn about the basics of birdwatching: how to get started, how to choose your equipment, and where to go in this part of Vermont and farther afield. For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Saturday June 27 - BURTON ISLAND FIELD TRIP!!
Island Arts again offers this great chance to stroll the nature trails at Burton Island State Park and ogle birds. Sign up at Island Arts.
Wednesday July 22 and Saturday July 25 - Shorebirds in Vermont?? - YES!! We tend to think of shorebirds as little birds that race back and forth on ocean beaches like little wind-up toys, daring the waves to catch them. But we can see many kinds of shorebirds right here in Vermont. Many come through the state every fall on their way from wintering grounds to the south to their breeding areas on the Canadian tundra. Others are here all summer! Enjoy great photos of these charismatic beauties and learn about their fascinating life histories. We’ll follow up a classroom session with a field trip. For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Thursday August 13 and Saturday August 15 - Birding the Champlain Islands They're so close! They're so diverse! They're so rich in habitats and birdlife! We'll learn about all the wonderful places to walk and watch birds in the Islands and then take a field trip. For more information and to sign up, go to Island Arts.
Thursday 2/27/20 - 7:30AM - Celebrating the Sensation of Awe: A Short Introduction to Birds, Birding and Related Conservation Issues - breakfast talk for the South Burlington Rotary Club - Doubletree Inn
Wednesday 1/15/20, 1PM - Birds of Vermont's Woods and High Places - lunch presentation for Smuggs 55+ Ski Club, at Smuggs
December 22, 2019 - The first-ever Jericho-Underhill Christmas Bird Count! Contact Maeve for info.
October 2019: three classes at CVU-Access, each offered in the evening and available separately:
Plum Island expedition in September 2019, right in the middle of fall migration!! Maeve and Bernie will be on the island from 9/23 to 9/30, with guided bird walks Thursday, Friday and Saturday (and maybe Sunday, depending on interest). Walks start at 7AM and last until 11:00 or so and cost $20/person. Early birders can join us at 5:30 for a headstart on the birds and the beauty.
Photographic opportunities abound on this scenic island with glorious sunrises and sunsets. And in the afternoons, after we feast our eyes on shorebirds, swallows, ducks, swans, songbirds and raptors, there’s plenty to do! Bring bikes or kayaks or rent them on Plum Island. Walk for miles on sand beaches, or lie in the sun, or swim. Enjoy the shopping and dining in downtown Newburyport. Take a whale watching tour! Join us for one day or a few! (We can provide some suggestions about lodging and eating. There's LOTS of good seafood in the area!)
Tuesdays September 3 and September 10, with a field trip Saturday September 14 (rain date 9/15 or 9/21) - Whooo Is that? Bird Sexing & On the Owl Prowl - Ever wonder if the bird you're looking at is male or female? In our first class, we'll enjoy some of the differences, and the similarities, between the sexes in many of Vermont’s wonderful bird species. We’ll spend some time talking about sexual selection and attraction in the wild. Our second class will be all about birds of the night and almost-night. With photos, sounds and stories, you’ll spend an hour with some of the most wonderful and mysterious birds in Vermont! Our field trip will be a nighttime "owl prowl". For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Wednesday June 19 class (5:30-7PM) and Saturday June 22 field trip (8-10AM) - Words of a Bird, Heart of a Poet - a brand-new class combining poetry and prose about birds with lots of photos, stories and facts - The class will be on the UVM campus (location TBA); the trip will be to our backyard, where participants can sit and watch birds and write their own words to share with the group. As a special treat, a well-known Burlington poet will join us for both the class and the outing! Go to OLLI-UVM to register and for additional information.
Wednesday 1/15/20, 1PM - Birds of Vermont's Woods and High Places - lunch presentation for Smuggs 55+ Ski Club, at Smuggs
December 22, 2019 - The first-ever Jericho-Underhill Christmas Bird Count! Contact Maeve for info.
October 2019: three classes at CVU-Access, each offered in the evening and available separately:
A River of Birds! – The Wonders of Fall Migration – Many species of raptors, ducks and geese travel through Vermont every year. Spend an evening with the glorious big birds that fill the sky during fall migration.
Nature’s Super-Habitats: Wetland Conservation and Our National Wildlife Refuges – Sit in a comfy CVU classroom and take virtual visits to Vermont’s two diverse and wonderful NWRs and then take a peek at several out-of-state beauties.
Are You a Mommy Bird or a Daddy Bird? – Enjoy some of the differences, and the similarities, between males and females in many of Vermont’s wonderful bird species. We’ll spend some time talking about sexual selection and attraction in the wild, and you’ll see lots of pictures to help you know if you’re looking at a male bird or a female bird.
Plum Island expedition in September 2019, right in the middle of fall migration!! Maeve and Bernie will be on the island from 9/23 to 9/30, with guided bird walks Thursday, Friday and Saturday (and maybe Sunday, depending on interest). Walks start at 7AM and last until 11:00 or so and cost $20/person. Early birders can join us at 5:30 for a headstart on the birds and the beauty.
Photographic opportunities abound on this scenic island with glorious sunrises and sunsets. And in the afternoons, after we feast our eyes on shorebirds, swallows, ducks, swans, songbirds and raptors, there’s plenty to do! Bring bikes or kayaks or rent them on Plum Island. Walk for miles on sand beaches, or lie in the sun, or swim. Enjoy the shopping and dining in downtown Newburyport. Take a whale watching tour! Join us for one day or a few! (We can provide some suggestions about lodging and eating. There's LOTS of good seafood in the area!)
Tuesdays September 3 and September 10, with a field trip Saturday September 14 (rain date 9/15 or 9/21) - Whooo Is that? Bird Sexing & On the Owl Prowl - Ever wonder if the bird you're looking at is male or female? In our first class, we'll enjoy some of the differences, and the similarities, between the sexes in many of Vermont’s wonderful bird species. We’ll spend some time talking about sexual selection and attraction in the wild. Our second class will be all about birds of the night and almost-night. With photos, sounds and stories, you’ll spend an hour with some of the most wonderful and mysterious birds in Vermont! Our field trip will be a nighttime "owl prowl". For more info and to register, go to OLLI-UVM.
Wednesday June 19 class (5:30-7PM) and Saturday June 22 field trip (8-10AM) - Words of a Bird, Heart of a Poet - a brand-new class combining poetry and prose about birds with lots of photos, stories and facts - The class will be on the UVM campus (location TBA); the trip will be to our backyard, where participants can sit and watch birds and write their own words to share with the group. As a special treat, a well-known Burlington poet will join us for both the class and the outing! Go to OLLI-UVM to register and for additional information.
Thursday June 6, 9:30 - 11:00 and Saturday June 9, 9:00 - noon - Warblers: The Jewels of Burton Island - First, we'll have an indoor class somewhere in the Champlain Islands (location TBA) to learn all about nature's jewels, the amazing green, red, orange, yellow, charcoal, blue and yellow warblers. The Burton Island expedition had to be changed because the park isn't open yet (very high water!) so we'll be birding at Pelots Natural Area in North Hero instead. Go to Island Arts for more information and to register.
Monday May 6 and Sunday May 19 - field trips to follow a series of classes held in a home in the "Five Sisters" area of Burlington. Three hours of morning birding on each day at locations to be determined; $10/person for each outing.
5/6 details: Meet at 7:30AM at Woodside Nature Area in Essex Junction.
5/19 details: Meet at 7AM at Geprags Nature Park in Hinesburg (about a half mile west of the intersection of Route 116 and Shelburne Falls Road). Dress for high grass that's wet and probably tick-y!
The class sessions were full, but we may have extra slots for the field trips. Contact Maeve (maevulus@aol.com) if you'd like to join us!
Friday May 17, 6:30 - Birds and Beef and Brussels Sprouts: Vermont's Long Agricultural History and Its Relation to Birds - sponsored by the Friends of Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, at the Visitor Center on Tabor Road in Swanton, to kick off International Migratory Bird Day - What creatures roamed Vermont after the last Ice Age? How did our state’s wildlife change as humans entered the picture? What birds did native Vermonters know and enjoy? What about the first European colonists? How did the coming of agriculture affect birds and other wildlife? What about the many changes in the state’s agricultural landscape? What role do modern-day farmers have in preserving the state’s iconic bird species? - After Friday night's program, come back up to MNWR for a full schedule of field trips on Saturday!
Monday May 6 Beautiful, Tuneful, Delightful, and In Danger: Vermont's Grassland Birds 6:00-7:45 - CVU - Spend an evening with bobolinks, meadowlarks, grasshopper sparrows and many more. Learn about why grasslands are so important worldwide and here at home, and about what's being done to conserve and protect them. Go to CVU Access for information and to register.
Tuesday April 16 and Tuesday April 23, 5:30 - 7:00 in Jeffords Hall UVM, and Saturday April 27 10AM - noon - Birding in Vermont - Two indoor classes about the birds of Vermont's mountains and forests, and birds of our grasslands and open spaces, followed by a field trip. OLLI-UVM
Tuesday April 16 - Cheeps, Chirps, Hoots and Whistles: How and Why Birds Make Noise - 7:30-9:00 PM. This class is the last of a series to be held in a home in the "Five Sisters" area of Burlington. $30 for the three sessions, with a follow-up field trip to be scheduled in May. To sign up, e-mail Mary Ann Samuels at msamuels@burlingtontelecom.net This class is full. If you're interested, though, contact Maeve at maevulus@aol.com and we might be able to arrange a second session.
Tuesday April 9 - Nature's Jewels, Vermont's Warblers! - Gorgeous photos from many birders and photographers capture the beauty of these little flying gems. 7:30-9:00 PM. This class is the second of a series to be held in a home in the "Five Sisters" area of Burlington. $30 for the three sessions, with a follow-up field trip to be scheduled in May. To sign up, e-mail Mary Ann Samuels at msamuels@burlingtontelecom.net
This class is full. If you're interested, though, contact Maeve at maevulus@aol.com and we might be able to arrange a second session.
Tuesday April 2 - Spring Migration In All Its Wonder! - Follow migration in Vermont from the earliest birds to return from wintering areas down south to their northern breeding territories. This class is the first of a series to be held in a home in the "Five Sisters" area of Burlington. 7:30-9:00 PM. $30 for the three sessions, with a follow-up field trip to be scheduled in May. To sign up, e-mail Mary Ann Samuels at msamuels@burlingtontelecom.net This class is full. If you're interested, though, contact Maeve at maevulus@aol.com and we might be able to arrange a second session.
Monday April 8 - The Birds In The Backyard –6:00-7:45 - CVU - They’re amazing! If you’re a beginner and aren’t sure how to identify everyday birds, this class will give you lots of tips. And if you’re not a beginner, you’ll learn things that will astound you, giving you a deep appreciation for common birds, their intelligence, and their personalities! Go to CVU Access for information.
Saturday March 30 - Winter Birds! Snow Buntings? Bald Eagles? Canada Geese and maybe even a Snow Goose or two! Meet at 9:30 at the Goose Viewing area (large parking lot) off Route 17 in Addison. Three hours, 2-4 leisurely miles of walking followed by time for longer looks at birds through a spotting scope. Optional second walk after lunch. Sponsored by Green Mountain Club.
Monday April 1, 2019 - Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston VT, 6:30PM - Birds and Beef and Brussels Sprouts: Vermont's Long Agricultural History and Its Relation to Birds - sponsored by Audubon VT - What creatures roamed Vermont after the last Ice Age? How did our state’s wildlife change as humans entered the picture? What birds did native Vermonters know and enjoy? What about the first European colonists? How did the coming of agriculture affect birds and other wildlife? What about the many changes in the state’s agricultural landscape? What role do modern-day farmers have in preserving the state’s iconic bird species?
Saturday January 19, 2019 - at Green Mountain Club Burlington Section Annual Meeting - Who's Watching Us When We're Out on Vermont's Trails??? - When you’re skiing or hiking anywhere in the 26-million acre Northern Forest, you’re right in the midst of some of the greatest richness of bird life in the continental U.S. We’ll look at some of the beautiful wildlife that’s watching you when you’re out in Vermont’s woods. - GMC welcomes everyone to the Annual Meeting, whether you're a member or not! Enjoy chatting with other lovers of the outdoors and have a wonderful supper ($5 donation). After a brief business meeting, you'll sit back and enjoy the program!
[cancelled due to snowstorm - maybe next January?] Wednesday January 9, 2019 - 1PM - after lunch program for the Smugglers Notch 55+ Ski Club - Who's Watching Us When We're Out on Vermont's Trails??? - When you’re skiing or hiking anywhere in the 26-million acre Northern Forest, you’re right in the midst of some of the greatest richness of bird life in the continental U.S. We’ll look at some of the beautiful wildlife that’s watching you when you’re out in Vermont’s woods.
Wednesday October 3, 5:30-7:00 - MMU - Hotspots Near You Want to watch birds? Learn about some wonderful locations not far away from home! Enjoy photos of the areas, the trails, and the birds. Go to MMU After Dark for more information.
Two Tuesdays and a Saturday with OLLI - October 9 and 16, 5:30-7:00, and Saturday October 20, 10:00-noon - Avian Mysteries: Migrating and Migraines - two classroom sessions and a field trip for OLLI-UVM - First we'll spend an evening with fall migration in all its majesty. Then we'll consider "nature's curve balls": all the sneaky tricks nature plays to keep us from seeing and enjoying the birds we love. This light-hearted program will end with a lot of strategies for dealing with the "curve balls". The two classes will be held in Waterman. Room 202. Saturday's field trip will a visit to migrating birds.
Wednesday October 10, 5:30-7:00 - MMU - Vermont's Birds and Our Agricultural Heritage - What did Vermont look like WAAYYYY back after the last Ice Age? What birds did native Vermonters know and enjoy? What about the first Europeans? And what important roles do modern farmers play in preserving the state's iconic bird species? Go to MMU After Dark for more information.
Monday 10/15, 6:00-7:45 - CVU - Hotspots in Our Area!! - Learn about some of the "birdiest" places in Chittenden County. Relish photos of these special places and enjoy lots of pictures and sounds from some of the birds that make them special. Go to CVU Access for information.
Wednesday October 17, 5:30-7:00 - MMU - Birding When Nature Plays Dirty! - Nature doesn't treat birders fairly! She doesn't nicely pose birds on low branches in perfect light and leave them there until we get really good looks. No! She throws in all sorts of impediments. In this light-hearted class, learn some of these impediments AND how to cope with them! Go to MMU After Dark for more information.
Monday 11/12, 6:00-7:45 - CVU - Birding When Nature Plays Dirty! - Nature doesn't treat birders fairly! She doesn't nicely pose birds on low branches in perfect light and leave them there until we get really good looks. No! She throws in all sorts of impediments. In this light-hearted class, learn some of these impediments AND how to cope with them! Go to CVU Access for information.
Monday 12/10, 6:00-7:45 - CVU - As it gets colder and darker outdoors, as so many of our birds desert us for warmer climates, spend some time with sun and warmth and brilliantly-colored birds as we Bird Arizona's Sky Islands. Lots and lots of gorgeous photos as well as tips if you decide to take a break from winter and head south to Arizona this winter. Go to CVU Access for information.
Wednesdays June 20 and 27, 5:30-7:00 and Saturday June 30 8:00-10:00 AM- three-session class for OLLI-UVM - First, we'll visit with many of Vermont's most colorful and charismatic birds as well as some of our most elusive, as we spend an evening with Birds of Vermont's Swamps, Lakes, Rivers and Streams. Then we'll spend an evening with brilliant, beautiful, glowing warblers - and talk about how we can all help conserve "nature's flying jewels". The Saturday field trip will be either to a local wetland or a local park.
Monday June 4 - 6:00-7:45 PM - Warblers: Nature's Jewels - CVU Access at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg
Saturday June 9 (rain date Sunday June 10) - A Day On Burton Island!!! - This lovely state park on an island is bursting with nesting birds in May and June. We'll take the 9AM Island Runner ferry from Kill Kare State Park and walk the Nature Trail. Contact Island Arts to register and for additional information.
Saturday June 2, 7:00-10:00AM - walk at the UVM Horticulture Farm on Green Mountain Drive in South Burlington - This lovely piece of property features open fields, orchards, forest and a pond.
Sunday June 3, 10:00AM-noon - field trip for OLLI-UVM Backyard Birds class - (We had to reschedule the April field trip due to ice, sleet and snow!) - Visit Maeve and Bernie's birdy back yard to see some of Vermont's common backyard birds, enjoy feeding hummingbirds, look for and at nesting birds on the property, and learn how to make a bird-friendly yard.
5/24/2018, Friday 5/25, Saturday 5/26 - Plum Island Excursion!! - Over 400 species of birds have been seen at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on Plum Island (off Newburyport MA). The island in May draws birders and photographers from around the world. Last spring over twenty Vermonters joined Maeve and Bernie for two splendid days of birding at the Refuge. We're planning an extra outing this year, with three guided walks (7-11:00, $20/person). Early bird-ers may join us at 5:30 for extra hours in the salt air and bird sound and beauty! - For photos, go to our Plum Island posting.
Friday May 18 - Nature's Super Habitats: Wetland Conservation and the National Wildlife Refuge System - talk at Missisquoi NWR visitor center on Tabor Road in Swanton, 6:30PM, to get a headstart on International Migratory Bird Day - Then, starting early the next morning, take part in guided walks on the refuge! Details at the refuge web page. You can also contact the Friends of Missisquoi NWR.
Saturday May 19 - Birding When Nature Throws Curve Balls - noon - Enjoy lunch at Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge visitor center on Tabor Road in Swanton while you share some laughs about all the devious and sneaky tricks nature plays to keep us from getting good looks at the birds we love. The event is part of International Migratory Bird Day. COME EARLY AND GO ON ONE OF THE FIELD TRIPS!
Friday May 11 and Saturday May 12 - Cheeps, Chirps, Hoots and Whistles: How and Why Birds Make Noise - indoor class and outdoor field trip (rain date for field trip Sunday May 13) - Class 5/11 10-11:30 at the North Hero Methodist Church - Field Trip 5/12 8-10:30 at Landon Community Trail in South Hero - To register, email academy@islandarts.org.
Thursday April 12 - OLLI-UVM - Backyard Birds - Learn unexpected and wondrous things about Vermont's common backyard birds, and learn how to make a bird-friendly yard. [The field trip to follow this class had to be rescheduled to Sunday June 3.]
Monday 3/12/18 - Cheeps, Chirps, Hoots and Whistles: How and Why Birds Make Noise - 6-7:45PM - CVU Access at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg
Wednesdays 3/14 and 3/21 and Saturday Field Trip 3/24 - three-session class for OLLI-UVM - From Wetlands to Dry Lands: Birds Are Everywhere!!
Monday 3/19/18 - Birds of Vermont's Forests and Mountains (and related conservation issues) - 6-7:45PM - CVU Access at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg
Monday 3/26/18 - Busting Out All Over: Spring Migration In All Its Beauty - 6:00-7:45 PM - CVU Access at Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg
Thursday March 29 - Birding When Nature Throws Curve Balls - Birds of Vermont Museum - 6:30PM - A light-hearted look at all the nasty things that can get in the way of seeing and identifying birds, with suggestions on how to deal with nature's curve balls!
Tuesday February 20 at 1:15PM - Those Beautiful and Amazing Backyard Birds - at Westview Meadows in Montpelier - For residents and their guests.
Wednesday 1/24/2018 - Vermont's Birds and Our Long Agricultural Heritage - presentation for Green Mountain Audubon Society, at the Burnham Library in Colchester - 6:30-8:00 - Join Maeve for a quick trip through Vermont's past from the last Ice Age to thep present, with emphasis on how human land use has affected the birds that breed in, feed in, and visit our state.
Sunday 1/28/18 - That Wild, Windy, Wonderful Winter Duck Show - presentation for AudubonVT at Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center in Burlington - 1:00 - 2:15 indoors, followed by a short trip to the waterfront with spotting scopes and binoculars
October 2 Monday - 6-7:45PM - Vermont Birds and Our Agricultural Heritage - CVU Access, at CVU in Hinesburg - A trip through the history of our area, starting WAY back in prehistory: What birds might have been here? Why? How has human use of the land changed Vermont's bird life?
October 23 Monday - 6-7:45PM - Vermont Night Birds and Birds of Not-Quite Night - CVU Access, at CVU in Hinesburg
October 24 Tuesday 5:30-7PM - Intro to Birding: One of the Country's Fastest-Growing Hobbies! - Learn about many common birds as well as info about birding tools, birding techniques, and local birding hotspots. - MMUAfterDark at Mount Mansfield Union High School in Jericho
October 30 Monday - 6-7:45PM - Birds of Vermont’s Lakes, Rivers, Swamps and Marshes - CVU Access, at CVU in Hinesburg
November 7 Tuesday 5:30-7PM - Fall Migration (In All Its Splendor!) - MMUAfterDark at Mount Mansfield Union High School in Jericho
November 14 Tuesday 5:30-7PM - Bird Song, Chatter, Calls, Squawks, Etc. - Why and How Do Birds Make Noise? - MMUAfterDark at Mount Mansfield Union High School in Jericho
October 24 Tuesday 5:30-7PM - Intro to Birding: One of the Country's Fastest-Growing Hobbies! - Learn about many common birds as well as info about birding tools, birding techniques, and local birding hotspots. - MMUAfterDark at Mount Mansfield Union High School in Jericho
October 30 Monday - 6-7:45PM - Birds of Vermont’s Lakes, Rivers, Swamps and Marshes - CVU Access, at CVU in Hinesburg
November 7 Tuesday 5:30-7PM - Fall Migration (In All Its Splendor!) - MMUAfterDark at Mount Mansfield Union High School in Jericho
November 14 Tuesday 5:30-7PM - Bird Song, Chatter, Calls, Squawks, Etc. - Why and How Do Birds Make Noise? - MMUAfterDark at Mount Mansfield Union High School in Jericho
June 21 Wednesday– 10-noon – Family Nature Walk sponsored by Island Arts - For further info, go to http://www.islandarts.org/
June 10 Saturday – ferry to Burton Island for a bird walk sponsored by Island Arts – For further info, go to http://www.islandarts.org/
June 14 Wednesday – 5:30 – 7:00 – OLLI UVM class about Bird Sounds – followed by field trip from 8-10AM on Saturday June 17 - For further info, go to https://learn.uvm.edu/osher-life-long-learning/olli-at-uvm/olli-on-campus-courses/
August 10 Thursday- 9:00-10:30 – in the Lake Champlain Basin Program conference room in Grand Isle (just past the Grand Isle Ferry) – Birds of Vermont’s Lakes, Rivers and Swamps - sponsored by Island Arts - For further info, go to http://www.islandarts.org/
August 12 Saturday – 7:00-9:00 AM – Island Arts field trip - For further info, go to http://www.islandarts.org/
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