March 17, 2020 – Given the current directives and health concerns stemming from the Covid-19 virus, RBA and the Field Trip Committee has decided to cancel the following field trips and events:

Saturday, March 21: Hawk Watch
Thursday, March 26: Birds & Brews
Saturday, March 28: Owl Woods

The next Field Trip, scheduled for Friday, April 10 to see Woodcocks, is 28 days away. We will assess whether to hold that trip, as well as future trips, as the time grows nearer.  Please be advised, however, that trips in the foreseeable future will be cancelled until further notice.

In the meantime, please do go out on your own, enjoy fresh air and migrating birds as Spring unfolds! The sooner we all do our part to not spread this virus, the sooner we can all enjoy birding together again!

Stay well and safe,

Liz Magnanti
President, RBA

***CANCELLED***

We’ll look primarily for our smallest visiting owl, the Northern Saw-whet, which returns to this spot on a yearly basis.  Long-eared Owls generally put in an appearance, too, although they’re quite shy and great at hiding.  After the owl walk, we’ll head to the Hawk Watch site to learn how to identify raptors on the wing.  At this time of year, we might witness spectacular flights of thousands of raptors!

Meet at 7:30 a.m. in the parking lot on the right side of Manitou Beach Road across from the Owl Woods trail head.  The Owl Woods trails likely will be wet and muddy.  Boots are STRONGLY recommended – they’re almost mandatory!

Note: This is a field trip for beginners. New birders should feel free to join these trips regardless of experience level: bring binoculars if you have them, and we will share our scopes. The pace & focus of Beginner Trips may not be satisfying for experienced birders. Our Beginner Trips focus on teaching identification skills, learning new habitats, and answering questions. Experienced birders are welcome but may be pressed into service as educators!