Dust off your scopes, because this month we’re going on a lakewatch! Join us as we work with local expert Andy Guthrie to find migrating waterfowl, gulls, and passerines at Hamlin Beach State Park.

We’ll start by looking out over the lake for waterfowl and gulls. New birders can get fantastic looks at ducks in the water, and more experienced birders will find it a fun challenge to identify the fly-bys. Whether you can’t tell the difference between a duck and a goose, want to learn the difference between the different scoters, or are interested in scanning the horizon for the elusive jaegers, this trip has something for everyone!

As we’re scanning the water, we’ll also be watching and listening for passerines overhead. Flocks of winter birds – Horned Lark, Snow Buntings, Lapland Longspurs, and a mix of finches are a welcome noisy distraction. If the lake is slow, we may take a walk through the trails at Hamlin Beach looking for lingering migrants and newly arriving wintering passerines.

We’ll meet at 8:00 AM in Parking Area 4. Binoculars are helpful and we’ll definitely be using scopes, but birders without scopes will be happy to know that our experienced crew is good about sharing. The event is free and open to any kids (and their parents) interested in birding. Unless prior arrangements are made, parents must stay with their children for the duration of the trip.

For additional information, contact Andrea Patterson