Spring weather is making its way back to the Pocono Mountains, and migratory birds are not far behind!
According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, spring migration peaks during the months of March, April and May. Birds that reside in the northern hemisphere return home in the spring to take advantage of emerging insect populations, budding plants and abundant nesting locations.
Welcome warmer weather and returning birds during environmental education events in March!
On Saturday, March 22, all are welcome to attend a Woodcock Dance at the Varden Conservation Area! Participants will learn about the amazing American Woodcock and its dramatic nuptial flight, and then migrate to the “dance floor” for to witness the ritual. Events begin at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free. Call (570) 253-2364 or visit www.nepaaudubon.org/events/ for details.
Also on Saturday, March 22, a Feeder Fidelity program at Monroe County Conservation District’s Environmental Education Center (MCEEC) will educate adults and children on the importance of bird-banding. For the past two years, the Pocono Avian Research Center has been involved in a bird-banding project to determine whether or not birds return to the same feeders year after year. Join Environmental Educator Darryl Speicher as he bands birds at Kettle Creek’s feeders and explains what experts are learning about feeder fidelity. This one-hour program begins at 10 a.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12; EE Center members attend free of charge. Call (570) 629-3061 to register, and visit www.mcconservation.org for more information.
Timberdoodle, Bogsucker and Big Eye are just a few of the strange nicknames given to the American Woodcock. On Tuesday, March 25, learn about the life history and amazing courtship displays of this fascinating bird during a Woodcock Watch at MCEEC! Join Environmental Educator Brian Hardiman for an exciting 90-minute program! Events begin with a brief classroom presentation at 6:30 p.m., and wrap up with a trip to the Tannersville Bog. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12; EE Center members will be admitted free of charge. Call (570) 629-3061 to register, and visit www.mcconservation.org for more information. Monroe County Conservation District’s Environmental Education Center is located on Running Valley Road near Bartonsville.
Interested in observing birds on your own? The Northeast Pennsylvania Audubon Society maintains an online directory of birding sites, sanctuaries, social groups and resources for public use. Visit www.nepaaudubon.org/birding/ for more information.
