I always get plenty of fresh air in May. Hundreds of kids on field trips keeps me outside a lot for work. And between the birds and the wildflowers, most of my free time is spent outside, too! My self-appointed title “Reluctant Birder” may have to be retired. Yesterday, I went to shoot wildflowers and found myself wishing I had brought binoculars to see the birds flitting overhead.

The birding class we are offering at Audubon this spring is turning out to be one of my favorite activities during these jam-packed days.

First of all, our experts, Don Watts and Scott Stoleson, are being so generous with their time and knowledge. Second, the participants are so enthusiastic. And third, the birds are just being so darned cooperative.

The class is being offered as 4 Wednesday evening lectures and 4 Saturday morning walks. The lectures are filled with useful information. But the walks are the most fun (for me!). Last Saturday’s walk as on the grounds at Audubon and started at the bird banding station. We kept hearing a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker’s uneven tapping. Toward the end of the walk, we finally saw one just off of Redwing Trail near the building. When I went back to the banding station after the walk, they had even captured one in the net!

I’m hoping I never forget the song of the Swamp Sparrow. We certainly heard that quite a bit while out on the trails.

Swamp Sparrow

One of our classmates is Terry Lorenc, who gave me permission to use some of his photos on my blog! He’s been toting his camera to class and on the walks to help us remember what we’re seeing.

Yellow Warbler – by Terry Lorenc

Red-winged Blackbird – Male – by Terry Lorenc

Red-winged Blackbird – Female – by Terry Lorenc

Terry got some amazing shots on Saturday, too. Two little Chickadees had us transfixed for quite some time! We watched them excavating a cavity for nesting.

Black-capped Chickadee – by Terry Lorenc

From the double-decker tower, Terry got an amazing series of a Bald Eagle coming down to get a fish.

Bald Eagle – by Terry Lorenc

Check out the whole series by clicking –> here.

If you feel like you are missing out on the fun, maybe you should join us. Classes continue through May 21st. Learn more by clicking –> here.