Birding Events

 

Red-tailed hawk at the Wilds

RAPTOR FIELD ID

DAY

Feb. 6, 2010 – Cancelled due to inclement weather

 Rescheduled for Feb. 27, 2010

Learn about raptors – birds of prey like hawks, eagles, kestrels and owls – during this program that will help sharpen your birding skills.

Activities begin with a live bird presentation by Animal Encounters of the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium inside the Wilds’ Johnson Visitor Center. Participants will get a chance to see up close some native and non-native raptors to learn about their distinguishing features and behaviors.

Information about native raptors, like how they sit, fly, and act, where their habitats are, when to expect to see them, and distinguishing markings to look for, will also be shared.

After the presentation, enjoy a light lunch prepared by the Wilds' professional chef at the Overlook Cafe.

Then, a Wilds Conservation Education Specialist will guide an excursion in the field to put identifying skills into practice while looking for wild raptors on the Wilds’ 10,000-acre property.

The Wilds, located near Cumberland in Muskingum County, has been designated an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society. Some of the common raptor species at the Wilds include American kestrel, northern harrier, Cooper’s hawk, red-tailed hawk, and short-eared owls. Golden eagles and rough-legged hawks are also common during winter. A total of 21 species of raptors have been sighted at the Wilds, including the rarer bald eagle, merlin, and peregrine falcon.

•Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Cost: $35 Adults; $25 Children 12 and under; $5 off for Wilds members. (Price includes lunch.)

• Reservations and pre-payment by phone required. Contact the Wilds’ Reservations Coordinator at 740-638-5030 ext. 2286 or reservations@thewilds.org. We recommend early registration, as tour seating is limited.

• Cancellations: Program is subject to cancellation based on weather, or if minimum attendance requirements are not met. Participants will be notified of weather cancellation by noon on the Friday before the program; and by noon on the Wednesday before the program if the cancellation is based on attendance.

• Refunds: Reservation fees will be fully refunded if cancellations are made at least five days in advance. Reservation fees will be fully refunded if the Wilds cancels based on weather or minimum attendance.

• Preparation: Be prepared to spend time outside. Please dress appropriately for the cold weather.

• For your convenience: The Wilds Gift Market will be open during Winter Safari Tour programs.

 

 

AVIAN

PHOTOGRAPHY

WEEKEND

May 21 - 23, 2010


Head out on safari in search of migrating birds amid spectacular scenery -- without ever leaving Ohio -- at the Wilds, designated an "Important Bird Area" by the Audubon Society. At a pace that allows ample time to explore the decisive visual moments, you'll learn photo techniques from expert photographers and build your portfolio of stunning flora, landscapes, and wildlife during this exclusive opportunity. Facilitated by Jerry Jividen and Barbara Jividen of Naturally Wild Photo Adventures. Complete your Avian Photography Weekend with an exclusive Raptor Photo Shoot. See event details below.

This camp is designed for those age 18 or older.

$299 per person

Lodging in the Wilds' yurt Conservation Education Camp.
Meals included: Friday evening snacks; Saturday breakfast, lunch, dinner; Sunday breakfast.

Pre-registration and pre-payment required. 740-638-5030 x2286 or reservations@thewilds.org

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE FIRST DAY OF CAMP.

AVIAN PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND REGISTRATION FORM

AVIAN PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND PAYMENT FORM

SAMPLE AVIAN PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND ITINERARY

 


RAPTOR

PHOTO

SHOOT

May 23, 2010


Build your portfolio of stunning raptors in natural landscapes, courtesy of the Columbus Zoo’s live birds of prey. During this exclusive opportunity, learn photo techniques from expert photographers, Jerry Jividen and Barbara Jividen of Naturally Wild Photo Adventures. A portion of event fees support bird of prey conservation efforts.
This camp is designed for those age 18 or older.
For those joining us from the Avian Photography Weekend, lunch is provided at no extra cost.

Time: 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Cost: $99 per person

Pre-registration and pre-payment required. 740-638-5030 x2286 or reservations@thewilds.org

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE PROGRAM.

RAPTOR PHOTO SHOOT REGISTRATION FORM

RAPTOR PHOTO SHOOT PAYMENT FORM

 


6TH ANNUAL

BIRDING BY EAR WEEKEND

June 4 - 6, 2010

This workshop is a great way to learn bird vocalizations, meet new birding friends, see abundant grassland birds, learn to connect habitats with their inhabitants, and explore the uncharted bird spots on the Wilds!

Come one, come all! Classes & activities are available for beginner, intermediate, and expert birders.

  • Learn from regional experts on birding research and sound ID
  • Find new list birds for the un-birded Wilds
  • Birding by canoe
  • Bird banding demo
  • Enjoy quiet nights around a campfire
  • Attract hawks with broadcasts
  • Search for owls and whippoorwills after dark
  • Explore the lands of the Wilds and AEP
  • Four catered meals provided by the Wilds' restaurant (Sat morning to Sun morning)
  • Bunk in Mongolian yurts for 2 nights (modern showerhouse is available)

The featured presenter for 2010 Birding by Ear is Al Parker. Al is an accomplished naturalist, professionally trained wildlife biologist and owner of Canoe Creations.

Cost: $175 per person

Schedule: Starts Friday at 6 p.m. and ends Sunday at 11:30 a.m.

Pre-registration and pre-payment required. 740-638-5030 x2286 or reservations@thewilds.org


REGISTRATION DEADLINE: TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE PROGRAM.

BIRDING BY EAR REGISTRATION FORM.

BIRDING BY EAR PAYMENT FORM.

BIRDING BY EAR WEEKEND ITINERARY will be posted here soon.