TheSwirl.org

I thought I would pass this along.

The Adirondack Park of New York state is a bird watching haven. Birds that migrate to the Adirondack region for the summer arrive by June. Over 100 bird species can be found nesting in the region, including the spruce grouse and Bicknell’s thrush. Birding enthusiasts have also been flocking to the area in increased numbers each spring, growing their life lists. This year the area boasts support from Audubon New York, more festivals and the grand opening of a new birding exhibit at the Wild Center/Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks. Many organizations have been putting together weekends with guided outings, workshops and lectures to help facilitate viewing and education. Birding festivals scheduled include:

· Great Camp Sagamore will be hosting an Elderhostel event, Boreal Birds of the Adirondacks, May 29 – June 1. The program includes lodging, meals, lectures and field trips. For more information visit www.elderhostel.org or call 800-454-5768.

· The Great Adirondack Birding Celebration will be held June 1-3 at the Adirondack Park Agency Visitor Interpretive Center (VIC) in Paul Smiths. The weekend features birding trips, lectures, workshops and the popular Teddy Roosevelt Birding Challenge. Click the link or call 518-327-3000 for more information.

· The Adirondack Birding Festival in Hamilton County, co-sponsored by Audubon New York, is taking place June 8-10 and June 15-17. The first weekend will focus on the southern portion of the county and the second will feature the northern portion. The festival includes seminars and outings. For more information visit www.adirondackexperience.com.

The Adirondack Regional Tourism Council offers birding enthusiasts tools to guide them to the ultimate birding spots. The interactive Web site www.adkbirds.com serves as an extensive guide and sightings source pre and post trip. The Adirondack Regional Tourism Council can provide more information on the birding events in the region. Their Web site www.visitadirondacks.com provides information on lodging, directions, additional activities, and more.