Are you looking for a new, relaxing hobby?  Birding is a great way to not only enjoy the outdoors but also some amazing birdlife!  You can even enjoy birding from the comfort of your own home!  Project FeederWatch provides a great opportunity to get to know birds at your backyard feeder and contribute data to scientists who track movements of winter bird populations. Project FeederWatch is operated by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and birders of all skill levels can participate.  The program runs from November through April and you can access all of the great resources the program has to offer and sign up by visiting   feederwatch.org. 

Many local parks also offer birding programs for the beginner through the experienced. Here at Lake Crabtree, we have many opportunities for those interested in birding.  Vernon Janke is Lake Crabtree's resident bird expert and he leads a FREE bird walk, Birding with Vernon, on the first Saturday of every month for birders of all skill levels and ages.  On Saturday, November 11, from 9-11 a.m., Vernon will also offer a Beginner Birding Class for adults.  This class is a great way to learn the basics of birding and to be able to get out into the park to practice your new birding skills.  On December 9th, you can join us for our  Winter Waterfowl Workshop, which provides an opportunity to see some of our visiting and resident waterfowl and to learn how to identify them. 

All of these birding programs are FREE and are sure to give you a great start on your way to becoming an avid birder! You can register for these and other programs by visiting our website.  Birding with Vernon does not require preregistration.