QUECHEE—Venture into the fascinating world of birds and wildlife with the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) through a series of engaging events designed to enlighten and inspire nature enthusiasts of all ages. From understanding the impact of climate change on bird populations to learning the intricacies of bird identification, VINS offers a diverse range of educational opportunities aimed at fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.
Birds and climate change
Saturday, April 20 at 1 p.m. In Vermont, the effects of climate change are already being felt by more than just humans. Birds, scientists know, are indicator species whose populations fluctuate with the health of the ecosystem as a whole.
Come learn what birds can teach us about coping with these dramatic shifts and how important it is for all species that we move towards clean energy and sustainable practices.
Anna Morris is the director of wildlife ambassador programs at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science. She received a master’s degree in raptor biology from Boise State University in 2016 and earned her certification as a professional bird trainer from the International Avian Trainers Certification Board in 2019.
A recording of this in-person event will be released to the public on Earth Day, Monday, April 22.
Price included with general admission.
Wildlife ER
Sunday, April 21 at 11a.m. Ever wonder what it is like to be a wild bird rehabilitator? What does it take to care for and treat the injured birds at VINS? This program will provide a window into daily life at the VINS Center for Wild Bird Rehabilitation & Ambassador Care. Learn how patients are admitted, diagnosed, treated, and released, and even meet some of our former patients, who are now education ambassadors. Hear the stories of how we get these amazing creatures back on their wings in the wild and learn how you can be a wildlife superhero by identifying when animals need help and what to do to help them.
Pre-registration is required, while registration for the event is free, general admission is due upon arrival.
Birding for Beginners: Introduction to Bird ID
Tuesday, April 23 at 5:30 p.m. Have you ever noticed a small flash of color high in the treetops and wondered what species of bird you are looking at? Or have you awoken to the dawn chorus of songbirds and wished you could identify who was singing outside your window?
If you want to get better at identifying birds by sight and sound then join VINS for a workshop that will give you the skills to get outdoors and start birding.
Topic: Birding By Ear
When foliage is thick and birds are hidden deep within the forest canopy, one way to identify them is by listening to their calls. A spring or summer soundscape in Vermont is full of wonderful bird calls, and being able to identify a single bird amongst the many sounds can seem a daunting task. This class will hone your ear to some of the most common bird calls to start building your birding-by-ear foundation. No materials are required.
For those who wish to get into birding, suggested materials include a notebook or journal and binoculars as well as field guides. Journals and field guides are available for purchase at the VINS Nature Store. View a selection of products available online at: store.vinsweb.org.
This workshop is designed for beginner to intermediate birders and is open to all ages. Kid/family-friendly materials will be provided as a follow-up to each class for those interested in further engaging in these materials with young birders.
VINS Field Guide Recommendations:
National Geographic Field Guide to Birds of North America
Peterson Field Guide to Birds of East/Central North America
The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Eastern North America
Sibley’s Backyard Birds of the Northeast
Vermont Birds Pocket Guide
The cost for this event is $15 for the general public; $12 VINS members.
Cancellation policy: No refunds will be offered if you cannot attend one or more of these virtual classes. VINS will send participants a recording of each class for which they are registered so if you cannot attend the live event, you can still view the recorded class.
For more information on these events, contact 802-359-5000 or info@vinsweb.org.
