Tuesday November 9, 2010 Trips
Bird Photography on Pea Island Refuge
Catch the morning light and explore Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge in search of birds to photograph. Various wading birds, fall migrants, waterfowl and shorebirds are likely. Participants also can take advantage of the diverse scenery, flora and fauna along the way. A telephoto lens is recommended. Pea Island Refuge Visitor Center. Cost $30. 7-10 am. Mark Buckler.
North Pond Birding (A)
Beginning birders are welcome on this walk along the south and north dikes of North Pond on Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. North Pond Wildlife Trail (south dike of North Pond) is maintained for easy walking and is universally accessible. Pea Island Refuge Visitor Center. Cost $20. 7:30-11 am. Ron Marchand.
South Pond Birding (A)
This is a rare opportunity to bird an area on Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge usually closed to visitors. The group will be birding the impoundment for waterfowl and looking for songbirds and raptors along the dikes and over the marsh. Pea Island Refuge Headquarters. Moderate. Cost $25. 7:30-11 am. John and Paula Wright.
Alligator River Refuge Canoe Tour (New) (Family Friendly) (A)
Take a canoe tour through the cypress creeks of Alligator River National Wildlife
Refuge. This trip is filled with local history and an abundance of wildlife including Great Blue Herons, Pileated Woodpeckers, and Bald Eagles, as well as Black Bear, Red Wolves and assorted turtles. Buffalo City Road boat access. Cost $35; two children 12 and under may accompany paying adult for no charge. 9 am-Noon. Abbey Reibel, refuge staff.
Pocosin Lakes Refuge Birding (New)
Meet at the shop compound and learn about the refuge before boarding a van for Pungo Lake and nearby impoundments, fields, and woods, for viewing Tundra Swans, Snow Geese, ducks, shorebirds, passerines, and raptors, as well as possible sighting of Red Wolves, American Black Bear, and other wildlife. Pungo Unit Shop Compound. Easy. Cost $20. 9 am-Noon, Ernie Marshall.
Backcountry Expedition Kayak Tour
The unique combination of off-road 4x4 and kayak eco-touring explores 30 miles
of beach and backcountry lanes by SUV and the northern Currituck waterways by kayak.You’re likely to see some of the Currituck “wild horses” - possible descendants from the Spanish mustangs. Trained naturalists discuss local ecology, history and shore life. No private boats permitted. Kayaking dependent on weather conditions. Backcountry Outfitters in Corolla Light Town Center. Cost $50. Noon-3:30 pm. Backcountry Outfitters and Guides.
Introduction to Pocosin Lakes Refuge (New)
Tour the Visitor Center and learn about the refuge, its history, and wildlife. View exhibits and an award-winning video of the refuge. Then take a stroll on the interpretative boardwalk along the Scuppernong River behind the Visitor Center. Walter B. Jones, Sr. Center for the Sounds. Easy. FREE. Donations to Friends of Pocosin Lakes happily accepted by the leader at the end of the program. 1-3 pm. Ernie Marshall.
Maritime Forest Sunset Kayak Tour
Kitty Hawk Woods, one of only three maritime forests remaining on the Outer
Banks, offers a unique experience as kayakers paddle through an amber-colored creek under a canopy of Live Oaks and Loblolly Pines. Turtles, snakes, and other reptiles are very common in this area, as are birds such as herons, egrets, woodpeckers, kingfishers, Red-tailed Hawks and eagles. At sunset, paddle through the marsh section and possibly witness local wildlife feeding. A great kayak tour for the beginner as well as the experienced paddler. The woods provide shelter from the wind, and the water is shallow. Kitty Hawk Kayaks. Cost $35. 3-6 pm. Kitty Hawk Kayaks.
Alligator River Night Canoe Tour (New)
Go where few have gone before, Milltail Creek at night. Join the refuge staff on this special tour of the Alligator River when the refuge is usually closed to visitors. Explore the world of the American Alligator as you paddle out from Buffalo City into Milltail Creek and their world. You’ll learn about the natural history of the Alligator and the cultural history of Buffalo City while exploring the shores of Milltail Creek. Bring a flashlight! Buffalo City Road boat access. Cost $35. 4:30-7:30 pm. Cindy Heffley, refuge staff.
