'Family Friendly' trips: Two children 12 or under may accompany a paying, supervising adult at no charge. To include your child or children you must make reservations by calling 252-216-9464.
WINGS OVER WATER WILDLIFE FESTIVAL
Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival
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Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge South Pond Birding South Pond is normally closed off to visitors. It is only during guided Wings Over Water trips such as this one, that we are given special refuge permission to visit this otherwise closed area. The search for birds will include checking the impoundment for waterfowl and migratory shorebirds and also checking the undisturbed vegetation of the dikes and marshes for songbirds and raptors. Come prepared for mosquitoes. Cacti can also be a problem. Wear appropriate footwear. 1.5 to 2-mile walk. Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center parking lot, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of the Marc Basnight (Oregon Inlet) Bridge, west side of NC Hwy 12. Leaders/Field Experts: John & Paula Wright. Tue 10-22-24, 7:30-11:00 am. $25.00
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge North Pond Birding. This walk, suitable for all levels of birding, will include the south and north dikes and will be paced to give participants an opportunity to study species found. Likely birds include dabbling ducks, herons, egrets; Brown Pelicans, White Ibis, raptors, shorebirds, gulls; terns, warblers, sparrows, and blackbirds. App. 1.5-mile walking distance. Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center parking lot, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of Oregon Inlet Bridge on the west side of Hwy 12. Leaders/Field Expert: Marcia Lyons. Tue 10-22-24, 7:30-11:00 am. $25.00
Nags Head Woods Reptile and Amphibian Hike. Explore Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve for some of the many reptile and amphibian species that live in the preserve. The preserve is made up of several types of habitat including maritime forest, sand dunes, freshwater wetlands, and marsh that provide a home to one of the highest diversities of reptile and amphibians on the Outer Banks. A total of 29 species of reptile and 15 species of amphibians have been found within the preserve. There are several species that the only location on the Outer Banks in which they have been documented is in Nags Head Woods. Walk a few of the trails in search of species of reptile such as black racer, rat snakes, cottonmouth, green anoles, and skinks. Search the edges of some of the ponds and under logs for amphibian species such as southern leopard frogs, cricket frog, bull frog and marbled salamander. Meet: Nags Heads Woods Ecological Preserve parking lot, 701 West Ocean Acres Drive, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948 Leader/Field Expert: Michael Gosselin. Tue 10-22-24, 9:00-11:00 am. $25.00.
Alligator River Refuge Nature Photography Van Tour (NEW). A unique customized tour on Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge hoping to provide the optimal locations to see wildlife. We'll be looking for black bears, river otters, wild turkeys, alligators, red wolves and much more. This is not a camera instructional tour, but a tour taking you to locations where you might obtain the best photos with your camera. Very limited space for 6. Meet: Creef Cut Wildlife Trail parking lot, NC Hwy 64 & Milltail Road. Leader/expert: Tracey Rock & Jackie Orsulak. Wed 10-23-24, 7:00-9:00 am. $30.00.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge South Pond Birding. The search for birds will include checking the impoundment for waterfowl and migratory shorebirds, also checking the undisturbed vegetation of the dikes and marshes for songbirds and raptors. South Pond is normally closed off to visitors. It is only during guided Wings Over Water trips such as this one, that we are given special refuge permission to visit this otherwise closed area. Come prepared for mosquitoes. Cacti can also be a problem. Wear appropriate footwear. 1.5 to 2-mile walk. Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor parking lot, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of Marc Basnight (Oregon Inlet) Bridge, west side of NC Hwy 12 Leaders/Field Experts: Peggy Eubank and Jeff Lewis. Wed 10-23-24, 7:30-11:00 am. $25.00
Exploring Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary. Explore one of the gems of the region with special access to the various habitats of the 2600-acre Audubon Sanctuary. This guided walk, although focused on bird watching, will feature all the nature and history that the Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary has to offer. 2-mile walk on solid terrain. Meet: Audubon Nature Sanctuary 300 Audubon Drive, Corolla, NC 27927 (app. 32 miles north of Roanoke Island off of NC Hwy 12). Pull onto Audubon Drive, wait at wooden gate. http://pineisland.audubon.org/visit App. 32 miles north of Roanoke Island off of NC Hwy 12. Leaders/Field Experts: Jane Bailey, Audubon staff at Donal C. O’Brien, Jr. Sanctuary and Audubon Center. Wed 10-23-24, 8:00-11:00 am. $25.00.
Nature Walk at Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge (NEW). Join our keynote speaker Kenn Kaufman and wildlife ecologist Susan Campbell on Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. This 152,000-acre refuge is home to a multitude of species. We will spend most of our time walking the trails, paths and roads on the northern edge of refuge looking for tracks, 'sign' and whatever creatures are out and about. Learn about not only the habitats here but the history of the refuge and its management-- which can be challenging given that some very large mammals, sizeable alligators and even endangered species are found on the property. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some muddy conditions if there have been recent rains. Be sure to carry insect repellent, sunscreen and plenty to drink. We will try to carpool as we move around the refuge to reduce disturbance. Meet at the Creef Cut Wildlife Trail parking area located at Hwy 64 & Milltail Road. Leaders: Susan Campbell & Kenn Kaufman. Wed 10-23-24, 8:30-11:00 am. $25.00
Maritime Forest Kayak Birding Tour (Kitty Hawk Woods). Kayak with an experienced birder through Kitty Hawk Woods, one of three maritime forests remaining on the Outer Banks. This tour, designed specifically for those interested in viewing the many bird species living in this forest, offers the unique experience of kayaking through amber-colored creeks under a canopy of Live Oaks and Loblolly Pines. Kayaking experience is not necessary, for this tour will move slowly, stopping at many inlets to view birds. There is generally an abundance of backyard species, wrens, and chickadees, as well as Pileated Woodpeckers, kingfishers, herons and egrets. There is no better way to view this area than by kayak. Inaccessible by vehicle or foot, this 1900-acre preserve offers much to see. Meet: Kitty Hawk Kayas, 6150 North Croatan Highway, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949 https://khkss.com Leaders/Field Experts: Kitty Hawk Kayaks and birder, John Hammond, USFWS. Wed 10-23-24, 9:00-11:00 am $40.00.
Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge Birding (Distant Trip). Take a wildlife walk and drive on Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge’s impoundment dike to view waterfowl, marsh birds, wading birds, songbirds and a variety of raptors. Waterfowl prospects include Green and Blue-winged Teal, American Widgeon, Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail, Wood Duck and Ruddy Duck. Refuge marshes provide cover for a variety of shorebirds, rails and bitterns. ALERT: This is the northernmost WOW trip and it could require a ferry ride, depending on what route you choose. App. 62 miles from Roanoke Island to Mackay Island. Plan your travel time carefully because Mackay Island is a good distance from the Outer Banks. Reaching the refuge could include a 45-minute ride on the Currituck ferry. Call 1-800- BYFERRY to confirm ferry schedules. There is also an all-land route that you can find using Google maps. Meet: Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge headquarters parking lot, 316 Marsh Causeway Road, Knotts Island, NC 27950. Leader/Field Experts: Julie & Steve Coari. Wed 10-23-24, 9:00 - 1:00 pm. $25.00.
Nags Head Woods Reptile and Amphibian Hike. Explore Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve for some of the many reptile and amphibian species that live in the preserve. The preserve is made up of several types of habitat, including maritime forest, sand dunes, freshwater wetlands, and marsh that provide a home to one of the highest diversities of reptile and amphibians on the Outer Banks. A total of 29 species of reptile and 15 species of amphibians have been found within the preserve. There are several species that the only location on the Outer Banks in which they have been documented is in Nags Head Woods. Walk a few of the trails in search of species of reptile such as black racer, rat snakes, cottonmouth, green anoles, and skinks. Search the edges of some of the ponds and under logs for amphibian species such as southern leopard frogs, cricket frog, bull frog and marbled salamander. Meet: Nags Heads Woods Ecological Preserve parking lot, 701 West Ocean Acres Drive, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948 Leader/Field Expert: Michael Gosselin. Wed 10-23-24, 1:00-3:00 am $25.00.
Birding 101 (Classroom & Field). Birding 101 is designed for the inexperienced or casual bird watcher who would like to improve their birding skills. Using a combination of classroom and field exercises, participants will learn clues to solve the bird identification puzzle. Following classroom discussion and identification exercises, participants will put their new skills to work with a short walk at a nearby location. Although designed for the beginning birder, others may learn methods to expand their birding skills. Binoculars are recommended but not required. Due to class length you might want to bring a snack and water. Meet: National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center, 100 Conservation Way, Manteo, NC 27954, Roanoke Island, conference room. Leader/Field Expert: Colleen Bockhahn. Wed 10-23-24, 1:00-4:00 pm. $25.00.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge South Pond Birding. The search for birds will include checking the impoundment for waterfowl and migratory shorebirds and also checking the undisturbed vegetation of the dikes and marshes for songbirds and raptors. South Pond is normally closed off to visitors. It is only during guided Wings Over Water trips such as this one, that we are given special refuge permission to visit this otherwise closed area. Come prepared for mosquitoes. Cacti can also be a problem. Wear appropriate footwear. 1.5 to 2-mile walk. Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor parking lot, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of Oregon Inlet Bridge, west side of NC Hwy 12 Leaders/Field Expert: Karen Lebing & Marc Ribaudo. Wed 10-23-24, 1:00-4:30 am. $25.00.
Gull/Tern Workshop (Classroom & Field). Perfect for beginning and intermediate birders, the classroom introduction to the basics of gull and tern identification will simplify studying them in the field. The diversity of gull and tern plumage, size, and behavior may seem daunting, but this workshop will teach you how to easily identify and age the common local species. Join this workshop and get hooked on the mystery of birding identification. We'll then go on a brief excursion that will solidify the basics. As many as six gull and four tern species may be located for further study. After the classroom portion of the program we will caravan following the leader to various gull and tern gathering spots. Locations we might visit are: Manteo/Nags Head Causeway, Wanchese docks area, the sound behind the Nags Head Tanger Outlet Mall and as far south as Oregon Inlet. Locations to be determined by up-to-the-hour birding reports. For additional practice with gull/tern identification, consider these other Wings Over Water trips: Cape Hatteras Birding, Ocean-watching at Jennette’s Pier, & North Pond Birding. Meet at National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center 100 Conservation Way, Roanoke Island. Be prepared to drive as far south as Oregon Inlet as part of this program. Leader/Field Expert: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences Staff. Wed 10-23-24, 2:00-6:00 pm. $25.00.
Maritime Forest Sunset Kayak Tour. Kitty Hawk Woods, one of only three maritime forests remaining on the Outer Banks. It 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 to search for feeding wildlife. Sunset is at 6:22 pm. 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. Dress for weather, water and insects. A flashlight or headlamp might be helpful but not required. We provide the leader, kayaks, paddles and personal flotation devices, you provide the paddle power! Meet: Bob Perry Road Boat Access (Kitty Hawk Recycle Center Boat Ramp) 4190 Bob Perry Road. Kitty Hawk, NC 27949. Leader/Field Expert: Coastal Kayak Touring Company staff. https://www.outerbankskayaktours.com/ Wed 10-23-24, 4:00-6:00 pm. $40.00.
Owl Prowl. We hope to hoot up Barred Owls, Eastern Screech-owls, and Great Horned Owls on this trip with special nighttime access to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Owls can be secretive and hard to see, so you never know what species we will encounter in the wild. The program will begin with a presentation on the natural history, distribution and identification of local owl species. Transportation is by car caravan in your vehicle behind the leader. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight or headlamp. Meet: Creef Cut Trail parking lot, Hwy 64 & Milltail Road, app. 5.5 miles west of Roanoke Island (on Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Leader/Field Expert: Sarah Toner, USFWS. Wed 10-23-24, 5:30-8:30 pm. $25.00.
Big Day Birding. Dawn to dusk, we will tally birds. This big day will follow ABA rules as we venture around Dare County birding hot spots to tally as many birds as possible by sight and sound. We will carpool. We will begin on the Outer Banks starting with owls, waterfowl and ocean birds. The trip will end going inland to Alligator River for land birds, sunset birding and some owling at dusk. This trip is best for intermediate level birders who have their own pair of binoculars (scope too if you have one) and be comfortable with bird identification and all-day birding. The pace will be continuous to cover the ground required. Identification by sight and sound could be quick, we will try our best to get participants on every bird sighted. Bird checklists and an itinerary with map and timetables will be provided in advance. Bring food and drink for the day. Rest stops will be made as needed and will be known. Wear walking shoes/boots suitable for mostly flat terrain; no hike from the vehicles will be lengthy or strenuous. Some wading possible. Meet: Outer Banks Welcome Center parking lot on Roanoke Island, located at the foot of the Virginia Dare Bridge, Highway 64. This is the opposite end of Roanoke Island from Wings Over Water headquarters. Leader/Field Expert: Kevin Burke. Thur. 10-24-24, 5:30 am - 8:30 pm $25.00.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Sunrise Kayak. Enjoy a sunrise kayak tour through Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. The shallow waters bring an abundance of shorebirds. This is where oystercatchers, plovers, gulls, cormorants and pelicans gather to feed. On occasion you may catch a glimpse of migrating Snow Geese. This is a stunningly beautiful paddle between islands of marsh grass during the first light of day. Sunrise 7:12 am. We provide the kayak, paddle, personal flotation device and leader, you provide the paddle power. Meet: New Inlet Boat Launch parking lot, app. 3 miles south of Pea Island Refuge visitor center. Leader/Field Expert: Outer Banks Kayak Adventures staff https://obxadventure.com/ Thu 10-24-24, 6:30-8:30 am. $40.00.
Red-cockaded Woodpecker at Palmetto-Peartree Preserve (P-3). This is a two-part trip. First you meet at Creef Cut Trail parking lot on the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Then you will caravan in your vehicle following the leader to the Palmetto-Peartree Preserve, app. 15 miles west of Creef Cut Trail parking lot. There you will look for several colonies of endangered Red-cockaded Woodpeckers who live in the 'P-3.' Most of the sites are visible from the network of unpaved roads. We may also look for six other species of woodpeckers, and various songbirds that can be found in this area. Binoculars, cameras, water & insect repellent recommended. Meet: Creef Cut Trail parking lot, corner of Hwy 64 and Milltail Road (app. 5.5 miles west of Roanoke Island). Be prepared for app. 15 miles further driving to the observation location (30 mile round trip). Leader/Field Expert: John Hammond, USFWS. Thu 10-24-24, 6:00-11:00 am. $25.00.
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Birding and Wildlife. Explore, Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge in areas open year-'round and others normally closed to the public. Look for waterfowl and shorebirds in the impoundments, raptors including bald and golden eagles over the farm fields, and songbirds in roadside vegetation. Rare species such as the Western Kingbird and Ash-throated Flycatcher have been found during previous festivals. Butterflies possible (weather permitting). Black bear often seen. Red wolf and bobcat are a possibility. Meet: Creef Cut Trail parking lot, Hwy 64 and Milltail Road (app. 5.5 west of Roanoke Island). Trip leader/Field Expert: USFWS Staff. Thu 10-24-24, 7:30-10:30 am. $25.00.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge South Pond Birding. South Pond is normally closed off to visitors. It is only during guided Wings Over Water trips such as this one, that we are given special refuge permission to visit this otherwise closed area. The search for birds will include checking the impoundment for waterfowl and migratory shorebirds and also checking the undisturbed vegetation of the dikes and marshes for songbirds and raptors. Come prepared for mosquitoes. Cacti can also be a problem. Wear appropriate footwear. 1.5 to 2-mile walk. Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor parking lot, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of Oregon Inlet Bridge, west side of NC Hwy 12. Leader/Field Expert: Ricky Davis Thu 10-24-24, 7:30-11:00 am. $25.00.
Roanoke Island Birding. Explore Roanoke Island's birding hotspots: from open lawns to dense forests, from salt marsh to scanning the sound, to birding the Wanchese harbor. Lots of photo opportunities. Look for year-round resident bird species as well as a mix of fall migrants, including warblers, vireos, kinglets, nuthatches woodpeckers, thrushes and sparrows. Binoculars and insect repellent recommended. Meet: National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center 100 Conservation Way, Manteo, NC 27954, Roanoke Island. You will caravan to the various locations. Carpooling is optional. Good binoculars strongly recommended. Leader/Field Expert: Simon Thompson. Thu 10-24-24, 7:30-11:00 am. $25.00.
Birding the Northern Banks-From Corolla to Duck. Spend most of the day birding from north in Corolla and moving down to the boardwalk at Duck. Birding will begin with and include areas around Corolla village, including the Currituck Beach lighthouse and Whalehead Club area. We'll look for fall migrants including warblers, vireos, swallows and sparrows. We should see a few raptors, as well as terns and gulls. In the freshwater marsh areas rails are possible. If water levels are low, shorebirds may be present. We will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and then head south to the famous Town of Duck boardwalk and vicinity, looking for more fall migrants, especially warblers and vireos. Meet at 7:30 a.m. in Duck at the Waterfront Shops parking lot, just beyond the blue water tower on the left in the Town of Duck. We will carpool/caravan from there north to Corolla. You will need to cover the cost of your lunch. Also, if you are already in Corolla we can arrange to meet you there rather than you having to drive to Southern Shores. Call 252-216-9464 to arrange a Corolla meeting location. Alert: When you're looking at overall driving, the mileage one way from Roanoke Island to Corolla is app. 41 miles. Good binoculars strongly recommended. Leaders/Field Experts: Jeff Lewis & Peggy Eubank. Thu 10-24-24, 7:30 am-3:00 pm. $30.00.
Cape Hatteras Birding. Cape Hatteras is one of the Outer Banks' premier birding locations. The Point, the Salt Pond and adjacent flats, dunes and wetlands are historically important to both anglers and birders. Expect to see not only Brown Pelicans, gulls, terns, seabirds, shorebirds, ducks, and waders, but also a variety of raptors and passerines are possible. Northern Gannets and an assortment of grebes and sparrows are possible as well. In years prior to the pandemic, this trip was in leader-driven in 4 wheel drive vehicles with some walking. Because of restrictions, the trip this year must be done on foot, app. 1 1/2 miles. Walking conditions vary form hard-packed shell surface to deep sand. Alert: App. 45 miles south from Roanoke Island (Manteo) to Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (Buxton). Make it a day on Hatteras Island. Combine this trip with the new Buxton Woods Maritime Forest Hike. It starts just a few miles away after lunch, Thursday only. Meet: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse parking lot, 46368 Old Lighthouse Road, Buxton, NC 27920. Leaders/Field Experts: John Wright, Jeff Pippen & Carson Wood, Thu 10-24-24, 8:00-11:30 am. $25.00.
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Tram Tour (Family Friendly). Enjoy the beauty of the refuge from the open-air tram! Sit back and enjoy the ride with your hands free to take fantastic photographs, or gaze at wildlife up-close through binoculars. Enjoy a lively narrative about the natural history of the refuge and hear fascinating stories of past and present uses of the land. Find out if there really were buffalo in Buffalo City. Discover techniques used to manage the mosaic of habitats for native wildlife. The tour will include Twiford Road which is normally closed this time of year. Because of varying temperatures and possible insects, dress appropriately to keep warm and prevent insect bites. Tram seating is a hard bench. You are welcome to bring a towel, blanket or seat cushion to use as seat padding to make the ride more comfortable. Binoculars and cameras are recommended but not required. Tram is handicapped and wheelchair accessible. Meet: Creef Cut Trail parking lot, Hwy 64 & Milltail Road, app. 5.5 miles west of Roanoke Island (on Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge). Leaders/Field Expert: Bob Glennon. Thu 10-24-24, 9:00 am-11 am. $20.00.
Buxton Woods Maritime Forest Hike. Take a two-hour hike in the wild maritime forest, on relict sand dune ridges as high as 60 feet surrounding freshwater swales locally known as sedges. Located on the widest and wildest part of Hatteras Island, these topographic and geographic features combine to produce unique island habitat. The maritime forests, swamps, and inter-dune ponds of Buxton Woods provide habitat for much of the island's wildlife. Bring water. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Meet: Buxton Woods Nature Trail parking lot on Lighthouse Road, adjacent to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse parking area. We may caravan to other nearby trails showing various aspects of wooded habitats. Alert: This meeting location is app. 48 miles south from Roanoke Island. Make it a day on Hatteras Island. Register for the morning, Cape Hatteras Birding. Leader/Field Expert: Marcia Lyons, retired Cape Hatteras National Seashore Park Naturalist & Field Biologist. Thu 10-24-24, 1:00-3:00 pm. $25.00.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge South Pond Birding. South Pond is normally closed off to visitors. It is only during guided Wings Over Water trips such as this one, that we are given special refuge permission to visit this otherwise closed area. The search for birds will include checking the impoundment for waterfowl and migratory shorebirds and also checking the undisturbed vegetation of the dikes and marshes for songbirds and raptors. Come prepared for mosquitoes. Cacti can also be a problem. Wear appropriate footwear. 1.5 to 2-mile walk. Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center parking lot, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of Oregon Inlet Bridge, west side of NC Hwy 12. Leader/Field Expert: Simon Thompson. Thu 10-24-24, 1:00-4:30 pm. $25.00.
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Kayak Birding Tour (NEW). Discover the tranquility of a hidden gem within the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Here, amidst the peaceful surroundings, you'll find a sanctuary for rare and endangered creatures like the red wolf, as well as a thriving population of black bears and the often-misunderstood American alligator. This tour offers an escape from the crowds of the bustling tourist season along the Outer Banks. Led by experienced guides from Outer Banks Kayak Adventures, you'll navigate through this serene landscape, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of the Pocosin forest. Immerse yourself in nature's chorus within the Alligator River's rich ecosystem, where over 250 bird species create a symphony of sounds. From the sweet melodies of Prothonotary Warblers to the distinctive calls of Prairie Warblers, Northern Cardinals, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, Pileated Woodpeckers, Carolina Chickadees, Brown-headed Nuthatches, and countless others, every moment is a treasure to behold. Get ready for an awe-inspiring experience that will leave a lasting impression. Leaders/Field Experts: Outer Banks Kayak Adventures: https://obxadventure.com Thursday Oct 24th 2024: 4-6pm $40.00.
Directions to the Milltail Creek Floating dock launch -Take Hwy 64 West over the bridge from Nags Head to Manteo and again over the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge to Manns Harbor. Continue on Hwy 64 until you reach the Creef Cut Wildlife Trail Sign, and turn left onto MILLTAIL ROAD. It is a dirt road. Drive 2.2 miles to the Y in the road, take the direction to the right, and stay on MILLTAIL ROAD for 4.4 more miles. DO NOT turn off Milltail Road; go until the road crosses a single-lane bridge. The launch point is on the right side of the road, just after the bridge. If you are using Google Maps, Use this Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8e235oh4xnVpd4h9A
Red-cockaded Woodpecker at Palmetto-Peartree Preserve (P-3). This is a two-part trip. First you meet at Creef Cut Trail parking lot on the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Then you will caravan in your vehicle following the leader to the Palmetto-Peartree Preserve, app. 15 miles west of Creef Cut Trail parking lot. There you will look for several colonies of endangered Red-cockaded Woodpeckers who live in the 'P-3.' Most of the sites are visible from the network of unpaved roads. We may also look for six other species of woodpeckers, and various songbirds that can be found in this area. Binoculars, cameras, water & insect repellent recommended. Meet: Creef Cut Trail parking lot, corner of Hwy 64 and Milltail Road (app. 5.5 miles west of Roanoke Island). Be prepared for app. 15 miles further driving to the observation location (30 mile round trip). Leader/Field Expert: John Hammond, USFWS. Fri 10-25-24 6:00-11:00 am. $25.00.
Alligator River Refuge Nature Photography Van Tour. A unique customized tour on Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge hoping to provide the optimal locations to see wildlife. We'll be looking for black bears, river otters, wild turkeys, alligators, red wolves and much more. This is not a camera instructional tour, but a tour taking you to locations where you might obtain the best photos with your camera. Very limited space for 6. Meet: Creef Cut Wildlife Trail parking lot, NC Hwy 64 & Milltail Road. Leader/expert: Tracey Rock & Jackie Orsulak. Fri 10-25-24 , 7:00-9:am. $30.00.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge the South Pond Birding Experience. Bring your own spotting scope/binoculars for some serious birding with an expert leader who will help you identify unusual species and direct you to special areas of this usually closed impoundment. Expect the usual songbirds, raptors, migratory shorebirds & waterfowl. Hope for the unique! Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of Marc Basnight (Oregon Inlet) Bridge on the west side of NC Hwy 12. Leader/Field Expert: Kent Fiala. Fri 10-25-24, 7:30-11:00 am. $25.00.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge North Pond Birding. This walk, suitable for all levels of birding, will include the south and north dikes and will be paced to give participants an opportunity to study species found. Likely birds include dabbling ducks, herons, egrets; Brown Pelicans, White Ibis, raptors, shorebirds, gulls; terns, warblers, sparrows and blackbirds. App. 1.5-mile walking distance. Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of the Oregon Inlet (Marc Basnight) Bridge on the west side of Hwy 12. Leader/Field Expert: Simon Thompson. Fri 10-25-24, 7:30-11:00 am. $25.00.
Roanoke Island Birding. Explore Roanoke Island's birding hotspots: from open lawns to dense forests, from salt marsh to scanning the sound. Lots of photo opportunities. Look for year-round resident bird species as well as a mix of fall migrants, including warblers, vireos, kinglets, creepers, nuthatches, woodpeckers, thrushes and sparrows. Binoculars and insect repellent recommended. Meet: National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center, 100 Conservation Way, Roanoke Island. Carpooling may be an option, otherwise we will caravan to the various locations. Good binoculars strongly recommended. Leader/Field Expert: Jeff Lewis. Fri 10-25-24, 7:30-11:00 am. $25.00.
Exploring Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary. Explore one of the gems of the region with special access to the various habitats of the 2600-acre Audubon Sanctuary. This guided walk, although focused on bird watching, will feature all the nature and history that the Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary has to offer. 2-mile walk on solid terrain. Meet: Audubon Nature Sanctuary, 300 Audubon Drive, Corolla, NC 27927 (app. 32 miles north of Roanoke Island off of NC Hwy 12). Pull onto Audubon Drive, wait at wooden gate. http://pineisland.audubon.org/visit 32 miles north of Roanoke Island off of NC Hwy 12. Leaders/Field Experts: Jane Bailey, Audubon staff Donal C. O’Brien, Jr. Sanctuary and Audubon Center. Fri 10-25-24, 8:00-11:00 am. $25.00.
Cape Hatteras Birding. Cape Hatteras is one of the Outer Banks' premier birding locations. The Point, the Salt Pond and adjacent flats, dunes and wetlands are historically important to both anglers and birders. Expect to see not only Brown Pelicans, gulls, terns, seabirds, shorebirds, ducks, and waders, but also a variety of raptors and passerines are possible. Northern Gannets and an assortment of grebes and sparrows are possible as well. In years prior to the pandemic, this trip was in leader-driven 4 wheel drive vehicles with some walking. But, because of restrictions, the trip this year must be done on foot, app. 1 1/2 miles. Walking conditions vary from hard-packed shell surface to deep sand. Alert: App. 45 miles south from Roanoke Island (Manteo) to Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (Buxton). Meet: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse parking lot, 46368 Old Lighthouse Road, Buxton, NC 27920. Leaders/Field Experts: John Wright, Taylor Piephoff, Kevin Burke & Carson Wood. Fri 10-25-24, 8:00-11:30 am. $25.00.
Ocracoke Island Birding (Distant Trip). Explore this wonderful 15-mile-long barrier island which is entirely in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Birding can change from day-to-day, especially in the fall. We will be on the lookout for lots of shorebirds, including Red Knots, White and Glossy Ibis, Peregrine Falcons, Eurasian Collared-doves, Palm warblers and Red-breasted Nuthatches and, hopefully, spectacular views of Northern Gannets feeding just offshore. Stops will include a maritime forest, the dunes for an overview of migrating raptors, marshes, the beach, views of Pamlico Sound and Springer's Point. Meet at the northern Ocracoke ferry terminal parking area. ALERT: This trip is one of WOW's most southern programs. Plan your WOW schedule considering the travel time. It is 63 miles from Roanoke Island to the Hatteras ferry terminal. The free ferry ride takes approximately 65 minutes and does not take reservations, loading first come, first served. Call 1-800-BYFERRY to confirm ferry schedules or check on-line. On your ferry ride crossing Hatteras Inlet, look for waterfowl, gulls, terns, cormorants, and pelicans. Call the trip leader (202- 468-2871) if you are delayed. Consider pairing this trip and register for Friday Cape Hatteras Birding or Buxton Woods Maritime Forest Hike or Birding Portsmouth Island on Saturday. Leader/Field Expert: Peter Vankevich. Fri 10-25-24, 8:00 am-2:00 pm. $25.00.
Mashoes Marshes Kayak Tour. Kayak with an experienced, local guide through the backwater canals and creeks of the Mashoes community. This is a lesser-traveled portion of the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, making it one of the most pristine kayak locations on the Outer Banks. The trip combines open water and narrow, winding paths through cordgrass fields. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore on foot a remote beach and maritime forest along the Albemarle Sound. We provide the leader, the kayaks, paddles and personal flotation devices, you provide the paddle power! Meet: Mashoes Road roadside canal launch area 3.3 miles northwest of Hwy 64/264, Manns Harbor. Look for leader and kayak trailer and park on roadside completely off the roadway. Leader/Field Expert: Coastal Kayak Touring Company staff. https://www.outerbankskayaktours.com/ Fri 10-25-24, 9:00-11:30 am. $40.00.
How to Listen-An Introduction to Birding by Ear. Introducing birding by ear for those interested in learning basic information helpful in identifying and remembering common bird songs. Many beginning birders wonder how to identify a bird by sound when the bird cannot be seen. Using recorded bird songs, this class will give you the techniques of how to be a good listener. Learning the techniques of how to listen is an important aspect of our day-to-day human interaction, but it is also an excellent basic tool for bird identification. Cathryn Sill leads this short class on the ways to listen. Especially designed for beginning birders and anyone who wants to improve their listening skills. Most advanced birders will have already developed the skills taught in this class. Meet: National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center, 100 Conservation Way, Manteo, NC 27954, Roanoke Island. Conference room. Leader: Cathryn Sill. Fri 10-25-24, 12:30-2:00 pm, $20.00.
Bodie Island Lighthouse Birding. Look for songbirds around the lighthouse and on wooded trails, and for waterbirds (swans, geese, ducks, grebes, herons, egrets, ibis, rails, etc.) from the boardwalk by the ponds. While the emphasis will be on birds, the search will also include identifying butterflies and dragonflies (weather permitting). Local plant life will also be pointed out, and fun flora facts will be mentioned relating to both human culture and the importance to birds. Meet: Bodie Island Lighthouse parking lot near the north end restrooms, 8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse Road S. Nags Head, NC 27954. Leader/Field Expert: Jeff Pippen. Fri 10-25-24, 1:00-4:30 pm. $25.00.
Oregon Inlet Marsh Birding . Check the Inlet's beach and flats for shorebirds, including Piping Plover. Then wade the marsh in search of Clapper Rails, marsh sparrows (including Nelson's and Saltmarsh) and Marsh and Sedge Wrens. Meet at easily visible parking area on Ramp Four's new all-vehicle road that leads oceanside from the north end of the Oregon Inlet Bridge. Bring boots for walking in calf-deep water. This can be a strenuous birding excursion. Leader John Fussell is author of, A Birder's Guide to Coastal North Carolina. Leaders/Field Experts: John Fussell, Kent Fiala & Gerald Head. Fri Oct 10-25-24. 1:00 - 5 pm. Cost $30.
Hummingbird Banding (Family Friendly) (Waves) NEW! This program is being held in a different location this year: mid-way between Nags Head and Buxton. Hummingbird expert and licensed bander, Susan Campbell will demonstrate techniques for capturing and banding hummingbirds. The yard where the program will take place has hummingbirds twelve months a year. The program also will provide useful tips on attracting hummingbirds. Consider bringing along a folding chair. We will be in one spot and standing may get tiring. ALERT: Because this is a 'Family Friendly' trip, two children 12 or under may accompany a paying, supervising adult at no charge. To include your child or children you must make reservations by either calling or emailing. 252-216-9464 or wow@coastalwildliferefuge.com Meet: at the Lebing residence which is located at 25962 Hwy 12 in the town of Waves. Use GPS or Google earth to locate if necessary. Plenty of parking in the driveway. House has a unique observatory above the roofline that will help you locate the spot. Leader/Field Expert: Susan Campbell, Fri 10-25-24, 2:00-4:00 pm. $25.00.
Bird Drawing and Watercolor with John Sill. If you have ever wanted to learn to draw, sketch and paint birds this is the class for you! John Sill is one of the country's top nature artists. You will enjoy your time learning to draw with John. Besides being a nature artist John is the illustrator of over 2 dozen nature books written by his wife, Cathryn. John was the 2012 Wings Over Water keynote speaker. Each year since, John has returned to teach a basic class in bird sketching, focusing on waterfowl, shorebirds and songbirds. This year John has modified the class from only basic pencil and paper bird drawing to a class that now includes watercolors. You will spend the beginning of the class learning the basics of drawing a bird. Using an overhead projector, John will demonstrate how to outline and draw what you see. By the end of class you will have a good idea of how to draw basic birds and maybe more. If you are beyond the basic drawing level, John will help you refine and develop your skills. Then you will transfer your bird drawing to watercolor paper and render a watercolor of your bird. We will provide all basic supplies but you are welcome to bring your own. Meet: National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center. 100 Conservation Way, Manteo, NC 27954. Fri 10-25-24, 2:15-4:15 pm. $30.00.
Owl Prowl. We hope to hoot up Barred Owls, Eastern Screech-owls, and Great Horned Owls on this trip with special nighttime access to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Owls can be secretive and hard to see, so you never know what species we will encounter in the wild. The program will begin with a presentation on the natural history, distribution and identification of local owl species. Transportation is by car caravan in your vehicle behind the leader. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight or headlamp. Meet: Creef Cut Trail parking lot, Hwy 64 & Milltail Road, app. 5.5 miles west of Roanoke Island (on Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Leader/Field Expert: Sarah Toner, USFWS. Fri 10-25-24, 5:30-8:30 pm. $25.00.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge South Pond and Beach Birding. The first hour will be spent ocean-watching and searching for and identifying ocean and beach birds. The rest of the trip will be spent birding the impoundments, dikes, and marshes of South Pond. Expect a variety of waterfowl, herons, egrets, wrens and sparrows. American Bitterns are possible. If we have good weather, there is also a chance for an assortment of raptors. With any luck we might find some warbler species in addition to all of the Yellow-rumps! While the emphasis will be on birds, the search will include identifying butterflies and dragonflies that we might encounter (weather permitting). Fun flora facts will be mentioned relating to both human culture and the importance to birds. Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of Oregon Inlet Bridge on west side of NC Hwy 12. Leader/Field Expert: Jeff Pippen. Sat 10-26-24, 7:30-11:00 am. $25.00.
Bodie Island Lighthouse & Beach Birding. Look for songbirds around the lighthouse and on wooded trails, and for waterbirds from the boardwalk by the ponds. Then experience the diversity of the island’s habitats by spending an hour on nearby Coquina Beach watching for migrating scoters, loons, seabirds, and marine mammals. Be prepared to walk up to 1 mile on paved or hard-packed, flat terrain. Meet: Bodie Island Lighthouse parking lot, near the north end restrooms. 8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse Road, Nags Head, NC 27959. Leader/Field Expert: Steve Shultz. Sat 10-26-24, 7:30-11:00 am. $25.00.
Oregon Inlet Old Coast Guard Station Birding. Where the ocean meets the sound you will find an interesting selection of birds. Around the historic Oregon Inlet old Coast Guard Station look for land birds and whatever else may fly through the often volatile Oregon Inlet corridor. Walk sand flats to find terns, shorebirds, and Piping Plover. Explore the rock jetty for Purple Sandpiper and view the inlet and ocean for waterbirds. App. one mile walk. Meet: Southern Oregon Inlet Bridge parking lot. If you're headed south on NC Hwy 12, this lot is immediately east (left) after crossing the bridge. Leader/Field Expert: Ricky Davis. Sat 10-26-24, 7:30-11:30 am. $25.00.
Pamlico Sound Birding Kayak Tour. Created by popular demand we have a water trip designed for birders and non-birders alike. On this outing, you'll have both a paddling and a birding guide. Kayak out of the Salvo Day Use Area (a Cape Hatteras National Seashore National Park Service area) with an experienced local birder and a paddling co-leader. The Salvo Day Use Area is located on the shores of the Pamlico Sound. The tour is designed specifically for those interested in viewing the many bird species that live along the marshlands, feed along the shores, and swim the waters of the sound. Paddling along the shoreline and into coves and canals, you will see the richness and diversity of our wetlands. We will move slowly, stopping at many inlets to view birds. There are usually a variety of shore birds and long-legged water birds, such as Great egrets, Tricolored herons, Willets and Sandpipers. You may also be able to see one of the local raptors, such as an Osprey or a Bald eagle. There is no better way to view this area than by kayak since it is inaccessible by vehicle or foot. Skill level-beginning paddlers and above. If you bring binoculars, camera or items you don't want to get wet we suggest you also bring a dry bag for protection. We provide the kayaks, paddles, personal flotation devices and guides, you provide the paddle power. Meet: Salvo Day Use Area, 5.6 miles south of Rodanthe on west side of NC 12, S. Leaders/Field Experts: Kitty Kayak & Surf School staff and John Hammond, USFWS. Sat 10-26-24, 8:00-11:00 am. $40.00.
Cape Hatteras Birding. Cape Hatteras is one of the Outer Banks' premier birding locations. The Point, the Salt Pond and adjacent flats, dunes and wetlands are historically important to both anglers and birders. Expect to see not only Brown Pelicans, gulls, terns, seabirds, shorebirds, ducks, and waders, but also a variety of raptors and passerines are possible. Northern Gannets and an assortment of grebes and sparrows are possible as well. In years prior to the pandemic, this trip was in leader-driven in 4 wheel drive vehicles with some walking. Because of restrictions, the trip this year must be done on foot, app. 1 1/2 miles. Walking conditions vary form hard-packed shell surface to deep sand. Alert: App. 45 miles south from Roanoke Island (Manteo) to Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (Buxton). Meet: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse parking lot. 46368 Old Lighthouse Road, Buxton, NC 27920. Leaders/Field Experts: John Wright, Taylor Piephoff, Carson Wood & Kevin Burke. Sat 10-26-24, 8:00-11:30 am. $30.00.
Birding Portsmouth Island (Distant Trip). Bird the abandoned village on Portsmouth Island, now part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore and maintained by the National Park Service. Established in 1752, for many years it was the largest European settlement on the Outer Banks serving as a major shipping port. Starting with the Civil War, it began a long decline with the last residents leaving in 1971. Portsmouth Island is one of the last wild frontiers of the Outer Banks. The overall experience makes this a truly once-in-a-lifetime birding trip. Expect a variety of waders, shorebirds, especially American Oystercatchers, raptors, and thicket-loving birds. Your registration fee covers the chartered boat which transports participants from Ocracoke to the sound side of Portsmouth Island. Be prepared for walking and insects. Mosquitoes can be fierce. ALERT: This trip requires careful planning with lots of travel time. It is Wings Over Water's most southern trip. The trip is unique and wonderful. But we urge you to plan your schedule carefully due to the time and distance involved. It is 63 miles from Roanoke Island to the Hatteras ferry docks. There is a wait to get on the ferry which departs on the hour. The ferry ride takes app. 65 minutes. Once off the ferry you have another 20-to- 30-minute drive south to the meeting location in Ocracoke village. You may choose to spend the night before on Ocracoke. Consider combining this field trip and that of Ocracoke Island that takes place the day before.
But keep in mind that if this trip gets cancelled due to weather, you may be committed to your motel reservation. Call 1-800-BYFERRY to confirm ferry schedules. Hatteras Inlet ferries are free loading first come, first serve. Call the trip leader if you have a ferry delay (202-468-2871). Meet at the ferry parking lot, south end of Ocracoke Island. Save one-day long-distance driving, Leader/Field Expert: Peter Vankevich, Sat 10-26-24, 8:00 am - 1:00 pm. $40.00.
Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge Tram Tour-Birding & Wildlife (NEW). Join veteran leader, Susan Campbell and this years keynote speaker, Kenn Kaufman, on this special trip! Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge is renowned for its waterfowl. And it is widely recognized as one of the best birding sites in North Carolina. During the fall and winter, hundreds of thousands of migratory birds, including a variety of ducks, geese and swans migrate to Lake Mattamuskeet, the largest natural lake in North Carolina. Besides waterfowl you may also see bald eagles, warblers, waders, otters and muskrats. Binoculars and a bird Identification book are recommended. Dress for the weather! The tram has hard seating. You are welcome to bring a seat cushion, towel or blanket on which to sit for more comfort. Meet: Lake Landing/Great Ditch Road parking area. GPS 35.48338,-76.07834. Off of Highway 264 between Englehard and Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge. We DO NOT meet at the refuge visitor center. The meeting location is 5 miles south of Engehard and 9.5 miles north of Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll be turning off of Highway 264 onto a dirt and gravel road. After you turn, the canal will be on your left as you drive straight ahead to the parking/meeting area. ALERT-This trip is app. 59 miles from Roanoke Island. Consider the distance when planning your Wings Over Water itinerary. Leaders/Field Experts: Susan Campbell, Marc Ribaudo and Kenn Kaufman. Sat 10-26-24, 9:00 am-noon. $25.00.oanoke Island (on Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Leader/Field Expert: Brian Bockhahn. Wed 10-18-23, 5:30-8:30 pm. $20.00.
Birding 101 is designed for the inexperienced or casual bird watcher who would like to improve their birding skills. Using a combination of classroom and field exercises, participants will learn clues to solve the bird identification puzzle. Following classroom discussion and identification exercises, participants will put their new skills to work with a short walk at a nearby location. Although designed for the beginning birder, others may learn methods to expand their birding skills. Binoculars are recommended but not required. Due to class length you might want to bring a snack and water. Meet: National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center, 100 Conservation Way, Manteo, NC 27954, Roanoke Island, conference room. Leader/Field Expert: Colleen Bockhahn. Sat 10-26-24, 1:00-4:00 pm. $25.00.
Shorebirds & Waders. The marshes, flats, and beaches of the Outer Banks are some of the best places in North Carolina to enjoy two groups of birds closely associated with the coast, shorebirds and waders. Join us as we roam the coast from Nags Head to Rodanthe in search of sandpipers, plovers, godwits, herons and egrets. This trip will focus on the identification of shorebirds and waders by size, plumage, and behavior. Learn which shorebirds winter in North Carolina and where some of our migrants end up. You might be surprised! The exact locations that we will visit will depend on current conditions and the timing of the tides, but may include Bodie Island Lighthouse, Oregon Inlet, and Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Spotting scopes are helpful, but not required. Mosquito repellent may be appropriate at Pea Island. The bugs can be fierce! Be prepared to walk up to 2 miles along mainly flat, hard-packed terrain. Meet: Bodie Island Lighthouse parking lot, 8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse Road, Nags Head, NC 27959, at north end near the rest rooms. You will carpool or caravan to the various other locations. Leader/Field Expert: Steve Shultz. Sat 10-26-24, 1:00-4:30 pm. $25.00.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge South Pond Birding. The search for birds will include checking the impoundment for waterfowl and migratory shorebirds and also checking the undisturbed vegetation of the dikes and marshes for songbirds and raptors. Come prepared for mosquitoes. Cacti can also be a problem. Wear appropriate footwear. 1.5 to 2-mile walk. Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center parking lot, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of Oregon Inlet Bridge, west side of NC Hwy 12. Leader/Field Expert: Jeff Lemons. Sat 10-26-23, 1:00-4:30 pm. $25.00.
Oregon Inlet Marsh Birding. Check the Inlet's beach and flats for shorebirds, including Piping Plover. Then wade the marsh in search of Clapper Rails, marsh sparrows (including Nelson's and Saltmarsh) and Marsh and Sedge Wrens. Meet at easily visible parking area on Ramp Four's new all-vehicle road that leads oceanside from the north end of the Oregon Inlet Bridge. Bring boots for walking in calf-deep water. This can be a strenuous birding excursion. Leader John Fussell is author of A Birder's Guide to Coastal North Carolina. Leaders/Field Experts: John Fussell, Kent Fiala & Gerald Head. Sat Oct 10-26-24, 1:00 - 5 pm. Cost $30.
Bird Drawing and Watercolor with John Sill. If you have ever wanted to learn to draw, sketch and paint birds this is the class for you! John Sill is one of the country's top nature artists. You will enjoy your time learning to draw with John. Besides being a nature artist John is the illustrator of over 2 dozen nature books written by his wife, Cathryn. John was the 2012 Wings Over Water keynote speaker. Each year since, John has returned to teach a basic class in bird sketching, focusing on waterfowl, shorebirds and songbirds. This year John has modified the class from only basic pencil and paper bird drawing to a class that now includes watercolors. You will spend the beginning of the class learning the basics of drawing a bird. Using an overhead projector, John will demonstrate how to outline and draw what you see. By the end of class you will have a good idea of how to draw basic birds and maybe more. If you are beyond the basic drawing level, John will help you refine and develop your skills. Then you will transfer your bird drawing to watercolor paper and render a watercolor of your bird. We will provide all basic supplies but you are welcome to bring your own. Meet: National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center 100 Conservation Way, Manteo, NC 27954, Roanoke Island, conference room. Leader/Artist: John Sill. Sat. 10-26-24, 2:00-4:00 pm $30.00.
Keynote Reception & Dinner with Kenn Kaufman (NEW) Enjoy an evening of food, drink & good company, highlighted by a talk from this years keynote speaker entitled, ‘Discovery, Rediscovery and the Sense of Wonder.’ Reception begins at 6:00 pm, with coffee, iced tea, beer, wine & water. This is a casual time to meet & talk before dinner at 6:45 pm and Kenn’s talk at 8 pm. Buffet menu: Classic tossed salad, bacon-wrapped scallops, crab dip crostini, mini tomato pie, deli meat and cheese platter (turkey, ham roast beef, swiss, munster & cheddar), Pigs in a Blanket (all-beef mini hot dogs in a puff pastry),wild mushroom risotto, dinner rolls & assorted cookies. Meal comes with tea, coffee, beer & wine. Food and drinks catered by Basnight's Lone Cedar Cafe. Meal is not kosher. Meet: National Wildlife Refuges Gateway Visitor Center. 100 Conservation Way. Manteo, NC 27954 (Roanoke Island) 10-26-24, 6:00-8:00 pm. $40.00.
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Birding & Wildlife. Explore Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge in areas open year-'round and others normally closed to the public. Look for waterfowl and shorebirds in the impoundments, raptors including Bald and Golden Eagles over the farm fields, and songbirds in roadside vegetation. Rare species such as the Western Kingbird and Ash-throated Flycatcher have been found during previous festivals. Butterflies possible (weather permitting). Black bear often seen. Red Wolf and bobcat are a possibility. Binoculars strongly recommended. Meet: Creef Cut Trail parking lot, Hwy 64 and Milltail Road, app. 5.5 miles west of Roanoke Island. From the meeting location we will caravan around the refuge. Carpooling may be an option. Leader/Field Expert: Jeff Lemons. Sun 10-27-24. 7:30-10:30 am. $25.00.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge North Pond Birding. This walk, suitable for all levels of birding, will include the south and north dikes and will be paced to give participants an opportunity to study species found. Likely birds include dabbling ducks, herons, egrets; Brown Pelicans, White Ibis, raptors, shorebirds, gulls; terns, warblers, sparrows, and blackbirds. App. 1.5-mile walking distance. Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of the Oregon Inlet Bridge on the west side of Hwy 12. Leaders/Field Experts: Karen Lebing & Marc Ribaudo. Sun 10-27-24, 7:30-11:00 am. $25.00.
WOW ENCORE DECEMBER 6 - 8
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Birding WOW Encore. ALERT: When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. Explore Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge in areas open year-'round and others normally closed to the public. Look for waterfowl and shorebirds in the impoundments. Raptors, including Bald Eagles and Peregrine Falcons may be seen over farm fields and songbirds in roadside vegetation. Rare species such as, Golden Eagle, Western Kingbird and Ash-throated Flycatcher have been found during previous festivals. Black Bear often seen. Red Wolf, Bobcat and River Otter are possibilities. Binoculars strongly recommended. Meet: Creef Cut Wildlife Trail parking lot, Milltail Road & Hwy 64, app. 5.5 miles west of Roanoke Island bridge (Virginia Dare Bridge). Leader/Field Expert: Derb Carter. Fri 12-6-24, 8:00-11:30 am. $25.00. GPS 35.863989-75.861076.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge North Pond Birding. WOW Encore. ALERT: When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. This walk, suitable for all levels of birding, will include the south and north dikes and will be paced to give participants an opportunity to study species found. Likely birds include dabbling ducks, herons, egrets; Brown pelicans, White ibis, shorebirds, gulls; terns, warblers, sparrows and blackbirds. App. 1.5-mile walking distance. Meet at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app 4 miles south of the Oregon Inlet (Bonner) Bridge on the west side of NC Hwy 12. Leader/Field Expert: Peggy Eubank & Jeff Lewis Fri 12-6-24, 8:00-11:30 am. $25.00.
Mattamuskeet & Swan Quarter National Wildlife Refuges Birding (Distant Trip) WOW Encore ALERT: When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge is widely recognized as one of the best birding sites in North Carolina. During the fall and winter hundreds of thousands of migratory birds, including a wide variety of ducks, geese and swans migrate to Lake Mattamuskeet, the largest natural lake in North Carolina. Besides waterfowl you may also see Bald Eagles, warblers, waders, otters and muskrats. Binoculars and bird identification book are recommended. ALERT: App. 59 miles from Roanoke Island to this location. For distant trips, consider travel times when planning your WOW schedule. Meet: Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center parking lot, 85 Mattamuskeet Road, Swan Quarter, NC 27885. Leader/Field Expert: Marc Ribaudo. Fri 12-6-24, 8:00 am-noon. $25.00
Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge Birding (Distant Trip) WOW Encore. ALERT: When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. Come learn about the best spots on the refuge for bird and wildlife watching. Expect a wide assortment of waterbirds in the lake and refuge impoundments. The group will see plenty of Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Northern Shovelers to name a few. There is also the possibility of finding a Eurasian Wigeon. Herons and egrets will be abundant. This is a good place to spot a 'Great White' Heron, the rare form of the Great Blue. The group should also see a variety of land birds in the adjacent bottomland forest. Wrens, sparrows and perhaps an unusual flycatcher such as an Ash-throated could turn up. Driving with short walks at some stops. Meet: Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center parking lot, 85 Mattamuskeet Road, Swan Quarter, NC 27885. ALERT: App. 59 miles from Roanoke Island to this location. For distant trips, consider travel times when planning your WOW schedule. Leader/Field Expert: Marc Ribaudo. Fri 12-6-24, 1:00-4:00 pm. $25.00
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge South Pond & Beach Birding, WOW Encore ALERT - When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. The first hour will be spent ocean-watching and searching for and identifying ocean and beach birds. The rest of the trip will be spent birding the impoundments, dikes, and marshes of South Pond. Expect a variety of waterfowl, herons, egrets, wrens and sparrows. American bitterns are possible. If we have good weather, there is also a chance for an assortment of raptors. With any luck we might find some warbler species in addition to all of the Yellow-rumps! Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center parking lot, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app 4 miles south of the Oregon Inlet Bridge, on the west side of NC Hwy 12. Leaders/Field Experts: Karen Lebing Fri 12-6-24, 1:00-4:00 pm. $25.00
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge South Pond & Beach Birding, WOW Encore. ALERT - When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. The first hour will be spent ocean-watching and searching for and identifying ocean and beach birds. The rest of the trip will be spent birding the impoundments, dikes, and marshes of South Pond. Expect a variety of waterfowl, herons, egrets, wrens and sparrows. American Bitterns are possible. If we have good weather, there is also a chance for an assortment of raptors. With any luck we might find some warbler species in addition to all of the Yellow-rumps! Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center parking lot, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app 4 miles south of the Oregon Inlet Bridge, on the west side of NC Hwy 12. Leader/Field Expert: Susan Campbell Sat 12-7-24, 8:00-11:30 am. $25.00
Oregon Inlet Old Coast Guard Station Birding WOW Encore. ALERT: When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. Where the ocean meets the sound you will find an interesting selection of birds. Around the historic Oregon Inlet old Coast Guard Station look for land birds and whatever else may fly through the often volatile Oregon Inlet corridor. Walk sand flats to find terns, shorebirds, and Piping Plover (might see). Explore the rock jetty for Purple Sandpiper and view the inlet and ocean for waterbirds. App. 1 mile walk. Meet: Oregon Inlet Bridge south parking lot. From the north, this is immediately on the east after crossing south on NC Hwy 12. Leader/Field Expert: Karen Lebing Sat 12-7-24, 8:00-11:30 am. $25.00.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge & Oregon Inlet Birding WOW Encore. ALERT: When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. This trip will start at Pea Island and then move northward Oregon Inlet. The group will start with surveying the impoundments at Pea Island. Then they will drive up to the north end of the island to Oregon Inlet and the bridge. Time will be spent checking the inlet out to the rock groin, looking for species that may include Great Cormorant, Common Eider, Purple Sandpiper, Piping plover (might see), “Ipswich” Sparrow and more. The group will also spend time ocean watching at multiple locations along the way. Northern Gannet, Red-throated Loon and an assortment of gull species, as well as scoters should be visible from the beach. Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center parking lot, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of the Oregon Inlet Bridge on west side of NC Hwy 12. Leader/Field Expert: Steve Shultz. Sat 12-7-24, 8:00 am-3:00 pm. $25.00.
Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Birding WOW Encore. ALERT: When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. Pocosin Lakes is famous for huge flocks of wintering Snow Geese. Mixed in may be Ross’s, Greater White-fronted or Cackling Geese. Red-winged Blackbirds can number in the thousands, a spectacle in itself. Yellow-headed Blackbird might be found. Also raptors abound with the possibility of a Golden Eagle overhead. Farm field and edge species may include a variety of sparrows as well as American Pipits and Horned Larks. Meet: Pettigrew State Park office parking lot. 2252 Lake Shore Road Creswell, NC 27928. From this meeting location we will either carpool or caravan following the leader to various birding hotspots around the refuge. Leader/Field Expert: Ed Corey, Jeff Beane & Stephanie Horton. Sat 12-7-24, 10:00 am-6:00 pm. $25.00.
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Birding WOW Encore. ALERT: When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. Explore Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge in areas open year-'round and others normally closed to the public. Look for waterfowl and shorebirds in the impoundments. Raptors, including Bald Eagles and Peregrine Falcons may be seen over farm fields and songbirds in roadside vegetation. Rare species such as, Golden Eagle, Western Kingbird and Ash-throated Flycatcher have been found during previous festivals. Black Bear often seen. Red Wolf, Bobcat and River Otter are possibilities. Meet: Creef Cut Wildlife Trail parking lot, Milltail Road & Hwy 64, app. 5.5 miles west of Roanoke Island bridge (Virginia Dare Bridge). Leader/Field Expert: Derb Carter, Sat. 12-7-24, 1-4 pm. $25.00. GPS 35.863989-75.861076.
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Birding WOW Encore. ALERT: When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. Explore Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge in areas open year-'round and others normally closed to the public. Look for waterfowl and shorebirds in the impoundments. Raptors, including Bald Eagles and Peregrine Falcons may be seen over farm fields and songbirds in roadside vegetation. Rare species such as, Golden Eagle, Western Kingbird and Ash-throated Flycatcher have been found during previous festivals. Black Bear often seen. Red Wolf, Bobcat and River Otter are possibilities. Meet: Creef Cut Wildlife Trail parking lot, Milltail Road & Hwy 64, app. 5.5 miles west of Roanoke Island bridge (Virginia Dare Bridge). Leader/Field Expert: Derb Carter. Sun 12-8-24, 8:00-11:30 am. $25.00. GPS 35.863989-75.861076.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge North Pond Birding WOW Encore. ALERT: When registering for this trip please note the date is in December. This walk, suitable for all levels of birding, will include the south and north dikes and will be paced to give participants an opportunity to study species found. Likely birds include dabbling ducks, herons, egrets; Brown pelicans, White ibis, shorebirds, gulls; terns, warblers, sparrows and blackbirds. App. 1.5 mile walking distance Meet: Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center parking lot, 14500 NC Hwy 12, app. 4 miles south of the Oregon Inlet Bridge on the west side of NC Hwy 12. Leaders/Field Experts: Karen Lebing. Sun 12-8-24, 8:00-11:30 am. $25.00.
Orsulak/USFWS
WOW 2024 Schedule
Complete 2024 WOW & WOW Encore Schedule Below
October 22 - 27, 2024 and WOW Encore December 6-8, 2024
To reach the 2023 registration website:
Click on link below-