Winter Field Trip Runs into Snow Blizzard!
A blizzard of white filled the sky at Lake Mattamuskeet during our winter field trip to the Outer Banks. No, it wasn't snow; it was Snow Geese and an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 to be, well, not quite precise. Another highlight was the "Enchanted Pond" at Pea Island, where an extremely cooperative American Bittern posed for visitors. This was a new species for many of our 35 trip participants and a rare treat even for experienced birders. Snow Goose and American Bittern were only two of 115 species seen.

Photo by Loiz Schneider

Much thanks to Mark Buckler, Director at Audubon's Pine Island Center and Sanctuary, for being a wonderful host, tour guide and social companion all weekend. Follow these links for trip photos: OBXtrip1 and OBXtrip2. Read the full Winter Trip Report.

Start planning now to join us on June 1-3 for our Spring Trip to the Smokies.

Look for Burke's Garden Raptors on January 28!
On January 28, we will travel about 2.5 hours to Burke's Garden, VA, to look for winter eagles and other raptors. We also will stop in Wytheville for a falconry demonstration. Hey, maybe we will find a Snowy Owl! For trip details, check our Calendar or Field Trips page.

February Walk Seeks Salem Lake Ducks!
ThIt's duck time at Salem Lake, so that is where our Second Saturday Birdwalk is headed on February 11. Let's see how many species we can find. We will also keep an eye out for Bonaparte's Gulls, Wilson's Snipe and other lake visitors. Meet at the parking area near the picnic shellter at 9 a.m. For questions, email walk leader Laura Phail.

Order "Birding Guide to Forsyth County"!
The second edition of "Birding Guide to Forsyth County," by David Disher, is now available. David's book, in a handy 6 x 9 paperback format, compiles documented observations for 280 bird species in Forsyth County. Learn what birds can be seen here and during which weeks of the year you are most likely to see them. Photos of uncommon sightings are included. For $15, this is a great holiday gift for your favorite birder. All profits go to our chapter. Copies are available at Wright's Backyard Birding Center, 3906 Country Club Rd., Winston-Salem, and at Wild Birds Unlimited, 1589 Skeet Club Rd, High Point, or send email to Nita Colvin. Copies also are available for sale at our monthly chapter meetings.

Check Out Our Photo Gallery!
We now have a photo page. Current albums include our recent field trips and day trips, and more. Click here to access the Gallery.