Birds of a
Feather
The Festival of the Birds is a prime
opportunity to see migrating species.
BY BERNADETTE WILSON
T
he weekend of May 10-12, birders will flock to Presque Isle
for the annual Festival of the Birds. The event, sponsored by
the Presque Isle Audubon Society and PA DCNR,
draws birdwatchers from all over North America—some as far away
as Alaska.
Jennifer Ferrick, Publicity Chair for the PI Audubon Society,
explains that May is bird migration time, so birders plan their
vacations and head for the Great Lakes for sightings of species that
would be nearly impossible to spot at other times. And the Erie area
festival is a favorite.
40
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
❘
icmags.com
Yve Morrell
“We’re the best little festival in the East,” says Ferrick. “We limit
participation to 150 people, and with all the activities available,
it’s possible to have only 10 or 15 in a group.” Small, intimate
groups help create a comfortable dynamic and memorable festival
experience for participants. According to Ferrick, it’s the perfect
opportunity to meet others who share your passion as well as learn.
People of all ages and levels of birding are encouraged to
participate. “The field trip leaders are so caring and patient,” she
notes. “They help those in their group to see birds, and they’re just
as excited as you are when you see a bird for the first time.”