Spring forests and fields are alive with song resulting from the bustle of migratory birds. Bird day celebrates their return from tropical winter homes to summer habitats in our NC mountains. Join the Cradle of Forestry in honoring this amazing annual phenomenon of nature.

Activities for the day include:

• Games and activities
• Guided walks

More info:

Begun in 1993, International Migratory Bird Day is an educational celebration which highlights this tremendous phenomenon. In addition, IMDB promotes a conservation theme each year. Bird migration is a spectacular event throughout the Americas. Almost 350 bird species travel hundreds of miles from non-breeding grounds in Latin America, Mexico and the Caribbean to nesting habitats in North America. During this journey birdwatchers can observe these travelers as they rest and feed along the way.

A variety of migratory birds rest and feed at the Cradle of Forestry before continuing north. Many others conclude their journey in the Blue Ridge Mountains to nest and raise their young. Along our hiking trails birders often see and hear black-throated blue warblers, hooded warblers, black and white warblers, northern parulas and blue headed vireos during this event. On occasion one may spot rare sightings such as the bright Blackburnian warbler or scarlet tanager. In 2016 roughly 28 species were heard and spotted during IMBD.

The USDA Forest Service is a sponsor of International Migratory Bird Day.

2018 honors the “Year of the Bird” and the centennial of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

The Cradle will be offering a selection of guided bird walks and activities for children throughout the day. Carlton Burke with the Carolina Mountain Naturalists is offering a Live Raptor Program in the afternoon. A detailed schedule will be posted closer to event day.

General admission applies to this event.