Join us on May 24th at 8am for a special access birding trip offered to our BIPOC members. We will be taking a trip out to Stroud Preserve to view a special bird, the Bobolink. This event has limited attendance (30) and will be first offered to BIPOC attendees on the eve of Black Birders Week. If spots remain open, we will open them to our allies.
The Bobolink has a special place in the history of enslaved folks of African-descent in the United States. The “rice bird” as many have colloquially termed this bird, was along side to witness the enslavement of millions of humans in the southeastern United States. It is perhaps most comprehensively captured in an essay by Chi-ming Yang called “The Song of the Rice Bird, A Plantation Ekphrasis.” These are a spectaculr species of blackbird and they only nest in certain places around southeast Pennsylvania. When you hear thier song/sequence for the first time you will be mesmerized by how such a little creature can make such diverse songs.
This events arrival details (where to meet) will be sent to those who RSVP. The remaining details are as follows:
The event is FREE
Binoculars will be provided on loan from those who need them (thank you to Nocs Provisions)
We will traverse dirt/gravel trails, some with rocks/roots through flat spaces, steep inclines, and some rolling hills
There are no accessible parking spaces
We will reimburse ride share costs for those who request it.
There are no restrooms on site so please plan ahead and stop on your way.
We are really looking forward to spending time at a special place, with a special group of folks, finding joy in a special bird (among other cools species we may see). Huge thanks to Natural Lands for inviting us out for this exclusive event.