Youth Birding, John Heinz NWR
We invite all of our young birders, future young birders, and their parents to join us at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge on Saturday, September 5th from 10am to 12pm to disconnect from the daily hustle and enjoy the birds! A peacefully paced walk with several stops long the way, including the boardwalk across the marsh/grassland and through the various forest trails. The trails are primarily gravel trails. Pace and distance are flexible and will be determined by group leaders and attendees.There will be a number of resident birds and migrant birds in the refuge. Due to the ongoing construction of the dike, many of the local shorebirds and wading birds we would expect this time of year will not be around (lack of water in impoundment) or will not be accessible (at the far end of the impoundment). We will stick to the tress and grasslands to observe migrants songbirds (warblers and flycatchers) and grassland birds like Red-winged blackbirds, many sparrow species, and a number of remaining swallows.
John Heinz has available parking right near the entrance of the trails. Upon arrival, there is a pavilion with benches just past the Visitor Center entrance. Note there may still be parking construction so plan ahead to arrive on time and grab a spot closer to the pavilion. The main trails are mostly gravel, with a paved trail that meanders through the woodland section. There are some spots along the trail to sit and rest (boardwalk and a few benches along the main trail), and accessible indoor restrooms as well as outdoor composting restrooms onsite. Binoculars will be available for use thanks to Nocs Provisions. Your are welcome to bring mobility aids as needed. If you have specific access needs please indicate so in the RSVP or message us directly (info@incolorbirding.org).
Wear confortable clothes that you can easily remove as it warms up (i.e. hoodies), and comfortable walking sneakers/shoes. Sun block highly encouraged and bug spray optional. As always, be sure to bring a waterbottle and snacks as needed.
This event is specifically for youth birders (8-17 yrs) interested in both birding and being a member of a youth birding community here in Philly. Parents must be in attendance throughout the outing. Bring all your curiosity, questions, and joy to the table. We are here to explore this opportunity with the young folks and thier parents. We are excited to bird with you and share a day of BIRD JOY together.
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