Birding For All: Spring Celebration

Celebrate Accessibility during Barnstable Walking Weekend at Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary!

Mass Audubon is partnering with Birdability to offer this welcoming and inclusive event as part of the inaugural Blind Birder Bird-a-Thon. During this 24-hour birding event, participants will identify bird species by sound (or sight!). While the Blind Birder Bird-a-Thon is designed for participants who are legally blind, all are welcome to attend this Spring Celebration. During this accessible event, participants can choose to enjoy nature in two ways:

Option 1: Journey along the All Persons Trail (two sessions)

Session 1: 9:30 to 10:30 AM

Session 2: 10:30 to 11:30 AM

Join an experienced naturalist for a leisurely journey along the All Persons Trail. Our pace will be slow to take in the sights and sounds of birds and other wildlife. The trail covers a 0.36-mile loop trail that explores five habitat types including field, tidal flats, salt marsh, forest, and freshwater pond. The trail is surfaced with well-packed crushed stone and has six benches for periodic rest stops. The trail is largely flat and welcoming to wheelchair and other mobility aids. Additionally, a navigational post-and-rope guide system and braille signage encompasses a large section of this loop trail. Nine enrichment stops with tactile displays are planned to offer a chance to learn more about the natural history of the sanctuary. We will begin and end at the Discovery Center.

Option 2: Sit Spot Practice at the Discovery Center Bird Feeders

9:30 to 11:30 AM

Join an experienced naturalist for a "sit spot" practice at the bird feeders in front of the Discovery Center. Participants will take in the sights and sounds of birds and other wildlife from a stationary location. The north-facing patio is covered with shade sails, surfaced with well-packed crushed stone, and seating will be available. Surrounding habitats include field, freshwater pond, and forest.

Nature enthusiasts and birders of all levels are welcomed - no former birding experience is necessary! Binoculars are encouraged but not required.

For participants interested in registering for the Blind Birder Bird-a-Thon, please contact Birdability Captain Michele Burnat at [email protected]. For more details about the Blind Birder Bird-a-Thon, visit Birdability's website https://www.birdability.org/blind-birder-birdathon