This past weekend, YESC members ventured to the first-ever American Birding Association Mid-Atlantic Young Birder Conference! The conference was held at the Ashland Nature Center in Hockessin, Delaware and featured a day full of incredible workshops, presentations, guest speakers, and of course... birding!
After a morning bird walk and opening remarks, the conference kicked off with a morning of presentations. Two presentations ran at the same time with one focusing on beginner birders and the other targeting more experienced birders. These concurrent presentations focused on field identification, types of optics, and an interesting segment on pursuing birding as a career.
Derek Stoner of the Delaware Dunlins presents "Tails of Mistaken Identity: Birds of Different Feathers" to conference participants
After two morning sessions,
all participants met at the Ashland Nature Center Hawk Watch for a
session on identifying birds of prey in flight. Highlights included red-shouldered hawk and bald eagle!
YESC takes a break from identifying birds of prey to strike a pose!
After our morning at the Hawk Watch, we were treated to additional presentations and a speech from the 2012 ABA Young Birder of the Year, Marie McGhee. Marie recapped the highlights of her past birding year reflecting upon challenges of identification and the importance of field notes as a growing birder. An inspiring speech that motivated both participants and staff here at YESC!
We then enjoyed a lunch at the Hawk Watch (since we are able to bird while eating) before returning for additional sessions.
YESC members Ben Bussmann and Alex Heerding observe the study skins of birds of prey during "Do You Geek Hawks?" by Dr. Jean Woods
To close out the day, ABA President Jeff Gordon gave a rousing introduction to the conference's keynote speaker, the editor of Bird Watcher's Digest, Bill Thompson III. In addition to some wise words, Bill treated the audience to an excellent musical performance.
American Birding Association President Jeff Gordon
Bill Thompson III reminds us to not let our babies grow up to be cowbirds!
Overall, the American Birding Association Mid-Atlantic Young Birder Conference was a great success! Over one-hundred forty people came and participated in the event. I want to send a special thank you to Bill Stewart, Jeff Gordon, and everyone at the American Birding Association who worked tirelessly to create such an inspiring and wonderful event!
YESC members posing with Bill Thompson III
Until next time, bird up and get involved!
- BQ
