When

June 14, 2023    
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Where

Crystal Spring Farm - South
277 Pleasant Hill Road, Brunswick, ME, 04011
Join Queerly ME, Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust, and Ari Leach from Blackbird Guide Services for a LGBTQ+ Owl Prowl June 14th 6:30-8:30pm at Crystal Spring Farm, South!
This event will begin with a walk through the forest, chatting about the different species of owl found in Maine and some flora ID along the way. We may get lucky and see other birds on our walk, so our guide, Ari Leach, recommends bringing binoculars or a camera, but please ensure the flash is off. We don’t want to startle our feathered friends! We will also be calling for several species of owl, in hopes that we can bring one into view or get them to answer back. It is easy to learn to call and everyone can give it a try. Ari will also lead a discussion about how we can be helpful neighbors for our owl friends, and how to be a good steward of nature through respectful viewing. This event is open to Queer/LGBTQIA+ folks (and allies).
We recommend bringing binoculars and study walking shoes – some binoculars will be provided for those who don’t have any! 
Registration is required – click here!
About the Guide: My name is Ari and I am a second generation Maine Guide, specializing in survival and primitive skills, naturalist skills, birding and wildlife tracking and viewing, as well as offering customized experiences for clients. I was born and raised on the Maine coast and have been surrounded by nature my entire life. I have a deep passion for birding and naturalist skills and love sharing this passion with others. I have maintained a wide range of wilderness skills, including a Wilderness First Responder certification, which allows me to safely take clients into the wild and provide unforgettable experiences. I started my guide business, Blackbird Guide Services, LLC during the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, knowing that eventually I want to work for myself, guiding folks on amazing outdoor adventures in our gorgeous state of Maine. I currently also work as a marine biologist for the State of Maine and bring some of those skills to my coastal ecology courses, in addition to an in depth knowledge of the coastal birds commonly found in Maine. My hope is to create a safe, welcoming, and engaging space for folks of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to experience nature and challenge themselves in ways that feel supported and celebrated. I look forward to adventuring with you soon!

What is the Spring Birding Extravaganza?

One of the joys of spring is the return of birds of all shapes, sizes and colors. Who doesn’t love stepping outside to a chorus of birdsong or catching a glimpse of bright red or yellow in the trees? The new warmth of spring and the longer days draws birds to make their spring migration. The window of time before the leaves come out provides a perfect opportunity to get a good look at our feathered neighbors. To help you identify and learn more about our local birds, several conservation groups collaborate each spring to offer the Birding Extravaganza! Looking for other bird walks? Check out our fellow partnering organizations: Harpswell Heritage Land TrustKennebec Estuary Land Trust, Cathance River Education Alliance and Maine Coast Heritage Trust.