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# Birding in the North Carolina High Country

Helping bring people and nature together in the North Carolina High Country

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://highcountryaudubon.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [High Country Hoots](https://highcountryaudubon.org/high-country-hoots/)

## Pages

- [High Country Audubon Home](https://highcountryaudubon.org/) - Discover the joy of birding with local bird walks, birdwatching trips, bird related conservation and educational opportunities in the North Carolina High Country.
- [Motus Tower](https://highcountryaudubon.org/motus-tower/) - High Country Audubon Society Motus Tower High Country Audubon Society is the proud owner/operator of our first of what we hope will eventually be a series of Motus Towers in the mountains of North Carolina to detect and identify birds migrating through the region. The tower is located on the Appalachian State
- [eBird Checklists](https://highcountryaudubon.org/ebird-checklists/) - High Country Audubon Event eBird Checklists VCCP 05/13/2026 VCCP 05/08/2026 VCCP 07/09/2025 VCCP 07/02/2025 VCCP 06/25/2025 VCCP 06/18/2025 VCCP 06/11/2025 Watauga River Rd 06/11/2025 VCCP 06/04/2025 VCCP 05/28/2025 FIG Farm 05/24/2025 VCCP 05/07/2025 VCCP 04/30/2025 VCCP 04/23/2025 VCCP 04/19/2025 VCCP 04/09/2025 VCCP 09/25/2024
- [Grants and Scholarships](https://highcountryaudubon.org/education/grants-and-scholarships/) - Grants and Scholarships Sue Wells Research Grant Sue Wells Research Grant Recipients HCAS Birding Scholarship
- [Other Birding Organizations](https://highcountryaudubon.org/other-birding-organizations/) - Birding Organizations All About Birds Managed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, this site provides extensive resources for identifying and learning about birds in North America. It includes species profiles, bird calls, videos, and migration maps. eBird Also run by the Cornell Lab, eBird is a global birding platform for logging bird sightings,
- [Projects](https://highcountryaudubon.org/helping-birds/park-projects/) - Projects Beyond HCAS’s standard schedule of activities are a multitude of projects, some of which promise to significantly improve wildlife habitat for birds when completed. The High Country is resplendent with many forested natural communities but has fewer wetland habitats. Wetlands are not only nature’s primary means of filtering water but also provide
- [Volunteer Opportunities](https://highcountryaudubon.org/helping-birds/volunteer-opportunities/) - Volunteer Opportunities Our birders understand the importance of native habitat and research to the well-being of our birding populations. HCAS schedules numerous volunteer activities during the course of the year. Many of these workdays are invasive species removal days at our area public parks. Some are days for helping to build or repair trails
- [School Initiative](https://highcountryaudubon.org/helping-birds/school-initiative/) - School Initiative Tying into the Plants for Birds Initiative is our School Native Gardens Program, which enlists area schools in the development of native gardens. The native garden is incorporated into an educational curriculum, teaching students about birds, native plants, weather, native pollinators and other pertinent topics. (See the "Hardin Park dedicates bird garden"
- [Plants for Birds](https://highcountryaudubon.org/helping-birds/plants-for-birds-2/) - Plants for Birds National Audubon Society has recently launched Plants for Birds, a major initiative to improve native landscaping across the country. Research has shown that the single most critical factor to bird survival is the existence of native habitat. National Audubon has additionally commissioned the development of a Native Plants Database which allows users
- [IBAs (Important Bird Areas)](https://highcountryaudubon.org/helping-birds/ibas-important-bird-areas/) - IBAs (Important Bird Areas) Important Bird Areas are regions throughout the country that the National Audubon Society has scientifically determined to be critical in preserving birding populations. Each area may contribute to a single or multiple bird species and may provide a variety of needs. These needs may include breeding habitat, migratory shelter, or
- [Be a Considerate Birder](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/be-a-considerate-birder/) - Be a Considerate Birder In 2017, HCAS developed a policy for playback, with the intention that the policy would be adhered to on any HCAS sponsored walk. So although it's not the chapter's role to dictate ethics to individual birders, I do firmly believe it is our responsibility to provide leadership, guidance, and an example
- [Bird-a-thon](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/bird-a-thon/) - Bird-a-thon Watch for details on the 2026 Bird-A-Thon. This is a team event, for up to 5 people, and the birding can be in any (or all) of the 5 HCAS counties—Allegheny, Ashe, Avery, Watauga and Wilkes. The idea is to see or hear as many bird species as possible in one 24 hour period
- [Local Birding Hotspots](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/local-birding-hotspots/) - Local Birding Hotspots The interactive map below shows birding sites in the High Country Audubon Society five-county area (Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Watauga, and Wilkes). Click on a marker on the map to see the name of the birding site and a link to an information file for that site. The information file contains the following:
- [Field Trips](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/field-trips/) - Field Trips Leave No Birder Inside! High Country Audubon Society travels near and far on field trips. Some are day trips, some are overnight trips, and at least once a year we take a multi-night trip out of the area. Trips have been made to the Outer Banks, Lake Mattamuskeet on the Eastern Shore
- [Hawk Watch](https://highcountryaudubon.org/hawk-watch-2/) - Hawk Watch 2026 When: TBD. 9am - 5pm Where: TBD What do I do now: Please scroll to the bottom for information on how to volunteer. What is a Hawk Watch? The name "Hawk Watch" seems pretty self-explanatory. You watch Hawks, right? While that is true, it is not quite that
- [Newsletter Archive](https://highcountryaudubon.org/about-us/archives-past-hoot-issues/) - High Country Hoots Newsletter Archive (Publication of the newsletter was stopped in 2021.) 2021 Volume 13, Issue 2 - Apr 2021 - Jun 2021 Volume 13, Issue 1 - Jan 2021 - Mar 2021 2020 Volume 12, Issue 3 - Nov 2020 - Jan 2021 Volume 12, Issue 2 - Aug - Oct 2020
- [Chapter Meetings](https://highcountryaudubon.org/about-us/meetings/) - Chapter Meetings The High Country Audubon Society chapter meetings will be posted on the HCAS calendar and announced on the HCAS mailing list and shared on our Facebook page. Look for an outdoor bird walk kick-off meeting in the spring and the annual meeting in July. Winter zoom meetings are being explored. In addition
- [Group Member Communications](https://highcountryaudubon.org/group-member-communications/) - Group Member Communications We use Google Groups for communications among our members. This is where you can ask questions to all members or share interesting bird-related things. How to Join the High Country Audubon Google Group (hcbirders@googlegroups.com) You will need a Google account. If you don't have one, create a free account at
- [HCAS History](https://highcountryaudubon.org/about-us/hcas-history/) - HCAS History While May 30, 2007 was the first public meeting of the High Country Audubon Society, according to one of the “founding fathers”. Curtis Smalling. “this chapter kind of takes place of the original Grandfather Mountain chapter that was active in the 60’s and 70’s. That chapter was a seasonal chapter and
- [About Us](https://highcountryaudubon.org/about-us/) - About Us The mission of the High Country Audubon Society is to encourage beginning birders and experts alike in our five-county area (Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Watauga and Wilkes counties) to enjoy birds and bird-watching and to engage in conservation, education, and research for the benefit of the birds of western North Carolina. HCAS History Board
- [Calendar](https://highcountryaudubon.org/calendar-2/) - html
- [Christmas Bird Count](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/christmas-bird-count/) - Christmas Bird Counts WHAT? Count birds! WHERE? In a circle 15 miles in diameter, at several locations (Click link below for list). WHO? Every able-bodied person who likes wildlife! WHEN? A single day near Christmas, between 12/14 and 1/5, determined for each count.
- [Backyard Bird Count](https://highcountryaudubon.org/backyard-bird-count/) - Great Backyard Bird Count 2026 Join the worldwide celebration of the 29th annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) from Friday, February 13, through Monday, February 16, 2026. Bird and nature lovers everywhere, of all skill levels and all abilities, unite in the effort to tally as many global bird species as possible over these four days. Participating is easy, fun
- [Valle Crucis Community Park Bird Walks](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/bird-walks/valle-crucis-community-park-bird-walks/) - Guided Bird Walk every Wednesday April – October 9am-11am November – March 10am-Noon High Country Audubon Society conducts Guided Bird Walks at Valle Crucis Community Park every Wednesday. This is a great birding venue with a nice variety of birds throughout the seasons. HCAS members lead the walk along paved, easily walked
- [Bird Walks](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/bird-walks/) - Bird Walks High Country Audubon Society schedules several bird walks throughout the year. These Guided Bird Walks are great for beginners just getting into birding, all the way up to advanced birders. Valle Crucis Bird Walks are held every Wednesday year-round at Valle Crucis Community Park. The Brookshire Park Bird Walks are held
- [Chapter Information](https://highcountryaudubon.org/about-us/chapter-information/) - Chapter Information Constitution and Bylaws Strategic plan
- [Board of Directors](https://highcountryaudubon.org/about-us/board-of-directors/) - North Carolina High Country Audubon Society Board of Directors
- [Community Involvement](https://highcountryaudubon.org/helping-birds/) - What We Do We love birds!!! HCAS focuses a great deal of its resources on helping birds. This effort involves primarily the stewardship of the region’s Important Bird Areas (IBAs) and area parks but also includes active programs to enhance Native Habitat for Birds. Additionally, HCAS has initiated a School Program designed
- [Group Email](https://highcountryaudubon.org/resources/group-email/) - HCAS Mailing List Stay connected with High Country Audubon Society by joining our Google Group. To join the Google Group, send an email to Request to Join our Google Group . *************************************************************************************************** For those who already joined, here are instructions for using the Google Group: To post a message to the Group, send an email
- [Sue Wells Research Grant](https://highcountryaudubon.org/education/grants-and-scholarships/sue-wells-research-grant/) - Sue Wells Research Grant High Country Audubon Society has established a grant of up to $500 in support of HCAS’s mission statement, which is to encourage beginning birders and experts alike in our five-county area to enjoy birds and bird-watching and to engage in conservation, education, and research for the benefit of the birds of
- [HCAS Birders Scholarship](https://highcountryaudubon.org/education/grants-and-scholarships/hcas-birding-scholarship/) - High Country Audubon Society (HCAS) offers a scholarship to support young birders who want to attend a Carolina Bird Club meeting but lack the funds.
- [Brookshire Park Bird Walks](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/bird-walks/brookshire-park-bird-nature-walks/) - Brookshire Park Bird Walks First Saturday of each month, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. (rain or shine) HCAS member Guy McGrane leads the monthly Brookshire Park Bird & Nature Walks which are free and open to the public. There are delightful things to discover in the park no matter what the time of year or
- [Links](https://highcountryaudubon.org/resources/links/) - Links to Citizen Science Websites eBird – www.ebird.org Project FeederWatch – www.feederwatch.org Operation RubyThroat - The Hummingbird Project – www.rubythroat.org The Great Backyard Bird Count – https://www.birdcount.org
- [Area Bird Checklists](https://highcountryaudubon.org/resources/checklists/) - High Country Area Bird Checklists High Country County and Region Bird Occurrences Page Avery County Blue Ridge Parkway - Grandfather Mountain to Doughton Park Blue Ridge Parkway - Great Smokey Mountains NP to Pisgah NF Boone Greenway Grandfather Mountain High Country High Country Warblers Meat Camp Creek Environmental Studies Area Valle Crucis Community Park W. Kerr Scott Reservoir North Carolina Butterfly
- [Get Outdoors](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/) - Get Outdoors Come bird with us!! A major focus of High Country Audubon Society is providing enjoyable and educational birding opportunities. Birding is a wonderful way not only to identify more birds but also to meet people in the area who enjoy birding as well. HCAS also provides learning opportunities about nature in general and
- [Support High Country Audubon](https://highcountryaudubon.org/support-us/) - Support Our Birds and High Country Audubon Society! Join, Renew or Donate Today! What We Do Here are just a few of the ways we use your support on projects to help birds: - Native plant gardens at Valle Crucis Community Park & Green Valley Community Park - Collaboration in the planning & creation of
- [Upper Yadkin Valley Christmas Bird Count](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/christmas-bird-count/upper-yadkin-valley-christmas-bird-count/) - Upper Yadkin Valley Christmas Bird Count CHECK THE SURVEY AREA on this map: (download the kml to your phone and check your location in real time with the Google Earth app) EVERYONE IS WELCOME to join—beginners and experts, young and old. If you have never counted before, we will team you up with more experienced
- [Mount Jefferson Christmas Bird Count](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/christmas-bird-count/mount-jefferson-christmas-bird-count/) - Mount Jefferson Christmas Bird Count CHECK THE SURVEY AREA on this map: (download the kml to your phone and check your location in real time with the Google Earth app) EVERYONE IS WELCOME to join — beginners and experts, young and old. If you have never counted before, we will team you up with more
- [Stone Mountain Christmas Bird Count](https://highcountryaudubon.org/get-outdoors-2/christmas-bird-count/stone-mountain-christmas-bird-count/) - Stone Mountain Christmas Bird Count CHECK THE SURVEY AREA on this map: (download the kml to your phone and check your location in real time with the Google Earth app) EVERYONE IS WELCOME to join—beginners and experts, young and old. If you have never counted before, we will team you up with more experienced people.
- [Regional/State Meetings](https://highcountryaudubon.org/education/meetings-3/) - Regional/State Meetings None at this time.
- [Contact Us](https://highcountryaudubon.org/contact-us/) - Contact Us We can be reached at highcountryaudubon@gmail.com Our mailing address is:High Country Audubon SocietyPO Box 3746Boone, NC 28607
- [Email Us](https://highcountryaudubon.org/contact-us/email-us/) - Email Us Your Name (required) Your Email (required) Subject Your Message Δ
- [High Country Hoots](https://highcountryaudubon.org/high-country-hoots-2/) - Current Newsletter Click here to open the current issue of High Country Hoots!
- [Support Our Birds and High Country Audubon Society!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/support-our-birds-and-high-country-audubon-society/) - Join High Country Audubon Society Renew your membership Donate To see some of the ways HCAS uses your dues and donations, see What We Do. Pay By Mail To pay dues or make a donation, please print and complete this form. Mail the from along with your check made payable to High Country Audubon Society
- [Thank You!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/thank-you/) - Thank you for your support of High Country Audubon Society.
- [Resources](https://highcountryaudubon.org/resources/) - Resources Area Bird Checklists Links
- [Education](https://highcountryaudubon.org/education/) - Education Grants and Scholarships Regional/State Meetings
- [Green Valley Park Project](https://highcountryaudubon.org/helping-birds/park-projects/green-valley-park-project/) - Green Valley Community Park Project HCAS recently received a Collaborative Grant from National Audubon to establish a native garden at Green Valley Community Park. The establishment of the garden was completed in June, 2018. HCAS’s objective for this park is the continued augmentation of the natural environment with native shrubs to enhance food and shelter
- [Valle Crucis Park Project](https://highcountryaudubon.org/helping-birds/park-projects/valle-crucis-park-project/) - Valle Crucis Community Park Project Valle Crucis Community Park has long been a favorite for HCAS birders. Indeed, our weekly Wednesday walks continue to be held there. HCAS has already established a native plant garden at Valle Crucis and has erected a swift tower as well. HCAS’s strategic plan calls for continued HCAS involvement in
- [Brookshire Park Project](https://highcountryaudubon.org/helping-birds/park-projects/brookshire-park-project/) - Brookshire Park Project Watauga County has plans to restore the remaining floodplain wetlands at Brookshire Park. HCAS will be contributing to this effort in the planning stages and in helping to build viewing platforms. Watauga County has applied to the Clean Water Management Trust Fund for funding for this project. HCAS’s objectives for this project
- [Eller Wetlands Project](https://highcountryaudubon.org/helping-birds/park-projects/eller-wetlands/) - Eller Wetlands Project The Eller Wetlands encompass 10 acres of current wetlands along Highway 105 near Seven Devils. HCAS is coordinating with Blue Ridge Conservancy, the owner of the wetlands, to create a birding and wildlife reserve. Objectives for the reserve are better access, the design and construction of trails and boardwalks for birding, and
- [Research Grant Recipients](https://highcountryaudubon.org/education/grants-and-scholarships/research-grant-recipients/) - Sue Wells Research Grant Recipients In past years the Sue Wells Grant has helped students studying birds and cliff face ecology, Song Sparrow mating success and Tree Swallow hormone responses to aggression. The grant program was created by HCAS in 2012 and named in memory of Sue Wells, one of the founding Board members of
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## Topics

- [Forum Shut Down](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/forum-shut-down/) - All subscribers of this list should have received an email stating that they have been subscribed to the new FreeLists.org mailing list for HCAS. If you have not received any emails about the new mailing list and you would like to subscribe to it, send an email to hcas-request@freelists.org with "subscribe" (without the quotes) in
- [More on Big Atlas Weekend](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/more-on-big-atlas-weekend/) - View this email in your browser Use your own custom HTML Big Atlas Weekend - June 25-27, 2021. (To see all the links click on the "view email in browser" above) If this year’s “Big Day” didn’t fit into your busy spring schedule, here’s another chance to make your birding count! How about a Big
- [Atlas Big Weekend June 25-27](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/atlas-big-weekend-june-25-27/) - I just received the following information from the coordinator of the NC Bird Atlas, Kris Smith Guy If you have already not heard, we will be doing a Big Atlas Weekend from Friday, June 25 until Sunday night, June 27. North Carolina along with the four other atlasing states (New York, Maine, Maryland/DC) will be
- [red-bellied woodpeckers-- picture](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/red-bellied-woodpeckers-picture/) - Here is the picture of the young red-bellied woodpecker!
- [our monthly evening birdwalk - this month at Trout!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/our-monthly-evening-birdwalk-this-month-at-trout/) - Hi there, since Sheryl is leading walks every Tuesday evening in June, our monthly get-together walk will be at Trout Lake at 6:30 pm. Hope to see lots of you!
- [More about red-bellied](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/more-about-red-bellied/) - I am beginning to think there are TWO juvenile red-bellied woodpeckers coming to my suet feeders, one that hangs upside down from the bottom of the feeder and gets the suet with its tongue, and one that hangs on the side of the feeder and reaches the suet with its beak. I have seen NO
- [Saturday, June 19th, Birds, Bugs and Blooms walk](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/saturday-june-19th-birds-bugs-and-blooms-walk/) - Sat., June 19, 9 AM - Nature Walk at Bass Lake and Heart Pond ---------------------------------------------------------------- Bill Dunson will lead a nature walk around Bass Lake and Heart Pond at Moses Cone Memorial Park starting at the main parking lot on 221 in Blowing Rock. Extra parking spaces are found along US 221 before you turn
- [Looking for binoculars!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/looking-for-binoculars/) - I've spent several hours today online trying to find some new binoculars. I want the very lightweight compact ones that are available now. There seem to be infinite numbers of them with different features and WAY different prices. If anyone has any advice on this subject I would appreciate your contacting me by email me
- [picture of young red-bellied](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/picture-of-young-red-bellied/) - Here is a picture of the young r-b
- [young red-bellied woodpecker](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/young-red-bellied-woodpecker/) - Today the young r-b was back at my suet feeder, much bolder now. Ate while the baby starlings were there, and even while they were on the feeder too. I got a couple of pictures this time.
- [red-bellied woodpeckers](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/red-bellied-woodpeckers-2/) - Today the juvenile red-bellied came to my suet feeder all by himself! (Our little boy is growing up. . . .) He was hanging from the bottom of the feeder upside down, where the openings in the "cage" are the smallest. He'd stick his beak through to try to get the suet, but couldn't reach.
- [Wilkes County Breeding bird Survey 2021 Summary](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/wilkes-county-breeding-bird-survey-2021-summary/) - Summary Results: Call Breeding Bird Survey, 5/30/2021 Wilkes County, NC PDF is attached if easier to read. Guy Species Route totals Comments Canada Goose 13 Rock Pigeon 4 Mourning Dove 49 Steady increase recent years Yellow-billed Cuckoo 3 Chimney Swift 1 lowest since '75 Turkey Vulture 1 Red-shouldered Hawk 2 7th straight year, 3 of
- [red-bellied woodpeckers](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/red-bellied-woodpeckers/) - Today the COOLEST thing! A male adult red-bellied woodpecker brought his offspring to my suet feeder! I had never seen a juvenile red-bellied before. It looked just like an adult, only smaller, and instead of red on its head and nape it was soft gray. The juvenile didn't even attempt to get at the suet,
- [Shore Bird ID HELP](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/shore-bird-id-help/) - A lady I met today in Ashe County asked me to help ID these birds. The image was taken this past weekend on a low water bridge in Ashe County. I would really like to tell Mrs. Church what these birds are and would certainly like to know myself. They were not spooked by human
- [Tournament!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/tournament/) - Some of you may be aware that there is an NBA tournament going on at this time. It is billed as a fierce competition between rivals. But it is NOTHING compared to the fierce competition going on in my yard right now! Baby grackles vs baby starlings! They are relentless. They are ferocious. They are
- [Trout Lake Bird Walks](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/trout-lake-bird-walks/) - I will be leading (with help from Anita) walks at Trout Lake on Tuesday evenings in June, from 6:30 to about 8:30 to look and listen for birds. We will meet in the lower parking lot, off Shull’s Mill Rd, unless it is raining hard. The birds have been pretty vocal there this month, with
- [Spring Count Results--Wilkes and Watauga](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/spring-count-results-wilkes-and-watauga/) - The Wilkes and Watauga Spring counts were held on May 2 and May 8 this year, and were lots of fun. Results below. Guy Wilkes Spring Count Summary-2021 Date: May 2, 2021 Second count, started in 2020 Bird Numbers: 842 individuals of 110 species was about what was expected for abundance and diversity. Effort: 2
- [Masks!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/masks/) - Now that the pandemic seems to be winding down and we don't have to wear masks as much, REMEMBER to cut the strings on those old masks before you throw them away!! Help birds and other wildlife! THANK YOU!
- [Daniel Boone Native Gardens plant sale](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/daniel-boone-native-gardens-plant-sale/) - Hi everyone, this coming Saturday, May 22nd from 8am-noon, is the first DBNG plant sale of the season. With area nurseries experiencing shortages, this is a great opportunity to find native plants to add to your yard. The birds and pollinators will thank you!!!!! And you'll see more birds! Grasses, sedges, ferns, perennials, shrubs and
- [Black-billed Cuckoo](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/black-billed-cuckoo/) - After missing Richard’s bird on the Greenway, Debbie & I heard 1 call from a BBCU at nearby Brookshire on Sat. Today, I was just getting out of my car, parked at the dam by Trout Lake & I heard one sing the typical cu-cu-cu song. It was up the hill and across the road,
- [HCAS May Gathering](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/hcas-may-gathering/) - Hi there, it's already been a month since our first trial "gathering" in place of a monthly meeting! We'll be meeting again this coming Tuesday, May 18th, at 6:30pm at the Hunting Hills access to the Greenway. Hope to see everyone there! Debbie
- [NC Bird Atlas is for everyone](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/nc-bird-atlas-is-for-everyone/) - You don't have to be an expert to help out with the NC Bird Atlas! Please see the email in the link below to find out how to join the beginner's webinar for the bird atlas, May 19 at 7PM. Just ask me if you have any questions. Thanks, Guy Read this email
- [Spring Climate Watch](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/spring-climate-watch/) - Hello all, The time is upon us again for another Audubon Climate Watch survey! This is a great opportunity for avid birders and beginner birders alike to get outside and help in a large community science project. The surveys are short and easy, just go to a provided location and listen/watch for the target species
- [Audubon NC Breaking news on native plants; say thanks!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/audubon-nc-breaking-news-on-native-plants-say-thanks/) - Thank Senator Ballard for Voting YES on Native Plants Some fabulous news – late yesterday afternoon, the North Carolina Senate passed the strongest native plants legislation yet in our state, and your senator was among those who voted in favor of Senate Bill 628. Click here to thank Senator Deanna Ballard! The bill would ensure
- [Nightjar survey route needs volunteer](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/nightjar-survey-route-needs-volunteer/) - The Windy Hill-Hartzog Nightjar survey route, in southwestern Ashe County near Fleetwood, doesn't have anyone committed to running it this year. It only takes 3 hours one time a year, and helps track whip-poor-will populations. If anyone is interested please let me know. Training can be provided, no expertise necessary. Thanks, Guy
- [2021 Bird-a-thon - registration deadline extended](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/2021-bird-a-thon-registration-deadline-extended/) - The Bird-a-thon registration deadline has been extended one day. Please submit your registrations by May 12. All recipients of this listserv are eligible to participate in HCAS’ 2021 Bird-a-thon, scheduled May 14-15th, including those joining HCAS and/or this forum prior to May 11th. The general idea is to form teams, but because of the pandemic,
- [One year since Kirtland's warbler](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/one-year-since-kirtlands-warbler/) - Hi there, just a thought, but the Kirtland's showed up on May 13th last year, so we might want to check Meat Camp the next few days!
- [Tanager runs into power line at greenway](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/tanager-runs-into-power-line-at-greenway/) - This tanager in the photo, deceased unfortunately, was killed after dark yesterday, flew into a power line, and could have been a migrant. I'm not sure why else it would have been flying after dark. Guy
- [Blue Ridge Audubon program invite](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/blue-ridge-audubon-program-invite/) - I'm sending out invites to all NC chapters to join us on facebook for our May 18 program. Thanks for getting the word out. Best,Marianne BRAC publicity chair Blue Ridge Audubon May Program Tuesday, May 18 at 7 p.m. Swallow-tailed Kites:Finding a Safe Place to Land Dr. Maria Whitehead Click on Blue Ridge Audubon's Facebook
- [NOT Purple, House](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/not-purple-house/) - For those not subscribed, I meant "House Finch" not Purple Finch. An orange or yellow vairant purple finch would be fairly rare. Guy
- [Orange Purple Finch](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/orange-purple-finch/) - There's an orange-colored purple finch coming to my feeders. This could be something called "yellow variant" or similar. It appears to be fairly common. Enclosed are a couple OK pictures. Guy
- [Parkway bird counter needed Sunday](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/parkway-bird-counter-needed-sunday/) - This Sunday, in 2 days, it would be very helpful if someone could count birds on the Blue Ridge Parkway between 421 and SR 16, most of which is in Wilkes County, and contribute those sightings to the Wilkes Spring Count. Included areas are Tompkins Knob, Jeffress Park, the Cascades, Lewis Fork Overlook, and all
- [Brookshire Park Saturday](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/brookshire-park-saturday-2/) - I will be at Brookshire Park at 8AM Saturday for the regular monthly walk and bird survey. Everyone willing to social distance is welcome to come with. Guy
- [Audubon NC: Breaking news on heirs’ property & native plants](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/audubon-nc-breaking-news-on-heirs-property-native-plants/) - WOW it’s been an exciting week already at the North Carolina General Assembly. Yesterday, the heirs’ property bill (H367) cleared two crucial committees – Judiciary 1 and Rules – in the NC House. Both votes were unanimous and today it’s up for a full floor vote at 3 p.m. (listen here if you like). Since
- [2021 Bird-a-thon](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/2021-bird-a-thon/) - All recipients of this listserv are eligible to participate in HCAS' 2021 Bird-a-thon, scheduled May 14-15th, including those joining HCAS and/or this forum prior to May 11th. The general idea is to form teams, but because of the pandemic, we are allowing solo participants also. The goal is to see or hear as many bird
- [In Memoriam: Don Mullaney](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/in-memoriam-don-mullaney/) - Many of us will remember Don Mullaney from HCAS walks at Valle Crucis Park. Don spent the past 30 years summering at Beech Mountain and joined us frequently on Wednesdays at the park. In addition to being a birder, he was an avid photographer whose work won recognition in several photography contests. He shared his
- [Audubon NC Breaking News: Undeveloped barrier island protected in perpetuity](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/audubon-nc-breaking-news-undeveloped-barrier-island-protected-in-perpetuity/) - This Earth Day morning, I have exciting news that’s been decades in the making: one of our state’s most important sites for coastal nesting birds—and one of North Carolina’s very last privately owned undeveloped barrier islands—will be protected in perpetuity, thanks to a partnership between Audubon, NC Coastal Land Trust, and the Hutaff/McEachern family, with
- [Huge NC bird news! Spread the word](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/huge-nc-bird-news-spread-the-word/) - Protected forever! One of North Carolina’s last privately owned undeveloped barrier islands (and a haven for coastal nesting birds) will be conserved, thanks to a conservation partnership between Audubon, the NC Coastal Land Trust, and the Hutaff family. #EarthDay https://bit.ly/3gtQbJr And for later, here’s a newsletter blurb you can use. A photo of Hutaff Island
- [Watauga Spring Count 5/8/2021](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/watauga-spring-count-5-8-2021/) - Our annual county-wide spring count will be on global big day this year, as usual, Saturday, May 8, 2021. Please let me know if you will be joining. Its always great fun. Newcomers welcome, and returnees needed. Feel free to respond via the forum, or directly to my email, badgerboy@wilkes.net. Guy
- [Tuesday at the Greenway](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/tuesday-at-the-greenway/) - Hi everyone, because of all the recent issues with indoor meetings, the board has decided to host 3rd Tuesday of the month bird walks at the Greenway in lieu of indoor meetings. We'll hope you'll join us to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the created wetlands this coming Tuesday, April 20th at 6:30 pm. We'll
- [Lewis Fork Overlook](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/lewis-fork-overlook/) - Jimmy and I are planning to bird at Lewis Fork overlook tomorrow morning (Friday) at 7:30 -- - all are welcome to join us!
- [Bobolinks....](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/bobolinks/) - Just a quick word to let you know that I stopped by the Bobolink field near Mt. Vernon Church on the way home from VCP and did not see even 1 male yet....the grass has been mowed pretty low, so I hope it gets a bit higher quickly before they return. Hope everyone is doing
- [Bird walk at Green Knob Trail Thursday, April 15 @ 9am](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/bird-walk-at-green-knob-trail-thursday-april-15-9am/) - I am going to be birding the Green Knob Trail tomorrow to look for the singing winter wrens and the nesting ravens. If anyone wants to join meet at the Sims Pond Overlook on the Parkway at 9am. The whole trail is just under 3 miles and takes about 2 hours, or you can head
- [Merlin Courtship at Banner Elk](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/merlin-courtship-at-banner-elk/) - At Lees McCrae College in Banner Elk today, a pair of Merlins were engaged in courtship-like behaviors, wailing and cherking, calling back and forth, attempting copulation, with one sitting in a well-developed nest in a white pine tree. The male has been present for a couple weeks, and the female appears to have showed up
- [VCCP Wednesday walk](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/vccp-wednesday-walk/) - Hi there, just a reminder, we've begun our weekly Wednesday walks at VCCP - Paul Laurent is guiding this year. Start time: 8:30am
- [migration interview](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/migration-interview/) - Author and ornithologist Scott Weidensaul gave an interview to NPR this past Monday for their radio program "Fresh Air". It was a fascinating 36 minutes as Weidensaul discussed bird migration patterns and adaptations (did you know that birds sleep while they're flying?), as well as his studies of Snowy Owls using GPS technology. The interview
- [Ruby throats, anyone?](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/ruby-throats-anyone/) - Has anyone seen any hummingbirds yet? There aren't any 2021 eBird reports in our area, but the migration map says they should be close and they were here last year right about this time. My first spot in 2020 was April 15th.
- [No forum issues detected](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/no-forum-issues-detected/) - Our very knowledgeable website manager, John, has tested the forum and site log-in panel and found no issues. It appears that any login and/or password problems along with email receipt issues are likely to be user error. Here are a couple of tips: You may log into our site with your user name OR your
- [Epic Nature Tours: Northern Ohio Warbler Tour Info, May 12-18, 2021](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/epic-nature-tours-northern-ohio-warbler-tour-info-may-12-18-2021/) - Join Epic Nature Tours for an amazing trip to Northern Ohio to witness the incredible warbler migration this May. Thousands of warblers stop in the wetlands and forests along the southern shores of the Great Lakes to rest and feed before crossing the lakes to Canada for the breeding season. This trip will visit the
- [Falcon monitoring opportunity](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/falcon-monitoring-opportunity/) - Clifton Avery asked me to post the following on the forum. Anyone can email him to get in touch at clifton.avery@ncwildlife.org. Guy Hi All, The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is looking for volunteers up in the High Country to help us monitor nesting Peregrine Falcons and Bald Eagles. We have a couple Peregrine sites
- [National Audubon Society: A Leadership Change](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/national-audubon-society-a-leadership-change/) - Dear Audubon Chapter Leaders, Every day, from Alaska to Florida, from Nebraska to Tennessee, from Vermont to California, you make a difference for birds and your communities. Your generosity, commitment, knowledge, and optimism make you truly extraordinary. It has been a deep privilege and joy for me to work alongside you in this role since
- [Brown-headed cowbirds??](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/brown-headed-cowbirds/) - Yesterday I saw two birds perched on my feeder: shiny black bodies, shiny brown heads-- almost chestnut color. BUT, checking in Sibley and looking at many pictures online, these birds were much more slender and sleek than the ones in the pictures of brown-headed cowbirds. Just a little bit bigger than the house finches that
- [High Country Audubon -- New Issue of the Hoots Newsletter!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/high-country-audubon-new-issue-of-the-hoots-newsletter/) - Hi Everyone, We have a new issue of the High Country Hoots Newsletter! Click here to enjoy the new issue. Thank you to all who contributed their time and effort to the newsletter!
- [Primary Atlaser](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/primary-atlaser/) - Has anyone in HCA signed up as the Primary Atlaser for the Todd SE primary block. I've been working in that area and would really like to know who claimed that block so we can work together. I'm hoping that NCBA will post a list of primary atlasers at some point but I understand there
- [Audubon NC: You're Invited: NC Bird Atlas Next Steps Webinar](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/audubon-nc-youre-invited-nc-bird-atlas-next-steps-webinar/) - Join the North Carolina Bird Atlas next week for our second webinar, aimed at giving you the next steps you’ll need to get out in the field and begin atlasing. We'll go over bird behavior, breeding codes, and the details of what an ideal Bird Atlas survey looks like. We'll also provide more time for
- [NC Audubon: Battery Storage LTE](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/nc-audubon-battery-storage-lte/) - Audubon is working to generate letters to the editor (LTE), focused on clean energy and battery storage in North Carolina. Our intention is to get them sent out to the Lenoir News-Topic and the Caldwell Journal in the next two weeks. Ideally, these LTEs are supposed to show your local Senators and Representatives why their
- [NC Audubon Legislative Update: Our Clean Energy Petition is Live!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/nc-audubon-legislative-update-our-clean-energy-petition-is-live/) - Spring is in the air, which means migratory birds are returning. It also means the action is heating up at the North Carolina General Assembly. I hope you’ve been able to enjoy some time outdoors and are ready for the important advocacy work ahead. The biggest news this week is that our clean energy and
- [Riverpointe Eagle Nest this year?](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/riverpointe-eagle-nest-this-year/) - Hi just wondering if anyone has visited the Riverpointe Eagle Nest site this year to confirm whether the eagles are back in the same nest as the previous several years? Please let me know if you have been there, whether or not the eagles were there. Thanks, Guy
- [Spring DOT cleanup](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/spring-dot-cleanup/) - Hi everyone, for those that are not aware, NCDOT is conducting a statewide roadside cleanup effort this Saturday, March 20th. Anyone can participate. Our board discussed having our group select an area to work on, but couldn't come up with where that might be. In lieu of that, we're letting everyone know that, if you're
- [Red-shouldered Hawks](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/red-shouldered-hawks/) - We often see/hear a Red-shouldered Hawk here at Powder Horn Mountain but had never seen two until several days ago near the PHM post office. Then yesterday we saw one fly into a tall pine tree where we thought it might be sitting on a nest. When we went back today with our scope (and
- [Salmonellosis outbreak warning](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/salmonellosis-outbreak-warning/) - Hello, all. My parents in Alabama contacted me yesterday about an alarming number of dead birds (mostly goldfinches) that they were finding under their feeders. I considered that it might be salmonella or also (since it's spring) a fertilizing poisoning, and gave them the standard advice, just in case... remove feeder, discard current feed lot,
- [Brookshire Park tomorrow](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/brookshire-park-tomorrow/) - Tomorrow's the first saturday bird survey at Brookshire Park, 8am at the main lot. We're still in the pandemic so all precautions should be used. This is not an official HCAS event but help finding and IDing birds is welcome. Guy
- [Spread the word: NC Bird Atlas 101 webinar](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/spread-the-word-nc-bird-atlas-101-webinar-2/) - Hi, I’m reaching out again with news about the NC Bird Atlas. Things are finally taking flight, and we’ve got our first big event two weeks from today—NC Bird Atlas 101: How to get Started. It’s at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 16. Here’s the registration link: http://bit.ly/ncbirdatlas. It was great to get the help
- [Spread the word: NC Bird Atlas 101 webinar](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/spread-the-word-nc-bird-atlas-101-webinar/) - Hi, I’m reaching out again with news about the NC Bird Atlas. Things are finally taking flight, and we’ve got our first big event two weeks from today—NC Bird Atlas 101: How to get Started. It’s at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 16. Here’s the registration link: http://bit.ly/ncbirdatlas. It was great to get the help
- [Highlighting and Celebrating Chapter Efforts](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/highlighting-and-celebrating-chapter-efforts/) - National Audubon Society, Chapter Services (800) 542-2748 | chapter_services@audubon.org CHAPTER LEADER UPDATE | FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Act Now: Restore the Migratory Bird Treaty Act In a welcome relief for birds, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has delayed implementing the latest attack on the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). Thank you for all your advocacy
- [Spring sightings](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/spring-sightings/) - Not too exciting except for being signs of Spring: 2/16-- first large flock of starlings in the hayfield across from my house. Also male cardinals singing their hearts out for past two weeks. Small mixed flock of male robins and-- oh joy-- grackles 2/26.
- [Audubon Shrubland](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/audubon-shrubland/) - I was exploring Big Yellow Mountain in Avery County and came across a gated area (map 36.1027528, 82.0246417) with the attached Audubon Shrubland sign. Does anyone have any information about this land such as what kind of birds have been found here and if the land can be accessed from the east. I accessed it
- [Wood Frogs singing in daytime at Brookshire](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/wood-frogs-singing-in-daytime-at-brookshire/) - Wood Frogs were singing in some of the wetland pools at Brookshire park today, mid-day and they were easy to see with binoculars, especially at the little pool at the very end of the greenway. It might be the easiest viewing and listening I've ever had of this elusive (to me anyway) frog. Here is
- [Rollback of Bird Protections Delayed | Lawsuit to Protect Wetlands](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/rollback-of-bird-protections-delayed-lawsuit-to-protect-wetlands/) - Click here to see the web version of a February Audubon email.
- [burrowing owls](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/burrowing-owls/) - In case folks haven't seen this. I came upon it through the NYT Cooking pages! https://www.audubon.org/news/where-burrowing-owls-are-your-neighbors?
- [Forum Font - trouble reading???](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/forum-font-trouble-reading/) - It may be just me because my eyes aren't what they once were lol, but does anyone else think the forum font is too small? If so, I'll figure out how to make it larger.
- [Payne Branch Dam removal](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/payne-branch-dam-removal/) - There was an old hydroelectric dam removed from the new river between boone and blowing rock this past summer. The project is described here. This was the first I'd heard of it, and I never got the chance to visit the pond, if there was one, upstream of the old dam. Did anyone on here
- [Raven Nest at Parkway near Bamboo](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/raven-nest-at-parkway-near-bamboo/) - There was a raven sitting on a big stick nest, built under the parkway bridge across Goshen Creek, today. This is the second Raven nest I've found in the area, both of which were near the parkway and built on man-made structures. The Mountains-to-Sea trail goes right under this bridge, so its easy to see.
- [Great Backyard Bird Count starts on Friday](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/great-backyard-bird-count-starts-on-friday/) - It’s that time of year—time to celebrate the birds in your yard or neighborhood. The Great Backyard Bird Count starts on Friday, and we’d love for you to be a part of it again. Just take a 15-minute birding break (or several!) anytime from February 12–15 and share your results with the world. How many
- [2021 Great Backyard Bird Count](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/2021-great-backyard-bird-count/) - Just a reminder that the GBBC is coming! This is one of the easiest counts to do, and I've participated nearly every year since our children were young. Simply watch birds for 15 minutes or more, at least once over the four days, February 12-15, 2021. Don't forget to report what you see on eBird!
- [Mistake!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/mistake/) - Yikes! I am a victim of wishful thinking. The postage stamp I was so excited about does NOT depict a great gray owl. It is a barred owl. Not that barred owls are not cool too!
- [Virtual Birding Festival - Wings & Wetlands Festival 2021](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/virtual-birding-festival-wings-wetlands-festival-2021/) - Virtual Wings & Wetlands Birding Festival, from Kansas Wetlands Education Center, Great Bend, KS Trying to contact your chapter to inform your members of our upcoming Virtual Birding Festival at the end of March, 2021. I was hoping to get ahold of someone in your group to send information. We are excited about our festival,
- [COVID-19 Vaccine: More Appointments Available at App Regional Healthcare](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/covid-19-vaccine-more-appointments-available-at-app-regional-healthcare/) - See attached image for information on COVID-19 Vaccine: More Appointments Available at App Regional Healthcare System Schedule a Vaccine Appointment For more information about COVID-19 from ARHS, visit apprhs.org/covid19/
- [Off topic: Sourdough starter anyone? PLUS Great Horneds!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/off-topic-sourdough-starter-anyone-plus-great-horneds/) - Part of this post has nothing to do with birds so please accept my apologies for that, but I thought of you all tonight as I was baking bread. :) I hope all of you are having a wonderful new year! I'm thrilled to report that we hear TWO Great Horned owls calling back and
- [Advocacy Day social graphics](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/advocacy-day-social-graphics/) - from Ben Graham, Audubon North Carolina Hi chapter communicators and presidents, Hope you’re all doing well! I wanted to let you know we have new social graphics to help spread the word about Advocacy Day (see attached). You can use these and the language below to post on social media (there’s also a newsletter blurb
- [Spread the word: NC Bird Atlas is calling all birdwatchers](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/spread-the-word-nc-bird-atlas-is-calling-all-birdwatchers/) - From Ben Graham at Audubon Hi chapter leaders and communicators, Calling all birdwatchers: the North Carolina Bird Atlas launches today! The bird atlas is a five-year community science project, harnessing the powers of birdwatchers across the state to map the distribution and abundance of birds. Audubon is a partner in this project (along with groups
- [You’re invited: Early-Bird Advocacy Day Feb. 10](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/youre-invited-early-bird-advocacy-day-feb-10/) - From Audubon North Carolina We’re starting the New Year with a new chance to speak up for birds! Join us for Early-Bird Advocacy Day on Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2021. We’re holding Advocacy Day early in this legislative session because it’s going to be a busy one, with the redrawing of district maps and the creation
- [Climate Watch](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/climate-watch/) - Hello all, I'm currently finishing up picking survey points for the 2021 Winter Climate Watch (https://www.audubon.org/conservation/climate-watch) and was looking to see who may be interested in coming out to survey with us! This session will be focusing on eastern bluebirds. The surveys are short and easy, just go to a provided location and listen/watch for
- [Helping Birds in 2021 | Mapping Birds | Restoring Forests | Virtual Pine Island](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/helping-birds-in-2021-mapping-birds-restoring-forests-virtual-pine-island/) - Here is a link to the Audubon North Carolina JANUARY 2020 NEWSLETTER https://audubon.stagecoachdigital.com/web-view/450613?emci=0234a976-4c5a-eb11-a607-00155d43c992&emdi=11355a82-b25a-eb11-a607-00155d43c992&ceid=3327995
- [Snowy Owl in NC](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/snowy-owl-in-nc/) - In an attempt to protect wildlife from the overabundance of human activity, I don't usually share these things, but I think our little group is respectful and safe. Anyone up for a field trip? :) https://ocracokeobserver.com/2021/01/14/snowy-owl-returns-to-ocracoke/
- [bird behavior, crippled bird](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/bird-behavior-crippled-bird/) - A week or so ago I saw a crippled song sparrow at my feeder. His left leg was blackened and crumpled and he held it out stiffly in back of him. He was having trouble staying on the perch to eat from the feeder so I put seeds on my deck railing for him. Other
- [CBC Recaps](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/cbc-recaps/) - Three CBC's were held on 12/14 (30th Mt. Jeff.), 12/20 (28th Stone Mtn.), and 1/5 (8th Wilkesboro=Upper Yadkin Valley). Each count found our highest or second highest species total, and significantly higher than normal counts for individuals. Waterfowl and waterbird numbers, in line with regional trends, were way down but most other birds were at
- [Cool new bird stamps](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/cool-new-bird-stamps/) - This week the USPS issued new "Forever" Stamps titled "Winter Scenes" Several are pictures of birds, but the BEST one is a "great" picture of a Great Gray Owl-- not something you see on a stamp every day!
- [Yellow-headed Blackbird at Wilkesboro](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/yellow-headed-blackbird-at-wilkesboro/) - There was a Yellow-headed blackbird associating with a large flock of Brown-head cowbirds today near the YMCA in Wilkesboro. They moved on quickly and I was NOT able to re-find for pictures, but its a good chance the flock will stay in the area for a while and maybe the Yellow-headed will be there too.
- [Upper Yadkin CBC next Tuesday](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/upper-yadkin-cbc-next-tuesday/) - Last call for anyone wanting to participate in the Upper Yadkin Valley CBC next Tuesday, Jan 5, 2021. This count is based in Wilkes Co., and takes in all of the Kerr Scott Reservoir, and the Wilkesboros. Its always alot of fun. Guy
- [Brookshire Park Saturday](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/brookshire-park-saturday/) - I'll be doing my regular monthly survey Saturday at 8AM and anyone who wants to get chilly can help ID some birds there. This is NOT an official HCAS event and masks and/or distancing is required to join. Guy
- [Fox Sparrows!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/fox-sparrows/) - This morning there were 2 Fox Sparrows foraging under our feeder. These are the first I have seen recently though it may be that I have missed some because of all the time we've been spending in Asheville. It's fun to watch them energetically scratching through the leaves. I was pretty sure they were Fox
- [Happy New Year](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/happy-new-year/) - Hi everyone, on this last day of 2020, let's look forward to a wonderful 2021, hoping that we can resume our bird walks, classes, meetings, etc. I wish all of you a fantastic, safe, and happy 2021!!!! Debbie
- [Birding Books for Kids](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/birding-books-for-kids/) - A friend has asked for suggestions of birding books suitable for a 5-year-old & a 9-year old. Any ideas? Thanks.
- [Found feathers](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/found-feathers/) - I found a pile of feathers in our woods, which usually isn't a good sign for the bird, and an entire cluster looked like this. It appears as if the feathers didn't fully release from their initial sheath, or does anyone know what else might be going on? Very interesting, and wonder if this would
- [zoom holiday party](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/zoom-holiday-party/) - Hi there - I'm trying this again -- zoom HCAS Christmas party, December 15th, 7pm. Debbie Shetterly is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Topic: HCAS holiday zoom party Time: Dec 15, 2020 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us04web.zoom.us/j/71168776201?pwd=OVFSdXRlN2NGM25sTkZUcEdTQkl0UT09 Meeting ID: 711 6877 6201 Passcode: 3t9yxT
- [Red-cockaded Woodpecker Downlisting](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/red-cockaded-woodpecker-downlisting/) - Passing along some info from AudubonNC regarding some hot issues at the state level. Follow instructions if you wish to weigh in these topics! Red-cockaded Woodpecker downlisting: Here’s a letter orchestrated by Southern Environmental Law Center and signed by Audubon North Carolina (attached). Reach out to Curtis Smalling at Curtis.smalling@audubon.org with questions (Curtis will be
- [2021 Climate Watch](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/2021-climate-watch/) - Hello! Those of you who have are signed up likely already received this email, but there is new guidance from Audubon on participation in Climate Watch during the pandemic. Participants must follow the guidelines in this link: https://www.audubon.org/news/climate-watch-announcements. They are basically the same at the CBC Covid Guidelines with some minor changes for the date
- [OBX](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/obx/) - All, Wes & I were there Wed-Sun. Wasn’t able to get to Alligator River or Mattamuskeet. Lots & lots of ducks at Pea Island, nothing notable though(except more Redheads than I’ve ever seen). Went out on Jeannette’s pier, & it was the deadest I’ve ever seen. Not even a loon or grebe! Took the Cedar
- [Hello!!](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic/hello/) - Hello! Our new forum- Yay!!!! Thanks to Tonya for setting it all up!

## Replies

- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11055/) - Still can’t see it.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11050/) - Is this tonight?
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11045/) - Feel free to "clog up the forum" with any responses. :) I'd love to know recommendations also. I've been searching for a compact pair to keep in my car, preferably in the glove box or armrest/console compartment.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11042/) - I didn't see the picture either. Pat, can you try to post again?
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11041/) - I can’t see the photo. Is there something I need to do besides log on to the forum?
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11034/) - so interesting, Guy -- glad to hear at least some species increasing! Thanks for posting!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11031/) - I think I know the bridge in question--right near Fleetwood. Thanks! And That early date is much more likely for migrating shorebirds than later in the month. Guy
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11030/) - Guy, Ellen said the picture was taken on May 1st at 10:00am. It was on the South Fork of the New River approximately 1 mile south of the 221 bridge (Twin bridges) Hope this helps. Drew
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11029/) - That's so cool, Pat!!!!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11024/) - I sent the picture to Audrey Whitlock, who is the nearest thing I know of to an expert at shorebirds in North Carolina, and she says the birds look right for Willets, and probably are some of the western subspecies, heading home after wintering at the southeastern US coast. Drew--can you provide a more specific
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11018/) - I’m not sure, the picture gets blurry when I blow it up. But, the bill length looks like a Willet. However, that may be a perspective issue, since it seems most noticeable in the nearest bird.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11011/) - I added these to the calendar. The 3rd Tuesday could possibly conflict with our monthly membership walk. Should we change the location of the membership walk to Trout Lake for that day? Guy
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11008/) - Good point, Pat - - thanks for passing it along!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/11002/) - There were 5 registered “teams” for this event. Some birded Friday, some Saturday and some a combination of the two days. The highest number of species counted was 83, and the lowest, 17 (notably done at a home, only). Debbie Shetterly led the winning team, with assistance from Katie Griffith and Sheryl McNair. Despite our
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10999/) - yes, indeed!! and who doesn't like to go watch bluebirds!!!!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10995/) - Thanks for all of your work on this Katie!! I'd encourage you all to help out. Katie has done the hard part...all you have to do is go birding!! Best regards, Judi
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10987/) - Hello Guy, I would be interested in doing this survey. Contact me on how to proceed at karen.elsken@gmail.com or 704-641-1779.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10981/) - The Bird-a-thon registration deadline has been extended one day. Please submit your registrations by May 12.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10978/) - Reminder, Registration for Bird-a-thon is due today. We only have 1 entry so far.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10962/) - I meant to say "House Finch" not Purple Finch. Brain Fart
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10955/) - I WILL bring names tags on 5/19!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10953/) - Rule change for the Bird-a-thon--Birds at feeders ARE allowed to be counted. New rule pdf file at: https://highcountryaudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/bird-a-thon-rules-2021-rev2.pdf
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10945/) - Also noted in the rules file, MAINTAIN 3 FEET DISTANCE FROM OTHERS AND WEAR FACE MASKS WHEN SOCIAL DISTANCING IS NOT POSSIBLE.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10928/) - Possibly these birds had just migrated and slimmed down on the trip, and possibly they are males in fresh spring plumage trying to look extra-suave to impress the ladies! Sometimes the males this time of year kind of stretch out as part of their display tactics. Just guesses but can't think what else they could
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10927/) - Just so all of you know, from April 17th through the end of May the Magee Marsh boardwalk is CLOSED!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10923/) - Yay for the firsts! Also our first about 20 minutes ago! We're way out 321N on the side of Stone Mtn in Pisgah, altitude around 3800'. Ready for more!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10922/) - FOTY Hummer this morning! We live off Shulls Mill Road at about 3900 feet facing west.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10910/) - We had our FOTY Ruby-throated Hummingbird today at our house here at Powder Horn Mountain. Janet
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10909/) - Thanks, Sheryl -- I was hoping to watch it, but had grandkids, so thanks for the link!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10908/) - Thanks for posting this Tonya. I was wondering the same thing myself. I put up a feeder a few days ago and haven't seen anything yet. Our early spring report for Watauga County is 4/4, and I usually have them either the first or second week in april. I hope anyone that has seen one
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10907/) - A friend just sent me a photo of a Ruby-throated Hummingbird that hit a window at their Powder Horn Mountain house yesterday. It seemed to be recovering. I just reported it on eBird. We've had our feeders up for at least two weeks but haven't seen any yet. Janet
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10905/) - none at my house yet. I usually see them around April 15th as well.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10889/) - That's all i can think of, but I'll definitely defer to the experts!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10887/) - Hey, Drew. I signed up to be the primary atlaser for the Todd SE block. I welcome help with the block and would love to work with you. The more people birding the block, the better. My email is: patgeiger52@gmail.com My cell is: 828-773-4870
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10811/) - Thanks Debbie, The cleanup on March 20, 2021 is actually a grass roots effort by several community leaders in Avery County. It is not sponsored by DOT, although I'm sure there are local DOT employees involved. The NCDOT Cleanup is April 10-24th https://www.ncdot.gov/initiatives-policies/environmental/litter-management/Pages/litter-sweep.aspx. Anyone who would like to participate in Avery County on Saturday can
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10804/) - I see mainly red-tails around our area. I've noticed that the red-shoulders tend to prefer flatter, pastured areas, which is def not our area lol. RSH call is so distinct. Love them and so glad you spotted a breeding pair & nest! Fingers crossed for you spotting some little ones this spring!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10803/) - Hi everyone, just a reminder - - if you're interested in helping out with the bird atlas this year, the seminar for how to do it is tomorrow night! see Cindy's post above for registration. Hopefully we'll have lots of folks contributing here in the High Country so we get some good data! Debbie
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10800/) - How awesome is that!!!! We've had one hanging around River Road this winter as well.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10794/) - Found a dead male house finch on my deck, but it looked normal (except for being dead!) so I think it was a window strike. When I lived in Minnesota, bird lore was to empty feeders ONCE A WEEK and wash in solution of detergent and bleach, then let dry completely before refilling. At that
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10788/) - Hi, Will, You can probably get more info about this place from Curtis Smalling of Audubon NC. I will bet this is part of his Conservation projects!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10785/) - I did return to the bridge last week with a friend who helped me over the fence-- but we could not locate the nest! We climbed and crouched and looked till we got cricks in our necks, but no luck. Darn! Then, this week, success! Guy himself and wife Arlene helped me over the fence
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10766/) - We had a wonderful look at a Wilson's snipe Saturday at Brookshire - and the tree swallows were around a couple days earlier, so maybe spring really is coming!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10764/) - Saw this article a while back and it sounds like this may be what you ran across: https://nc.audubon.org/news/audubon-signs-designate-specialized-habitat-0
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10762/) - I don't think I have ever heard or seen Wood Frogs. The recording is great! They are chattering little fellows, aren't they? A friend and I are hoping to hear spring peepers in Valle Crucis Park tonight, weather permitting.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10756/) - Oh well!! After further research online, I discover that I was supposed CLIMB OVER that barbed wire fence!! Are they KIDDING?? I guess if I am ever going to see the nest I will have to return with at least 2 helpers to get this short-legged 80-year-old body over the fence without mishap. Please tell
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10753/) - I tried to see the ravens' nest today, before the big storm comes. I found the bridge and there were a couple of cars parked by the side of the road on Bamboo. Thought they might be birders, so I parked. BUT, though there was a signpost "MST" I could not find any trail, and
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10749/) - great article, Martha -- thanks for posting it!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10747/) - I'm so glad that some people chimed in with some of the positives of dam removal! Natural seasonal flooding, silt removal, and aesthetics are very important in the function of our waterways. The Roanoke and Kinnikinnic rivers are extremely different rivers in different habitats than the Watauga and the New in our area. For one
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10745/) - I read the entire article in the High Country Conservancy newsletter, and it did mention the advantage of having fish able to move freely up and down stream. It also told of studies of silt deposit and it's effect on macroinvertibrates. I don't remember that the article mentioned seasonal flooding. I have never been to
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10743/) - I know when they removed all the dams on the Roanoke, there was quite a bit of scientific research done by The Nature Conservancy which showed that the seasonal flooding which occurs with free-flowing rivers is absolutely essential for healthy riparian habitats. I imagine that this theory is behind the move toward removing old dams.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10742/) - Hey Guy, we've had two ravens hanging around our place -- not sure where they would nest, though. Thanks for letting everyone know! Debbie
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10740/) - I hadn't heard of this specific project, but I know they are also planning to remove the old Watauga River Road dam. I also question the validity of their eco statements regarding these projects, especially when the work is done in the summer. We do NOT work our creeks in the spring and summer but
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10736/) - Great minds must think alike, Cindy. ;) I think we were posting about the GBBC right about the same time lol!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10702/) - Good suggestion about keeping a written record. I can reconstruct from emails I've sent other friends.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10701/) - Maybe so. Even healthy birds fight for feeder rights, so I could also see how an injured bird might not be able to move quickly enough to avoid pecks. It's great that the little fellow has figured out a way to grab free food without being harassed. If he continues to visit your feeder, you
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10698/) - I've read about domestic chickens pecking one another to death, and I know it happens in the wild bird world too (nature programs on TV). I'm happy to report that the one-legged song sparrow seems to be getting along better now. He has figured out when to come to the feeder when no other birds
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10696/) - I'd like to hear what others think about this, but in my observations, it's not a missing leg that causes other birds to attack but the blood, or actually the color red. I have witnessed many one-legged shorebirds do just fine, but an open wound anywhere on the body tends to invite constant pecks. I
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10663/) - Happy New Year!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10649/) - Happy new year! Cheers to a bird-filled and healthy 2021. :)
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10648/) - I've got something happening on Tuesday, otherwise I would come. One of my favorite birding areas! Good luck with the count.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10643/) - Happy, happy New Year everyone!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10635/) - I second Sheryl's choice! Below are a few more of my favorites... If they're in SC/NC, Stan Tekiela's Birding of the Carolinas book & CD are both fantastic for school-age children. The book is very image heavy and easy to navigate, and the CD of bird calls is also fun for kids of any age.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10634/) - Lucy’s life list. A reading book, not a guide.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10620/) - Thanks Debbie; unfortunately, I won't be able to make it either. I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a wonderful Holiday Season. I look forward to birding with you all in 2021 (I hope!). Judi
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10616/) - I'm so sorry that I won't be able to make it. Merry Christmas & happy holidays to you all!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10615/) - I can't wait!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10591/) - Debbie, I placed this update into a new topic so it won't get lost in the 'hello' posts.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10583/) - It doesn't look like Deb attached it. There are two ways to attach files/images, either the IMG button in the gray bar above or the attachment button below. I'll add this to the 'how to.'
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10582/) - How can we access the attached letter? Guy
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10584/) - Here's the letter - sorry!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10577/) - Oh I'd love to see that Coopers! Yes to keep our site and server from becoming bogged down with high res images, we had to limit file sizes to 4MB so try to share again if you can. You can also post a URL from ebird or another online photo hosting site. Thanks, Pat!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10563/) - Oops, will have to work on file size.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10562/) - Hello, all! Thanks for setting up this forum, Tonya. I'm attaching a picture of a juvenile Cooper's hawk in my yard today.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10558/) - Welcome, Silas!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10557/) - Hello!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10553/) - Sounds like a great trip, Sheryl, even without the grebes. :)
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10550/) - Welcome, Bob!
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10547/) - Looks like I've made it in here okay. I'm also attaching a photo. Nice job getting this going.
- [](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/reply/10543/) - Well hello, Debbie! You are very kind. I had a bit of help. ;) John is a real trooper, and I've enjoyed working with him very much.

## Gallery

- [Join Us](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/ovenbird/)
- [Valle Crucis Community Park](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/valle-crucis-community-park/) - Valle Crucis Community Park The Valle Crucis Community Park is a user-funded, nonprofit park located in Valle Crucis, North Carolina, between Boone and Banner Elk. The Park offers a variety of active and passive recreation opportunities for visitors of all ages, including a paved walking path, playgrounds, picnic shelters, access to the Watauga River, and
- [Brookshire Park Bird Walks](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/brookshire-park-bird-walks/) - Monthly Bird & Nature Walk 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. the 1st Saturday of every month(rain or shine) HCAS member Guy McGrane leads the monthly Brookshire Park Bird & Nature Walks which are free and open to the public. There are delightful things to discover in the park no matter what the time of year or
- [Come Bird at Valle Crucis Park](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/come-bird-at-valle-crucis-park/) - Valle Crucis Community Park Weekly Bird Walks 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Wednesday April through mid-October Learn More
- [Yellow Warbler](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/yellow-warbler/)
- [Tree Swallow](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/tree-swallow/)
- [Eller Wetlands](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/eller-wetlands/) - The Eller Wetlands encompass 10 acres of current wetlands along Highway 105 near Seven Devils. HCAS is coordinating with Blue Ridge Conservancy, the owner of the wetlands, to create a birding and wildlife reserve. Objectives for the reserve are better access, the design and construction of trails and board walks for birding, and enhancement of the landscaping for better habitat
- [Northern Cardinal](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/northern-cardinal/)
- [Purple Finch](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/purple-finch/)
- [Carolina Wren](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/carolina-wren/)
- [White-throated Sparrow](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/white-throated-sparrow/)
- [Chimney Swift Tower Construction](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/chimney-swift-tower-construction/)
- [Eastern Towhee](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/4074/)
- [Hawk Watches/Christmas Bird Count](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/hawk-watches-christmas-bird-count/)
- [Garlic Mustard Eradication](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/garlic-mustard-eradication/)
- [Native Planting at Parks](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/native-planting-at-parks/)
- [Burke's Garden](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/burkes-garden/)
- [Swift Night Out](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/swift-night-out/)
- [Alpaca Farm Visit](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/alpaca-farm-visit/)
- [Young Birders Scholarship](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/young-birders-scholarship/)
- [Sue Wells Scholarship](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/sue-wells-scholarship/)
- [Young Birders Scholarship](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/young-birders-scholarship-2/)
- [Audubon Adventures](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/audubon-adventures/)
- [Binoculars and bird guides](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/binoculars-and-bird-guides/)
- [Calendar of Events](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/donate-now/)
- [Donate Now](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/donate-now-2/)
- [Meetings](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/meetings/)
- [Classes](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/classes/)
- [Intern Program](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/intern-program/)
- [Grants and Scholarships](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/grants-and-scholarships/) - Sue Wells Schholarship Fund HCAS birding s
- [Education & Outreach](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/education-outreach/)
- [Our History](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/our-history/)
- [Slider gallery format](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/small-image-caption-8/)
- [Small Image Caption](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/small-image-caption-7/)
- [Small Image Caption](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/small-image-caption-6/)
- [Small Image Caption](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/small-image-caption-5/)
- [A slider gallery item](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/small-image-caption-4/)
- [Link Gallery Item](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/small-image-caption-3/)
- [Video format item](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/small-image-caption-2/)
- [Small Image Caption](https://highcountryaudubon.org/gallery/small-image-caption/)

## Projects

- [Come Bird @ Valle Crucis](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/come-bird-valle-crucis/) - Valle Crucis Community Park Weekly Bird Walks 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Wednesday April through mid-October Learn More
- [Birds, Bugs and Blooms](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/birds-bugs-and-blooms/) - Come bird With Bill Dunson on his trips around the Boone Greenway and discover the incredible variety of birds, bugs and blooms that are in the middle of Boone. Learn More
- [Come Bird @ Brookshire Park](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/come-bird-brookshire/) - Come Bird @ Brookshire Brookshire Park Monthly Bird & Nature Walk 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. the 1st Saturday of every month (rain or shine)
- [Christmas Bird Count](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/christmas-bird-count-2/)
- [Bird Counts/Hawk Watches](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/bird-counts-hawk-watches/)
- [Native Park Plantings](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/native-park-plantings/)
- [Green Valley Park](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/green-valley-park/) - Green Valley Park HCAS recently received a Collaborative Grant from National Audubon to establish a native garden at Green Valley Park. The establishment of the garden was completed in June, 2018. HCAS’s objectives for this park is the continued augmentation of the natural environment with native shrubs to enhance food and shelter for migratory and
- [Valle Crucis Community Park](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/valle-crucis-community-park/) - Valle Crucis Community Park Valle Crucis Community Park has long been a favorite for HCAS birders. Indeed, our weekly Wednesday walks continue to be held there. HCAS has already established a native plant garden at Valle Crucis and has erected a swift tower as well. HCAS’s strategic plan calls for continued HCAS involvement in both
- [Eller Wetlands](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/eller-wetlands/) - Eller Wetlands The Eller Wetlands encompass 10 acres of current wetlands along Highway 105 near Seven Devils. HCAS is coordinating with Blue Ridge Conservancy, the owner of the wetlands, to create a birding and wildlife reserve. Objectives for the reserve are better access, the design and construction of trails and boardwalks for birding, and enhancement
- [Brookshire Park](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/brookshire-park/) - Watauga County has plans to restore the remaining floodplain wetlands at Brookshire Park. HCAS will be contributing to this effort in the planning stages and in helping to build viewing platforms. Watauga County has applied to the Clean Water Management Trust Fund for funding for this project. HCAS’s objectives for this project are the establishment
- [National Audubon Society Convention-2019](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/audubon-convention/) - Save the Date for the 2019 Audubon Convention Please save the date for the next Audubon Convention, which will take place on July 26-28, 2019 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Situated on Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is a beautiful and historic place to gather, learn, and network. The Wisconsin Audubon Council, Milwaukee Audubon Society, Schlitz Audubon Nature Center,
- [Sue Wells Grant](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/sue-wells-grant/)
- [Classes](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/classes-2/)
- [Park Projects](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/park-projects/)
- [School Initiative](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/school-initiative/)
- [Plant for Birds](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/plant-for-birds/)
- [IBA (Important Bird Areas)](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/iba-important-bird-areas/)
- [Meetings](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/meetings-2/)
- [Grants & Scholarships](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/grants-scholarships/)
- [Classes](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/classes/)
- [Intern  Program](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/intern-program/)
- [Christmas Bird Count](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/christmas-bird-count/) - For more than 110 years, Audubon Society had been conducting the Christmas Bird Count. This has provide valuable information on the health of our birds. Read how you can het involved.
- [Birding Hot Spots](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/birding-hot-spots/)
- [Field Trips](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/field-trips/)
- [Come on a Bird Walk](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/come-on-a-bird-walk/)
- [Chapter Information](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/chapter-information/) - Links to Constitution and Bylaws, Strategic Plan and other documents
- [Meetings](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/meetings/) - Meetings are held
- [Board of Directors](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/board-of-directors/) - Running a successful nonprofit takes an active board of directors and a dedicated staff led by a capable leader. With the talent and dedication of our board, great things are being accomplished; consider joining us.
- [History](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/history/) - President: Jesse Pope, 2007-2010
- [Hawk Watches](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/hawk-watches/)
- [Garlic Mustard Pull](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/garlic-mustard-pull/)
- [What educations means](https://highcountryaudubon.org/project/what-educations-means/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla convallis egestas rhoncus. Donec facilisis fermentum sem, ac viverra ante luctus vel. Donec vel mauris quam. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla convallis egestas rhoncus. Donec facilisis fermentum sem, ac viverra ante luctus vel. Donec vel mauris quam.

## Staff

- [Richard Laurent](https://highcountryaudubon.org/staff/richard-laurent/) - Webmaster
- [Guy McGrane](https://highcountryaudubon.org/staff/guy-mcgrane/)
- [Richard Gray](https://highcountryaudubon.org/staff/richard-gray/)
- [Debbie Shetterly](https://highcountryaudubon.org/staff/debbie-shetterly/) - President

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://highcountryaudubon.org/category/uncategorized/)

## Topic Tags

- [Climate Watch](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/climate-watch/)
- [Audubon](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/audubon/)
- [Citizen Science](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/citizen-science/)
- [feathers](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/feathers/)
- [birding books](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/birding-books/)
- [children](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/children/)
- [behavior](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/behavior/)
- [snowy owl](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/snowy-owl/)
- [owling](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/owling/)
- [Audubon North Carolina](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/audubon-north-carolina/)
- [great horned owls](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/great-horned-owls/)
- [off topic](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/off-topic/)
- [food](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/food/)
- [GBBC](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/gbbc/)
- [bird count](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/bird-count/)
- [dam removal](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/dam-removal/)
- [ecology](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/ecology/)
- [salmonella](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/salmonella/)
- [feeders](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/feeders/)
- [NC Bird Atlas](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/nc-bird-atlas/)
- [hummingbirds](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/hummingbirds/)
- [migration](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/migration/)
- [binoculars](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/binoculars/)
- [bird walks](https://highcountryaudubon.org/forums/topic-tag/bird-walks/)

## Gallery Categories

- [Events](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?gallery-category=events)
- [Projects](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?gallery-category=projects)
- [Staff](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?gallery-category=staff)
- [Bird Walks](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?gallery-category=bird-walks)
- [Education & Outreach](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?gallery-category=education-outreach)
- [Field Trips](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?gallery-category=field-trips)
- [home](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?gallery-category=home)
- [How We Help](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?gallery-category=how-we-help)
- [Volunteers](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?gallery-category=volunteers)
- [Winter Birds](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?gallery-category=winter-birds)
- [Bird Walk Intro](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?gallery-category=bird-walk-intro)

## Project Categories

- [Education](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?project-category=education)
- [About Us](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?project-category=about-us)
- [Bird Walks](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?project-category=bird-walks)
- [Get Outdoors](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?project-category=get-outdoors)
- [Helping Birds](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?project-category=helping-birds)
- [Meetings](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?project-category=meetings)
- [Projects](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?project-category=projects)
- [Volunteer](https://highcountryaudubon.org/?project-category=volunteer)