N.H. Audubon to hold bird ID workshops

CONCORD, N.H. - If you don't know the difference between a tufted titmouse and a white-breasted nuthatch, then NH Audubon and master birder Bob Quinn may be able to help. Learn to distinguish between the two popular Granite State bird species, along with more than 100 other birds native to the state, at a six-week bird identification workshop that begins at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, April 14.

The classes will primarily focus on field exploration around popular sites in and around Concord, including Turkey Pond, Horseshoe Pond, Morrill's Farm, Locke Road, Post Office Fields, and Brookford Farm. The classes also include some indoor instruction at NH Audubon's McLane Center at 84 Silk Farm Road in Concord. Along with bird identification skills, participants will learn general field techniques, bird characteristics, and how to use binoculars and field guides.

The class schedule, which does not include an additional half-day field trip in May that is currently being planned, is:

• 6:30-8 pm on Tuesday, April 14: Introductory evening with general field techniques and identification characteristics, quick review of binocular and field guide use
• 6-9 pm on Tuesday, April 28: How to identify any bird field session
• 6-9 pm on Thursday, April 30: Field session and discussion
• 6-9 pm on Tuesday, May 5: Field session and discussion
• 6-9 pm on Wednesday, May 20: Field session and discussion
• 6-9 om on Tuesday, May 26: Field session at McLane Center and wrap up

Sessions may be taken on an a la carte basis and advance registration is required. To register, please send your name, address, phone number, email and a check for the class fee to Ruth Smith at NH Audubon, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH 03301 or register online at www.nhaudubon.org.

Tuition is $35 per class for NH Audubon members or $43 for non-members. Sign up for all six sessions for $175 for NH Audubon members or $215 for non-members. Classes are limited to 15 people, and sold out quickly last year, so register early.

For those looking for an opportunity to show off those new skills, consider NH Audubon's annual Birdathon Bloomathon fundraiser on May 16. This signature event connects outdoor exploration with other New Hampshire residents who appreciate the natural world and contribute to community nature and conservation efforts.