Birdwatching

Birdwatching at the Chapter is a rewarding experience that combines the enjoyment of the outdoors with hands-on conservation. Our 624-acre property provides an exceptional mix of habitats—woodlands, meadows, ponds, and hedgerows, that attract a wide range of bird species throughout the year. Since the first eBird records in the 1960s, the farm has been recognized as a local “hot spot” for birding, with well over a hundred species observed during migration and breeding seasons. Members and guests regularly encounter raptors soaring over fields, warblers and vireos flitting through the trees, and waterfowl nesting around the ponds.

Beyond casual birdwatching, the Chapter has long been committed to citizen science projects that contribute valuable data to national and global conservation efforts. Programs such as NestWatch focus on monitoring nesting activity of species like Purple Martins, Eastern Bluebirds, and Tree Swallows, while Project FeederWatch engages participants in tracking the birds that visit winter feeders. These initiatives not only provide critical information to organizations like the Cornell Lab of Ornithology but also deepen members’ understanding of bird behavior, population trends, and the challenges posed by climate and habitat changes.

Each spring, the Montgomery Bird Club leads walks on the property, helping birders of all levels identify species by sight and sound. Whether you are an experienced naturalist or simply curious, birdwatching at B-CC IWLA offers a chance to connect with nature, learn from seasoned volunteers, and contribute to ongoing conservation work.