Birding in Cape May and Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

Led by Ruth Pfeffer
Cape May, at the southern tip of New Jersey, is North America’s birding mecca. It is on the Atlantic Flyway, the migration path for birds heading south for the winter. We will bird on the boardwalks, trails, and bird blinds at Cape May Point Park and visit the woodlands and fields of Higbee Beach, which is over 1,000 acres of varied habitats managed for migrating songbirds and raptors. Target birds are late migrants, raptors, waterfowl, and resident birds. We will then head to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge in Cambridge, Maryland, which hosts over 250 bird species. The Refuge includes 27,000 acres, of rich tidal marsh. Other habitat types include freshwater ponds, mixed evergreen and deciduous forests, croplands, and managed impoundments. We also plan to stop at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge on the way back. Our accommodations at the Sea Crest Hotel feature ocean views, and views of the Cape May Lighthouse and wonderful sunsets. In Cambridge, MD we will be staying at the Holiday Inn Express. All levels of birding experience are welcome. A “what to bring” list will be supplied. The trip includes van transportation, hotel, and an expert guide. Meals are not included. We will pack our breakfasts and lunches. Overnight rooms have refrigerators. We will depart from the Morris Arboretum. Park in the meadow next to the entrance kiosk.
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday:
October 27, 28, 29
Depart: Sunday, 7:45 a.m.
Return: Tuesday, 5 p.m.
Members: Double Occupancy $310 Single Occupancy $410
Non-members: Double Occupancy $410 Single Occupancy $490

To register, visit https://online.morrisarboretum.org/classes/birding