The Essex National Heritage Commission announces “Birding Trail Launch” — an on-line resource highlighting the region’s finest birdwatching locations. Click here to go to on-line birding guide.
Click here for information on free Guided Birding Walks on April 29
With more than 400 species of birds living in Essex County for all or part of the year, the area has become one of the finest for bird watching in the country. To encourage residents and visitors to learn more about one of the region’s most valuable resources, the Essex National Heritage Commission (ENHC) has created the Essex County Birding Trail, an on-line resource containing detailed information on approximately 35 of the finest birding locations across the region.
Essex County’s varied habitats and unique geography are a year-round attraction for birds and for avid birders from across the country. The mixing of fresh and salt water along the coastal rivers offers excellent habitats for a rich diversity of shorebirds, while the exposed rocky headlands of Cape Ann provide superb views of sea-going birds. The inland lakes ponds and wetlands, as well as hardwood forests open meadows, make ideal nesting locations for waterfowl, songbirds, and a variety of raptors. Created for the beginning birdwatcher as well as the experienced “twitcher”, the Essex County Birding Trail includes sites that are owned or managed by municipal, state, federal and conservation organizations. Listings for each site include the bird species which may be found there, a description of the habitat, suggestions for the best viewing areas, and other important information to help users make the most of their visit.
“The interest in birding in the region seems to be growing exponentially,” explained Annie Harris, ENHC Executive Director. “But many people don’t realize that there are so many sites across the region offering such diversity of species and habitat. The bird trail is another way we are encouraging people to get out and explore the wonderful resources of the region.”
Click here for information on free Guided Birding Walks on April 29