The Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival, a six-day celebration of the wild side of the Outer Banks region of North Carolina, is set for Nov. 3ń8.
Birding, natural history, photography and paddling are just some of the types of programs planned for the festival which spans Veteran’s Day weekend.
Participants should come prepared to be introduced to the real world of the Outer Banks where adventure is whatever folks long to enjoy. Programs are led by experienced leaders who volunteer each year to share their wealth of knowledge and perhaps to share an experience or two about their own adventures. This year’s offerings range from theater to kayaking, photography to birding. And photography classes include programs especially designed for families with children.
Always a favorite are the offshore birding excursions. Birders from around the world recognize the Gulf Stream off Cape Hatteras as one of the top sites in North America for viewing seabirds, especially the endangered Black-capped Petrel. Fall is also a great time to see shearwaters, jaegers, and other pelagic birds. This birding adventure on the safe and comfortable Stormy Petrel II with Captain Brian Patteson is an opportunity for all serious birders to add to their life lists.
Beginner birders can learn some of the basics in a new program ó Birding 101. Using a combination of classroom discussion and outside observation, participants will learn techniques to locate, observe, and identify birds. Designed for the beginning birder, others may learn methods to expand their birding skills as well.
The Global Connection is a fascinating program that focuses on how birds are impacted around the world. Positioned on the Atlantic Flyway, the Outer Banks is both a destination and a stopover for birds traveling along their migration route.
To learn more about the Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival, call 252-216-9464 or go to www.wingsoverwater. org.