field trips
The Lynchburg Bird Club organizes local and regional field trips from September into June each year. We welcome birders at all skill levels and non-members along with our club members. For information on upcoming field trips refer to the most recent club newsletter or check back here for updates. The club newsletter is emailed to all members bimonthly, and members receive updates on programs and field trips via emails. See the "Membership" page for information on how to join!
53rd Big Spring Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 (time varies)
The 53rd annual count is this coming Saturday, May 4th!
This fun and historic citizen science tradition is a count conducted jointly by the Lynchburg Bird Club and the Roanoke Valley Bird Club. The first Big Spring Day count occurred in 1971 and 102 species were found. Last year, a total of 128 species were observed.
Sixteen groups of birders will cover designated areas within 7.5 miles of the Big Spring in the Peaks of Otter Picnic Area. Each of the sixteen groups independently choose their starting time and rain-or-shine continue as long into the day as they desire. As per tradition, a mid-day tally will be held for those interested in sharing the day’s findings and having a chance to chat with fellow enthusiastic birders. Per a request from last year’s tally participants, the time will shift slightly later. This year’s tally will be held between 12:30 and 1:30 PM in the amphitheater behind the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center. Restrooms are available, and snacks and cold beverages will be provided.
Past Big Spring Day participants, if you haven’t already, please contact your group leader to confirm whether or not you are able to participate this year. Never birded on Big Spring Day, or haven’t been able to participate in the last few years? Newcomers and birders returning to the volunteer flock are always encouraged and warmly welcomed. Please contact Donna at mateski@bu.edu or 434-546-3812 and she will match you up with a route or an existing team looking for additional eyes.
51st Annual Lynchburg Breeding Bird Count
Saturday, June 1, 2024 (time varies)
You are invited to join us for our 51st annual Lynchburg Breeding Bird Count, to be held on Saturday, June 1st. As is our custom, groups can cover their territory within three days on either side of this date (May 29 through June 4) if that is advantageous because of weather considerations, personal schedules, or recreational activities at sites to be covered that may hamper birding on a Saturday. Count leaders will be contacted prior to the count and will receive forms for recording data. If you have not participated before but would like a good introduction to the breeding birds of the area, we encourage you to consider joining us. For more information on joining a group, contact Gene Sattler (gsattler@liberty.edu; 434 237-1832), or talk to some of our regular members.