Class is full. You can add yourself to the waiting list through the form below.

Blackburnian Warbler by Graham Norman

Did you know that over 30 Warbler species can be seen in the Midlands during the last week of April?

Join Jay Keck, SCWF's bird guide, and admitted Warbler addict, to search for these tiny and beautiful songbirds at Rocky Branch Natural Area in Little Mountain, SC. This is one of Jay's favorite places to walk during spring migration. The flora and fauna can be fascinating, and the birding can be spectacular. Along with Warblers, expect to see Grosbeaks, Buntings, and Tanagers at this park.

Black Throated Blue Warbler by Graham Norman

Where:  Rocky Branch Nature Area, Little Mountain, SC.

Who: This training is open to the public. No prior knowledge is required. Minimum age is 16.  This training will count for half a day toward Palmetto Pro Birder certification (8 days needed total). For SC Master Naturalists, this event can count as Advanced Training and towards your statewide certification. If you are not a Pro Birder or Master Naturalist, just come have fun with us.

This class will be led by Jay Keck, SCWF Industry Habitat Manager. Jay has been a passionate nature and bird lover since his early teens. He lives in Chapin, SC with his wife and two boys, and has identified 95 bird species in his yard in three years, as well as 160 species in Lexington county since moving back in September of 2013. He has viewed birds in Spain, Chile, Honduras, and Costa Rica, as well as many areas in SC from the mountains to the coast. Being inspired by SCWF's mission, he earned his Palmetto Pro Birder certification, and has led bird walks for SCWF as well as Saluda Shoals park, Columbia Audubon, and private organizations. Even when he is golfing, hunting, or fishing, he is secretly birding. At SCWF, Jay coordinates the Wildlife And Industry Together (WAIT) program as well as leading birding classes for the Palmetto Pro Birder & Midlands Master Naturalist programs. 

To ensure a quality experience for all, space is strictly limited to 7 participants. Classes fill quickly, register today!

Other Important Notes:

•    If available, please bring binoculars & your favorite field guide to Eastern birds.

•    Restrooms are available, and pink and blue bushes are along the trail…

•    The rain date for this event is April 30. We will make every effort to hold this class on April 29th, even in a few rain showers.
•    After registering, you will receive important correspondence via email. If you change your email between now and then, make sure to notify us.

Cost: The cost is $75.00 per person and limited to the first 7 people that register.     

IMPORTANT: Participants should be in good physical shape. Birding involves a lot of standing, and we may cover some distance in our field work.

PLEASE DO NOT SIGN UP FOR THIS EVENT UNLESS YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN YOU CAN HANDLE THESE CONDITIONS.  

SCWF reserves the right to cancel any event, due to unforeseen circumstances, extreme weather, low registration, or guidance from local/state officials. Any cancellation by SCWF will result in a full refund for all registrants.

Class is full. You can add yourself to the waiting list through the form below.

Photo by Graham Norman