Programs and Field Trips/Highlands Plateau Audubon Society

Once again this year, beginning in May, the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society will offer regular Saturday field trips to the Highlands-Cashiers-Franklin-Sapphire Communities throughout the summer season. This year's schedule includes several new, exciting venues as well as repeat visits to favorite birding spots in our area. This year the group will also coordinate some trips with the Franklin Bird Club, as well as enjoying the excitement of bird banding and up-close, in hand interactions with some of our special migrants. In addition, guest leaders will share their unique knowledge, and special Beginners' sessions will be offered once per month. Those sessions are aimed at assisting feeder watchers, new and would-be birders with binoculars and field guides, though birders of all levels are welcome and encouraged to participate in every walk.

As of now, the first two months are set and those wishing to join these free walks should consult both the HPAS website, and the local papers in Cashiers and Highlands for meeting times and details. Most field trips will meet at 7:30 either in the Highlands Town Hall Parking lot and/or in Cashiers at the new Cashiers Community Center parking lot. Car-pooling is encouraged and usually essential due to limited parking at birding destinations. Participants should bring binoculars if they have them, water and stout walking shoes, cameras and sunscreen. Visored hats are often useful. HPAS has a supply of binoculars which they are happy to lend to those without, and trips will be led by birders experienced with our local birds and habitats, assisted by club members who will help with field guide identifications and binocular use.

Come join us for a Saturday morning exploring the out-of-doors in our beautiful mountains and the birds that inhabit them. Emily Dickenson said, "Hope is the thing with Feathers" - and we hope that you will join us!