Because all of the above is subject to change, be sure to check for dates, times and further information
Other: Andy Wood training day, Nature Center with kids, Summit School with kids.
Highlands Plateau Audubon Society
Dedicated to the enjoyment and protection
of birds and their environment
Founded in 1996
Serving Highlands, Cashiers, Franklin
and Scaly Mountain
in Western North Carolina
Highlands Plateau Audubon Society
Details of Our Some of Our 2013 Outings
Southern Highlands Reserve Hosts Highlands Plateau Audubon Society
On one of the prettiest Spring mornings yet this year, 13 birders and botanizers enjoyed an outing for both birds and plants at the Southern Highlands Reserve on May 21st. The gardens high above Lake Toxaway offered many early Spring blooms, as well as migrant birds which have recently returned to breed in our area.
As the mission of the Reserve is to propagate the native flora of the Southern Appalachians, it is an ideal spot for species such as the Chestnut-sided Warbler and Indigo Bunting to find the food, nesting materials and shelter they need to raise their families.
Southern Highlands Reserve
May 21st
Native plants are absolutely the best for attracting the insects and caterpillars that the birds must have to feed their young. Among those species in bloom during the visit were the native Vaseyi and Pinxter Azaleas, with flame azaleas soon to follow. Dwarf-crested Iris, Fothergilla, Clintonia Lilies and many other species were enjoyed by all, with both Pink and Yellow Lady Slippers drawing the biggest sighs of admiration. Kelly Holdbrooks, Director of Programs, led the group on a special route designed to maximize birding opportunities, which yielded excellent looks at Red-eyed Vireos, Northern Flicker and Gray Catbird.
The views from on top are spectacular, and the Audubon Society was delighted to be able to offer the opportunity for birding here to all its members and to the public at large. Watch the web site, www.highlandsaudubonsociety.org , and your local papers for up-coming field trip opportunities - come join us for a morning in the midst of the nature which draws us all to these beautiful and very special mountains!
