The Great Dismal Swamp Birding Festival took place April 23–25 at the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). VDGIF is a co-sponsor of this annual event, which emphasizes the excellent spring birding opportunities available at the NWR. This year’s event tallied a total of 91 bird species observed over the course of the three day festival and was well attended. Participants traveled from throughout the Commonwealth and across the U.S. for the festival, including some who traveled from California and Colorado. Activities included guided bird walks and boat trips, an owl prowl (attended by over 70 participants!), bird banding demonstrations, and children’s activities. VDGIF staff members assisted with some of the trips; staffed a VDGIF exhibit booth, and instructed a Birding Basics workshop to over 30 new birders of all ages. Thank you to the NWR for hosting this terrific birding festival and all of the additional festival partners and volunteers who help to make the event possible!
