For the Birds…

After the December hype of the holiday season dies down, things get pretty quiet in the North of Boston region (with the exception of the occasional blizzard – but even those become rather tedious after awhile).  The rest of winter is for the birds.

Literally.  For dedicated ornithologists and casual birdwatchers alike, the end of January/beginning of February bring two of the biggest birding events in the area- the Cape Ann Birding Weekend and Merrimack River Eagle Festival.

Cape Ann Birding Weekend
January 31-February 2, 2014
http://capeannchamber.com/signature-events/cape-ann-birding-weekend/
Bird watchers of all skill levels from all around flock to Cape Ann for the Cape Ann Birding Weekend.  Organized by the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce and Massachusetts Audubon Society, this event birding enthusiasts to join expert guides on tours of birding hotspots, attend birding workshops, and more.  Artists will also be in attendance giving live demonstrations and showing off bird-related pieces.  Explore Cape Ann’s scenic coastline and see winter seabirds, grebes, Harlequin Duck, Purple Sandpiper, and more!

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Merrimack River Eagle Festival
February 8, 2014
http://www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/wildlife-sanctuaries/joppa-flats/news-events/the-merrimack-river-eagle-festival
The Bald Eagle makes it return to the Merrimack Valley this February!  Celebrate its return at the Merrimack River Eagle Festival and join the Mass Audubon at Joppa Flats and the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge for a day full of free activities including an Eagle Tour, eagle magnet, mask or button-making, and so much more!  This year, Festival is pleased to debut the Eagle Festival Eagle Eye Scavenger Hunt!  Now through February 8, visit participating Newburyport merchants and find hidden eagle facts in their stores. You can download a scavenger hunt form or pick one up at the Joppa Flats Education Center or at Newburyport Public Library.