Learn to Identify Birds during Spring Hikes in the Hamptons

The flowering trees and return of brightly-feathered songbirds herald spring in the Hamptons, reminding us of the natural beauty that draws us to this special place on Long Island. Two excellent nature walks are scheduled to acquaint Hampton residents with spring migratory birds that visit or nest on our shores. On Saturday, April 27, Frank Quevedo, Executive Director of the South Fork Natural History Museum in Bridgehampton, will lead a spring migration walk for beginning birders. The first of Frank’s popular three-part Birding for Beginners series [http://www.sofo.org/naturewalks.asp], the walk will focus on identifying grassland and shoreline birds through their field marks and behaviors. Participants should bring binoculars, a scope and a field guide to birds of Eastern North America. The walk is geared for adults and children 12 years of age and older. There is no charge for SoFo members; non-member fee is $7 per adult and $5 per child (ages 3-12). The fee includes admission to the museum. Reservations are required; call 631-537-9735. On Saturday, May 4, expert ornithologist Mary Laura Lamont will lead a two-hour guided bird walk sponsored by the Hallockville Museum Farm [http://hallockville.com/] in Riverhead. Participants will learn how to identify spring birds that, like many of us, are returning to the Hamptons to nest for another season. Registration is recommended (call 631-298-5292). The fee is $5 for Hallockville members; $6 for non-members. If you’re looking for a nest of your own in the Hamptons, call me for information about the latest Hampton home listings [http://billwilliamsrealty.com/properties-for-sale].