SPECIAL NOTE: On Thursday February 10, 2022, at 5:00 PM EST, we will release all of our virtual program schedule. you will be able to access all of these programs to view at your leisure, for free, through Saturday, February 26, 2022
After that date, a small fee of $25 will allow you to access our programs until February of 2023.
After that date, a small fee of $25 will allow you to access our programs until February of 2023.
Thursday, February 10, 2022
7:00-9:00 PM Virtual Meet and Greet
Join us for this Live to Facebook and Youtube Opening Event as we meet our BON organizers, partners, and leaders, special guests, presenters, and sponsors. We will discuss our programing, birds, and Niagara places. Join us and be a part of this virtual social event. We will answer your questions, preview our auction, and just gather for a virtual social event!
Passcode 310954
5:00 PM Live Photography Workshop with Larry Mathewson
This presentation will discuss details for locating/viewing and obtaining your best images while walking/driving areas surround the Lake Erie North and Niagara River Canada shoreline. His imagers will show birds in their natural environment. birding and photography are both hit and miss. Much success is based on willingness to to spend time, establish contacts, and above all exercise patience. The photographer always considers proper ethics while in field viewing and capturing images. Mr. Mathewson is a local Ridgeway photography and videographer with a keen interest in many facets of the photography world including but not limited to sports, landscapes, waterfalls, wildlife, birds in flight, and underwater videography. He is a member of the Niagara Falls Camera Club as it's current digital chairperson. He is also a member of the Buffalo Science Museum Camera Club
passcode 432891
7:00-9:00 PM Virtual Meet and Greet
Join us for this Live to Facebook and Youtube Opening Event as we meet our BON organizers, partners, and leaders, special guests, presenters, and sponsors. We will discuss our programing, birds, and Niagara places. Join us and be a part of this virtual social event. We will answer your questions, preview our auction, and just gather for a virtual social event!
Passcode 310954
5:00 PM Live Photography Workshop with Larry Mathewson
This presentation will discuss details for locating/viewing and obtaining your best images while walking/driving areas surround the Lake Erie North and Niagara River Canada shoreline. His imagers will show birds in their natural environment. birding and photography are both hit and miss. Much success is based on willingness to to spend time, establish contacts, and above all exercise patience. The photographer always considers proper ethics while in field viewing and capturing images. Mr. Mathewson is a local Ridgeway photography and videographer with a keen interest in many facets of the photography world including but not limited to sports, landscapes, waterfalls, wildlife, birds in flight, and underwater videography. He is a member of the Niagara Falls Camera Club as it's current digital chairperson. He is also a member of the Buffalo Science Museum Camera Club
passcode 432891
Friday, February 11, 2022
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM.
All Day Outdoor Programming
(see list below)
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM.
All Day Outdoor Programming
(see list below)
SPECIAL LIVE Virtual PROGRAMMING
12:00 Noon
Justin Peter: Moving Beyond "Seagulls" An introduction to Gulls
The Niagara River is a renowned gull-watching hotspot that attracts birders from aft. but Why would anyone care to watch gulls? And how would one get started in gull watching? Justin will share some reasons to take a closer look at these birds and some approaches to make it interesting.
Mr. Peters is Quest Nature Tours' Director of Programs and senior naturalist. A lifelong birder he worked for several years a Senior Naturalist at Ontario's renowned Algonquin Park. Justin is Past-President of the Toronto Ornithological Club and life member of the Ontario Field Ornithologists. He loves gulls and looks for them wherever he travels in the world.
Join us by
passcode 197029
12:00 Noon
Justin Peter: Moving Beyond "Seagulls" An introduction to Gulls
The Niagara River is a renowned gull-watching hotspot that attracts birders from aft. but Why would anyone care to watch gulls? And how would one get started in gull watching? Justin will share some reasons to take a closer look at these birds and some approaches to make it interesting.
Mr. Peters is Quest Nature Tours' Director of Programs and senior naturalist. A lifelong birder he worked for several years a Senior Naturalist at Ontario's renowned Algonquin Park. Justin is Past-President of the Toronto Ornithological Club and life member of the Ontario Field Ornithologists. He loves gulls and looks for them wherever he travels in the world.
Join us by
passcode 197029
Saturday, February 12, 2022
8:00 AM- 7:30 PM
All Day Outdoor Programming
See List Below
All Day Outdoor Programming
See List Below
SPECIAL LIVE Virtual PROGRAMMING
12 Noon
Megan Hiebert: Live Sketching Workshop
There’s a lot more reasons to draw than just to create a pretty picture. In this sketching webinar Megan Hiebert will go through sketching birds for identification. Drawing helps to heighten your level of observation, remember details, and to portray those details to other people, and this is particularly important in field sketching for example if you see a bird that you can’t ID and want to look it up later. Drawing also helps you to appreciate subjects from a different perspective and pick up on details you otherwise wouldn’t have. Please bring paper and pencils and expect to participate (as much as zoom webinar will allow at least).
Megan Hiebert started doing fine art in about grade 8 for a school project and discovered she loved it. She does art mostly for fun but does some commissions. Her favourite mediums to use at the moment are watercolour and wood burning, but also enjoys pencil and oil. Megan has a love for birds and nature which inspire all of her work and hopes that through teaching she can help people to discover the beauty and intricacy of the world around them.
Join us by
passcode: 472273
12 Noon
Megan Hiebert: Live Sketching Workshop
There’s a lot more reasons to draw than just to create a pretty picture. In this sketching webinar Megan Hiebert will go through sketching birds for identification. Drawing helps to heighten your level of observation, remember details, and to portray those details to other people, and this is particularly important in field sketching for example if you see a bird that you can’t ID and want to look it up later. Drawing also helps you to appreciate subjects from a different perspective and pick up on details you otherwise wouldn’t have. Please bring paper and pencils and expect to participate (as much as zoom webinar will allow at least).
Megan Hiebert started doing fine art in about grade 8 for a school project and discovered she loved it. She does art mostly for fun but does some commissions. Her favourite mediums to use at the moment are watercolour and wood burning, but also enjoys pencil and oil. Megan has a love for birds and nature which inspire all of her work and hopes that through teaching she can help people to discover the beauty and intricacy of the world around them.
Join us by
passcode: 472273
Outdoor Birding, Hiking and Workshops
Registration Required
USA Schedule
Some programs free, others have a small fee
Friday February 11, 2022
- 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM – ArtPark Lower Gorge Trail – with Claudia Rosen of Buffalo-Niagara Waterkeeper
The Niagara River and its shorelines provide a haven for an incredible diversity of bird life. In the winter, up to 19 species of gulls and over 30 species of waterfowl can be found utilizing the River. We will hike along the Lower Gorge Trail at Art Park State Park to observe and enjoy the winter abundance birds! We'll talk about the River's significance for birds, and the steps we can all take to be stewards for our waterways in Western New York and beyond. Dress for the weather and potentially uneven terrain along the trail. Beginner birders are welcome! A limited number of binoculars will be available to borrow.
- 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM – Three Sisters Islands – with Tom Kerr of Buffalo Audubon
The rapids above Niagara Falls that separate the United States and Canada is one of the best places in North America to see Gulls. Seven gull species can be seen on any given day in the winter, with more rarities possible. We can see several duck species as well, including locally rare Harlequin Ducks. Beginners are welcome, a spotting scope will be provided as well as binoculars to borrow.
- 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM – Buckhorn Island State Park with Matt Nusstein of New York State Parks
Buckhorn Island State Park is an 895 acre nature preserve, encompassing one of the last major marshlands bordering the Niagara River. The park is also classified as a state Bird Conservation Area. We will be birding along a trail that parallels the Niagara River to enjoy the vast concentration of waterfowl present during the winter.
- 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM – Goat Island – with Angelina Weibel of New York State Parks
Enjoy the diverse bird life of our region and see the world’s most famous waterfall up close on a guided tour of Niagara Falls with New York State Parks staff. Tour the Horseshoe Falls, Bridal Falls, and the American Falls in this world famous state park designed by Fredrick Law Olmsted.
- 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM – Fort Niagara State Park –with Tom Kerr of Buffalo Audubon
Search for diving ducks, Grebes, and Loons from the shores of Lake Ontario. Fort Niagara is one of the first places nomadic winter finches, Snow Buntings, and other winter rarities enter the United States. Beginners are welcome, a spotting scope will be provided as well as binoculars to borrow.
- 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM – Buffalo Harbor State Park – with Claudia Rosen of Buffalo-Niagara Waterkeeper
Traveling from its breeding grounds in the arctic tundra, the Snowy Owl is an occasional visitor to Western New York. If a birder is lucky, they may spot one of these amazing creatures in the winter months along shorelines or in open areas like fields or an airport. Join us for a walk along the promenade at Buffalo Harbor State Park as we enjoy the birds that frequent the Harbor including ducks, gulls, and (hopefully) a Snowy Owl! Dress for the weather and cold and windy conditions. Beginner birders and families are welcome! A limited number of binoculars and a spotting scope will be available to borrow.
Saturday February 12, 2022
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Free
Tifft Nature Preserve, Buffalo, New York
Family Friendly Bird Walk and Workshop
Registration Required Spaces Limited.
Free
Tifft Nature Preserve, Buffalo, New York
Family Friendly Bird Walk and Workshop
Registration Required Spaces Limited.
10:00- 11:30 AM
Free
Beaver Island State Park, Grand Island, New York
Bird Walks Along the River.
Registration Required
Free
Beaver Island State Park, Grand Island, New York
Bird Walks Along the River.
Registration Required
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Free
Buffalo Harbor State Park, Buffalo, New York
Birding at the Buffalo Outer Harbor
Free
Buffalo Harbor State Park, Buffalo, New York
Birding at the Buffalo Outer Harbor
- 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM – Devil’s Hole State Park – with Tom Kerr of Buffalo Audubon
Descend the 380 stairs into Devil’s Hole for your reward of close up views of all three subspecies of Iceland Gulls and more on the roosting rocks upstream from the Robert Moses Power Plant. Singing Carolina Wrens will cheer you on as you search the flocks of Bonaparte’s Gulls for Kittiwakes and other rarities. Beginners are welcome, a spotting scope will be provided as well as binoculars to borrow
.
- 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM – Three Sisters Islands – With Mike Morgante of Buffalo Ornithological Society
The rapids above Niagara Falls that separate the United States and Canada is one of the best places in North America to see Gulls. Seven gull species can be seen on any given day in the winter, with more rarities possible. We can see several duck species as well, including locally rare Harlequin Ducks. Beginners are welcome, a spotting scope will be provided as well as binoculars to borrow.
- 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM – Goat Island – with Joel Strong of Buffalo Ornithological Society
Tour Goat Island in search of Ducks, Gulls, and songbirds that call Niagara Falls their winter home. Tour the Horseshoe Falls, Bridal Falls, and the American Falls in this world famous state park designed by Fredrick Law Olmsted. Beginners are welcome, a spotting scope will be provided as well as binoculars to borrow.
- 1:00 PM – Let’s Go Birding Together! – with Joe Fell of Buffalo Ornithological Society
Join us for an inclusive birding tour in search of Little Gulls and Black Vultures in the Village of Lewiston. A small population of Black Vultures has taken up residence in Niagara County alongside their more common Turkey Vulture cousins. We’ll also look for one of the Niagara River’s most special birds, the aptly named Little Gull.
- 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM – Stone Chimney and Upper Rapids – with Marcus Rosten of the Aquarium of Niagara
Hike along the upper rapids of Niagara Falls and enjoy the Ducks and Gulls looking for protected water near the Stone Chimney historical site. Snowy Owls can be seen occasionally on the Control Gate Island on the Canadian Side. Beginners are welcome, a spotting scope will be provided as well as binoculars to borrow.
- 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM – Buffalo Harbor State Park – with the Feminist Bird Club of Buffalo
Join us for an inclusive sunset walk along the Buffalo Outer Harbor in search of Snowy Owls that spend their winter along the frozen shores of Lake Erie. Lear about why these owls travel here in the winter and the challenges they face before they head back home to the Arctic Circle in the spring. Beginners are welcome, a spotting scope will be provided as well as binoculars to borrow.
- 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM – Buckhorn Island State Park – with Tom Kerr of Buffalo Audubon
Join us for a nocturnal owl prowl hike in search of Eastern Screech-owls and Great Horned Owls that live in one of the biggest forested areas on the Niagara River. Owls, especially Screech-owls, can be very difficult to find during the day, but are easily found at night with a few tricks. Beginners are welcome. Ages 8 and up.
Questions?
Email [email protected] or call 585-457-3228
CANADA SCHEDULE
Friday FEBRUARY 11, 2022
9:30 - 11:00 AM
Photography Workshop with Larry Mathewson
Dufferin Island (outside)
The group will begin with asking questions to Larry and discussing what participants may hope to get out of the activity. The group will walk through the small Dufferin islands pathways with a view to capturing usable images for the competition.
Notes: Meet at parking area (cost for parking) just before leaving the Dufferin Islands area. (2 large rocks and bridge). We will review attendee gear and answer any questions.
Photography Workshop with Larry Mathewson
Dufferin Island (outside)
The group will begin with asking questions to Larry and discussing what participants may hope to get out of the activity. The group will walk through the small Dufferin islands pathways with a view to capturing usable images for the competition.
Notes: Meet at parking area (cost for parking) just before leaving the Dufferin Islands area. (2 large rocks and bridge). We will review attendee gear and answer any questions.
Saturday FEBRUARY 12, 2022
9:30 - 11:00 AM
Photography Workshop with Larry Mathewson
Dufferin Island (outside)
The group will begin with asking questions to Larry and discussing what participants may hope to get out of the activity. The group will walk through the small Dufferin islands pathways with a view to capturing usable images for the competition.
Notes: Meet at parking area (cost for parking) just before leaving the Dufferin Islands area. (2 large rocks and bridge). We will review attendee gear and answer any questions.
Photography Workshop with Larry Mathewson
Dufferin Island (outside)
The group will begin with asking questions to Larry and discussing what participants may hope to get out of the activity. The group will walk through the small Dufferin islands pathways with a view to capturing usable images for the competition.
Notes: Meet at parking area (cost for parking) just before leaving the Dufferin Islands area. (2 large rocks and bridge). We will review attendee gear and answer any questions.
9:30 AM
Walk with Marcie Jacklin and Lynne Freeman at Nelson’s Park
We will be exploring the north end of the river. We should be able to see Long-tailed Ducks, White-winged Scoters and several species of gulls. Please dress warmly and bring binoculars.
Note: 1 Nelson Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Walk with Marcie Jacklin and Lynne Freeman at Nelson’s Park
We will be exploring the north end of the river. We should be able to see Long-tailed Ducks, White-winged Scoters and several species of gulls. Please dress warmly and bring binoculars.
Note: 1 Nelson Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake
10:30 AM and 1:30 PM
CANCELLED Sketching workshop with Missy Acker. If you have registered you will be notified.
CANCELLED Sketching workshop with Missy Acker. If you have registered you will be notified.
1:00 PM
Walk with Marcie Jacklin and Lynne Freeman at the Upper Falls (Feb 12 at 1:00)
We will be exploring the Niagara River to the south of Niagara Falls. Common Goldeneye, Bufflehead, several species of mergansers and with luck some surprises. Please dress warmly and bring binoculars. There are no facilities along this route so be prepared!
Note: Meet at Kingsbridge Park, 7870 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls. Most likely, you will have to pay for parking.
Walk with Marcie Jacklin and Lynne Freeman at the Upper Falls (Feb 12 at 1:00)
We will be exploring the Niagara River to the south of Niagara Falls. Common Goldeneye, Bufflehead, several species of mergansers and with luck some surprises. Please dress warmly and bring binoculars. There are no facilities along this route so be prepared!
Note: Meet at Kingsbridge Park, 7870 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls. Most likely, you will have to pay for parking.
Sunday February 13, 2022
9:30 AM
Walk with Bob and Jean at Brown’s Point
This walk will be a 1.5 km loop with views of the Niagara River and a walk through the woods.
Bob Highcock and Jean Hampson are on the Executive of the Peninsula Field Naturalists, a nature club based in St. Catharines. Bob and Jean are also Caretakers of the Niagara River Corridor Important Bird and Biodiversity Area. They have been birding in the Niagara area for over 15 years.
Notes: Parking lot on river side between 15248 Niagara Parkway and Tregunno Fruit Farms (Not the small Brown's Point parking lot).
Walk with Bob and Jean at Brown’s Point
This walk will be a 1.5 km loop with views of the Niagara River and a walk through the woods.
Bob Highcock and Jean Hampson are on the Executive of the Peninsula Field Naturalists, a nature club based in St. Catharines. Bob and Jean are also Caretakers of the Niagara River Corridor Important Bird and Biodiversity Area. They have been birding in the Niagara area for over 15 years.
Notes: Parking lot on river side between 15248 Niagara Parkway and Tregunno Fruit Farms (Not the small Brown's Point parking lot).