By Connie Morrison
Birders across the Eastern Shore and across the bay will put their spotting and identification skills to the test this weekend in the Kiptopeke Challenge.
In its 24th year, the competition supports the habitat conservation, avian research, and the outreach mission of Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory by sponsoring teams in their birding quests. “It started in 1995 as a means to bring attention to fall bird migration and to help raise money to support the mission” of the observatory, said event coordinator Dave Youker.
The nonprofit observatory was begun in 1994 “to expand on the songbird and hawk studies that were begun by volunteers in 1963 on land which later became Kiptopeke State Park, on Virginia’s Eastern Shore,” according to the observatory’s Facebook page.
“The platforms you see are where we conduct a hawk watch each fall, and we encourage the public to visit,” said Youker. “We have an educator on-site during this time to provide information to visitors.”
Birding is a popular outdoor activity. A 2016 study by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service found about 45 million people enjoyed birding as a pastime, with 39 million “backyard birders” and another 16 million traveling away from home to view birds.
“It’s one of the fastest growing recreational activities,” said Youker.
“There are obvious health benefits from getting outdoors and socializing with friends during a birding adventure,” Youker continued. “Many people also like the challenge of a birding event such as the KC where you strive to find as many species as you can or to find those rare species that occasionally make an appearance in Virginia.”
The Kiptopeke observation platforms are a good spot to observe various species. “Many people marvel at the incredible feats performed by birds,” said Youker.
This Saturday (Sept. 28) is also Outdoor Exploration Day at Kiptopeke State Park. It’s part of National Public Lands Day and it’s free and family friendly.
The event will offer animal presentations and a walk through a live butterfly tent. Participants can also enjoy hands-on programs, crafts, music, and many more fun activities. Rent a kayak, take a hike, or a wagon ride and learn more about the different ecosystems, history, and unique culture of the Chesapeake Bay and Eastern Shore of Virginia.
A hawk identification workshop will be held at Kiptopeke State Park. Sunday, Sept. 29, beginning at 10 a.m.
Connie Morrison, Editor
