OBX Hummingbirds
It seems lately that there have been an abundance of hummingbirds buzzing around the island. It's a great memory of my childhood at my grandparent's house sitting for hours watching the Ruby Red Throats and others sip the sweet red concoction outside their kitchen window. They are truly amazing little creatures.
I received the following press release with regard to hummingbirds in conjunction with the Wings over Water Wildlife Festival to be held again this fall. I may have to attend this special event myself!
"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE –
Hummingbirds Create Buzz on Outer Banks
Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival set for November 3-8, 2009
(OUTER BANKS, NC) September 11, 2009 - Hummingbird researcher Susan Campbell will return to the Outer Banks of North Carolina during Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival in November 2009 to once again attempt to catch and band the smallest of birds.
Campbell, a licensed bander, will lead two two-hour programs during the festival, both aimed at demonstrating techniques for capturing and banding hummingbirds.
The program also will provide useful tips on attracting hummingbirds.
Once thought to migrate out of the area in late summer, it is now known that the smallest of all migratory birds can often be found winter-long along the Outer Banks. And a number of species of the irridescent bird have been identified in the area.
After meeting at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, the program group will visit a Manteo residence that hosts numerous hummingbirds throughout the year.
A resident of Southern Pines, Campbell has been a birder for almost 30 years -- both as an occupation and as a hobby. One of the many memorable birding experiences she has had over the years includes monitoring the Scissor-tailed Flycatchers while they were nesting at Hobby Field in Southern Pines during the summers of 2006 and 2007. The birds were out of the their normal range and were not supposed to be nesting that far to the east.
Campbell said that one of the most common misconception about birders is that they only have one hobby -- birding. "Usually it fits in with other outdoor pursuits," said Campbell. "I enjoy anything outdoors: gardening, hiking, kayaking and fishing."
The number of participants for Campbell's programs is limited so early registration is suggested.
But Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival isn't just for birding enthusiasts. The more than 80 scheduled programs include paddling, natural history, photography and even opportunities to learn more about the rich history of the area.
This festival is traditionally set during the shoulder season when rates are lower for accommodations, traffic is light and the weather is mild.
And due to popular demand, there are an increased number of photography programs to be taught by professionals. Classes have been designed for both the skilled and not-so-practiced, as well as some programs for children and/or families.
To learn more about the Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival call 252-216-9464 or go to www.wingsoverwater.org."
Grab your camera, your walkin' shoes and head to the Outer Banks for some fall feathered fun!
I received the following press release with regard to hummingbirds in conjunction with the Wings over Water Wildlife Festival to be held again this fall. I may have to attend this special event myself!
"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE –
Hummingbirds Create Buzz on Outer Banks
Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival set for November 3-8, 2009
(OUTER BANKS, NC) September 11, 2009 - Hummingbird researcher Susan Campbell will return to the Outer Banks of North Carolina during Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival in November 2009 to once again attempt to catch and band the smallest of birds.
Campbell, a licensed bander, will lead two two-hour programs during the festival, both aimed at demonstrating techniques for capturing and banding hummingbirds.
The program also will provide useful tips on attracting hummingbirds.
Once thought to migrate out of the area in late summer, it is now known that the smallest of all migratory birds can often be found winter-long along the Outer Banks. And a number of species of the irridescent bird have been identified in the area.
After meeting at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, the program group will visit a Manteo residence that hosts numerous hummingbirds throughout the year.
A resident of Southern Pines, Campbell has been a birder for almost 30 years -- both as an occupation and as a hobby. One of the many memorable birding experiences she has had over the years includes monitoring the Scissor-tailed Flycatchers while they were nesting at Hobby Field in Southern Pines during the summers of 2006 and 2007. The birds were out of the their normal range and were not supposed to be nesting that far to the east.
Campbell said that one of the most common misconception about birders is that they only have one hobby -- birding. "Usually it fits in with other outdoor pursuits," said Campbell. "I enjoy anything outdoors: gardening, hiking, kayaking and fishing."
The number of participants for Campbell's programs is limited so early registration is suggested.
But Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival isn't just for birding enthusiasts. The more than 80 scheduled programs include paddling, natural history, photography and even opportunities to learn more about the rich history of the area.
This festival is traditionally set during the shoulder season when rates are lower for accommodations, traffic is light and the weather is mild.
And due to popular demand, there are an increased number of photography programs to be taught by professionals. Classes have been designed for both the skilled and not-so-practiced, as well as some programs for children and/or families.
To learn more about the Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival call 252-216-9464 or go to www.wingsoverwater.org."
Grab your camera, your walkin' shoes and head to the Outer Banks for some fall feathered fun!

