Autumn Migration: A Bird Walk with Loren Merrill

About this event

Join local avian ecologist, writer, and photographer Dr. Loren Merrill for an early morning guided bird walk focused on the fall migration. Take advantage of this special opportunity to visit the garden and bird the grounds before they open to the public. We’ll search for migrating warblers, vireos, thrushes, sparrows, and other songbirds, while also watching for raptors, waterbirds, and resident species. Along the way, we’ll consider how birds navigate their journeys, what they need to refuel and rest, and why particular habitats—including Innisfree’s gardens, ponds, woodlands, and edges—can be especially important during migration. Whether you’re an experienced birder or simply curious about the seasonal movement of birds, this walk will offer a closer look at one of the Hudson Valley’s most fascinating natural events and at the birds that make Innisfree part of their journey. Bring binoculars if you have them, and dress for a cool, relaxing morning walk. Space for this program is limited, and pre-registration is required. Attendees must arrive no later than 8AM, when the gate will close again until the garden opens to the public at 10AM. This walk will take place rain or shine. Loren Merrill Loren Merrill holds a Ph.D. in animal behavior, wildlife ecology and physiology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and attended Cornell University for his undergraduate degree. He is now a science writer and nature photographer and draws heavily from his background in ecology and natural history. Raised in New England, he has conducted research and photographed wildlife across North America and beyond. Combining scientific insight with a keen eye for the natural world, Loren’s work explores how animals, plants and habitats respond to changing environments and interact in surprising ways. Today, Loren splits his time between Millbrook and Maine, continuing to guide others in observing the living landscape around us. Learn more about Loren HERE.