"Birding 101": Beginners Birding Field Trip

What’s so great about birding? The answer to this question and many others will be revealed when the Mississippi Coast Audubon Society hosts their annual “Birding 101” field trip at Gulfport’s Jones Park on Saturday, September 23.

Jones Park is located on 60 acres at the very south end of Highway 49 adjacent to the Mississippi State Port. Not only is this park/harbor facility a signature facility for the City of Gulfport, but it is also known as the “Front Yard for the State of Mississippi.”

Gary Herritz, trip leader and experienced birder, said, “We specifically tailor this field trip toward brand new, aspiring birders. We will assist people with learning to use binoculars, spotting scopes, and field guides and answer any questions you might have. We will cover basic bird ID, and we will practice our skills on the beach birds of Jones Park.”

He continued, “Come prepared with whatever birding equipment you might have – binoculars, field guides, and even spotting scopes – and get a great introduction to the world of birding.”

Anyone interested in participating in the event can meet at 7:30 AM Jones Park is located south of Highway 90 at Highway 49. After entering the park at the main entrance (just east of the aquarium), follow the road straight (south) to the traffic circle, then look for the parking spots running north and south along the beach, immediately east of the Barksdale Pavilion. This is a flat, slow-paced walk on sand over approximately one mile.

The trip is open to both members and non-members of the Mississippi Coast Audubon Society, and participation is free. Advance registration is not required. Participants should bring binoculars and field guides and should dress appropriately for the weather, including clothing suitable for rain if the forecast is questionable. Water and sunscreen are suggested. The walk will take place in light rain or shine. If the weather is doubtful, participants can check the organization’s website, www.mscoastaudubon.org, for any last-minute changes. Pets are not permitted.

The Mississippi Coast Audubon Society, a chapter of the National Audubon Society, has been involved in education, conservation, and protection of our natural resources in southern Mississippi since 1976. Partnering with other agencies, we promote awareness and concern for habitat by engaging the public in various activities along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The chapter strives to promote interest, enjoyment, and understanding of all aspects of our natural and urban environment through education and experiential learning. We actively encourage the protection of wildlife and the preservation and restoration of native habitat. Further information can be obtained by visiting the organization’s website at www.mscoastaudubon.org or via e-mail at mscoastaudubon@gmail.com.