(Registration Open for Members - will open for Non Member tickets on 9/8.)

Connecting with birds and nature actively reduces stress, depression and anxiety, while helping build a stronger heart and immune system. During this program, Holly Merker will delve into our connections to wild birds, describe how to maximize the wellness benefits of birding and why we need birds for overall well-being.  

Holly Merker is co-author of a new book, "Ornitherapy for Your Mind, Body & Soul". An ornitherapy and nature-based wellness provider, professional birding guide, author and lecturer, Ms. Merkel is a global advocate for the practice of mindful birding. Her book will be on hand for sale and signing. 

(Registration Open for Members - will open for Non Member tickets on 9/8.)

“Ornitherapy” field experience with Master Birder Kathy Byrd. 

This restorative walk (less than a mile total, with benches along the way) is being offered for the first time by HHA, as a follow-up to its Sept 30 presentation and book signing by Holly Merker, author of Ornitherapy: The Power of Birdwatching.

  Reference: Ornitherapy: For your Mind, Body, and Soul. By Holly Merker, Richard Crossley, Sophie Crossley. 2021. Publ by Crossley Books.

The authors point out what most birders and nature lovers know instinctively: “Relief from the pressures we face is critical to healthy living. There’s a secret: relief is right outside our own doors.  Our minds and bodies need nature. We crave it, whether we realize it or not. It’s why we find ourselves daydreaming of escaping to hear waves crashing against the sand, wandering through lush forests, or finding mountains to climb.”

During this field experience, Kathy Byrd will lead us through a woodland amble, helping us become more mindful of what we see, hear, smell and, most importantly, feel inside. She will highlight a few of the “Ornitherapy Explorations” suggested in the reference book. Come explore, breathe deeply, and unplug.

    Kathy Byrd

OPEN FOR REGISTRATION NOW

Five 3 hour sessions: October 8, 10, 15, 17 & 22. All 9:30am - 12:30pm. 

In this course, designed for beginning birders, Birding 101 will introduce participants to a variety of topics to increase their general knowledge of birdwatching and local birds. A series of classroom sessions will feature interactive lectures, slides and handout materials to introduce parts of a bird, taxonomy, vocalizations, migration, field guides and bird apps and more. A local bird walk will reinforce classroom materials and bird identification techniques.

Instructor Kay Grinnell with other guest instructors.