checklist - kachemak bay shorebird festivalkachemakshorebird.org/.../2019-shorebird-guide-1.pdf ·...

ChecklistSpring Shorebird SightingsMany other species of birds can be seen during the Festival as well, including a number that are hard to find elsewhere.

Early May brings the first warblers and swallows to Homer, along with Sandhill Cranes, Arctic and Aleutian Terns, Fork-tailed Storm-Petrels and Tufted and Horned Puffins. Red-faced Cormorants, Common Murres and Black-legged Kittiwakes can be found assembling near their nesting sites on Gull Island, and Common Eider, Pigeon Guillemot, Marbled and Kittlitz’s Murrelets are visible on Kachemak Bay. Look for Eurasian Wigeons in Mud Bay or on Beluga Lake, and American Three-toed and Hairy Woodpeckers in the spruce wood areas. And, though not a shorebird, the always-sought-after Bald Eagle can be spotted frequently on shore and in the sky. You may find many of the 236 species of birds that are recorded for Homer and Kachemak Bay during the Shorebird Festival weekend.

See complete species information and lists on the web at: kachemakbaybirders.org

U = uncommon R = rare

Plovers ______Black-bellied Plover

______ American Golden-Plover-U

______Pacific Golden-Plover-U

______Semipalmated Plover

______Killdeer-R

Oystercatchers ______Black Oystercatcher–U

Sandpipers and Phalaropes ______Greater Yellowlegs

______Lesser Yellowlegs

______Wandering Tattler

______Whimbrel

______ Bristle-thighed Curlew-R

______Hudsonian Godwit-U

______Bar-tailed Godwit-U

______Marbled Godwit-U

______Ruddy Turnstone-U

______Black Turnstone

______Surfbird

______Red Knot-U

______Sanderling-U

______Solitary Sandpiper-R

______Spotted Sandpiper

______Semipalmated Sandpiper

______ Sharp-tailed Sandpiper-R

______Stilt Sandpiper-R

______Western Sandpiper

______Least Sandpiper

______Baird’s Sandpiper-R

______Pectoral Sandpiper

______Rock Sandpiper-U

______Dunlin

______Short-billed Dowitcher

______ Long-billed Dowitcher-U

______Wilson’s Snipe

______Red-necked Phalarope

______Red Phalarope-R

______Red-necked Stint-R

______Temminck’s Stint-R

______Ruff-R

Homer area Birding Information is available on the web at: kachemakbaybirders.org

For up-to-date Festival Information please visit: kachemakshorebird.org

Kachemak Bay Shorebird FestivalIslands and Ocean Visitor Center95 Sterling HighwayHomer, Alaska 99603

Phone: (907) 226-4631Fax: (907) [email protected] . kachemakshorebird.org

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KachemaK Bay Shorebird FeStival Program | Homer News Special edition May 2019

The Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival Planning Committee: The Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival takes more than nine months to plan, organize and coordinate. Meet the team of dedicated and passionate volunteers and staff who make up the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival Planning Committee and who work so hard to bring this Festival to you!

The Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival Committee would like to thank each and every one of our presenters and guides for their energy and enthusiasm, and for sharing their vast wealth of knowledge during this year’s Festival.

Thank You

mallory primm Friends of AK NWR

beth trowbridgeCenter for AK Coastal Studies

betty siegelFriends of AK NWR

bJ hitchcockKachemak Bay Birders

carla stanleyUSFWS

Jason sodergrenFriends of AK NWR

karl stoltzfusBay Excursions

kendra bushUSFWS

marianne aplinUSFWS

kara zwickeyUSFWS

robbi mixonFriends of AK NWR

debbie speakmanHomer Chamber of Commerce

dana nelsonKBRR

Greetings Birders!

n behalf of the Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges, Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and the Festival

Planning Committee, welcome to Alaska’s largest wildlife viewing festival, the 27th annual Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival! Over 130 migratory bird species may be on view during the Festival who, like you, have traveled from near and far to return to this unique natural place. As we witness this homecoming to the exceptional public lands and waters of Kachemak Bay, consider these birds’ incredible journey, across a variety of landscapes, to arrive here. The only way to ensure that this place we call Home(r) remains a vibrant bird habitat, is to ensure the protection of habitat along the entire migration route. Join the Festival in our commitment to protecting the future of these birds, by protecting the birds and bird habitat in the places you call home.“Migratory birds bind up the corners of this increasingly fragmented globe - uniting the poles and the tropics, forests and deserts, wilderness and cities. A planet that sustains them will sustain us; their fate is our fate.” - Scott Weidensaul, ornithologist, author, and friend of the FestivalThis year’s Festival highlights Jennifer Ackerman, birder and award winning nature writer. She will share from her latest book, The Genius of Birds, as well as insights into science and nature writing itself. Our festival artist, Valisa Higman joins us from the mouth of Kachemak Bay in Seldovia and brings her signature cut-paper style to the Festival through her celebration of the Wilson’s Snipe.We welcome back Festival favorite Raymond VanBuskirk, a young New Mexico birder, speaker, and guide company owner (BRANT). Photogs will be pleased to see Ben Knoot of Tropical Birding, returning with more workshops to hone bird photography skills. Featured Author and Festival alum Mark Obmascik will also present on his experiences on Attu and his latest book, The Storm on Our Shores.Be sure to spend some time at Festival Headquarters - the Islands & Ocean Visitor Center: explore the exhibits; visit the Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges booth to learn more about their conservation efforts and how to get involved; check out what’s up for bid in the 6 x 6 Art and Trip Auction; or visit the Alaska Geographic store for official apparel featuring this year’s unique Festival artwork.Of course, the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival is not possible without the hard work of our volunteers, sponsors, local businesses and organizations. We are grateful to our sponsors and the entire Kachemak Bay community for helping to conserve our unique environment and welcome birds and birders alike. Thank you for attending, enjoying and learning with us here in Kachemak Bay.

Mallory Primm, Festival Coordinator

O

what’s new• New Boat Tours, including: “Marine Wildlife Tour,” “Wild Life Tour & Hike to Grewingk Glacier Lake” and “Seldovia Nature Tour & Art Studio Visit” • Artist workshops, including: “Plein Air Painting” and “Nature Drawing for Beginners” •Additional Hot Spot Tours, and free Mornings and Evenings at the Marsh events • The Flock travelling art installation at the Homer Chamber of Commerce •Two Schantz Scholars! Sarah Hoepfner and Henry Stevens share their birding endeavours and experience

michael armstrongHomer News

bridget maryottHomer Chamber of Commerce

Shorebird FeStival Descriptions

EvEnt KEy

ENTERTAINMENT

C JUNIOR BIRDER

FIElD EvENTs

WORkshOps & pREsENTATIONs

BOAT TOURs

Wednesday, May 8 HIGH TIDE 5:07am, 19.32 ft (6:14pm, 16.89 ft)

Kachemak Bay Birding, Wildlife & Natural History Tour A8:30am–3pm | Harbor Ramp 6, Slip EE-21, M/V Pinbone

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/10)Experience Kachemak Bay at its best! This full-day birding

tablE of ContEnts introduction Page 2

description of events Pages 3–8, Pages 13–16

schedule of events Page 10

maps/event locations Page 11

registration form Page 11

bird house, bird feed Page 16

more to do in homer Page 17

speaker bios Page 18

Field events, workshops and presentations are free of charge and sponsored by the Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuge and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, unless stated otherwise. Even though they are “free,” some require you to pre-register. All participants must pay the Festival Registration Fee.

A current bird sightings list will be posted at Islands & Ocean Visitor Center and on the Kachemak Bay Birders website (kachemakbaybirders.org).

Dress in layers; bring mud boots and your binoculars or spotting scope. Please leave your furry friends at home.

All boat tours leave on time. Please be at the slip, ramp or meeting location no later than 15 minutes prior to departure time. Refunds will not be issued if you are late for your boat.

Presentations and walks are included with paid registration fee unless otherwise noted. Please register for these events if it is requested — those with tickets will be admitted first.

A bird lover since childhood, Jennifer Ackerman has been writing about science and nature for three decades. Her most recent book, The Genius of Birds, explores the intelligence of birds. A national bestseller, the book has been published in 15 languages and has been a finalist for several awards. Jennifer’s previous books include Notes from the Shore, a book about the shorebirds and other natural life of the mid-Atlantic coast; Chance in the House of Fate: A Natural History of Heredity; and Sex Sleep Eat Drink Dream: A Day in the Life of Your Body. Jennifer’s articles and essays have appeared in National Geographic Magazine, The New York Times, Scientific American, and many other publications and have been included in anthologies such as Best American Science Writing, The Nature Reader, Best Nature Writing, Flights of Imagination: Extraordinary Writings About Birds, and The Penguin Book of the Ocean. Jennifer is the recipient of numerous awards and fellowships, including an NEA Literature Fellowship in Nonfiction, a Radcliffe Institute Fellowship, and a grant from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

Welcome reception Friday, May 10, 4 pm Homer Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center

Keynote Workshop: Words from the Wild - Writing about Nature Friday, May 10, 10 am Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room

Keynote address: the Genius of birds Saturday, May 11, 7 pm Mariner Theatre, Homer High School

Keynote talk: how birds Know Where they’re Going: the New Science of bird Navigation Sunday, May 12, 11 am Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

KeyNote SpeaKer

Jennifer Ackerman

and wildlife tour, led by Seaman’s Ecotour Adventures, explores the waters off the Homer Spit, Yukon Island, Sadie Cove and Eldridge Passage, Gull Island, Halibut Cove and Glacier Spit. See a wide variety of birds, several species of marine mammals, mountain goats, and learn the fascinating geology and natural history of Kachemak Bay. This roomy, stable boat has a heated pilot house, water, toilet, and a large rear deck that provides a great viewing platform for birders and photographers. Bring a lunch. Snacks and beverages provided. Limit 6. $175pp.

Bird of Prey Discovery Lab - C3-5pm | Islands and Ocean Visitor Center, Lab Classroom

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10)Hands-on exploration of Birds of Prey! Learn about the raptors that can be seen in the Homer area. Discover their awesome adaptations, how they fly, what they eat, where to see them and more! Program is led by the Kachemak Bay Environmental Education Alliance. (This event fulfills one

Thursday, May 9HIGH TIDE 5:49am, 18.36 ft (7:07pm, 15.92 ft)

Morning at the Marsh B6:30-8:30am | Beluga Lake Airport Viewing Platform(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12)The birds of Beluga Lake and the surrounding boreal forest are attracted to this unique spot because of the freshwater, good habitat, and restful protected waters. Beluga Lake has a wide variety of wildlife including moose, raptors, waterfowl, shorebirds and more. Join our skilled guides Michelle Michaud and Carol Griswold to see what shows up or flies out. Scopes, local knowledge, and identification books will be available. Bring your binos and dress for the weather.

Cranes and Croissants E7-10am | Seaside Farm

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10)View the large flocks of migrating Sandhill Cranes that feed and rest on the Seaside Farm hayfields each spring. Birder Mossy Kilcher shares her knowledge of cranes, as well as other local birds’ songs, calls, and habits during a bird identification walk. Coffee and continental breakfast included. This event is not handicapped, physically-challenged or stroller accessible. Road conditions are dependent on weather. Limit 30. $20pp/$15 kids 12 & under.

May 2019 KaChEmaK bay Shorebird FeStival Program | Homer News special Edition

Diversify your Festival checklist by visiting the rainforest and cliff habitats of Seldovia. Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Great Blue Heron, Steller's Jay and Pigeon Guillemot all

live here year round. Congratulations to this year's Shorebird Festival Featured Artist, Valisa Higman, home

grown in Seldovia!. Seldovia is truly inspirational!

Hike our trails and beaches or paddle our shores!

www.SeldoviaChamber.org • 907-234-7612

FeaturedpreSeNterSRaymond VanBuskirkBen Knoot

“RayRay” is a passionate birder, environmentalist, and vegan whose love for feathered creatures (dinosaurs included) was born in the mountains of the Land of En-chantment. He is the President of the Central New Mexi-co Audubon Soci-

ety, owner and lead guide of BRANT Nature Tours, researcher in field and lab ornithol-ogy, ABA youth camp instructor and Birding Specialist for Leica Sport Optics.

Catch Raymond at the Viewing Stations throughout the Festival, as well as at these events:• Morning at the Marsh, Friday (6:30 am)

• Birding Hot Spots #4 - Homer, Friday (12:45 pm)

• Welcome Reception, Friday (4 pm)

• Seabirding 101: Workshop & Boat Trip, Saturday (9:30 am)

• Featured Presenter Talk: Birding, Medicine for the Soul, Sunday (9:30 am)

• Junior Birder Award Ceremony, Sunday (12:30 pm)___________________________________

Ben is a nature photographer and bird guide originally from California. His goal is to provide a memorable, excit-ing, and successful experience so that others can enjoy photographing Earth’s beauty as much as he does.

Ben is a leader of educational and instructive photography tours and workshops for Tropi-cal Birding Tours and has been published by several organizations including Nature’s Best Photography, Audubon, Ranger Rick, NAN-PA, Wildlife Photo Magazine and the BBC.

Catch Ben at the Tropical Birding booth throughout the Festival, as well at these events:• Intro to Bird Photography, Thursday (2 pm) & Saturday (2:30 pm)

• Photographing Homer Hot Spots, Friday & Saturday (8:45 am)

• Welcome Reception, Friday (4 pm)

• Photo Editing with Lightroom, Sunday (Noon)

Raymond VanBuskirk

Ben Knoot

CR

ED

ITS

This section was produced by the Homer News, LLC, a Sound Publishing Inc. newspaper, in conjunction with the Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center. The contents of this section are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written permission from the Homer News. (©2019 HOMER NEWS)

publiSher: Jeff Hayden editor: Michael Armstrong produCtioN and deSiGN: Tim Millings

advertiSiNG repreSeNtative: Malia Anderson editorial CoNteNt: Mallory Primm

Shorebird illuStratioN: Valisa Higman

Homer NewsY o u r t o w n • Y o u r n e w s • y o u r pa p e r • s i n c e 1 9 6 4

Kayaking & Glacier Hike Tour A7:30am-5/6pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Alan’s Hiking and Paddling Adventures

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12)Enjoy a scenic boat ride to Peterson Bay via Gull Island. Paddle along the shoreline passing The Arch and the artist community of Halibut Cove. Puffins, pigeon guillemots, and cormorants are common. At Glacier Lake trailhead, enjoy lunch and begin hiking up a series of short switchbacks, through old growth forest to spectacular glacier & mountain peak views. The hike ends at Grewingk Glacier Lake & icebergs. More info on Alan’s ad on p. 17. Limit 6. $180 pp.

Lake Clark National Park Bear & Bird Viewing A7:30am–2:30pm |Anchor River State Recreation Area, Lake Tractor Launch

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12)Travel by boat to Lake Clark National Park on Cook Inlet’s remote west coast to view coastal brown bears and migrating sea birds. Join bear guide Captain Mel Erickson, along with world renowned bird expert Debra Hess who will be onboard the “Gamefisher” to point out and identify dozens of different species of birds. You’ll also see giant brown bears digging clams, walking the beach, or grazing on the sedge grasses in the salt marsh. Limit 6. $300pp.

The Wise & Wonderful Journey A7:30-10am | Harbor Ramp 2, Alan’s Hiking and Paddling Adventures

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12)Join experienced guide & local bird expert Willy Dunne on a journey of discovery. Visit Gull Island, with opportunities for up-close viewing, Horned & tufted puffins, pigeon guillemots, cormorants, kittiwakes & murres. The journey cruises to Willy’s special birding places where we may encounter Aleutian terns, rednecked phalaropes & murrelets. The rich biodiversity of Kachemak Bay supports marine mammals, nesting eagles, loons, sea ducks and many other species that are common sightings. More info at Alan’s ad on page 17. Limit 6. $75pp.

Feathers & Fins Boat Tour A8-10am | Harbor Ramp 2, True North Kayak Adventures Office

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12)Head to Gull Island, home of 12,000 nesting birds and 12 different species of birds: puffins- horned and tufted, gulls- kittiwake and glaucous-winged, common murres, pigeon guillemots, and cormorants- pelagic, double-crested and red-faced. From there cruise to different areas where unique birds have been spotted recently, including harlequin ducks, goldeneye ducks, scoters — surf, black and white winged, loons —yellow billed, common and red-throated, red-necked phalaropes, red-necked grebes, kingfishers, and jaegers. Bring your life list, a snack, warm clothes and a camera. Hot drinks provided. Limit 12. $70pp.

Birding Hot Spots #1 - Anchor River B8:30am-12:30pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, meet in parking lot

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11 with various guides)Hop on the bus with guides Aaron Lang & Jim Herbert to discover the hottest birding spots along the Anchor River. Seabirds, songbirds, shorebirds, water birds, raptors and more! Join our experienced guides for a 2.5 mile walk along the beach and Anchor River to its mouth. There’s the potential to see rarities like bristle-thighed curlew, glaucous gulls or horned lark. More common are whimbrels, yellowlegs, scoters, loons, guillemots, mergansers, “peeps,” harlequin ducks, and murrelets. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots to walk in sand. Dress in layers and take water. A limited number of scopes will be available. Limit 22. $40pp.

Cold Duck Time A8:30–11am | Harbor top of Ramp 2, Boat House Pavilion

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11)

As the shorebirds arrive in Kachemak Bay, sea ducks prepare to head north to their happy nesting grounds. Tour Kachemak Bay’s southern shore in search of the Mergini tribe. Goldeneye, Harlequin and Long-tailed Ducks are just a few of the fine feathered friends that inhabit our bays and coves. Dress warmly. Enclosed boat with open back access; no facilities. Limit 12. $60pp.


(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/8, 5/10)See Wednesday, 8:30am listing for event description.

Seldovia Nature Tour & Art Studio Visit B8:30am-3:00pm | Harbor Ramp 3, M/V Beowulf

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11)Join Cindy Mom, owner of Seldovia Nature Tours, on a trip to the wild side of Kachemak Bay. Seldovia’s rainforests and cliffs offer the chance to see Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Great Blue Heron, Merlin, and Belted Kingfisher. Ride in Red Mountain Marine’s classic 34-foot wooden boat to Schooner Beach (1 hour) and visit Festival Artist Valisa Higman’s waterfront studio. A birding tour of the boardwalk, slough, and Outside Beach will follow. One mile hike includes stairs and a ladder. Bring a lunch, snacks, and water and dress for the weather. Enclosed boat with open back access; no facilities while aboard. Limit 12. $195pp.

Seabird Sidetrip A9am–noon |Harbor, turn right at the bottom of Ramp 3, M/V Torega

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12)Join local bird expert Karl Stoltzfus of Bay Excursions as he shares his favorite birding places during a 3-hour cruise of Kachemak Bay. Look for kittlitz’s and marbled murrelets, eiders, loons, shorebirds, and many other species, with excellent close-up viewing opportunities for all passengers. Enclosed boat with open back access; no facilities. Limit 12. $75pp, $45 kids 12 & under.

Seaduck & Alcid Photography Boat Trip A9am–12:30pm |Harbor, top of Ramp 2, Boat House Pavilion

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/11)Join Tropical Birding guide Pablo Cervantes out on the open water for some serious alcid and sea duck photography! Pablo will guide you through the difficult shooting conditions of a rocking boat, bouncing waves and fast moving species while we cruise Kachemak Bay looking for murrelets, puffins, scoters and eiders. Dress for the weather; bring camera, snacks and water. Limit 12. $130pp.

A Way of Life: People and Place A9:30am–noon |Harbor Ramp 2, Alan’s Hiking and Paddling Adventures

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12)I first left the Harbor as a young boy in 1976, a full moon cast on a calm Kachemak Bay, porpoises played with the bow, it was the coolest thing! Join me, Alan Parks, commercial fishermen, adventurer and conservationist as we navigate up-close to puffins, cormorants, kittiwakes and murres. On course to Halibut Cove, hear about a way of life and the ocean resources on which people and wildlife depend. More info at Alan’s ad on page 17. Limit 6. $75 pp.

Kayak with Birds & Wildlife A10am–2pm |Harbor Ramp 2, True North Kayak Adventures Office(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12; two trips daily)Enjoy a boat ride to Yukon Island, disembark and paddle around the Island, watching for sea ducks, shorebirds, eagles and sea otters. Wear warm, layered clothes and raingear. Bring water and lunch. Light snacks and hot drinks provided. All experience levels welcome. Enclosed boat with open back access; no facilities. Limit 15. $95pp/$85 kids 12 & under.

KaChEmaK bay Shorebird FeStival Program | Homer News special Edition May 2019


Valisa Higman is a cut-paper artist from the mouth of Kachemak Bay. Born and raised in Seldovia, Valisa rows to work at her studio on a secluded beach. Her work is heavily influenced by her love of nature, people, food and community.

Growing up watching her mom hand cut silk-screens and her dad carve intricate im-ages in wood, Valisa was inspired by the possibilities. As a cut-paper artist, Valisa starts with a single sheet of black paper and begins by carving a lacework of patterns with an Xacto knife. Her bold colors and textures made from layers of colored paper and painted details bring a unique look to this year’s featured bird, the Wilson’s Snipe.

“Returning to live in Seldovia has proved both nostalgic and eye-opening, sparking new ideas, and giving my art wings.”

Events:

• First Friday Art Opening, Friday, May 3 at K Bay Caffé; art on display all month (See “More to Do” for details)

• Welcome Reception, Friday, May 10, (4pm) at Homer Chamber of Commerce

• Seldovia Nature Tours & Art Studio Visit (See Thurs-Sat at 8:30am for details)

• Prints and Festival merchandise for sale at Islands and Ocean Visitor Center

Featured artiStValisa Higman

Pre-K Puffins Storyhour - C10-11am | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room

Join Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge educator Kendra Bush for this special session of Pre-K Puffins to learn all about birds! This educational program is designed for children ages 2-5 and will include early learning centered activities, a craft, story time and a shorebird themed snack. (This event fulfills one of the Junior Birder requirements.)

Foraging the Wild in South Kachemak Bay A10:30am-2:30pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Mako’s Water Taxi

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12)Travel across the bay to Tutka Bay Lodge and spend the day with Karyn Murphy, resident scientist, and the lodge chef foraging for wild edibles along the lodge shoreline and into the old growth forest along the property. Learn about Tutka Bay’s unique micro-climate and habitat, and, of course, see plenty of birds along the way and on site. Tour the lodge and have a luncheon in the Widgeon II, a old crabbing boat turned into a cooking school and nature lab. Includes water taxi, guided service, informational packet on wild edibles, demo and luncheon (including wine). Limit 12. $200pp.

Wildlife Tour & Hike to Grewingk Glacier Lake A10:30am-4pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Alan’s Hiking and Paddling Adventures

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12)Captain and bird expert Willy Dunne will seek opportunities for viewing puffins, guillemots, otters and other wildlife en route to Rusty’s Lagoon. A self guided hike follows along Rusty’s to the trailhead, then across the glacier moraine to the open beaches of Grewingk Glacier Lake with views of icebergs and mountain tops. You return on the Saddle trail with views of Halibut Cove. This is a point to point hike. More info at Alan’s ad on page 17. Limit 6. $85pp.

Wildlife of Baja -11:00-11:50am | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

Between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, the state of Baja California Sur offers approximately 1,300 miles of coastline. During the winter, this area is teeming with marine mammals and avian life. From whales and sea lions to seabirds, there’s always something to see. Join Marc Webber as he shares wonderful photos and stories of wildlife from around the area.

Plein Air Painting at Seaside Farm -11:30am-2:30pm | Seaside Farm

Join artist David Pettibone for a plein air, landscape painting workshop at Seaside Farms. Learn to paint from your environment and take home a finished painting of the lush landscape that makes Kachemak Bay a springtime home for migrating birds. With any luck, we could have some unwitting shorebirds model for us as we paint. No experience necessary, supplies included in the fee. Ages 12 and up. Limit 10. $75pp.

Flexible Shoulders and Neck -noon-1pm | Skeletal Connections, 1231 Ocean Drive

Flexible Shoulders and Neck are essential for looking through binoculars and tracking birds and wildlife. Whether you are curious about moving more freely, or have pain issues, this group Awareness Through Movement lesson, based on the Feldenkrais method, is ideal for you. Movements are done lying on a floor mat, letting gravity support you while the teacher verbally guides you through a sequence of gentle movements that can be modified to stay in your range of comfort and ease. Be curious and learn. “Movement is Life.” M. Feldenkris. More info: 907-235-0687. Wear comfortable clothes to move in. Limit 20. Free on a first-come basis.

Birding by Fat Bike B12:30-4:30pm | Cycle Logical

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10 - 1:30pm, 5/11 -2:30pm )Get away from the crowds and explore farther by fat bike, with Cycle Logical. Meet at Cycle Logical’s shop in downtown Homer. From there we will ride down the Poopdeck Trail to Bishop’s Beach and head north on the lookout for solitary sandpipers, short-tailed shearwaters, sandhill cranes and western sandpipers. Participants should have some experience with mountain biking and expect moderately technical riding on the beach with areas of smooth sand and loose rock. Bring a well-padded backpack to protect your optics. Come prepared with ample layers, rain gear, water and snacks. Once you’ve registered call to select a rental bike. Questions? Call Derek at 907-299-7746. (8 rental bikes available). Limit 10. $100 w/ bike rental, $50 bring your bike.

Go With The Flow: Kayaking A12:30-5pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Alan’s Hiking and Paddling Adventures

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12)The current will carry you through the calm waters of China Poot Bay. Listen to a black oystercatcher or a screeching eagle with a flounder clinched in its claws. Harlequin ducks take off, leaving patterns on the surface; the shoreline is flowing with rose color tectonic rock formations. Keep a look out for seals, puffins, guillemots, cormorants, murres, otters. 15 min water taxi from Homer provided. More info at Alan’s ad on p. 17. Limit 6. $90 pp.

Marine Wildlife Tour A12:30-2:30pm | Harbor, turn right at the bottom of Ramp 3, M/V Torega

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12)Join Karl Stoltzfus for a two hour trip on Kachemak Bay looking for birds and marine mammals. Highlights include Gull Island and areas with sea otters and other marine mammals that happen to be around. We will also keep a sharp eye out for shorebirds such as surfbirds and black turnstones. Limit 12. $65pp. $35 kids 12 & under.

Birding Hot Spots #2 - Homer B12:45-4pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, meet in parking lot

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11 with various guides)Hop on the bus with local guide Dale Chorman and Tropical Birding’s Lisle Gwynn to discover the hottest birding spots around Homer: on the Spit, Kachemak Drive, Beluga Slough, Beluga Lake, and more. Learn about migration and bird lore while you are transported to each location by bus. Dress for the weather. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots to walk in sand and bring water. A limited number of scopes will be available. Limit 22. $30pp.

Kayak with Birds & Wildlife A1–5pm |Harbor Ramp 2, True North Kayak Adventures

Valisa Higman


From the icy, bountiful waters of the Arctic Ocean to the misty, salmon-rich rainforests of the Tongass National Forest, Audubon Alaska works to conserve Alaska’s spectacular birds and wildlife — and their habitats — to ensure their place for future generations. We employ science and state-of-the-art mapping technology to drive our conservation priorities, with an emphasis on public lands and waters. We work to end old-growth clearcut logging in the rare temperate rainforest of the Tongass National Forest in Southeast Alaska; prevent oil and gas drilling in the most sensitive ecological areas in the Arctic; and protect areas in Alaska with globally significant concentrations of birds.

Audubon Alaska is a state office of the National Audubon Society.

Learn more at AudubonAlaska.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter (@audubonalaska1), and Instagram (@audubonalaska).

Audubon Alaska is a proud sponsor of the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival.

islands & ocean visitor Center (Festival headquarters) hours 95 Sterling HighwayWednesday noon–5pm (Registration noon-5pm)

thursday 8am–7pm (Registration 8am–6pm)

Friday & Saturday 8am–6pm (Reg. 8am-6pm)

Sunday 8am–4pm (Registration 8am–2pm)

Building and bathrooms will be open for tours and programs scheduled outside building hours.

homer Chamber of Commerce & visitor Center hours 201 Sterling HighwayMonday–thursday 9am–5pmFriday 9am–6pmSaturday 10am–4pm

GENERAl iNFo

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11, 5/12; two trips daily)See Thursday, 10am listing for event description.

Pre-K Birding Walk with CACS B C1-2pm | Louie’s Lagoon, Homer Spit

Join a CACS naturalist on a walk focused on exploration and observation. Designed as a follow-up to the Pre-K Puffin story hour, little ones and their families will look for bird signs and clues of feeding, walking and resting. Meet at Louie’s Lagoon located halfway down the Homer Spit on the left. Binoculars provided. (This event fulfills one of the Junior Birder requirements.) Limit 20. Free.

Sandhill Cranes: Beauty and Behavior -1–1:50pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

Join local naturalist, videographer and crane lover Nina Faust in a sampling of her unique footage of sandhill cranes in Kachemak Bay. Known for her films “Raising Kid Cold” and “For the Love of Cranes,” join Nina as she shares her knowledge and love for cranes.

Intro to Bird Photography #1 -2–5pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/11 - 2:30pm)Featured Presenter Ben Knoot covers some of the basic need-to-know topics to get you started in bird photography. Enhance your birding while gaining confidence behind the lens. This workshop will balance indoor instruction with 2 hours of guided, hands-on practice in the field. A DSLR or equivalent mirrorless camera is recommended but not required. Limit 20. $25pp.

Restoration Status & Recovery Efforts 30 Years After the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill -2–2:50pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

It’s been 30 years since the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill released 11 million gallons of crude oil into the marine environment. Spilled oil fouled approximately 1,300 miles of shoreline, from Prince William Sound to Kodiak Island and beyond, devastating the marine ecosystem. How are the affected areas recovering? And what is the status of injured resources since the spill? Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Trustee Council Science Coordinator Shiway Wang will share a short film which commemorates the 30th anniversary of EVOS, and she will also present updates on injured species and current research efforts of the long-term monitoring programs.

Birding Basics for Families B3–4pm |Kachemak Bay Research Reserve

Not sure how to identify ducks in flight? Does one songbird look pretty much like every other songbird? Join KBNERR naturalist Jessica Shepherd for a fun, interactive hour to learn the basics of bird identification, including distinctive beak and wing shapes, how to key out birds, and simple birding by ear tips. Meet at the Research Reserve Field Station, 2181 Kachemak Drive. This free program is open to individuals and families. Limit 25. Free but please register.

Songbirds and Their Nests -3-3:50pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

Local birder Mossy Kilcher presents her original movie, a festival favorite featuring unique footage and sound. Witness Homer’s local songbirds, their nests, habits, and habitats as we learn how to identify the birds by their songs.

Wild Birds, Ticks & Alaska -4-4:50pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

While birds and shorebirds carry ticks native to Alaska. recent efforts reveal non-native ticks are present in the state. William George, Gale Disler, and Micah Hahn discuss their collaborative project between the University of Alaska, AK Fish and Game, and the Office of the State Veterinarian to understand the risk of ticks and tick-borne pathogens in Alaska. Learn the role of birds as hosts for ticks and tick-borne pathogens, how you can become involved in the surveillance program, and how to effectively search birds for ticks.

Coastal Studies Kick-Off Party: Community Potluck and Program E5-7pm | CACS Headquarters

Join in this community potluck, featuring salmon chowder, with program to follow. Our guest speaker will introduce a special program: Who Lives Where Why? Knowing your local habitats and identifying the birds that pass through them. Limit 60. Free but please register.

Film Screening: Bird of Prey E5:30-7pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/12-1:30pm)This film chronicles the story of the world’s rarest and largest eagle, and the expedition of a small but devoted group determine to protect it. Found only in the Philippines, less than 800 Great Philippine Eagles remain in the wild today, their fate closely tied to the fate of the last fragments of old-growth forest. Follow world-renowned cinematographer Neil Rettig as he returns to the Philippines to protect the eagle that he first filmed in the wild in 1977. This 2017 film is a production of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Limit 120. $5pp.

Birders, Brews, and Burgers E6-9pm | Beluga Lake Lodge

Come enjoy dinner and a beverage at Homer’s Beluga Lake Lodge, located between downtown and the Spit. With views of Beluga Lake from both inside and deck seating, you’re sure to spot several avian creatures. Dinner and drink specials will include burger basket or chicken strip basket and choice of beverage. $14pp, pay on site.

Evening at the Marsh B6:30-8:30pm | Beluga Lake Airport viewing Platform

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10)The birds of Beluga Lake and the surrounding boreal forest are attracted to this unique spot because of the freshwater, good habitat, and restful protected waters. Beluga Lake has a wide variety of wildlife including moose, raptors, waterfowl, shorebirds and more. Join our skilled guides Michelle Michaud and Carol Griswold to see what shows up or flies out. Scopes, local knowledge and identification books will be available. Bring your binos and dress for the weather.

Viewing Stations - Mud Bay & Lighthouse Village B7:15-9pm | Mud Bay and Lighthouse Village

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10 - 8am & 8pm, 5/11 - 7:45am, 5/12 - 8:30am)Join our knowledgeable guides at the base of the Spit for help locating and identifying shorebirds, waterfowl, and other birds feeding in the mudflats. Spotting scopes, binoculars, guidebooks and local expertise will be available. Birders of all levels welcome! Please park in designated areas only.

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Morning at the Marsh B6:30-8:30am | Beluga Lake Airport Viewing Platform

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/11, 5/12)See Thursday, 6:30 am listing for event description.Guides for the event are Ray VanBuskirk and Cindy Sisson.

Barren Islands Birding A7am-5pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Slip E-2 M/V Jackpot

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/11)Visit the Barren Islands Bird Rookery on the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. A great opportunity to view pelagic seabirds, whales and more during this 100+ mile round trip journey with a naturalist on board. Dress warmly with rain gear and bring binoculars, bird books and cameras. Lunch included. Enclosed boat with open back access; has facilities. Sponsored by Rainbow Tours. Limit 20. $169 pp.

Cranes and Croissants E7-10am | Seaside Farm

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9)See Thursday, 7:00am listing for event description.

Overlook Park Hike B7am–3pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, meet in parking lot

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/12)This guided, strenuous 10-mile hike journeys along the north shore of Kachemak Bay to visit Overlook Park, an undisturbed pocket of native coastal habitat and a remote unit of the Alaska State Park system. View shorebirds, sea ducks, marine mammals, ravens and eagles, as well as early songbird migrants and waterfowl around the ponds in the Park. This all-day hike is strenuous due to the length, steepness and uneven terrain, creek crossings and unimproved trail. Bring binoculars, lunch, water, raingear and sturdy, waterproof boots. Proceeds benefit the management of Overlook Park. Presented by Kachemak Bay Conservation Society, led by Laurie Daniel. Limit 12. $15pp (must be at least 12 years old).

Beginning Songbird Walk B7:30–9:00am |Calvin & Coyle Trailhead

Join Audubon Alaska’s Max Goldman for an introduction into the world of songbirds. Meet at the trailhead for a stroll through forest habitat as we listen for Homer’s musical forest dwellers, building birding confidence and practice your skills. Bring binos and dress for the weather. Limit 20. $7pp.

Intermediate/Advanced Songbird Walk7:30–9:30am |Baycrest Trailhead BJoin expert birder George Matz for this intermediate to advanced level guided walk through the upland habitats of the Baycrest ski trails (off Rogers Loop Rd.) looking for songbirds and other forest dwellers. Waterproof boots and rain jacket are recommended; bring binos and a scope if you have one. Limit 20. $7 pp.


(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/11, 5/12)See Thursday, 7:30am listing for event description.






(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/11, 5/12)See Thursday, 8am listing for event description.

Viewing Stations 8-9:30am | Lighthouse Village and Mud Bay B(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9 - 7:15pm, 5/11 - 7:45am, 5/12 - 8:30am)See Thursday, 7:15pm listing for event description.

Birding Hot Spots #3 - Anchor River8:30am-12:30pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, meet in parking lot B(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/11 with various guides)See Thursday, 8:30am listing for event descriptions.Guides for this event are Aaron Lang and Dave Erikson.


(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/11)See Thursday, 8:30am listing for event description.


(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/8, 5/9)See Wednesday, 8:30am listing for event description.

Seldovia Nature Tour & Art Studio Visit B8:30am-3:00pm | Harbor Ramp 3, M/V Beowulf


Photographing Homer Hot Spots #1 B8:45am-noon | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, meet in parking lot

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/11)Join Featured Presenter Ben Knoot and local guide Jim Herbert for a photography focused tour of Homer’s birding hot spots. Hop on our small bus for an intimate experience photographing what flies in on the Spit, Kachemak Drive, Beluga Slough, Beluga Lake, and more. Learn about migration, bird lore and photography while you are transported to each location by bus. Dress in layers for the weather. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots to walk in sand. Bring along water and photo gear. Limit 9. $45pp.

Observing Diving Alcids with ROV Technology A9am-noon | Harbor Ramp 2, M/V Orca

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/11, 5/12)Kachemak Bay provides incredible opportunities to view diving alcids at the surface. Now recent technological innovations have provided us an opportunity to observe what these amazing birds look like foraging below the water line. Come aboard the heated Orca landing craft with Captain Curt and his ROV to marvel at these agile animals. The Remote Operated Underwater Vehicle will give us a unique, up-close view of these sea birds in their aquatic world. Limit 6. $80pp/$60 kids 12 & under.





Family Bird Walk with CACS B C9:30–11am | Calvin & Coyle Trail

Join a CACS Naturalist on a walk through the forest to learn how to identify birds by their song and habitat. Binoculars will be available for use. (This event fulfills one of the Junior Birder requirements.) Limit 20. Free, but please register.

Keynote Workshop - Words in the Wild: Writing About Nature10am-12:30pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room

Do you love the natural world and want to write about it? Do you feel drawn to a specific bird or place and wish to explore that affinity? Have you had a striking encounter in nature that you would like to describe? Jennifer Ackerman has been writing about science and nature for more than 30 years. In this workshop, she will discuss the art and craft of nature writing, exploring its elements, sharing excerpts from favorite writers, and offering insights and exercises that will give you the tools you need to write engagingly about the natural world. Limit 30. $25pp.

From Russia With Love: Aleutian Tern Surveys on Sakhalin Island, Russia -10–10:50am |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, AuditoriumAlaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge biologist Heather Renner and colleagues traveled to Sakhalin Island, Russia in June to learn about the status of Aleutian tern colonies there. Aleutian tern populations have declined dramatically in Alaska in recent decades, contrasting with reports from Russia. The team visited three major island colonies and conducted drone surveys in collaboration with Russian colleagues.

Kayak with Birds & Wildlife A10am–2pm |Harbor Ramp 2, True North Kayak Adventures Office


Stand Up Paddleboard A10am–3pm | Harbor Ramp 2, True North Kayak Adventures Office

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/11)Take a scenic boat ride by Gull Island and onto the protected waters of Petersen and China Poot Bay. After a shoreside instructional session we will take to the sea to explore the coast, intertidal life, birds, and wildlife from the elevated perspective of a paddleboard. Wetsuits, booties, snacks, hot drinks, and dry-bags provided. Bring lunch, water, and bathing suit if you have one, for under wetsuit. Arrive 30 minutes prior to departure time. Limit 6. $125pp.

Foraging the Wild in South Kachemak Bay A 10:30am–2:30pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Meet at Mako’s Water Taxi




May 2019 KaChemaK Bay Shorebird FeStival Program | Homer News Special edition

Live bird demonstrations Saturday may 11, Two Shows11am and 1pmIslands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room; limit 40, $8pp

informal Presentation during the birders breakfast

Sunday may 12 9–11am

Islands & Ocean Visitor Center

www.birdtlc.org 907-562-4852

Many ThanksThe Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service would like to recognize and thank our many generous supporters who make the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival possible. Folks and businesses are continuing to offer their support of the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival as the Festival draws closer; please visit us online for a complete list of the sponsors who make this Festival possible and to find out how you can be involved!Crane Club finanCial supporTers

bar-Tailed godwiT $2,500+: Homer News World Wildlife Fund

paCifiC-golden plover $1,000-$2,499:Audubon Alaska Cook Inletkeeper Homer Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center Homer Stay and Play Land’s End Resort Tropical Birding Ulmer’s Drug and Hardware

sandhill Crane $500-$999:Bay Excursions Beluga Lake Lodge Homer Truffle Co., LLC Ocean Shores Resort Red Start Birding The Grog Shop Vortex Optics Wilderness BIrding Adventures

TrumpeTer swan - $250+Alaska Holiday Homes Bear Creek Winery Brome Bird Care Homer Bed and Breakfast Association Homer Veterinary Clinic Joyce Fleming

blaCk oysTerCaTCher - $100+ Anchor Watch Rental Grace Ridge Brewing Homer Brewing Company Jackie Norvell Kachemak Crane Watch Schooler Nolan individual, business & organizaTion supporTersAlan’s Hiking and Paddling Adventures, Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, Between Beaches Alaska, Bird TLC Anchorage, Carla & Wayne Stanley, Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies, Chinitna Bay Tours, Coldwater AK, Curtis Jackson, Cycle Logical, Friends of Kachemak Bay State Park, Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges, GCI, Healing Hands Massage, Homer Bookstore, Homer Jeans, Homer Tours, Janet Higley, Kachemak Bay Birders, Kachemak Bay Conservation Society, Kachemak Bay Heritage Land Trust, Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Kachemak Bay State Park, Kachemak Bay State Park Citizens’ Advisory Board, Kachemak Bay Quilters, KBBI, K-bay Caffe, Kim McNett, , Leslie Slater, Mako’s Water Taxi, Mariner Theatre in Homer High School, Mavis Muller, Moose Pretzel Disc Golf, Rainbow Tours, Seaman’s Ecotour Adventures, Seaside Farms, Seldovia Nature Tours, Skeletal Connections, The Shop, True North Kayak Adventures, Tutka Bay Lodge, Two Sisters Bakery, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Water’s Edge Family Resource Center.

Become a member! Donate at the Friends of the Alaska National Wildlife Refuges booth or online at kachemakshorebird.org/crane-club.

Pro

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ember of the Crane Club

KachemakShorebird.o

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Journey to St. Matthew: Surveying for Rare Birds on Alaska’s Remote Islands -11:00am-11:50am | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center

During the summer of 2018, Marc Romano and crews from the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge and the U.S. Geological Survey conducted population surveys for McKay’s buntings and Pribilof rock sandpipers on St. Matthew Island. Marc will share photos and stories from the trip and present a short film on the project created by the Cornell University Laboratory of Ornithology.

Life Drawing with Shorebirds -11:00am-2:00pm | The Shop

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/12 at 12:30pm)Follow in the footsteps of artist and naturalist John James Audubon and draw from the real (taxidermic and living) thing. We’ll have various shorebird specimens available to draw from. While you are here, check out our current exhibition, “In Search of Birds, A Journey to Reverence”, the paintings of artist, Lorri Davis. Supplies included in the fee. Ages 12 and up. Limit 20. $25pp.

All About Optics -12:30-1:30pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Lab Classroom

In this seminar Adrian Lesak will cover the anatomy, function, quality, and use of binoculars and spotting scopes with special emphasis on weighing trade-offs and choosing the right optic for you. Limit 30. $5pp

Go With The Flow: Kayaking Tour A 12:30-5pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Alan’s Hiking and Paddling Adventures

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/11, 5/12)See Thursday, 12:30pm listing for event description.

Land Trust Van Tour B12:30-2:30pm | Meet in the Islands & Ocean parking lot

Kachemak Heritage Land Trust (KHLT)provides a fun and informative guided van tour to a variety of treasured lands protected by KHLT. We’ll visit our Calvin and Coyle Nature Trail, our Effler Trail, Nancy Hillstrand’s Let Nature Sing Wildlife Preserve in the Bridge Creek Watershed Protection District, and view irreplaceable landscapes in the Diamond Creek watershed. This tour offers fantastic photo opportunities and knowledge of the importance of land trusts nationwide. Limit 15. Free but please register.




(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/11 with various guides)See Thursday, 12:45pm listing to event description.Guides for this trip are Ray VanBuskirk and Buzz Scher.

Beaches, Birds, Brew & Oysters Too!1–5pm |CACS Yurt on the Spit, Harbor Ramp 2 B(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/11)Hop on the van, departing from the CACS Yurt on the Spit. A CACS Naturalist will lead intertidal exploration on the Homer Spit, then head up to Skyline Drive on the bluff above Homer to spot birds of the Boreal Forest, and then you’ll land on a stool at Homer Brewing Company for a sampler of Fresh Traditional Country Ales and Kachemak Bay Oysters. Limit 10. $85pp.

Crane Teachings -1–3pm | 58335 Cranewings Court

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/12)Celebrate the cranes’ return with a fun workshop led by local artist Mavis Muller at her Homer studio overlooking open crane habitat. Mavis wrote and illustrated this limited edition workbook that has 20 chapters and accompanying pack of 20 flash cards - yours to keep after the workshop. These teachings are gifts of inspiration and insight from the majestic, migratory Sandhill crane. The cards are a fun way to open a door to a new world speaking through the ways of these wise sky travelers. From East End Rd., right on Seaside Farm, left on Cranewings Ct.. Limit 6. $40pp.

Creatures of the Dock Tour B1–3pm |CACS Yurt on the Spit, Harbor Ramp 2

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/11, 5/12)Take a tour of the amazing intertidal life right under your feet at Homer Harbor docks. Based out of the CACS Yurt on the Spit, a trained naturalist will guide you through an amazing exploration of invertebrate life in our Harbor! Creatures of the Dock Tours leave from the yurt on Homer Spit at the entrance to Ram 2, conveniently located 10 minutes from downtown Homer. Limit 30. $7pp/kids under 2 free.

Intro to Photo Processing -1-2pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room

So you’re taking a thousands photos a day at the Shorebird Festival, now what? Tropical Birding Photography guide Pablo Cervantes gives an overview into the crazy world of post processing. This class will focus on becoming familiar with Adobe Photoshop and understanding the photo editing process. Limit 30. $10 pp.

Kayak with Birds & Wildlife A1–5pm |Harbor Ramp 2, True North Kayak Adventures Office


Transiting a Changing World: Vulnerability (& Resilience) of Migratory Shorebirds to Climate Change -1-1:50pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

The effects of climate change are being disproportionately felt at high-latitude sites. Shorebirds are common and abundant breeders across Alaska, and their migratory habits and reliance on coastal habitats may heighten their vulnerability to the effects of climate change. Curiously, aspects of these same natural history traits may serve as buffers against some effects of climate change. In this talk, Research Wildlife Biologist Dan Ruthrauff will explore the topic of climate change and Alaska’s shorebirds, and discuss how changes outside our region may be equally important to Alaska’s migratory shorebirds.


(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9 - 12:30pm, 5/11 -2:30pm)See Thursday, 12:30pm for event description.

Schantz Scholar: Henry Stevens - Systematic Prioritization of Important Shorebird Sites2-2:50pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

Shorebirds visit every continent in the world throughout their complex life histories, travelling thousands of kilometers and linking marine and terrestrial ecosystems. However, shorebird populations have plummeted since the early 1970s, mainly due to the destruction of important habitat in their breeding, wintering and stopover sites. Schantz Scholar Henry Stevens discusses how shorebird populations overall continue to decline, calling for a novel method of site prioritization and selection.

Birds in Flight Photography #1 -2:15-5:15pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/12 - 8:30am)Flight photography is tough. Join Tropical Bird guide Lisle Gwynn for this workshop focusing on photography technique. After learning basics in the classroom we will head outside to practice different techniques with the gulls, eagles or whatever flies by! Gain the confidence to be able to go out alone and confidently tackle the many other subjects in the area. Workshop begins inside and then moves outside — dress appropriately. A DSLR or equivalent mirrorless camera is required for the field work. Limit 20. $25pp.

Bird of Prey Discovery Lab C -3-5pm | Islands and Ocean Visitor Center, Lab Classroom

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/8)See Wednesday, 3pm listing for event description.(This event fulfills one of the Junior Birder requirements.)

Paint “The Flock” - An International Bird-Art Project -3-5pm | The Shop

Be a part of an international art installation that celebrates shorebirds. “The Flock” is a community project from Australia and the East-Asian Flyway in which wooden shorebirds are brightly painted and displayed. “The Flock” migrates all over the world and will be on display during the Festival. Join us at The Shop to paint your very own “Flock” member. Then, head to the Homer Chamber of Commerce to add your bird to the exhibit during the Welcome Reception! Your bird will be part of “The Flock” as it migrates away from Homer at the end of the Festival. Supplies provided. Limit 15. $15pp.

Schantz Scholar: Sarah Hoepfner - Living Among, and Studying Birds in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge 3-3:50pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

This past summer, Schantz Scholar Sarah Hoepfner studied nesting shorebirds and waterfowl on the Canning River delta in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Through the USFWS, she participated in this long term study of over 20 species of birds that migrate across continents to breed on the tundra. Sarah shares photos and stories of her time at the camp, species seen, and some of the data collected.

KacheMaK Bay Shorebird FeStival PrograM | Homer News Special edition May 2019

See festival descriptions, Page 13

May 2019 KachemaK Bay Shorebird FeStival Program | Homer News Special edition

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kbayak.com 907-399-7688 [email protected]

Everything you need to enjoy the Shorebird Festival!

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Wednesday, May 8 High Tide 5:07am | 19.3 ft | 6:14pm |16.9ft

t

Registration: Noon-5pm Festival Headquarters Time Key Event Location 8:30am-3pm A KBay Birding, Wildlife & Natural History Tour H, Ramp 6, Pinbone1

3-5pm - C Bird of Prey Discovery Lab IO

Thursday, May 9 High Tide 5:49am |18.4ft |7:07 pm | 15.9ft

Registration: 8am-6pm Festival Headquarters

Time Key Event Location 6:30-8:30am B Morning at the Marsh AV

7-10am E Cranes & Croissants SF

7:30am-6pm A Kayaking and Glacier Hike Tour H, Ramp 2, AH

7:30am-2:30pm A Lake Clark National Park Bear & Bird Viewing AR

7:30-10am A TheWise and Wonderful Journey H, Ramp 2, AH

8-10am A Feathers and Fins Boat Tour H, Ramp 2, TN

8:30am-12:30pm B Birding Hot Spots #1 - Anchor River IO

8:30-11am A Cold Duck Time H, top of Ramp 2, BH

8:30am-3pm A KBay Birding, Wildlife & Natural History Tour H, Ramp 6, Slip Pinbone

8:30am-3pm B Seldovia Nature Tour & Art Studio Visit H, Ramp 3, Beowulf

9am-12:30pm A Seaduck and Alcid Photography From a Boat H, Ramp 2, BH

9am-noon A Seabird Sidetrip H, Ramp 3, to the right, Torega

9:30am-12pm A A Way of Life: People and Place H, Ramp 2, AH

10am-2pm A Kayak with Birds & Wildlife H, Ramp 2, TN

10-11am - Pre-K Puffins: Early Learning Program C IO

10:30-2:30pm A Foraging the Wild in South Kachemak Bay H, Ramp 2, MW

10:30am-4pm A Wildlife Tour & Hike to Grewingk Glacier Lake H, Ramp 2, AH

11-11:50am - Wildlife of Baja IO

11:30am-2:30pm - Plein Air Painting at Seaside Farm SF

12-1pm - Flexible Shoulders and Neck Skeletal Connections, 1231 Ocean Dr.

12:30-4:30pm B Birding by Fat Bike (Thurs) CL

12:30-5pm A Go With The Flow: Kayaking H, Ramp 2, AH

12:30pm-2:30pm A Marine Wildlife Tour H, Ramp 3, Torega

12:45-4pm B Birding Hot Spots # 2 - Homer IO

1-5pm A Kayak with Birds & Wildlife H, Ramp 2, TN

1-2pm - C Pre-K Birding Walk with CACS Homer Spit-LL

1-1:50pm - Sandhill Cranes: Beauty and Behavior IO

2pm-2:50pm - Restoration Status & Recover Efforts IO

2pm-5pm - Introduction to Bird Photography - #1 IO

3-4pm B C Birding Bascis for Families KBRR

3-3:50pm B Songbirds and Their Nests IO

4-4:50pm - Wild Birds, Ticks & Alaska IO

5-7pm E Coastal Studies Kickoff Party CACS

5:30-7pm E Film Screening: Bird of Prey IO

6-9pm E Birders, Brews, and Burgers BLL

6:30-8:30pm B Evening at the Marsh — AV

7:15-9pm B Viewing Stations MB & LV

Friday, May 10 High Tide 6:39am | 17.1 ft | 8:10pm |15.1 ft


Time Key Event Location 6:30-8:30am B Morning at the Marsh AV

7am-5pm A Barren Islands Birding R, Ramp 2, Jackpot

7-10am E Cranes & Croissants SF

7am-3pm B Overlook Park Hike IO

7:30-9am B Begining Songbird Walk CCT

7-9:30am B Intermediate/Advanced Songbird Walk BT

7:30am-6pm A Kayaking and Glacier Hike Tour H, Ramp 2, AH

7:30am - 2:30pm A Lake Clark National Park Bear & Bird Viewing AR

7:30am-10am A The Wise and Wonderful Journey H, Ramp 2, AH

8-10am A Feathers and Fins Boat Tour H, Ramp 2, TN

8am-9:30am B Viewing Stations LV, MB

8:30am-12:30pm B Birding Hot Spots #3 - Anchor River IO

8:30-11am A Cold Duck Time H, top of Ramp 2, BH

8:30am-3:00pm A K-Bay Birding, Wildlife & Natural History Tour H, Ramp 6, Pinbone

8:30am-3:00pm A Seldovia Nature Tour & Art Studio Visit H, Ramp 3, Beowulf

8:45am-12:00pm B Photographing Homer Hot Spots # 1 IO

9am-12pm A Observing Diving Alcids w/ ROV Technology H, Ramp 2, Orca

9am-12pm A Seabird Side Trip H, Ramp 3, Torega

9:30am-12pm A A Way of Life: People and Place H, Ramp 2, AH

9:30am - 11am B C Family Bird Walk with CACS CCT

10am - 10:50am - From Russia With Love: Aleutian tern surveys on Sakhalin Island, Russia IO

10am-2:00pm A Kayak w/ Birds and Wildlife H, Ramp 2, TN

10am-12:30pm - Keynote Workshop - Words from the Wild IO

10am-3pm A SUP w/ Birds and Wildlife H, Ramp 2, TN

10:30am-2:30pm A Foraging the Wild in South Kachemak Bay H, Ramp 2, MW

10:30am-4pm A Wildlife Tour & Hike to Grewingk Glacier Lake H, Ramp 2, AH

11-11:50am - Journey to St. Matthew IO

11am-2pm - Life Drawing with Shorebirds at The Shop TS

12:30-1:30pm - All About Optics IO

12:30pm-5pm A Go With The Flow: Kayaking H, Ramp 2, AH

12:30pm-2:30pm B Land Trust Van Tour IO

12:30pm-2:30pm A Marine Wildlife Tour H, Ramp 3, Torega

12:45pm-4pm B Birding Hot Spots # 4 - Homer IO

1-5pm B Beachers, Birds, Brew & Oysters Too! H, Ramp 2, CSY

1-3pm - Crane Teachings 58335Cranewings Ct.

1-3pm B Creatures of the Dock Tour H, Ramp 2, CSY

REGISTRATION WILL OPEN MONDAY,

MARCH 18 to register: 1. Register Online atkachemakshorebird.org

2. Drop off Registration form & payment to:

Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festivalc/o Islands and Ocean Visitor Center

95 Sterling Highway, Homer, AK 99603Make checks payable to:

Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival3. FAX Registration Formwith credit card information to:

Shorebird Festival (907)235-77834. Order by Phone

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays 1-4:30pm

(907) 226-4631*If we don’t pick up, please leave a mes-sage. If you call outside these hours, your

call will be returned during the next Office Hours.

You must pick up your badges and event tickets at Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, beginning May 8 at noon. Please contact the Festival Director at (907)226-4631

or [email protected] for further information or to make

alternate arrangements for your ticket pickup.

Online registration is the quickest and easiest

way to register and reserve event tickets.

Festival Registration Fees

Participants will be asked to show their 2019 Festival Badge at each event.

All Festival Participants must pay a one-time Registration Fee. The Primary Participant fee is $20; additional family members, up to 4, are an additional $5. Families with more than 5

members should purchase an additional Reg-istration Fee. A $2 processing fee will be

added to each event ticket order to cover the credit card processing — $2 will cover

the whole order.These fees help to cover general operating and ticketing expenses of the Festival, and allow us to continue to offer events and

activities at no or low cost. Registration also allows you to reserve a seat to both “free”

and fee-based events, when there is a limit on participants.

Thank you for your support in helping the Festival to remain a self-sustaining event, year after year.

Refund/Exchange Policy: In an effort to be fair to both our par-ticipants and event sponsors, here is our updated Refund and Exchange policy:

• No refunds will be given for Registra-tion, Raffle Tickets or Processing Fees

at anytime• Refunds and exchanges may be made until April 9, 4:30pm — participant will receive full refund minus a 10% refund

fee • Refunds and exchanges between April 11-April 23 — participant will receive 50% refund • No refunds after April 24

— two weeks prior to the festival• Even exchanges allowed until Tuesday,

May 7.

Field events

Workshops & presentations

Boat tours

entertainMent

May 2019 KachemaK Bay shoreBird Festival Program HOMER NEWS Special Edition Page 11

SHOREbIRD Festival Schedule

1-2pm - Introduction to Photo Processing IO

1-5pm A Kayak w/ Birds and Wildlife H, Ramp 2, TN1-1:50pm - Transiting a Changing World IO1:30-5:30pm B Birding by Fat Bike CL2-2:50pm - Schantz Talk Scholar Talk: Henry Stevens IO2:15pm-5:15pm - Birds in Flight Photography #1 IO3-5pm - C Birds of Prey Discovery Lab IO3-5pm - Paint “The Flock” - An International Bird-Art Project TS3-3:50pm - Schantz Scholar Talk: Sarah Hoepfner IO4-6pm E Welcome Reception HC5:30-6:30pm B C Family Viewing Station AV6:30-8:30pm B Evening at the Marsh AV7-9pm E Shorebird Trivia Night AC8-9:30pm B Viewing Stations LV, MB

Saturday, May 11 High Tide 7:44am | 15.8 ft | 9:22 pm | 14.9ft


Time Key Event Location 6:30-8:30 am B Morning at the Marsh AV7am-5pm A Barren Islands Birding R, Ramp 2, Jackpot7-8:30am B Intermediate/Advanced Shorebird Walk MBS7:30am-5/6pm A Kayaking and Glacier Hike H, Ramp 2, AH7:30am-2:30pm A Lake Clark National Park Bear & Bird Viewing AR7:30-10:00am A The Wise and Wonderful Journey H, Ramp 2, AH7:30-9am B Begining Forest Bird Walk CCT7:45-9:45am B Viewing Stations LV, MB8-9:30am B Beginning Shorebird Walk BB8-10am A Feathers and Fins Boat Tour H, Ramp 2, TN8am-12:30pm A Upper Kachemak Bay Wildlife Tour H, Ramp 2, Rainbow Connection8:30am-12:30pm B Birding Hot Spots #3 - Anchor River IO8:30-11am A Cold Duck Time H, Ramp 2, BH8:30-11:30am A Coldwater, Hot Birds H, Ramp 3, Granite Cape8:30am-3pm A Seldovia Nature Tour & Art Studio Visit H, Ramp 3, Beowulf8:45am-12pm - Photographing Homer Hot Spots # 2 IO9am-12pm A Observing Diving Alcids w/ ROV Technology H, Ramp 2, Orca9am-12pm A Seabird Side Trip H, Ramp 3, Torega9am-12:30pm A Seaduck and Alcid Photography From a Boat H, Ramp 2, BH9:15am-10:45am - Shorebird Identification IO9:30am-12pm A A Way of Life: People and Place H, Ramp 2, AH9:30am-1pm A Seabirding 101: Workshop & Boat Trip IO10am-11am - Birding Discovery lab for Absolute Beginners IO10am-2pm A Kayak w/ Birds and Wildlife H, Ramp 2, TN10am-3pm A SUP w/ Birds and Wildlife H, Ramp 2, TN10:30am-2:30pm A Foraging the Wild in South Kachemak Bay H, Ramp 2, MW10:30am-4pm A Wildlife Tour & Hike to Grewingk Glacier Lake H, Ramp 2, AH11-11:50am - Birding in Bhutan IO11am-12pm - Live Bird Presentation IO11:30am-1:30pm B Junior Birder Discovery Lab with Beginning Birder Walks IO12-12:50pm - Hatching An Idea: Arctic Refuge Virtual Bird Fest Takes Flight IO12:30pm-5pm A Go With The Flow: Kayaking H, Ramp 2, AH12:30pm-2:30pm A Marine Wildlife Tour H, Ramp 3, Torega12:45pm-4pm - Birding Hot Spots #6 - Homer IO1-5pm B Beachers, Birds, Brew & Oysters Too! H, Ramp 2, CSY1pm-3pm B Creatures of the Dock Tour H, Ramp 2, CSY1-1:50pm - Death by a Thousand Cuts IO1pm-5pm A Eiders & Otters H, Ramp 2, Rainbow Connection1pm-5pm A Kayak w/ Birds and Wildlife H, Ramp 2, TN1-2pm - Live Bird Presentation IO1-4pm - C Nature Drawing for Beginners: Birds Near and Far CACS2-4pm - Fly in Virtual Reality IO2pm-2:50pm - The Benefit of Birds IO2:30-6:30pm B Birding by Fat Bike CL2:30-5:30pm - Introduction to Bird Photography - #2 IO3-5pm - Make Your Own Jr. Birder T-Shirt TS3-3:50pm - Oiled Wildlife Response - It’s Not a Laundry Problem IO3:30pm-4:30pm B C Family Viewing Station AV3:45pm-4:45pm - Advance Your Skills: Photo Processing IO4-5pm E Shorebids Sing: Bird Call Contest HB5-7pm E C Kid’s Bird Film IO5:30-6:30pm - The Battle of Attu and The Storm on Our Shores (Featured Author) HS7-8:30pm - Keynote Address - Jennifer Ackerman: The Genius of Birds HS

Sunday, May 12 High Tide 10:35pm | 15.5 ft | 9:05am | 14.9ft


Time Key Event Location 6-8:30am B Morning at the Marsh AV7am-3pm B Overlook Park Hike IO7:30am-6pm A Kayaking and Glacier Tour H, Ramp 2, AH7:30am-2:30pm A Lake Clark National Park Bear & Bird Viewing AR7:30-10am A The Wise and Wonderful Journey H, Ramp 2, AH8-10am A Feathers and Fins Boat Tour H, Ramp 2, TN8-9:30am E Birders Breakfast, Hosted by Refuge Friends IO8:30-11:30am - Birds in Flight Photography #2 IO8:30-10am B Viewing Stations LV, MB9am-12pm A Observing Diving Alcids w/ ROV Technology H, Ramp 2, Orca9am-12pm A Seabird Side Trip H, Ramp 3, Torega9-11am - C Working Dogs of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service HDT9:30am-12pm A A Way of Life: People and Place H, Ramp 2, AH9:30-10:30am - Featured Presenter: Birding, Medicine for the Soul IO10am-2pm A Kayak w/ Birds and Wildlife H, Ramp 2, TN10:30am-2:30pm A Foraging the Wild in South Kachemak Bay H, Ramp 2, MW10:30am-4pm A Wildlife Tour & Hike to Grewingk Glacier Lake H, Ramp 2, AH11am-12pm - Keynote Talk - How Birds Know Where They’re Going IO11am-4pm B Friendship Walk H, Ramp 2, BH12-2:30pm B Anchor River Bird Walk AR12-1pm - Photo Editing in Lightroom IO12:30pm-5pm A Go With The Flow: Kayaking Tour H, Ramp 2, AH12:30-1pm - Junior Birder Awards Ceremony IO12:30-3:30pm - Life Drawing with Shorebirds at The Shop TS12:30-2:30pm A Marine Wildlife Tour H, Ramp 3, Torega1-3pm - Crane Teachings 58355 Cranewings Ct.1-3pm B Creatures of the Dock Tour H, Ramp 2, CSY1-5pm A Kayak w/ Birds and Wildlife H, Ramp 2, TN1- 4pm - C Nature Drawing for Beginners: Quick and Easy Landscapes CACS1:30-3pm E Film Screening: Bird of Prey IO

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Name _______________________________________________________________________

Home Phone __________________________ Work Phone ____________________________

Mailing Address____________________________ E-mail Address _______________________

City ______________________________State __________________________Zip ________

Credit Card Payment: Visa r Mastercard r Discover r Total to be charged $_________

CC#_____________________________________________ Expiration Date ___ /____

Signature__________________________________________CSC Code__________________

2019Shorebird Festival

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We strongly recommend completing your registration online for optimal ticket availability. You will be notified by phone or email if an event you’ve chosen is sold out. Pick up prepaid tickets at registration headquarters (Islands and Ocean Visitor Center) at 95 Sterling Hwy, beginning at noon, Wednesday, May 8th. No refuNds will be giveN for registrAtioN or ProcessiNg fees At ANy time. Please see our updated Refunds and Exchanges Policy for more information found to the left..

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A Way of Life: People and Place Thu 9:30 am Fri 9:30am Sat 9:30-am Sun 9:30am $75 x___ ______Advance Your Skills: Photo Processing Sat 3:45 pm $10 x___ ______All About Optics Fri 12:30pm $5 x___ ______Barren Islands Birding Fri 7am Sat 7am $169 x___ ______Beaches, Birds, Brew & Oysters Too! Fri 1pm Sat 1pm $85 x___ ______Beginning Forest Bird Walk Sat 7:30am $7 x___ ______Beginning Songbird Walk Fri 7:30am $7 x___ ______Beginning Shorebird Walk Sat 8am $7 x___ ______Birders Breakfast, Hosted by Refuge Friends Sun 8:30am FREE x___ ______Birding Basics for Families Thu 3pm FREE x___ ______Birding by Fat Bike Thu 12:30pm Fri 1:30pm Sat 2:30pm $100/$50 x___ ______Birding Discovery Lab for Absolute Beginners- Adults Sat 10am FREE x___ ______Birding Hot Spots - Homer Thu 12:45pm Fri 12:45pm Sat 12:45pm $30 x___ ______Birding Hot Spots - Anchor River Thu 8:30am Fri 8:30am Sat 8:30am $40 x___ ______Birding, Medicine for the Soul (feature presenter) Sun 9:30am $5 x___ ______Birds in Flight Photography Workshop Fri 2:15pm $25 x___ ______Coastal Studies Kick-off Party Thu 5pm FREE x___ ______Cold Duck Time Thu 8:30am Fri 8:30am Sat 8:30am $60 x___ ______Cold Water, Hot Birds Sat 8:30am $75 x___ ______Crane Teachings Fri 1pm Sun 1pm $40 x___ ______Cranes and Croissants Thu 7am Fri 7am $20/$15 x___ ______Creatures of the Dock Tours! Fri 1pm Sat 1pm Sun 1pm $7 x___ ______Eiders and Otters Sat 1pm $60/$30 x___ ______Family Bird Walk with CACS Fri 9:30am FREE x___ ______Feathers and Fins Boat Tour Thu 8am Fri 8am Sat 8am Sun 8am $70 x___ ______Film Screening: Bird of Prey Thu 5:30pm Sun 1:30pm $5 x___ ______Foraging the Wild in South Kachemak Bay Thu 10:30am Fri 10:30am Sat 10:30am Sun 10:30am $200 x___ ______Friendship Walk Sun 11am $60 x___ ______Go With the Flow: Kayaking Tour Thu 12:30pm Fri 12:30pm Sat 12:30pm Sun 12:30pm $90 x___ ______Int/Adv Shorebird Walk Sat 7am $7 x___ ______Int/Adv Songbird Walk Fri 7:30am $7 x___ ______Introduction to Bird Photography Thu 2pm Sat 2:30pm $25x___ ______Introduction to Bird Photo Processing Fri 1pm $10x___ ______Kachemak Bay Birding, Wildlife, and Nature Tour Wed 8:30am Thu 8:30am Fri 8:30am $175 x___ ______Kayak with Birds & Wildlife Thu 10am/1pm Fri 10am/1pm Sat 10am/1pm Sun 9am/1pm $95/$85 x___ ______Kayaking and Glacier Hike Tour Thu 7:30am Fri 7:30am Sat 7:30am Sun 7:30am $180 x___ ______Keynote Address: Jennifer Ackerman: The Genius of Birds Sat 7pm $10 x___ ______Keynote Talk: How Birds Know Where They’re Going Sun 11am $10 x___ ______Keynote Workshop: Words from the Wild Fri 10am $25 x___ ______Lake Clark National Park Bear and Bird Viewing Tour Wed 7:30am Thu 7:30am Fri 7:30am Sat 7:30am Sun 7:30am $300 x___ ______Land Trust Van Tour Fri 12:30pm FREE x___ ______Life Drawing with Birds at The Shop Fri 11am Sun 12:30pm $25 x___ ______Live Bird Presentation Sat 11am/1:pm $8 x___ ______Make Your Own Jr. Birder T-shirt Sat 3pm $25 x___ ______Marine Wildlife Tour Thu 12:30pm Fri 12:30pm Sat 12:30pm Sun 12:30pm $65/$35 x___ ______Nature Drawing for Beginners Sat 1pm Sun 1pm $25 x___ ______Observing Diving Alcides with ROV Technology Fri 9am Sat 9am Sun 9am $80/$60 x___ ______Overlook Park Hike Fri 7am Sun 7am $15 x___ ______Paint “The Flock”: An International Bird Art Project Fri 3pm $15 x___ ______Photo Editing in Lightroom Sun 12pm $10 x___ ______Photographing Homer Hot Spots Fri 8:45am Sat 8:45am $45 x___ ______Plein Air Painting at Seaside Farm Thu 11:30am $75 x___ ______Seabird Side Trip Thu 9am Fri 9am Sat 9am Sun 9am $75/$45 x___ ______Seabirding 101: Workshp and Boat Trip Sat 9:30am $125 x___ ______Sea Duck & Alcid Photography from a Boat Thu 9am Sat 9am $130 x___ ______Seldovia Nature Tour and Art Studio Visit Thu 8:30am Fri 8:30am Sat 8:30am $195 x___ ______Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) with Birds and Wildlife Fri 10am Sat 10am $125 x___ ______The Battle of Attu and Storm on Our Shores Sat 5:30pm $10 x___ ______The Wise and Wonderful Journey Thu 7:30am Fri 7:30am Sat 7:30am Sun 7:30am $75 x___ ______Upper Kachemak Bay Wildlife Tour Sat 8am $69/$45 x___ ______Wildlife Tour and Hike to Grewingk Glacier Lake Thu 10:30am Fri 10:30am Sat 10:30am Sun 10:30am $85 x___ ______Working Dogs of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Sat 9am $free x___ ______

FESTIVal REgISTRaTIOn FEE Individual $20 plus $5 for each additional family members (maximum 4 per registration) $20 plus $5 x ___ ______FORM OF PaYMEnT: Cash Check Credit Card + processing fee $2.00 TOTal aMOunT REMITTEd: $______________

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map KeyACP alice’s Champagne palaceAH alan’s hiking and paddlingAP anchor point Beach parkingAR anchor river state rec areaAV airport viewing platformbb Bishop’s Beach bH Boat house pavillionbLL Beluga lake lodgebT Baycrest trailCCT Calvin & Coyle trailCACS Center for alaskan Coastal studies CL Cycle logical CSY CaCs – YurtGRb Grace ridge BreweryH harbor (see detailed Map)Hb homer Brewing CoHC homer Chamber of Commerce & visitor CenterHDT Homer dog trainingHS homer high school/ Mariner theaterIO Festival headquarters: islands and ocean visitor CenterKbRR kachemak Bay research reserveLL louie’s lagoonLV lighthouse village (shorebird viewing station)Mb Mud Bay (shorebird viewing station)MbS Mud Bay spitMW Mako’s Water taxiSF seaside FarmsTN true north kayak TS the shop


WWF salutes the kachemak bay shorebird Festival

Today we’re committed to minimizing threats posed by increasing trans-arctic shipping, preventing potentially devastating offshore oil and gas development, protecting Bristol Bay from large-scale mining, and to the reducing human/polar bear conflict along Alaska’s northern coast.

Since 2008 WWF’s US Arctic Program has been a proud sponsor of the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival. We salute

the Festival’s organizers, volunteers, and US Fish and Wildlife Service staff who continue to help us all understand, appreciate,

and protect our returning shorebirds and the irreplaceable places they need to complete their epic life stories.

© Scott dickerson / WWF-US

For two decades, World Wildlife Fund has worked to protect America’s most remarkable Arctic places and species. With WWF colleagues in other Arctic nations we reach around the globe to conserve wildlife and ecosystems in a warming and more crowded world.

Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the stewardship of Alaska’s unique Na-tional Wildlife Refuges through education, support, and advocacy.

This year marks the Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges fourth year partnering with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to bring you the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival.

Join the Friends during Sunday’s Birders Breakfast to discover exciting ways to get involved firsthand, through education, service, and advocacy. Learn more at www.alaskarefugefriends.org.

reFugefriendS

Mobile Chocolate Boutique and online shop

Call us for current location or shop online

(907) 435-7941www.homertruffle.co

36

HOMER REAL ESTATEHAS HELPED SHOREBIRDS, SUNBIRDS & SNOWBIRDSFIND JUST THE RIGHTNESTING SPOT SINCE 1983!WELCOME HOME...

235-5294ANGIE NEWBYBroker CCIM, CRSHOLLY WALLS

Sales Associate

1529 Ocean Drive, Homer, AK 99603 • www.homerrealestate.com

See you at the 27th Annual Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival this weekend!

We’re your raingear & optics headquarters

All in-stock Optics 15% OFFBushnell, Vortex Optics & Nikon

Come take a look! Xtra Tufs bootsAll-stock styles

15%OFF

Quality outerwear for any weather!

Open weekdays 8 to 7, Saturdays & Sundays 9 to 8 • 3625 East End Rd, Homer Alsaka • 478-8612 or 907-235-8612

May 2019 KachemaK Bay Shorebird FeStival Program | Homer News Special edition Page 13

The 6x6 Art and Trip Auction is back by popular demand. Local artists and far-flung Festival friends have each created a unique, handmade piece inspired by the many birds of Alaska. Each 6x6 piece will be auctioned online in support of the Festival. Festival Art can be viewed at KBay Caffe starting April 5 and during the Festival at the Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges’ booth at Islands & Ocean Visitor Center.

other items up for auction:

• Valisa Higman’s original cut-paper Festival artwork • Overnight stay in the Stanley Cabin at Jakalof Bay • Water Taxi rides with Bay Excursions • A night’s stay at Between Beaches Alaska • Massage from Healing Hands and more!

Proceeds benefit the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival and ensure top notch programming, guides, speakers and the on-going legacy of the Festival. Bidding will close at noon May 12th. Items may be picked up at Festival Headquarters, or arrange for mailing.

Visit our auction at: biddingowl.com/kachemakshorebird

Bidding opens April 5.

6x6 art andBird triP auction

Artwork by Abbey Ulen

Welcome Reception for Keynote E Speaker Featured Presenters, Schantz Scholars and Artist4–6pm | Homer Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center

Come meet and mingle with this year’s honored guests! Welcome Keynote Speaker Jennifer Ackerman; copies of her books will be for sale from Homer Bookstore. Featured Presenters Raymond VanBuskirk and Ben Knoot will be on hand, as well as 2019 Schantz Scholars Henry Stevens and Sarah Hoepfner. Festival Artist Valisa Higman joins in and will be offering prints for sale. Explore The Flock collaborative art installation and enjoy refreshments sponsored by Bear Creek Winery, Schooler Nolan Wines, Homer Brewing Co., Grace Ridge Brewing, and the Homer Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center.

Family Viewing Station C B5:30-6:30pm | Beluga Lake Airport Viewing Platform

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/11 - 3:30pm)Join CACS Beth Trowbridge and Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge’s Kendra Bush at the Beluga Lake Lower Viewing Platform to spot some waterfowl, shorebirds, moose and raptors. We will have kid friendly scopes and binoculars. Open to all ages and experience levels. (This event fulfills one of the Junior Birder requirements.)

Evening at the Marsh B6:30-8:30pm | Beluga Lake Airport Viewing Platform

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9)See Thursday, 6:30pm listing for event description.Guides for this event are Buzz Scher and Jim Herbert.

Shorebird Trivia Night E7–9pm | Alice’s Champagne Palace

You don’t need to be an expert birder for this event. Gather a team and head to Alice’s for fun bird themed trivia! This is $5 per person (pay at the door) with maximum of 6 people per team, 15 teams total. Costumes are encouraged and may be given extra points. Limit 90. $5pp at the door.

Viewing Stations B8-9:30pm | Mud Bay and Lighthouse Village

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9 - 7:15pm, 5/11 - 7:45am, 5/12 - 8:30am)See Thursday, 7:15pm listing for event description.

Saturday, May 11HIGH TIDE 7:44am, 15.79 ft (9:22pm, 14.92 ft)


(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/10, 5/12)See Thursday, 6:30am listing for event description.Guides for this event are Aaron Lang and Sam Patton.

Barren Islands Birding A 7am-5pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Slip E-2 M/V Jackpot

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10)See Friday, 7am listing for event description.

Intermediate/Advanced Shorebird Walk7-8:30am |Mud Bay Spit BExpert birder and member of the Kachemak Bay Birders, George Matz leads this walk out onto the small sandy spit that stretches into Mud Bay. Park in the lot by the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve on Kachemak Drive and meet at the gate. Rubber boots recommended; bring binos and a scope if you have one. Limit 20. $7pp.

Beginning Forest Songbird Walk B7:30–9:00am |Calvin & Coyle Trailhead

Join CACS’s Seth Spencer and Schantz Scholar Henry Stevens for an introduction into the world of Homer’s forest dwelling songbirds. Meet at the trailhead for a stroll through forest habitat as we listen for chirps and see what flies by. Build birding confidence and practice your skills! Bring binos and dress for the weather. Limit 20. $7pp.





We carry everything you need to createshorebird art....

And more

Bakery Hours Mon-Sat 7am-5pmOpen for Dinner Wed-Sat 5pm-8:30pm

Closed SundaysCall 907-235-2280 for Reservations

233 E. Bunnell · Homer, AK 996303


Schantz Brothers Foundation: Encouraging the Passionate Study of Birds and Birdlife

The foundation was initially established in 2002 after the death of brother Timothy, followed by twin brother Tom’s death in 2014. Both young men died of cardiac disease while in Alaska and both brothers shared a passion for all things Alaskan with a special love for the birdlife of the great land. Family and friends of the Schantz twins have established this memorial foundation to encourage the passionate study of birds and birdlife as a way to honor the passion for both Alaska and birds shared by these brothers. Accordingly, the foundation awards a trip to the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival every calendar year. Learn more at: schantzbird.org

Schantz ScholarS

Welcome to the 2019 Schantz Scholars: Sarah hoepfner and henry Stevens

Sarah Hoepfner is a senior studying Biology with an emphasis in Ecology and Biodiversity at Humboldt State University, California. Growing up in Cordova, Alaska, she loved learning about and watching the millions of shorebirds that stop briefly to refuel on their way north. For the past several summers Sarah has worked with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service studying and living among shorebirds and other waterfowl that breed on the Arctic coastal plain. During the winter, she conducts population surveys on Humboldt Bay, enjoying the different year-round plumages of shorebirds.

Originally from Exeter, New Hampshire, Henry Stevens is a senior at Tufts University where he founded the Tufts Ornithological Society and will be graduating with a joint Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Science. Henry has birded extensively in the U.S., Belize, South Africa, and Peru, as well as trips to Central America. Summers find Henry conducting research on gray vireos in New Mexico or studying loons in New Hampshire. His honor’s thesis is focused on systematically prioritizing important shorebird sites for the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network.

Welcome reception Friday, May 10, 4-6 pm Homer Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center

Stevens: Systematic Prioritization of Important Shorebird Sites Friday, May 10, 2-2:50 pm Islands & Ocean Visitor Center

hoepfner: living among and Studying Birds in the arctic National Wildlife refuge Friday, May 10, 3-3:50 pm Islands & Ocean Visitor Center

Stevens: Beginning Forest Songbird Walk Saturday, May 11, 7:30-9 am Calvin and Coyle Trail

hoepfner: Beginning Shorebird Walk Saturday, May 11, 8-9:30 am Bishop’s Beach Pavillion

Sarah Hoepfner Henry Stevens


(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/10, 5/12)See Thursday, 7:30am listing or event description.

Viewing Stations B 7:45-9:45am | Mud Bay and Lighthouse Village

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9 - 7:15pm, 5/11 - 7:45am, 5/12 - 8:30am)See Thursday, 7:15pm listing for event description.

Beginning Shorebird Walk B8–9:30am | Bishop’s Beach Pavillion

Join Audubon Alaska’s Max Goldman and Schantz Scholar Sarah Hoepfner for an introduction into the world of shorebirds. Meet at the beach for a stroll along the beach and slough so see what flies in. Understand some basic shorebird identification, build birding confidence and practice your skills. Bring binos and dress for the weather. Limit 20. $7pp.



Upper Kachemak Bay Wildlife Tour A8am–12:30pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Slip E-1, M/V Rainbow Connection

Join us aboard the 65’ M/V Rainbow Connection for a trip to the rich shorebird feeding area near the Fox, Sheep and Bradley Rivers. Explore the head of Kachemak Bay, with a visit to Bear Cove, Aurora Lagoon, Glacier Spit, and a stop at the Gull Island bird rookery. Continental breakfast included. Enclosed boat with open back access; has facilities. Sponsored by Rainbow Tours. Limit 70. $69pp/$45 kids 12 & under/under 2 years free.

Birding Hot Spots #5 - Anchor River B8:30am-12:30pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, meet in parking lot

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/10 with various guides)See Thursday, 8:30am listing for event description.Guides for this trip are Michelle Michaud and Carol Griswold.



Coldwater, Hot Birds A8:30-11:30am | Harbor bottom of Ramp 3, M/V Granite CapeColdwater Alaska and Wilderness Birding Adventures will show you some of their favorite birding spots on the Bay during this three-hour tour guided by Aaron Lang and Captain Brian Reid. Kachemak Bay is one of the richest marine environments in Alaska and this short tour will provide a sampling of the diversity of birds and wildlife found at our doorstep. Almost anything is possible on this trip and we’ll keep our route options open to take advantage of the serendipity of migration. Limit 6. $75pp.

Seldovia Nature Tour & Art Studio Visit A8:30am-3:00pm | Harbor Ramp 3, M/V Beowulf


Photographing Homer Hot Spots #2 B8:45am-12pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, parking lot

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10)See Friday, 8:45am listing for event description.Guides for this trip are Ben Knoot and Rick Kleinleder.

Observing Diving Alcids with ROV Technology A9am-12pm | Harbor Ramp 2, M/V Orca

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/12)See Friday, 9am listing for event description.



Seaduck & Alcid Photography Boat Trip A9am–12:30pm |Harbor, top of Ramp 2, Boat House Pavilion

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9)See Thursday, 9am listing for event description.Guide for this trip is Lisle Gwynn.

Shorebird Identification -9:15–10:45am |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

With great appreciation for all of our feathered friends, Buzz Scher will focus on the shorebirds that may or will be seen on the beaches of Kachemak Bay. His enthusiasm and humor will draw in the beginner as well as advanced birders. You cannot help but learn something new about our shorebirds!



Seabirding 101: Workshop & Boat Trip A9:30am-1pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room & Harbor Ramp 2, True North Kayak Adventures

Join featured presenter Raymond Van Buskirk in this workshop combining classroom learning with on-the-water application of new birding skills. First, we will discuss tips for identifying alcids and other ocean-going avifauna, then we’ll venture out on Kachemak Bay by boat to put our new skills to the test. Spend time on the water separating Kittlitz’s from Marbled Murrelets and at Gull Island getting our Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemot, and Tufted Puffin fix. Meet inside for the first hour, then carpool to the Homer Harbor for an 11am departure with True North Kayak Adventures. Limit 12. $125pp.

Birding Discovery Lab for Absolute Beginners -10-11am | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Lab ClassroomWould you love to become a birder but need help getting started? Join us to learn about Kachemak Bay’s amazing array of birds, as well as their habitats, sounds, and favorite foods. Wander between hands-on learning stations hosted by local birding experts to hear bird ID tips, where to look for certain types of birds and the gear you may need to be out in the field. Guided walks along Beluga Slough Trail also offered to discover birding basics. This is a fun, free program aimed at older youth and adults ages 15-100! Free, but please register.



Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) with Birds & Wildlife A10am–3pm | Harbor Ramp 2, True North Kayak Adventures Office

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10)See Friday, 10am listing for event description.

Foraging the Wild in South Kachemak Bay A10:30am–2:30pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Meet at Mako’s Water Taxi




Birding in Bhutan -11-11:50am | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, AuditoriumBhutan, the jewel of the Eastern Himalayas, is a stunning mosaic of broad biodiversity and enlightened conservation practices. This birding hotspot drew Betty Siegel there for the third time, accompanied by four other locals including Festival trip leader Dale Chorman. Enjoy fabulous photos and hear stories about the “best trip ever” as Betty and Dale share their birding and cultural experiences of the November 2018 tour with Wilderness Birding Adventures.

Live Bird Presentation -11am-noon | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room

(ALSO AVAILABLE at 1pm)Don’t miss this festival favorite event. A unique opportunity to get the entire family up close and personal with live birds. Presenters from Anchorage’s Bird Treatment & Learning Center will introduce 2-3 different wild birds and discuss their individual histories and natural behaviors. Limit 40. $8pp.

Junior Birder Discovery Lab with Beginning Birder Walks - C11:30am-1:30pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Lab ClassroomFamilies and children of all ages are invited to this two hour Discovery Lab and walk to learn about Kachemak Bay’s amazing array of birds, their habitats, sounds and behaviors. Wander between hands-on learning stations, learn bird

May 2019 KachemaK Bay Shorebird FeStival Program | HOMER NEWS Special edition Page 15

Mark Obmascik is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author of The Big Year, which was made into a movie, and Halfway to Heaven, winner of the National Outdoor Book Award for Outdoor Literature. His third non-fiction

book, The Storm on Our Shores, will be published in April 2019. Mark will be speak at the Festival about this latest book, as well as his experiences camping in the book’s setting: the island of Attu. He was winner of the National Press Club Award for environmental journalism, and lead writer for the Denver Post team that won the 2000 Pulitzer Prize for coverage of the Columbine High School massacre. He lives in Denver. He and his wife have three sons.

Featured Author Talk: The Battle of Attu and The Storm on Our Shores

Saturday, May 11, 5:30 pm Mariner Theatre Homer High School

FeATured AuThOrMark Obmascik

science, create a bird craft, practice using birding equipment and much more! Guided birding walks to Beluga Slough will be offered once each hour. This is a fun, free program for children looking to fulfill Jr. Birder requirements or to just learn all about birds! (This event fulfills one of the Junior Birder requirements.)

Hatching an Idea: Arctic Refuge Virtual Bird Fest Takes Flight -noon-12:50pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, AuditoriumBirds keep us connected to the Arctic. This first ever virtual festival of birds in September 2018 celebrated the migratory marvels that nest in the far northern reaches of Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. USFWS-Alaska’s Sara Boario will share highlights from the festival, including videos, and show the audience how to participate in future festivals.

Go With The Flow: Kayaking Tour A12:30-5pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Alan’s Hiking and Paddling Adventures





(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/10 with various guides)See Thursday, 12:45pm listing for event description.Guides for this trip are Dale Chorman and Dave Erikson.

Beaches, Birds, Brew & Oysters Too! B1–5pm |CACS Yurt on the Spit, Harbor Ramp 2

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10)See Friday, 1pm listing for event description.


(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/12)See Friday, 1pm listing for event description.

Death by a Thousands Cuts: - Shorebirds Face Conservation Issues Throughout Their Annual Cycle1–1:50pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, AuditoriumLearn about the many challenges faced by Alaska’s shorebirds as they breed and stage in Alaska, and migrate and winter in areas throughout the globe. Rick Lanctot (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) will explain how habitat loss, climate change, illegal and legal harvest, and other factors are impacting shorebird populations and ways that people are working together to help these birds.

Eiders & Otters A1–5pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Slip E-1, M/V Rainbow ConnectionCommon, Steller’s and King Eiders winter off the high bluffs of Homer. The elusive King Eider is our target, along with several other seabird species and lots of otters. Come help us find the King! Enclosed boat with open back access; has facilities. Event led by Rainbow Tours. Limit 70. $60pp/$30 kids 12 & under.

Kayak with Birds & Wildlife A 1–5pm |Harbor Ramp 2, True North Kayak Adventures


Live Bird Presentation -1-2pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room

(ALSO AVAILABLE at 11am)See Saturday, 10am listing for event description.

Nature Drawing for Beginners: Birds Near and Far - C1-4pm | CACS HeadquartersObservational drawing teaches us to see objectively and notice things that we didn’t expect to find. Local artist Kim McNett will break down the process into easy and manageable steps. From feeding behavior to flocking formations, context of habitat to behavioral interactions, the practice of sketching will heighten your skills as a naturalist, enrich your field notes and strengthen your memory of events. This is a beginner friendly workshop that welcomes all experience levels. Light refreshments and basic materials provided, or bring your own art supplies or journal. (This event fulfills one of the Junior Birder requirements.) Ages 9 & up. Limit 15. $25pp.

Fly in Virtual Reality -2-4pm | Islands and Ocean Visitor Center, Lab ClassroomCome fly and try your hand at Virtual Reality. Festival goers will have an opportunity to embody a bird using the app Eagle Flight, flying over familiar cities and landmarks. Drop-in anytime between 2pm and 4pm for a chance to fly or witness others experiencing this shift in perspective. Users will be

Mark Obmascik

limited to five minute sessions and spectators are encouraged to come witness the flight and this application of VR.

The Benefit of Birds: - Ecological Values and Vulnerability in the Bering, Chukchi and Beaufort Seas2-2:50pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, AuditoriumJoin Audubon’s Alaska’s Max Goldman as he delves into the relationship between ecological value and human stressors. This assessment 1) uses publicly available scientific mapping of species to identify areas of value to the function, health, productivity, biodiversity, and resilience of this ecosystem; and 2) applies a spatial representation of ecosystem stressors to evaluate how vulnerable these areas are to human impacts like vessel traffic, commercial fishing, energy exploration/extraction, and climate change. The resulting maps illustrate that relationship and can inform decision-makers’ priorities when tasked with ensuring ecosystem resilience.


(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9 - 12:30pm, 5/10 -1:30pm )See Thursday, 12:30pm for event description .

Intro to Bird Photography #2 -2:30–5:30pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9 - 2pm)See Thursday, 2pm for event description.

Make your own Jr. Birders Shorebird Tee C3-5pm | The ShopWith lifelike bird stencils and plenty of t-shirt paint to customize your design, create your own, one-of-a-kind, Jr. Birders t-shirt. Supplies included in the fee. Ages 5 to 12. Limit 30. $25pp.

Oiled Wildlife Response - It’s Not a Laundry Problem -3-3:50pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, AuditoriumBarbara Callahan and Michelle Bellizzi from International Bird Rescue provide an overview of responding to wildlife impacted by oil spills and other large-scale wildlife events around the world over the last 20+ years. This presentation will include aspects of emergency response for wildlife, the advancement of wildlife care protocols and legislative changes over the past decades.

Family Viewing Station C B3:30-4:30pm | Beluga Lake Airport Viewing Platform

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10 - 5:30pm)See Friday, 5:30pm for event description.(This event fulfills one of the Junior Birder requirements.)

Advance Your Skills: Photo Processing-3:45–4:45pm |Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar RoomTropical Birding’s photo pro, Pablo Cervantes, will take you further into what Adobe Photoshop (PS) has to offer. Be prepared to learn in depth skills to enhance your photography and photo editing. If you have a basic understanding of layers and simple edits in PS, join us to take those skills to the next level. Limit 30. $10pp.

Shorebirds Sing E4–5pm | Homer Brewing CompanyTune up your vocal chords and tweet your favorite bird call or make up your own for the 11th Annual “What the Heck Kind of Bird was That?” bird-calling competition. Professional guest judges will determine winners in both serious and not-so-serious bird calling categories. Prizes for top competitors. Registration starts at 3:30pm; competition begins at 4pm. Contact the Homer Brewing Co. at 235-3626 with questions. Ages 21+ unless accompanied by guardian. Free.

Kids’ Bird Film E C5–7pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

Enjoy a kid friendly film as you wrap up your day of birding fun! (This event fulfills one of the Junior Birder requirements.) Free!

Featured Author: Mark Obmascik -The Battle of Attu and The Storm on Our Shores5:30-6:30pm | Mariner Theater, Homer High School

As seen on 60 Minutes, bestselling writer Mark Obmascik, author of The Big Year, returns to the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival to discuss his new book, The Storm on Our Shores, the true story of two soldiers, one American and the other an American-trained surgeon from Japan, forced to fight each other on one of the worst battlefields in history -- the brutally cold Aleutian Islands. One soldier wins high military honors for killing the other, then spends the next 40 years seeking atonement from the dead soldier’s family. Obmascik also will discuss and show photos from his camping trip in September to uninhabited Attu Island, one of the greatest places in North America for rare birds. $10pp.

Sunday, May 10

HIGH TIDE 10:35pm, 15.46ft (9:05am, 14.87ft)’


(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/10, 5/11)See Thursday, 6:30am listing for event description.Guides for this event are Aaron Lang and Lisle Gywnn.

Overlook Park Hike B7am–3pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, meet in parking lot

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10)See Friday, 7:00am listing for event description.






(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9, 5/10, 5/11)See Thursday, 7:30am listing or event description.

Keynote Address - Jennifer Ackerman: The Genius of Birds -7-8:30pm | Mariner Theater, Homer High SchoolExplore the brilliant minds of birds with acclaimed science and nature writer Jennifer Ackerman, author of the international bestseller, The Genius of Birds. In this illustrated talk, you’ll learn how birds make and use their own sophisticated tools, teach one another new skills, exercise astonishing feats of memory, create works of art, navigate, communicate in ways that resemble language, and even pass along cultural traditions. You’ll never look at a crow, a chickadee, or a jay the same way again! $10pp.


Soaring Eagle Lodge22185 Sterling hwy, Ninilchick | www.soaringeaglelodge.com

at Soaring eagle Lodge, we take pride in providing all-inclusive alaska lodge vacation packages. Whether it’s a couples get-away, family reunion, or corporate weekly adventure out of the office, we have all the amenities you could ask for! From weekly planning of alaska’s mUST-Do activities, to private oceanfront cottages, our all-inclusive alaska lodge has it all. call us at 907-235-5995.

Homer Stay and Play B&B

(907) 399-1475 | homerstayandplay.com

our B&B is located in a natural setting; 2.5 acres surround the house and adjacent is a 20 acre land trust reserve. our property overlooks the Kachemak Bay’s majestic mountains and glaciers. close to all what homer has to offer just 2 miles town center. our quiet setting has tall trees, alders, raspberry bushes, and a small stream. We offer 3 rooms, all have private bathrooms.

Beluga Lake Lodge204 ocean Drive Loop | 907-235-5995 | https://www.belugalakelodging.com

Lakefront accommodations and dining, perfect for bird viewing while you relax on the deck or inside. We offer a variety of lodging accommodations to fit every need and budget! our friendly and professional staff are happy to offer birders a nest away from home.

Bird hoUSe, Bird FeeDThe Philippine eagle is a bird of extremes. It’s the world’s largest and rarest eagle, found only in the Philippines. Fewer than 800 individuals remain today, and the future of these iconic raptors is tied to the fate of the Bird of Prey

“Bird of Prey” follows Neil’s return to the Philippines as he embarks on a grueling expedition alongside a small but devoted group determined to protect the eagle. Together, they answer the question: What will it take to save a species from extinction?

two Screenings:

• Thursday, May 9, 5:30-7 pm • Sunday, May 13, 1:30-3 pm

Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, $5pp

SPecIaL fiLmBird of prey



Birders Breakfast, Hosted by E Refuge Friends 8:30-9:30am | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar Room

Join The Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges!s to learn more about our work supporting Alaska’s 16 National Wildlife Refuges and find out how you can get involved. Join the Friends, Festival Speakers, and fellow birders for hot beverages, fresh pastries, and a short presentation. Yearly memberships will be available. Afterwards, enjoy an informal Live Bird Presentation from Bird TLC, 9-11am in the Lab Classroom. Additional support from Two Sisters Bakery. Free, but please register.

Birds in Flight Photography #2 -8:30-11:30am | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Meet at Registration

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10 - 2:15pm)See Friday, 2:15 lising for event description.Guide for this trip is Lisle Gwynn.

Viewing Stations B8:30-10:00am | Mud Bay and Lighthouse Village

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9 - 7:15pm, 5/10 - 8am & 8pm, 5/11 - 7:45am)See Thursday, 7:15pm listing for event description.

Observing Diving Alcids with ROV Technology A9am-12pm | Harbor Ramp 2, M/V Orca

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11)See Friday, 9am listing for event description.



Working Dogs of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service C B9–11am | Homer Dog Training Center

Come learn about the amazing working dogs of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service! Discover how the historical hero dogs of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge helped to bring the Aleutian Cackling goose back from the brink of extinction and aided in the removal of invasive species from many of the Refuge’s islands. Also, meet Federal Wildlife Officer Robert Barto and his K-9, Rex, as they demonstrate how they work together to protect wildlife on the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. (This event fulfills one of the Jr. Birder requirements) Limit 35. Free, but please register.



Featured Presenter: Raymond Van Buskirk - Birding, Medicine for the Soul -9:30-10:30am | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

The natural world brings depth and meaning to our lives, offering deep personal connection to our natural heritage and escape from a bustling modern world. A favorite

question I ask people is, “What has birding done for you?” While answers vary, the number of people who have said, “Birding saved my life,”,strikes deep and close to home. This is powerful stuff. Join Raymond VanBuskirk as he shares his experience growing up as a young birder, recounting tragedy, grief, and the healing powers of nature, and why this is reason enough to do everything we can to protect it. Limit 120. $5pp.



Foraging the Wild in South Kachemak Bay A10:30am–2:30pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Meet at Mako’s Water Taxi




Friendship Walk B11am–4pm | Harbor, Top of Ramp 2, Boat House Pavilion

Join the Friends of Kachemak Bay State Park for a cruise across the Bay, breaking for birds along the way and a guided hike guided. Check out Rusty’s Lagoon, trace the Glacier Spit shoreline, and detour into the forest to experience a variety of unique habitats while helping to support an important organization. Bring a lunch. Enclosed boat with open back access; no facilities. Proceeds benefit Friends of Kachemak Bay State Park. Limit 15. $60pp.

Keynote Talk - How Birds Know Where They’re Going: The New Science of Bird Navigation -11am-noon | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, AuditoriumThe millions of migrating shorebirds that pause along the mud flats of Kachemak Bay — sandpipers, surfbirds, plovers, and godwits — are on an epic journey, flying thousands of miles from as far away as Chile and Australia to their breeding grounds in the Arctic. How does a migrating bird know where it’s going? How does it accurately navigate to its destination even if thrown off course?In this illustrated talk by Jennifer Ackerman, discover what science has learned lately about the migration of birds and the mental tools they use to navigate — the natural equivalent of our compasses, GPS, and satellite navigation. Limit 120. $10pp.

Anchor River Bird Walk Bnoon-2:30pm | meet at Halibut Beach at the Anchor RiverJoin Michelle Michaud, Carol Griswold, and other local birders for a 2-mile walk to the mouth of the Anchor River. Several species of local and migratory birds can be seen in the river, on the shoreline and on the saltwater. Species include American pipits, scoters, greater yellowlegs, whimbrels, turnstones, surfbirds, plovers, bald eagles, and lots more! The walk can be strenuous due to walking on soft sand. Wear sturdy walking shoes/boots, dress for the weather and bring water and snacks if you wish. Some scopes will be available.

Photo Editing with Lightroom -noon-1pm | Island & Ocean Visitor Center, Seminar RoomGet a great, in depth look at basic editing in Adobe Lightroom. Featured Presenter Ben Knoot will take you for a tour of Lightroom’s photo editing capabilities. Learn basic and proficient skills that will enhance your photos and keep your Shorebird Festival memories alive! Limit 30. $10pp.

Go With The Flow: Kayaking Tour A12:30-5pm | Harbor Ramp 2, Alan’s Hiking and Paddling Adventures


Junior Birder Awards Ceremony C12:30-1:00pm | Island & Ocean Visitor Center, AuditoriumFestival speakers join U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff in presenting patches and awards to kids who have completed all of their badge requirements during the Festival weekend. Come show your support to these future birders!

Life Drawing with Shorebirds -12:30-3:30pm | The Shop(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10)See Friday, 10am listing for event description.



Crane Teachings -1–3pm | 58335 Cranewings Court

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10)See Friday, 1pm listing for event description.


(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/10, 5/11)See Friday, 1pm listing for event description.

Kayak with Birds & Wildlife A1–5pm |Harbor Ramp 2, True North Kayak Adventures Office


Nature Drawing for Beginners: C - Quick and Easy Landscapes1–4pm |CACS HeadquartersObservational drawing teaches us to see objectively and notice things that we didn’t expect to find. Local artist Kim McNett will break down the process into easy and manageable steps. The practice of sketching will heighten your skills as a naturalist.This is a beginner friendly workshop that welcomes all experience levels. Light refreshments and basic materials provided, or bring your own art supplies or journal. (This event fulfills one of the Junior Birder requirements.) Ages 9 & up. Limit 15. $25pp.

Film Screening: Bird of Prey E1:30-3pm | Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, Auditorium

(ALSO AVAILABLE 5/9-5:30pm)See Thursday, 5:30pm listing for event description.

MORE TO DOShorebird Festival 6 x 6 Art Show and Auction FundraiserExhibit Open Friday, April 5 - Sunday, May 12 K Bay Caffé, 378 E. Pioneer Ave.

See the 2019 collection of 6 x 6 canvas pieces of birds found in Alaska and up for auction. Visit for First Friday, April 5, to see the pieces and learn how to bid. Participating 6 x 6 artists also show other works during the April show. 6 x 6 Art Auction pieces will be on display at the Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges booth in the Islands & Ocean Visitor Center during the Festival.

Art Show by Festival Artist Valisa Higman + First Friday EventFriday, May 3 - Sunday, May 31 K Bay Caffé, 378 E Pioneer Ave

Join Seldovia artist Valisa Higman for the opening of her cut paper exhibit on May 3. Valisa originals will be on display though the month of May.

Beer Tasting at Grace Ridge BrewingOpen Daily, 12pm-8pm Ocean Drive at B Street, 907-435-0601

We will be serving our Oystercatcher Stout! Ten dozen oysters from Kachemak Shellfish Growers have been put in this black ale for a smooth rich stout. Grace Ridge Brewing will donate $1 per pint of the

Oystercatcher Stout sold during the Festival. Visit online at graceridgebrewing.com.

Wine Tasting & Tours at Bear Creek WineryTasting: Thurs-Sun, May 9 - 12, 10am-6pm | Production Tours: May 10 & 11, 11am 60203 Bear Creek Drive, 907-245-8484

Fly into Alaska’s favorite tasting room to pick up its limited edition Shorebird wine, bottled with a special label printed in honor of the Shorebird Festival. Sample other unique wines made from local fruits and berries and tour our beautiful grounds.

On the Wing ConcertThursday, May 9, 7:30-9:00pm Bunnell Street Arts Center, 106 West Bunnell, www.bunnellarts.org

This annual concert featuring lifelong Homer musician Sunrise Kilcher-Sjoberg and friends showcases readings of original poetry along with a variety of culturally diverse music, other performance art pieces, and slides. If interested in participating, contact Sunrise at 235-7326 or Bunnell by April 23.

Pancake BreakfastSaturday, May 11, 7:30am-noon Homer United Methodist Church

Friends of Kachemak Bay State Parks and the Kachemak Bay State Park Citizens’ Advisory Board

invite you to a hearty, all- you-can-eat pancake breakfast. All proceeds help support the volunteer trail crews. $10pp, $5 kids under 11.

35th Annual Kachemak Bay Quilters ShowSaturday, May 11, 10am-8pm Sunday, May 12, 10am-4pm Homer Elks Lodge, 215 Jenny Way

Up to 100 spectacular entries, including an Alaskan Bird Challenge, and many additional items for sale. $2 entry donation supports the production of handmade quilts for local fire victims and the Haven House Women’s Shelter.6th Annual Shorebird Showdown Disc Golf TournamentSaturday, May 11, 10am-5pm Jack Gist Park (near Mile 2 East End Road)Join us for 36 holes of disc golf, sponsored by Moose Pretzel Disc Golf. Come test your disc golf skills and do some bird watching. To pre-register, call Pat Miller, 612-210-8021 or visit discgolfscene.com/tournaments/shorebird_showdown_2019

Water’s Edge 2nd Annual Spring TeaSaturday, May 11, 1-3pm Faith Lutheran Church, 1000 Soundview Ave.

Attend an afternoon of appetizers, desserts, tea, fellowship, and inspiring stories. To reserve an 8-seat table for $250 or single seats for $40 each, call Water’s Edge @ 235-7899. Presented by Water’s Edge - A Family Resource Center.

in HomerMay 2019 KACHEMAK BAy Shorebird FeStival PROGRAM | Homer News Special Edition Page 17

www.kachemakadventures.comCALL (907) 235-5680 OR

GUIDED KAYAK EXCURSIONSFor Details & What to Bring

SHOREBIRD FESTIVAL’SSPONSORING THIS YEAR’S

SHOREBIRD FESTIVAL'S WISE & WONDERFUL WILDLIFE TOUR

STATE PARK TRAILS INFORMATION & ACCESS

KACHEMAK ADVENTURESLAND & SEA ~ HIKE & PADDLE

ALAN’S WATER TAXIwww.alanswatertaxi.com | (907)-235-5680 | State Park Trails, Information & Access

Sponsoring this year’s Shorebird Festival’s GUIDED KAYAK EXCURSIONSFor Details & What to Bring Call (907)235-5680 or www.kachemakadventures.com

SHOREBIRD FESTIVAL’S WISE & WONDERFUL WILDLIFE TOUR

3388 B Street, Homer, AK(907) 435-0601

Check us out at www.graceridgebrewing.com

Artisan craft beerwith a local flair!Come join us for a pint!

Pier One Theatreon the Spit

www.pieronetheatre.orgLike us on Facebook.

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First-rate

Live Entertainment

is waiting

in the wings!

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Labor Day

907-226-2287

SpeakerS, preSenterS & GuideS BiosAaron Lang is the owner and Guide for Wilderness Birding Adventures, leading trips from Alaska’s Wil-derness and continental borders to some of the prime destinations for birders around the world.Adrian Lesak is the birding and nature observation manager at Vortex Optics, and has studied forest songbird communities for the US Forest Service as well as for his Master’s and PhD research.Allyssa Morris is the Environmental Education Spe-cialist for Arctic, Kanuti, and Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuges. She creates and implements edu-cational programs, youth culture and science camps and various outreach projects to connect people to Alaska’s northern Refuges.”Barbara Callahan is Senior Director of Response Services at International Bird Rescue having helped manage many large-scale oiled wildlife responses planning, training and rescue in more than a dozen countries around the world, including the Selendang Ayu spill near Dutch Harbor, Alaska.Beth Trowbridge is the Executive Director for the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies and has been leading natural history and science education pro-grams for youth and adults in Homer for over 13 years.Betty Siegel is an avid birder and world traveler. She is the Volunteer Coordinator for Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges, sits on the Festival Planning Committee, and is a long-time volunteer at IOVC, COASST, and Kachemak Bay Shorebird monitoring.Buzz Scher has been passionately watching birds for well over 40 years, and has birded on all the conti-nents except Africa. He is a civil engineer in An-chorage and the Audubon regional editor for Alaska Christmas Bird Counts. This year will be Buzz’s 26th year presenting various workshops during the Festival.Carla Stanley plays many roles in the Shorebird Festival Planning Committee for the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge.Carol Griswold enjoys birding and photography from her home base in Seward but occasionally travels as far as Homer or Yakutak to bird. She shares her joy on her Sporadic Bird blog and serves as the Seward CBC compiler.Cindy Sisson is a local birder. She is always eager to share and learn about birds with all who gather to enjoy our feathered friends.Dan Ruthrauff is a Research Wildlife Biologist with the US Geological Survey’s Alaska Science Center in Anchorage. Dan has studied shorebirds in Alaska for over 20 years, addressing topics such as migration ecology, reproductive ecology, winter ecology, and climate-mediated effects on Alaska’s shorebirds.Dale Chorman is a lifelong birder who lives in Homer and has worked as a naturalist in Alaska for over 35 years.Dana Nelson has been the environmental education specialist with Kachemak Bay Research Reserve since 2016. She was an environmental education intern for Alaska Maritime NWR 2014-2015.Dave Erickson is a professional biologist with over 40 years of experience birding in Homer. He compiles data for the annual Christmas Bird count in Homer, and has volunteered with the Shorebird Festival since its beginning at the viewing stations, leading bird walks, and giving presentations.Gale Disler is a student in the Master of Public Health Program at UAA. She will begin working on the MPH Practicum Project this coming semester. Her work as a graduate research assistant focuses on the risks of ticks and tick-borne pathogens in Alaska.George Matz is an avid birder and serves on the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve Community Coun-cil, Homer Fish & Game Advisory Committee, and Kachemak Bay Birders. He teaches a birding course at Kenai Peninsula College and organizes the Kache-mak Bay Shorebird Monitoring Project each spring.Heather Renner is the Supervisory Wildlife Biolo-gist at the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. She has worked at the Refuge for 19 years, mostly leading long term seabird monitoring studies.Jason Sodergren is an electrical engineer, birder and bird bander living in Homer. He is a part of the Shorebird Festival Planning Committee.Jessica Shepherd has served as the Education Coor-dinator with the Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Homer for nearly 10 years. Her interest in birds dates back to her years as a biologist in Arizona, and later, in Fairbanks, where she also taught backyard birding classes.

Jim Herbert is a long time Alaskan who currently lives in Homer. He particularly likes traveling to remote parts of the state in search of birds. Last year he and friends sailed to Attu.Kendra Bush-St. Louis is the Environmental Educa-tion Specialist for Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, teaching students in grades pre-K through 12th. She is a member of the Shorebird Festival Plan-ning Committee.Kara Zwickey is the Visitor Center Manager for Islands & Ocean Visitor Center at Alaska Maritime NWR and has been leading environmental education programs for youth and adults with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service for 11 years. She is part of the Shorebird Festival Planning Committee.Kim McNett is a local naturalist and artist, specializ-ing in place-based observational drawing and nature immersion. In addition to teaching arts, she is an en-vironmental educator, kayak guide, Bering Sea crab fisheries observer, and an avid wilderness adventurer.Lisle Gwynn grew up among the heaths of south-ern England and is a keen photographer guide for Tropical Birding, Lisle is as comfortable seeking and photographing mammals as he is birds, something he has pursued across 6 continents.Marc Romano is the Bering Sea Unit Biologist for Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. He first attended the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival in 1994 while living out of a 1977 VW Camper on the Homer Spit.Marc Webber is the Deputy Refuge Manager at Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge.Marianne Aplin is the Visitors Services Supervisor for Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge.Margaret Williams is the Managing Director of World Wildlife Fund’s Kamchatka-Bering Sea ecore-gion program, leading a team of experts in climate change, wildlife biology, fisheries, oil and shipping, and communications to implement an international conservation strategy for the Bering Sea and Arctic.Max Goldman leads the Bird Conservation Program as Audubon AK’s Conservation Biologist. He has served as project manager for Audubon Alaska’s 2017 Ecological Atlas of the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort Seas. Max has studied ornithology and disturbance ecology around the world from Africa to the Arctic.Dr. Micah Hahn is an Assistant Professor of Envi-ronmental Health with the Institute for Circumpolar Health Studies at the University of Alaska-Anchor-age. Her work focuses on understanding the health impacts of climate change and working with commu-nities to develop strategies for adaptation.Michelle Bellizzi is the Response Service Manager for International Bird Rescue. An experienced wild-life response veteran, she has responded to over 25 oil spills nationally and internationally and oversaw long-term management of wildlife rehabilitation dur-ing the Gulf oil spill response.Michelle Michaud is an avid birder who enjoys traveling the world in search of birds. In Homer, she participates in citizen science projects, including the Kachemak Bay Birder’s Shorebird Monitoring, Alaska Grebe and Loon Monitoring Project, and COASST.Mossy Kilcher is an artist, photographer and avid birder and has lived in Homer her entire life. She en-joys filming and photographing birds and collecting their songs. She is an active member of several bird organizations, and contributes material to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.Nina Faust is a Co-Founder of Kachemak Crane Watch and retired high school teacher. An avid hiker, self-taught naturalist, photographer, and conservation activist, Nina has spent more than a decade filming Homer’s Sandhill Cranes capturing a wide variety of crane behaviors on film.Pablo Cervantes converted from city-loving engineer to Tropical Birding photography guide. He guides trips around the world and is currently working on new photo field guides for birds and wildlife of Ecua-dor. He also manages Tandayapa Bird Lodge.Rich Kleinleder is a wildlife biologist specializing in environmental impact analysis. He has donated his expertise as a local guide for the Festival since its creation.Dr. Richard Lanctot is the Shorebird Coordinator for the Alaska Region of the US Fish and Wildlife Service. He focuses on understanding factors affect-ing population growth of shorebirds by conducting studies in breeding, migration and wintering areas of Alaska , the Americas, and Asia.

Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival’s junior birder program

Sponsored by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies, Kachemak Bay Research Reserve, UAA and the Pratt Musem

The Junior Birder program gets youth and families outside to learn birding basics. Attend family-friendly Festival events and complete a personal birding journal. New Jr. Birders can earn their badge, while returning Jr. Birders can earn great birding-related prizes.New and returning Jr. Birders can sign-up, and pick-up their packet & notebook at Registration.Look for this icon C for Jr. Birder Events. Some of this year’s Jr. Birder activities include, but are not limited to:• Birds of Prey Discovery Labs• Family Birding Walks & Viewing Stations• Pre-K Puffins Special Shorebird Festival Storyhour • Birding Basics for Families field event• Nature Drawing for Beginners• Kids Bird Film on Saturday nightGo to our website for information about Jr. Birder requirements, and a full list of Family-Friendly events at the Festival:kachemakshorebird.org/JuniorBirder

junior birder badge award Ceremony

Sunday, may 12, 12:30-14 pm Islands & Ocean Visitor Center

for kidS aGeS 5-10

Shiway Wang is the Science Coordinator for the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Trustee Council. She has two decades of marine research experience encompassing areas all over Alaska including the Aleutian Islands, Pribilof Islands, Gulf of Alaska and the Bering Sea.Sam Patton is a retired biologist with the US Fish and Wildlife Service.Sara Boario is the Assistant Regional Director of External Affairs for the US Fish and Wildlife Service. She is one of the leaders of a team of partners who helped establish and coordinate the first Arctic Virtual Birds Festival in September 2018.Seth Spencer is the Center for Alaskan Coastal Stud-ies’ Education Program Coordinator. Seth arrived in Homer in the spring of 2015, by way of Kentucky, North Carolina, and Minnesota. He enjoys traveling and birding with his wife Kara.Steve Delehanty is the Manager of the Alaska Mari-time National Wildlife Refuge.William George is a master’s student in Biological Sciences at UAA. His thesis focused on identifying novel viruses in the Arctic little brown bats. As a graduate research assistant, he investigates invasive ticks that have made their way to Alaska and the potential pathogens that they carry.

page 18 KachemaK Bay ShoreBird FeStival program | Homer News Special edition May 2019

The Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival Committee would like to thank each and every one of our presenters for their energy and enthusiasm, and for sharing their vast wealth of knowledge during this year’s Festival.

Thank You

May 2019 KachemaK Bay Shorebird FeStival Program | Homer News Special edition Page 19

3779 Bartlett St. 907-235-8635 www.prattmuseum.org

Summer hours begin May 4, 2019 Open Daily, 10 am – 6 pm

No Way Out (detail), giclee by Mark Stadsklev, Honorable Mention

The Pratt Museum Presents

All Alaska BiennialMay - September 2019

All Alaska Biennial is organized by The Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center.Support for this traveling exhibition has been made possible with the support of: Alaska State Council on the Arts, a federal Agency; the Municipality of Anchorage, the Anchorage Museum Association and the Anchorage Museum Foundation Alaska Airlines Silver Anniversary Fund.

Culture, Science, and Art of Kachemak Bay

St Innocent, acrylic on canvas by Tim Troll

JOIN US for a PANCAKE BREAKFAST

Sat, MAY 11TH 7:30am – Noon HOMER UNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH

sponsors

Trails Day,Friendship Beach Walk, Kachemak Bay State Park & Water Trailand supports the

Volunteer Trail Crew.

Sponsoring this year’s

Shorebird Festival’s

Cold Duck TimeDiving With Alcids

Birding and Bear Viewing in

Chinitna BayL A K E C L A R K N A T I O N A L P A R K

Join us for a 40 mile ride across Cook Inlet’s remote west side to Chinitna Bay surrounded by towering mountain peaks,

stunning geologic features, and glaciers aboard our 30’ aluminum boat the Gamefisher. We visit a rocky

outcropping in the bay with nesting puffins, oystercatchers, pigeon gillemots, see shorebirds, falcons, waterfowl, all 3 species of scoters, loons, cormorants, and Common Eiders. Brown bears abound in the bay and can be seen along the

shoreline and in a huge grassy meadow. Trip is available all 4 days of the shorebird festival but also by private charter

before or after the event. Contact Mel Erickson- owner/captain to book a trip

independent of the festival. A local birder will be aboard as crew.

907-398-1744, Email: [email protected], website: www.alaskangamefisher.com

www.bearviewinginalaska.com


Cook Inlet RegIonal CItIzens advIsoRy CounCIlProtecting Cook Inlet since 1990

We represent the citizens of Cook Inlet in promoting environmentally safe marine transportation and oil facility operations in Cook Inlet.

www.circac.org 8195 Kenai Spur Highway

Kenai, AK 99611(907) 283-7222

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checklist - kachemak bay shorebird festivalkachemakshorebird.org/.../2019-shorebird-guide-1.pdf ·...

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