2nd Annual Fall Migration Festival at The Wetlands Institute

STONE HARBOR –The Wetlands Institute proudly presents its 2nd Annual Fall Migration Festival, Saturday and Sunday, September 20 and 21, 2014, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Join the Institute’s staff, community partners and volunteers as we highlight the amazing diversity of wildlife passing through the Cape May Peninsula during their migration.
Learn about the Institute’s expanded bird research and conservation efforts. Join a naturalist on a guided walk and watch as an amazing array of migratory birds and butterflies fly overhead. In a single day one can go from spotting a Peregrine Falcon flying low along the salt marsh to watching flocks of White-winged Scoters migrate along the ocean front.
“The sheer abundance and diversity of species migrating through the Cape May Peninsula is an amazing sight to see.” states Dr. Lisa Ferguson, Director of Research and Conservation at The Wetlands Institute. “This combination makes it among the top birding destinations in the world and a top birding destination in North America. At The Wetlands Institute, fall is an especially good time to experience the changing of seasons and the spectacle of migration of raptors, warblers, waterfowl, and more.”
Executive Director, Dr. Lenore Tedesco, explains that the purpose of this festival is to highlight what The Wetlands Institute strives to accomplish. “This event is a great opportunity to showcase the incredible diversity of wildlife in Cape May County and our role in preserving and protecting these amazing animals on their remarkable journeys. It’s easy to miss it and our goal is to bring the migration to life and share how special it is.” says Tedesco. “The Fall Migration Festival replaces the Wings ‘N Water Festival at the Institute and focuses on engaging educational activities that showcase our mission.” The Wings ‘N Water Benefit Auction is an annual event and takes place on the first Saturday of August.
Festival visitors of all ages will get to enjoy and learn about the abundance of wildlife that relies on our coastal ecosystem for survival. Here is a preview of some of the festival activities:
• Live Butterfly Presentations and Tagging
• Guided Nature Walks at Stone Harbor Point and at the Institute Focusing on Birds, Butterflies, Dragonflies, and Bees
• Guided Back-Bay Boat and Kayak Tours
• Fish, Sea Turtle, Butterfly and Bird Crafts, Migration Themed Games and Activities
• Special Autumn Terrapin Release
• Live Animal Presentations by Community Partners
• And more!
Be sure to visit wetlandsinstitute.org for more details and a schedule of activities. Tickets are available to be purchased online. All proceeds from this event support The Wetlands Institute’s research, conservation and education programs. This event is sponsored by Kindle Auto Plaza.