Join Janice Jorgensen for an accessible outing and explore the different habitats at the Conte Refuge, including forests, streams, and grasslands. Relax, listen, and find birds/wildlife in the cattails, woods, and surrounding fields. We will be looking for common birds staying in this area for the winter, including woodpeckers, American Crow, Common Raven, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, Golden-crowned Kinglet, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Junco, sparrows, Common Grackle, Northern Cardinal.

We will begin with a short walk from the kiosk in the parking lot to the small gazebo sitting area, then continue with short trips on the boardwalk trail with multiple lookout area stops with benches. Total distance is about .5 miles round trip on the flat, fully accessible boardwalk trail.

What to bring: Multiple layers (it might be chilly!), water, mobility aids, sun protection/hat, smartphone if you want to use Merlin or eBird, binoculars if you have them. 

This is an all-abilities and all-ages outing. Come if you have no birding experience or a lot; either way, you have something to teach us. Amenities include benches along the wheelchair/walker accessible trail. Binoculars will be provided if needed. The large gravel parking lot includes a Handicap parking space with no lines, plus a Handicap accessible porta-potty. This location has cell service available. No public transportation. This is usually a quiet spot, with planes sometimes flying over. Trip will take place rain or shine.

Meet in the Silvio O. Conte parking lot at 69 Moody Bridge Road in Hadley (access via Bay Road). Limited to 7 participants. Register online; also please contact Janice Jorgensen with your access needs – email jjpcpanama@gmail.com. (E, Accessible)

Learn more about the location.

Field Trip designations: