This coming weekend is For the Birds

As temperatures rise and winter wanes, untold numbers of migratory birds head north from tropical climes to begin again the cycle of life in northern habitats.

And among the first pit stops many make after an exhausting traverse of the Gulf of Mexico are Louisiana’s barrier islands.

Appreciation of the arrival of feathered friends has turned the only human-inhabited Louisiana barrier island, Grand Isle, into a mecca for bird-watchers, and organizers say they look forward to a banner weekend April 17-19.

That’s when guided tours, receptions and other events are scheduled as part of the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Festival. Some of the events – especially those involving boats – have admission fees. But many others are free of charge.

On all three days, bird-banding may be observed at the Lafitte Woods Preserve.

Guided walking tours of bird trails and other locations generally cost $5.

According to naturalists and organizers, the migratory birds began showing up on schedule in March with more on the way, leaving no doubt that, barring unusual weather patterns, participants in attendance will get what they traveled to see.

“They’re starting to show up,” said Natalie Waters, bird conservation coordinator for the Barataria-Terrebonne Natural Estuary Program, which sponsors the event. “Although they don’t all stay here, they need that migratory habitat to get to where their breeding grounds are. They need food and energy to keep keeping on.”

“We are looking forward to a wonderful festival, expecting 250 to 300 people, and exhibitors from different agencies, carvers, jewelry makers and we will have food and lots of tours,” said Jean Landry, local program director for the Nature Conservancy. “I was in the woods the other day with a birder and we were seeing a black-and-white warbler and on the beach we were looking at the sandpipers and gulls. The birds are coming in.”

While Grand Isle is known for its shore birds, including those living there year-round, many of the critters birders flock to see are songbirds, many with brilliant plumage and distinct calls. Hooded warblers, orchard orioles and several species of hummingbirds are regular visitors. E3

IF YOU GO….

GRAND ISLE

Migratory Birds Festival

WHEN: April 17-19

WHERE: Most events begin at the Grand Isle Multiplex Center, others as announced.

INFO: grandisle.btnep.org

The Grand Isle Migratory Birds Festival will allow nature purists a chance to see all of the beautiful winged creatures that South Louisiana has to offer.

COURTESY