Hummingbirds Create Buzz on Outer Banks

At the Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival, set for November 3-8, 2009, on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, one of the participants will attempt a practically impossible feat: catching and banding the smallest of all bird species - the friendly, but swiftly illusive hummingbird.

Ruby Throated Hummingbird.

Hummingbird researcher Susan Campbell, a licensed bander, will lead two two-hour programs during the festival, both aimed at demonstrating techniques for capturing and banding hummingbirds.

The program also will provide useful tips on attracting hummingbirds.

Once thought to migrate out of the area in late summer, it is now known that the smallest of all migratory birds can often be found winter-long along the Outer Banks. And a number of species of the iridescent bird have been identified in the area.

After meeting at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, the program group will visit a Manteo residence that hosts numerous hummingbirds throughout the year.

A resident of Southern Pines, Campbell has been a birder for almost 30 years -- both as an occupation and as a hobby. One of the many memorable birding experiences she has had over the years includes monitoring the Scissor-tailed Flycatchers while they were nesting at Hobby Field in Southern Pines during the summers of 2006 and 2007. The birds were out of their normal range and were not supposed to be nesting that far to the east.

Campbell said that one of the most common misconception about birders is that they only have one hobby -- birding. "Usually it fits in with other outdoor pursuits," said Campbell. "I enjoy anything outdoors: gardening, hiking, kayaking and fishing."

The number of participants for Campbell's programs is limited so early registration is suggested.

But the Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival isn't just for birding enthusiasts. The more than 80 scheduled programs include paddling, natural history, photography and even opportunities to learn more about the rich history of the area.

This festival is traditionally set during the shoulder season when rates are lower for accommodations, traffic is light and the weather is mild.

And due to popular demand, there are an increased number of photography programs to be taught by professionals. Classes have been designed for both the skilled and not-so-practiced, as well as some programs for children and/or families. Here are a few of the available options:

* Venturing into areas with combined bird lists of nearly 400 species.
* Learning from experts how to shoot photographs that capture the unique beauty of the region.
* Traveling to historic landmarks like the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and the Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station.
* Visiting North Pond on Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge on Hatteras Island, the hottest spot for fall birding in North Carolina - or even visit South Pond which is usually closed to visitors.
* Climbing the historic Currituck Beach Lighthouse and touring the Keepers House which is usually closed to the public.
* Taking a ferry to the pirate Blackbeard's hang-out on Ocracoke Island to enjoy the quaint fishing village and check out the birds.
* Paddling the backwaters of the area or four-wheeling the area north of Corolla.
* Visiting the ancient maritime forests of Buxton Woods and Nags Head Woods for a look at these rare ecosystems.
* Venturing into Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge at night in search of bear and other wildlife.
* Absorbing the waterways' natural beauty during a sunrise or sunset kayak tour.
* Wading in search of Clapper Rails, marsh sparrows and wrens at Oregon Inlet.
* Visiting an art gallery to see how artists interpret the environment and wildlife.
* Exploring a Ghost Town on Portsmouth Island.
* Heading for the blue waters of the Gulf Stream off Cape Hatteras to search for pelagic birds.
* Experiencing a Red Wolf Howling where the nearly extinct animal is now fighting its way back.

To learn more about the Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival call 252-216-9464 or go to www.wingsoverwater.org.

- Rich Steck & Judi Janofsky

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