Stone Harbor, NJ – The Wetlands Institute is thrilled to announce its 1st Annual Fall Migration Festival, Saturday and Sunday, September 21 and 22, from 9am to 4pm.

123RF-American-Kestrel-6184992_xlSitting in the heart of the Atlantic Flyway, thousands of birds make their way across the Cape May Peninsula every fall. 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, Deputy Director of Research and Conservation at The Wetlands Institute. “This combination therefore 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 this new festival will highlight what The Wetlands Institute strives to accomplish. “This event is a great opportunity for us to share our passion for appreciation and conservation of wildlife and its habitat, and hopefully impart some of that enthusiasm on our visitors.” 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:

  • Nature Photography Workshops and Selected Art Work by Featured Artist Geoff Coe
  • Live Animals Presentations by the Philadelphia Zoo, Cape May Point State Park, and Woodford Cedar Run
  • Naturalist-led Walks on Seven Mile Island
  • Guided Bird and Marsh Viewing from the Tower and Trail
  • Back-bay Kayak Tours
  • Assorted crafts including Fly Tying and Duck Head Painting
  • Activities focused on Sea Turtle, Bird, and Fish Migration
  • Special Autumn Terrapin Releases
  • 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.