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Events
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SOLD OUT – Shorebirds with the Man Who Wrote the Book
FeaturedThe Shorebirds workshop with Michael O'Brien has SOLD OUT. You can add your name to the waitlist by clicking on the Register Here button below. Spend two days experiencing some of the east coast's best shorebirding with Michael O'Brien, one of the authors of "The Shorebird Guide"! The Shorebird Guide, Houghton Mifflin’s landmark title on the subject, is authored by three Cape May birders and your guide for this workshop is one of them. Experience the best shorebirding on the East Coast with Michael O’Brien, equal parts skilled birder, expert guide and superb teacher. We’ll search South Jersey’s best shorebird locations in search of sandpipers, plovers, yellowlegs, and hope to find a few other gems such as phalaropes or godwits. Over 25 plover and sandpiper species are within reach, and some species number in the thousands here at this time of year. Begin learning identification by size, shape, behavior and voice, then move on to careful examination of plumage details, as The Shorebird Guide outlines. We don’t pre-set an itinerary but will visit those parts of Cape May County that regularly hold good numbers of birds at this time of year. Final location decisions will be made by the leader, based on local knowledge and conditions at the time. We may walk up to 1.5 miles, over generally level, sometimes muddy or sandy terrain. This workshop may also include an indoor session, depending on weather and birds on the day. PREREGISTRATION REQUIRED - Ticket sales end 24hrs before the start of the event COST: $175 members, $225 nonmembers. Interested in becoming a member? Please click on the following link to learn more or join: Become a Member today! IMPORTANT INFORMATION: We bird in all weather. Be sure to check the forecast in advance and dress in layers appropriate for prevailing weather conditions. The weather in Cape May can differ considerably from nearby inland areas and may be warmer, colder, or windier so it’s best to be over prepared. We may have to bird in the rain, so please bring your rain gear. TRANSPORTATION: Please arrive at the appointed time with a full tank of gas, as transportation to field sites is by private vehicles. We may walk up to 1.5 miles, over generally level, sometimes muddy or sandy terrain. Some trips involve walks over jetties. CANCELLATION: CMBO programs require a minimum number of registrants to run, five days in advance of the start of the tour but are seldom cancelled. If we do cancel, due to lack of participation, severe weather, or unforeseen circumstances, we notify all participants in advance, and all are eligible for a full credit or refund. Participants may cancel without penalty if greater than 30 days in advance. Cancellations 10 to 30 days in advance may be subject to a 25% service charge. No refunds or credits for cancellations less than ten days in advance unless due to health emergencies REGISTER HERE
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Birding Northwood and Beyond
Cape May Bird Observatory - Northwood Center 701 East Lake Drive, Cape May Point, NJ, United StatesJoin CMBO naturalists for this casual 2-hour walk around CMBO's Northwood Center and nearby Lily Lake! The wooded streets around Northwood are warbler magnets when migration is right, but there’s so much more to see. Join a casual walk with our associate Naturalists as they track down songbirds, swallows, waterfowl, raptors, and much more. The exact route will vary based on what’s happening that day! PREREGISTRATION REQUIRED. COST: $8 members, $12 nonmembers. Interested in becoming a member? Please click on the following link to learn more or join: Become a Member today! IMPORTANT INFORMATION: We bird in all weather. Be sure to check the forecast in advance and dress in layers appropriate for prevailing weather conditions. The weather in Cape May can differ considerably from nearby inland areas and may be warmer, colder, or windier so it’s best to be over prepared. We may have to bird in the rain, so please bring your rain gear. TRANSPORTATION: We may walk up to 1.5 miles, over generally level, sometimes muddy or sandy terrain. Some trips involve walks over jetties. CANCELLATION: NJ Audubon’s CMBO programs are virtually never cancelled. If we cancel, due to lack of participation, severe weather, or unforeseen circumstances, all participants will be notified as soon as possible and are eligible for a full refund. Participants may cancel without penalty if greater than 48 hours in advance. Sorry, no refund for cancellations less than 48 hours in advance unless due to health emergencies; however, registrations can be transferred to another program in the future. REGISTER HERE
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Bombay Hook Shorebirding
FeaturedBombay Hook 2591 Whitehall Neck Road, Smyrna, DE, United StatesTwo days of summer shorebirding at this regional hotspot. We should see lots of plovers, sandpipers, wading birds, and terns. Experience the second wave of southbound migrating shorebirds in central Delaware—a place with a different species mix than locations like Cape May or Brigantine. This two-day trip offers an excellent opportunity to study a wide variety of shorebirds, herons, and terns. Mixed species flocks of shorebirds—often at close range and in juvenile and adult plumages, provide participants with a chance to learn subtleties of sandpiper identification. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 15,978 acres and has one of the largest expanses of nearly unaltered salt marsh in the mid-Atlantic, plus over 1,100 acres of freshwater impoundments. We’ll complement our tour with visits to other noteworthy sites that may include Little Creek WMA, Port Mahon, and Woodland Beach WMA, dependent current water levels. This trip should tally 20+ species of shorebirds (often including several hundred American Avocets), large numbers of long-legged waders, and other surprises. Species we should encounter include American Avocet, Black-necked Stilt, Western Sandpiper, White-rumped Sandpiper, Stilt Sandpiper, Long-billed Dowitcher, Caspian and Black Terns. We could see some less-common to rare shorebirds like Hudsonian and Marbled Godwits, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Baird’s Sandpiper, and Wilson’s Phalarope. The area is a magnet for rare birds as well, with past trips recording goodies like White Ibis, White-faced Ibis, Curlew Sandpiper, Red-necked Phalarope, Black-headed Gull, Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, and Sedge Wren. Led by Scott Barnes, Linda Mack, and Carole Hughes. MEETING LOCATION: Meet at Bombay Hook NWR Headquarters, 2591 Whitehall Neck Road, Smyrna, Delaware, 19977 PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED COST: 2-day ticket $100 Members, $150 Non-members, 1-day ticket $50 Members, $60 Non-members WEATHER & TRANSPORTATION: Please arrive at the appointed time. Be sure to check the forecast in advance and dress in layers appropriate for prevailing weather conditions. We sometimes bird in the rain, so bring rain gear if warranted. Transportation during the field trip is by private vehicle (be sure you have enough gas). Most trips involve some amount of walking, sometimes through muddy or sandy terrain. CANCELLATION: NJA/CMBO programs require a minimum number of registrants to run, five days in advance of the start of the tour but are seldom cancelled. If we do cancel, due to lack of participation, severe weather, or unforeseen circumstances, we notify all participants in advance, and all are eligible for a full credit or refund. Participants may cancel without penalty if greater than 30 days in advance. Cancellations 10 to 30 days in advance may be subject to a 25% service charge. No refunds or credits for cancellations less than ten days in advance unless due to health emergencies. REGISTER HERE
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Friends in the Field: An Intro to Birding with The Boarding House
Lafayette Street Park 711 Lafayette St., Cape May, NJ, United StatesNEW 2026! Located across the street from the new Cape May Nature trails, the Boarding House motel is our newest collaborator for connecting people to Cape May's natural world. Join Boarding House staff and CMBO Naturalists as we stroll on this new trail system in search of songbirds, raptors, waterbirds, migratory insects, and the changing hues of the autumn salt marsh. Each week will no doubt feature a different mix of wildlife and unique sights! No previous birding experience necessary to attend this program! This is meant to be an extremely beginner-friendly experience. For more information on the Boarding House Cape May, please click HERE COST: FREE (donations welcome!) - Registration ends 24-hrs before start of event Interested in becoming a member? Please click on the following link to learn more or join: Become a Member today! LOCATION: Meet at main entrance to Cape May Nature Trails, at Cape May City's Lafayette Park (look for big blue sign once in park). 711 Lafayette Street, Cape May. Parking available in dirt lot adjacent to Lafayette & Jefferson streets, or street parking along Lafayette Street. We may walk up to 1.0 miles, over generally level terrain. IMPORTANT INFORMATION: We bird in all weather. Be sure to check the forecast in advance and dress in layers appropriate for prevailing weather conditions. The weather in Cape May can differ considerably from nearby inland areas and may be warmer, colder, or windier so it’s best to be over prepared. We may have to bird in the rain, so please bring your rain gear. CANCELLATION: NJ Audubon’s CMBO programs are virtually never cancelled. If we cancel, due to lack of participation, severe weather, or unforeseen circumstances, all participants will be notified as soon as possible and are eligible for a full refund. Participants may cancel without penalty if greater than 48 hours in advance. Sorry, no refund for cancellations less than 48 hours in advance unless due to health emergencies; however, registrations can be transferred to another program in the future. REGISTER HERE
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Harbor Safari
Nature Center of Cape May 1600 Delaware Avenue, Cape May, NJ, United StatesJoin Nature Center of Cape May naturalists to unveil the flora and fauna lurking within the Cape May Harbor. Encounter an incredible diversity of marine life as you help pull a twenty-foot seine net through the shallows of the harbor. You will learn about the ecology of our coastal waters, the natural history of the land, and examine the fascinating & ancient Horseshoe Crab. Perfect for families! Pre-registration is required. Children may not participate without an adult. Contact us at 609.427.3045 for private group tours and rates. WHEN: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:30am-12:00pm WHERE: Meet 5-10 minutes before your program time on the second floor of the Trucksess Welcome Center at 1600 Delaware Avenue, Cape May, NJ, 08204. Free parking is available along Delaware Avenue. COST: $10/children, $12/adults IMPORTANT INFORMATION: We may walk up to 1.5 miles, over generally level, sometimes muddy or sandy terrain. Some trips involve walks over rocky and sandy area. Please bring necessary footwear, sunscreen, bug spray, water bottle, and other belongings with you that you may need. Restrooms will be available to the public 30 minutes before and after the program. CANCELLATION POLICY: NJ Audubon’s programs require a minimum number of registrants to run. If we cancel, due to lack of participation, severe weather, or unforeseen circumstances, all participants will be notified as soon as possible and are eligible for a full refund. Participants may cancel without penalty if greater than 48 hours in advance. Sorry, no refund for cancellations less than 48 hours in advance unless due to health emergencies; however, registrations can be transferred to another program in the future. REGISTER HERE
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Nature Book Club
Featured Nature Book ClubLorrimer Sanctuary 790 Ewing Avenue, Franklin Lakes, NJ, United StatesJoin Lorrimer Sanctuary for our book discussions on all thing's nature. Nature Book Club meets the 4th Tuesday of the month to read books focused on nature topics. Books are usually found through BCCLs on Hoopla or Libby. All are welcome! If you are interested in getting updates about the books we are reading, join our book club email list by contacting Alexa: [email protected]. COST: FREE MEETING LOCATION: NJ Audubon's Lorrimer Sanctuary, 790 Ewing Ave, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417 CLICK THE FOLLOWING FACEBOOK LINK TO JOIN THE DISCUSSION: Nature Book Club - Facebook
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Beachcombing the Cove
Sunset Pavilion 62 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ, United StatesWhat treasures does the sea leave behind at the water’s edge? Join us for an hour of beach combing to find out! Explore one of the area’s ever-changing coastal habitats - the beach, ocean, and dunes of Cape May’s “The Cove” beach. We’ll scour the shallows, comb the shoreline, and walk along the dunes in search of hidden treasures & signs of wildlife. Along the way, we’ll share some tips and tricks for identifying shells and other beach-inhabiting species! Pre-registration is required. Children may not participate without an adult. Contact us at 609.427.3045 for private group tours and rates. COST:$10/children, $12/adults WHEN: Wednesdays, 8:30am-9:30am WHERE:Meet at the flagpole near the Pavilion at the end of the Promenade by the Cove Beach (Cove Beach, Cape May, NJ, 08204). Metered parking is available along Beach Drive IMPORTANT INFORMATION: We may walk up to 1.5 miles, over generally level, sometimes muddy or sandy terrain. Some trips involve walks over rocky and sandy area. Please bring necessary footwear, sunscreen, bug spray, water bottle, and other belongings with you that you may need. CANCELLATION POLICY: NJ Audubon’s programs require a minimum number of registrants to run. If we cancel, due to lack of participation, severe weather, or unforeseen circumstances, all participants will be notified as soon as possible and are eligible for a full refund. Participants may cancel without penalty if greater than 48 hours in advance. Sorry, no refund for cancellations less than 48 hours in advance unless due to health emergencies; however, registrations can be transferred to another program in the future. REGISTER HERE
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Natural Habitats Trolley Tour
Featured Natural Habitats Trolley TourWashington Street Mall Info Booth Washington Street Mall at Ocean Street Cape May, NJ 08204, NJ, United StatesBeyond the charming Victorian homes and sandy beaches, Cape May is world famous for its birdwatching, monarch migration, and natural history. Join Cape May Bird Observatory staff and naturalists on a trolley tour to local “natural habitats” (with exits at two spots), learning about the beauty, diversity, abundance (millions of birds, butterflies, and dragonflies pass through each year), geography, and extensive history of this amazing spectacle. Relax and be entertained in the birding capital of North America! Co-sponsored by New Jersey Audubon's Cape May Bird Observatory and the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts and Humanities. Tours leave from the Washington Street Mall Information Booth, where tickets may be purchased. For more information, call 609-884-5404 or visit www.capemaymac.org. Preregistration required. Family-friendly. Cost: $25 for adults and $15 for children (ages 3-12). REGISTER HERE
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Deer New Jersey, Let’s Find Balance for Our Forests, Farms and Families
FeaturedLorrimer Sanctuary 790 Ewing Avenue, Franklin Lakes, NJ, United StatesJoin us for a timely conversation about one of New Jersey's most pressing wildlife challenges. Joe Basralian, Project Coordinator of Deer New Jersey, will highlight the crisis unfolding in areas where deer herd densities have reached critical highs, and share opportunities for our community to get involved in responsible, ethical deer stewardship. Deer New Jersey's mission is to achieve natural balance across our state by supporting a deer stewardship movement for the people, wildlife, and land we love. Their vision: a future where New Jersey's land, wildlife, and communities thrive, stewarded by all of us working together toward solutions that align with both biological and cultural goals. Come learn more, ask questions, and discover how you can be part of the solution. This event is available in WEBINAR and IN-PERSON formats, please be sure to select the correct ticket type and check out with your preferred email for the zoom link if selecting webinar. About the Speaker: Basralian, who grew up in Franklin Lakes, has spent 25 years working in the financial industry and 8 years in environmental conservation full-time, often uniting diverse parties to achieve common goals. He is a 2026 appointee to the NJ Highlands Council and the Great Swamp Watershed Association board. He participates in many volunteer causes, including the NJ League of Conservation Voters, whose board he served on for nine years. He's a graduate of NYU's Stern School of Business and Cornell University and lives in Chatham Township. COST: FREE CANCELLATION: NJ Audubon’s programs require a minimum number of registrants to run. If we cancel, due to lack of participation, severe weather, or unforeseen circumstances, all participants will be notified as soon as possible and are eligible for a full refund. Participants may cancel without penalty if greater than 48 hours in advance. Sorry, no refund for cancellations less than 48 hours in advance unless due to health emergencies; however, registrations can be transferred to another program in the future. REGISTER HERE
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Tiny Tots – Summer Series
Lorrimer Sanctuary 790 Ewing Avenue, Franklin Lakes, NJ, United StatesToddlers can be naturalists too! Perfect for littles 18 months to 3.5 years old, join us for story time and nature activities! We welcome a new generation of budding naturalists to Lorrimer Sanctuary for this "grown-up-and-me" style program. We will read books, explore outside, and learn about nature in age-appropriate ways for littles! This program is best for kids 18 months to 3.5yrs. SCHEDULE: July 2nd: Water in the Weather (Rain & Clouds) July 9th: Water Habitats (Ponds, Streams, Wetlands) July 16th: Water as a Resource (Why We Need It) July 23rd: Water States & Play (Liquid, Ice, Vapor) July 30th: BREAK WEEK August 6th: Who Eats What? (Food Chains and Food Webs) August 13th: Nature Homes (Habitats) August 20th: Helpers in Nature (Pollinators) August 27th: Nature Clean-Up Crew (Decomposers) COST: $8 per child for members, $9 per child for nonmembers. CANCELLATION: NJ Audubon’s programs require a minimum number of registrants to run. If we cancel, due to lack of participation, severe weather, or unforeseen circumstances, all participants will be notified as soon as possible and are eligible for a full refund. Participants may cancel without penalty if greater than 48 hours in advance. Sorry, no refund for cancellations less than 48 hours in advance unless due to health emergencies; however, registrations can be transferred to another program in the future. REGISTER HERE Lorrimer Sanctuary Turns 70 in 2026! Celebrate with us and make a donation to support our expansion project. DONATE TODAY