Cape May Bird Observatory

Cape May School of Birding

These workshops are a fun and attentive way to visit one of the best birding and natural history places on the planet. From our cadre of in-depth birding excursions to a celebration of butterflies, dragonflies, and all things wild, you’re sure to find an offering that catches your eye. All of our workshops are led by experts in their field: world-class birders and naturalists that have often written the guides we all rely on. Our intimate approach to enjoyment and teaching will provide the opportunity and information you need to grow in understanding and appreciation – the leader-to-participant ratio is 12:1 or better.

While the majority of time is spent in the field watching birds and nature, some of the workshops will incorporate an indoor session – a chance to demonstrate and discuss identification, techniques, conservation, and ecology. Along the way, you’ll meet like-minded people and are sure to form lasting memories and friendships. From beginner to advanced, all are welcome! All the while, your registration fees are helping support the mission of New Jersey Audubon’s Cape May Bird Observatory.

Details and descriptions of all our preregistration programs are available on the registration site (Special Field Trips in brown and School of Birding Workshops in blue).  All special field trips require advance registration, and the number of participants is limited to ensure the best experience. Upon completion of registration, you will receive a confirmation email that also contains attached details and directions – please look all the materials over and retain for your records. Sign up early to secure your spot!

NEW JERSEY AUDUBON AND CAPE MAY BIRD OBSERVATORY MEMBERS RECEIVE A 25% DISCOUNT ON ALL SPECIAL FIELD TRIPS AND WORKSHOPS – please make sure to indicate you are a current member at registration checkout. Not a member – join now at FeatherEdge Optics, by contacting the Program Registrar at 609-400-3864 , or in person at the nearest NJA center.

Cape May Bird Observatory Weekly Walks

CMBO’s Weekly Walks are regularly scheduled programs and activities, led by our stellar Associate Naturalists and professional staff, that take place at all the best birding and natural history locations around Cape May. These walks change throughout the year, focusing on the best of each season, whether that is breeding hotspots, winter visitors, or the spectacle of migration. Normally two or three hours in duration, these walks are sure to fit nature into your busy schedule. All experience levels are welcome, and those marked E-Z Birding and A Bird Walk for All People are especially geared for beginners or a relaxed pace. A full schedule of Weekly Walks is published seasonally in The Kestrel Express, along with our Special Field Trips, School of Birding Workshops, Festivals, and other events.

NO PREREGISTRATION is necessary for our weekly walks – just show before the designated start time. Children age 15 and younger are free. Although children accompanied by parents are always welcome, walks that are especially Family-friendly are noted. New Jersey Audubon and Cape May Bird Observatory members receive a discount on weekly walks, as indicated in the individual walk descriptions. Not a member? Join now at FeatherEdge Optics, by contacting the Program Registrar at 609-400-3864 , or in person at the nearest NJA center.

These walks meet at locations highlighted on the CMBO Bird and Butterfly Map of Cape May County. Bring binoculars (loaners often available if you don’t have any), field guides, bug repellent, sunscreen, and drinking water. Dress for prevailing weather and protection from sun, heat, cold, wind, rain, and insects according to season. Most of our weekly walks involve walking a mile or more on varied terrain, such as asphalt, boardwalk, gravel, beach, and dirt (sometimes muddy) paths.

For more accessibility for those with limited mobility, contact the Northwood Center at 609-400-3868 .

Note: Programs may be cancelled due to difficult/unsafe weather conditions.

Special Field Trips

Cape May Bird Observatory’s Special Field Trips offer you a chance to experience the natural wonders of the Cape May area alongside our Associate Naturalists. These outings take our weekly walks a step further, with extended opportunities for viewing birds and other wildlife. They are single day events (two – six hours in length) that target famous local hotspots and are timed to capture diversity and abundance during the breeding, migratory, and winter seasons. Join us on one of these exciting excursions!

Details and descriptions of all our preregistration programs are available on the registration site (Special Field Trips in brown and School of Birding Workshops in blue).  All special field trips require advance registration, and the number of participants is limited to ensure the best experience. Upon completion of registration, you will receive a confirmation email that also contains attached details and directions – please look all the materials over and retain for your records. Sign up early to secure your spot!

NEW JERSEY AUDUBON AND CAPE MAY BIRD OBSERVATORY MEMBERS RECEIVE A 25% DISCOUNT ON ALL SPECIAL FIELD TRIPS AND WORKSHOPS – please make sure to indicate you are a current member at registration checkout. Not a member – join now at FeatherEdge Optics, by contacting the Program Registrar at 609-400-3864 , or in person at the nearest NJA center.