On May 3rd, Raritan Headwaters will host its annual Bird-a-Thon, inviting bird enthusiasts and nature lovers to participate in a day-long birdwatching event throughout the Upper Raritan watershed region!

This year’s Bird-a-Thon features RHA’s birdwatching team, the Watershed Warblers, who will be divided into three specialized mini-teams:

• Adult Team: This team will explore public access areas within the watershed that are habitats for threatened and endangered bird species, including Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve in Bedminster, South Branch Preserve in Mt. Olive, and Echo Hill Park in Flemington.
• Kids Team: Focusing on engaging young birders, this team will visit locations offering safe and enjoyable nature access for children. We are excited to visit fun nature preserves such as Natirar Park in Far Hills, Spruce Run Reservoir in Clinton, and Dvoor Farm in Flemington.
• Accessible Team: This team will visit sites with wheelchair-accessible trails and observation areas suitable for individuals with disabilities. Specialized equipment like scopes and listening devices will be made available to help everyone enjoy birding at sites like Round Valley Reservoir in Lebanon, Willowwood Arboretum in Far Hills, and Veterans Community Park in Randolph.

Throughout the day, our Watershed Warblers will explore critical wildlife habitats, searching for as many bird species as they can find. Last year’s team found 118 species in 24 hours!

RHA’s Director of Education, Lauren Theis, is a captain for Birdability, a national initiative to ensure birding and outdoor activities are accessible and welcoming to all.

You can contribute to the Bird-a-Thon by making a flat donation or pledging a specific amount for each bird species identified during the event. Our goal is to identify 110 species. Pledges can range from 50 cents to $5 (or more!) per species. Donors will receive an “easily distracted by birds” sticker, a detailed report of the species identified, a 25% discount coupon for Ramsey Outdoor, and an entry to win a pair of Zeiss Terra ED binoculars (valued at $499). Contribute today by visiting www.raritanheadwaters.org/birdathon

The funds raised will support RHA’s conservation efforts, including protecting critical habitats, restoring streams and forests, and educating children and adults about the importance of clean water and biodiversity.

RHA is looking for folks to join our mini-teams. No birding experience is required! Interested individuals can contact Lauren Theis at ltheis@raritanheadwaters.org. Supporters can follow the Watershed Warblers’ progress on May 3rd, the day of the event, by following RHA’s updates on Facebook or Instagram.

By participating in or supporting RHA’s Bird-a-Thon, you can play a vital role in preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of the Upper Raritan watershed region, ensuring that both residents and wildlife continue to thrive in this special place.