"Because of the pandemic, the education and interpretation efforts by CVWO's staff at Kiptopeke State Park this fall will be different. To ensure the safety of our staff and visitors, we will likely limit group sizes on the hawkwatch platform and in our education programs. And of course we'll be abiding by all guidelines in effect at the Park. Currently, at Kiptopeke State Park, face coverings are required in all park facilities and where social distancing is not possible. Stay up to date on the park's guidelines by checking their web site and by checking our Blog."
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Join the birding craze! Where else can you enjoy the beautiful outdoors, witness the majesty of migrating birds, and support an important conservation organization all at the same time.
Since 1995, CVWO has conducted raptor research during fall migration at Kiptopeke State Park located on Virginia's Eastern Shore.
The Observatory has documented more than 101 species of butterflies and skippers in coastal Virginia, where little butterfly work has been previously conducted.
The Observatory conducts its own surveys and also helps with those of other organizations to document the movements of waterbirds in coastal Virginia. From climate change to development to commercial fishing to pollution to habitat loss, coastal areas are under pressure.
The Observatory participates in the study of Prothonotary Warblers, as part of the Virginia Prothonotary Network, monitoring nest boxes in spring and summer by canoe at various sites. This is a species of special concern. See the General Blog for updates about this work.
A major part of the Observatory's mission is environmental education. Seasonal research staff, an Environmental Educator and volunteers provide on-site presentations about our programs and about migration in the Chesapeake Bay area of coastal Virginia.
Check out Anna Strunkels artwork honoring CVWO's Prothonotary Warbler research projects! You can purchase this beautiful design on many Cafe Press items, including tote bags, mugs, and t-shirts below.
Riding the Wind, by CVWO's president, Brian Taber, is a celebration of birds, birding and conservation. The book - released in honor of CVWO's 25th anniversary this year - features essays, some previously published in magazines. Twenty illustrations by award-winning artist Julie Zickefoose accompany the birding stories inside and the cover art is by CVWO Hawkwatcher, Anna Stunkel. The book is a fundraiser for CVWO.
You can purchase a copy of Riding the Wind with the PayPal link below, or visit local Williamsburg bird stores, Wild Birds Unlimited and Backyard Birder, for signed copies of the book.
"Brian writes engagingly of his birding life over the years with essays on his experiences in Arizona, Costa Rica and many other places and times and of course, Virginia. Has two cover color paintings by Anna Stunkel, 19 black and white sketches by Julie Zickefoose and a Foreword by Pete Dunne. " Harry Armistead
"I'm proud and glad to be a part of it!" Julie Zickefoose
Thank you for supporting CVWO's wildlife research!
Many species of birds and butterflies across Virginia and North America are in decline due to habitat loss, pollution and other factors. Our paid seasonal biologists and our dedicated volunteers work to solve those conservation problems by gathering data and providing public education. Your donations support that important effort.
Your welcome donations are tax-deductible, and supporters receive our e-newsletters and our annual report.
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