SpringFest and Birdcraft

The first SpringFest at the Birdcraft Museum and Sanctuary in Fairfield went wonderfully. The weather could not have been more perfect on a day where we talked about spring and prepared for the season.

The above photos are of CAS Senior Director of Science and Conservation, Milan Bull. He is discussing the Eastern Bluebird. You can see a photo of a House Wren on the monitor. Bluebirds must compete with the species for nesting cavities.

Nest box with telltale signs of a House Wren nest – small sticks.

Mist nets for bird banding that were discussed while taking a guided tour.

While not listening to discussions, taking a guided tour or scavenger hunt of the sanctuary using cell phones (something we will look at closely another time), shopping for supplies and gifts, or partaking in various children’s activities, visitors could enjoy some food and refreshments while strolling through the beautiful property.

The pond where a Black-crowned Night-Heron was seen during the day.

The Birdcraft Museum.

Many members of the CAS staff were on hand to answer any questions, whether they were about birds or the history of the oldest private bird sanctuary in the United States. Mabel Osgood Wright Birdcraft created Birdcraft in 1914. The large chimney on the property was erected for use by her favorite bird, the Chimney Swift, as you can see and read in the photos below.

At 12:30, there was another discussion on a familiar and beloved backyard bird: the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. Our hummingbird feeders were up, but unfortunately, we did not have one stop by. It is a bit early in the season, though this week should bring them to many gardens across the state.

The store was a popular stop for many visitors before they left. We have a large variety of gifts for people of all ages, and everything you need for “your” birds. This is especially true of the Eastern Bluebird as you can see on the left in the second photo.

Thank you to everyone who came! The day was a tremendous success. We hope all of our visitors enjoyed themselves, learned something, and picked up everything they needed for the spring. Come back soon – this week will be the start of heavy spring migration, and the sanctuary trees will be dripping with warblers and other passerine migrants.