Join us to welcome this spring's bird migrants back to Hogback Conservation Area. By mid-May this long winter should finally be behind us, with new leaves, wildflowers, and a chorus of spring bird song taking it's place. We'll meet at the South side parking lot and follow trails through a variety of habitats and elevations to look and listen for a variety of migrating and resident birds and learn about the plant communities that attract each species.

Naturalist, photographer, and returning Marlboro resident, Cherrie Corey, will lead our walk, honoring her long-time friend and mentor, Bob Engel. Cherrie has had a passionate interest in New England's natural history, which was ignited at Marlboro College some 40 years ago. Since then she's served as the executive director of the Harvard Museum of Natural History, education director of the New England Wild Flower Society, and administrative director of the Center for Conservation and Technical Studies at the Harvard U. Art Museums. Over the past decade, she's been active in natural history education, research, and photography in Concord, MA and the greater Boston area where she lived with her family for 40 years. Since returning to Marlboro, she began the Marlboro BIRDS Facebook group, open to anyone who would like to join to learn and share about their bird encounters in the area.

Cherrie has a deep knowledge and affection for both plants and birds, so we'll explore the fullness of whatever presents itself on our way along the trail. Come dressed with sturdy footwear and long pants. Hats, top layers, and insect repellent are all recommended. The weather forecast is currently calling for rain. If it's just a drizzle, we'll enjoy a misty walk in the woods, but if it's a steady downpour, we'll cancel and reschedule.