Birding in the 21st Century

The days of using a landline to call your county for rare bird alerts is in the past! Join us Saturday, March 28th from 7:30-10:30 am at the Squam Lakes Association to learn how to download and use “eBird©” and “Merlin Bird ID©” apps and bird in the digital age! These apps can help you identify new birds based on calls and looks, find new bird species in your area, log data contributing to citizen science, and so much more! This Adventure Ecology will consist of an app rundown on how to download and use the apps, followed by a field portion where you will test new skills in a prime spring birding location. Join LRCC birder and guide Kevin Jones as he assists you in becoming a 21st century birder.

You may join us for part one, two, or both parts of the event. Please specify in sign up if you plan on meeting us at 9:00 or leaving early!
Event Schedule
Ebird Intro 7:30 - 8:30 am
Bird walk: 9:00 - 10:30 am

All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This event is designed for birders of all skills and backgrounds (even if that is none at all)! Participants are encouraged to download the "Merlin©" and "eBird©" app prior to arrival at the Squam Lakes Association. If you plan on joining us for the second half of this program, be prepared to hike upwards of 2 miles on flat ground at Quincy Bog, transportation to and from provided. Participants are also welcome to take personal vehicles and leave from Rumney. This is a social event, but some portions in the field may require silence. Additionally, it is encouraged to not bring dogs, but if you do they must remain leashed.

This event is free to the public. Registration is required.

Squam Lakes Association Headquarters

This event will take place first at the Squam Lakes Association Headquarters Great Room followed by an excursion out to Quincy Bog (Rumney). Transportation to and from Rumney provided and encouraged, but not required. If you would like to meet us at Quincy Bog, expect to be there at 9:00 AM (please specify this is sign up).

Please bring water resistant shoes, water, snacks, and a positive attitude! Downloading the apps "Merlin Bird ID©" and "eBird©" as well as creating a login will give you a head start, but can also be done when you arrive. Reading glasses are helpful when navigating these apps. You may also bring binoculars, a bird ID guide, or other birding related gear if you feel inclined. If you require to borrow a set of binoculars we are happy to do so, but PLEASE let us know prior as we are limited in pairs.

Participants should be sure to have appropriate attire and layering for spring hiking. Extra layers, comfortable water resistant hiking shoes, and bug spray are all good ideas. Not sure what to pack? Feel free to reach out to the SLA with any questions!

Kevin Jones is a passionate 2026 LRCC Education and Outreach Assistant who recently graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a conservation degree. He is an avid birder and angler with a love for outdoor recreation. Kevin is knowledgeable in a variety of outdoor topics and ready to learn or share with others.

Throughout the year, the Squam Lakes Association offers free programs open to the public on a variety of nature and conservation related topics.

The Adventure Ecology programs are presented by the Lakes Region Conservation Corps members who perform important conservation work in support of the Association's mission.

The Lakes Region Conservation Corps (LRCC) is an AmeriCorps service program that develops skills and experiences for conservation professionals. The program provides hands-on conservation work experience and numerous certifications over a broad range of areas