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Life's Extras Birding Celebration
Where
Hungry Mother State Park, 2854 Park Blvd., Marion, VA 24354.
Various areas throughout the Park
When
May 1, 2026 7:30 p.m. - May 3, 2026 9:00 a.m.
Friday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m. – Owl Prowl
Set out on a night time adventure with Hungry Mother interpreters as we explore how owls thrive in the dark. We’ll call out to these elusive birds and see if any decide to make an appearance - so keep your eyes sharp! Meet at the Boat Ramp off Mitchell Valley Road. Free.
Saturday, May 2 from 7–9 a.m. – Early Bird Gets the Worm Hike
Start your morning with fresh air, feathered friends, and great company. Join guides Bob Riggs and Elaine Sharpe for an engaging hike filled with bird sightings, nature insights, and conversation. Meet at the Beach. Free.
Saturday, May 2 from 10–11:30 a.m. – Birding by Ear While Kayaking
If you’ve mastered spotting birds by sight, take your skills to the next level by learning their songs. Join Virginia Master Naturalist volunteer Melanie Smith for a peaceful kayak outing where you’ll listen for a variety of bird calls echoing across the lake. Meet at the Dock ’n Shop. Free.
Saturday, May 2 at 11:30 a.m. – Lunch
Enjoy an hour and a half to rest and refuel - pack a lunch, visit a local restaurant, or explore another part of the park in search of new bird species. Afterward, return to Ferrell Hall for a special presentation on native plants. Don’t miss hearing from Ben Casteel!
Saturday, May 2 at 1 p.m. – A Symphony of Nature
Discover the powerful connection between native birds and native plants. Virginia Highlands Community College Professor Ben Casteel will illuminate how these relationships shape and sustain our natural world. Meet at Ferrell Hall. Free.
Saturday, May 2 at 1:30 p.m. – Hike with Mike
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon walk with Hungry Mother State Park volunteer Mike Evans around the Boat Ramp area off Mitchell Valley Road. This unique “edge habitat,” where wetlands, meadows, forests, lakes, and ponds meet, offers fantastic opportunities to spot a wide variety of birds. Free.
Saturday, May 2: Headliner Event @ 6 p.m. - Wings to Soar at Ferrell Hall
Get ready for an unforgettable journey into the world of birds of prey and other avian wonders. During this live program, you’ll have the rare opportunity to watch these remarkable birds up close - even flying right overhead - as you learn about their behaviors, habitats, and the critical roles they play in keeping ecosystems healthy. Free to attend; donations to Wings to Soar are welcome and appreciated!
Sunday, May 3 at 8 a.m. – Saltville Bird Hike Field Trip
Meet us at the Food City parking lot in Saltville for a guided exploration of this rich aquatic habitat. Holston Rivers Virginia Master Naturalist Monica Hoel and Hungry Mother State Park volunteers Bob Riggs and Elaine Sharpe will lead us through an area known for its water-loving bird species. Bring binoculars and appropriate footwear. Free.
Documents
Other details
Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-781-7400
Email Address: HungryMother@dcr.virginia.gov
Event types
Canoeing/Kayaking/Standup Paddleboard | Kids/Family | Outdoor/Nature/Natural History | Special Event
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