Outdoors in RI: Winter Birding

Photo: The Ovenbird

Walk the trails and visit the forest and pond at Powder Mill Ledges in Smithfield looking for signs of winter birds. Learn tips for identifying look a-likes and providing areas for winter resident bird feeding. Bring binoculars, bundle up for the weather and wear sturdy, warm footwear. Face masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required.

Organized by the Audubon Society of RI, the event is for adults and children ten years old and up. There is a cost – $10 for Audubon members, $14 for non-members.

Advanced registration is required: asri.doubleknot.com

Use this link for directions: Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI

Powder Mill Ledges is home to 100 acres of habitat graced with deep woodlands and interesting rock outcroppings. The Audubon Society of Rhode Island headquarters is at this refuge. The location serves as a hub for nature hikes, programs, lectures and events. In addition to hiking and bird watching, it is an ideal winter destination for snowshoeing.

Refuge Highlights

• Habitat: deep woodlands, small pond, meadows, pine forest and rock outcroppings
• Wildlife to watch for: red fox, grey fox, spring peeper, grey tree frog, green frog, painted turtle, deer
• Birds commonly found: Wild Turkey, Cooper’s Hawk, Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl, Eastern Screech Owl, Pine Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Ovenbird, Red-eyed Vireo

The facility offers:

• Offerings: Birdwatching, Birthday Parties, Programs/events, Snowshoeing/cross-country skiing. Restrooms are available for visitor use when staff is present during operating hours (M-F, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm) – just ring the doorbell!
• Available for birthday parties and facility rentals. Contact Kim Calcagno at [email protected] or (401) 949-5454 x3021.