About us
The Valley Forge Audubon Society (VFAS) is a chapter of the National Audubon Society serving those residing in Southeastern Pennsylvania, including Delaware and Chester Counties, and parts of Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties. Our mission is to preserve birds, other wildlife, and their habitats by promoting appreciation and stewardship of the local natural environment through education and active participation. VFAS offers regular bird walks, hikes, events, and educational programs. Valley Forge Audubon Society is committed to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility in the birding community and beyond. We are excited to bring the joys of birding – the fun of seeing or hearing birds, the social benefits of being part of a like-minded community, and the health and wellness benefits humans receive from spending time in nature – to “everyone and every body”, regardless of someone’s physical, mental, emotional, or societal challenges. Long-time birders, ‘fledgling’ birders, able-bodied birders, and those with disabilities and health concerns are all welcome at VFAS’s programs.
We offer a number of outings that are accessible for those with various access challenges and/or health concerns.
Upcoming events
24
"Skydancers": Meet the American Woodcock
Great Marsh Institute, 28 Moores Rd, Elverson, PA, USSpace is limited and advance registration is required. Please sign up by emailing lori@greatmarshinstitute.org.
Witnessing the elaborate courtship ritual of the male American Woodcock is one of the most memorable natural experiences of late winter in southeastern Pennsylvania. But this remarkable bird offers far more than its famous “skydance.” Join us to explore more deeply into the story of this unusual upland shorebird—its behaviors, extraordinary adaptations, conservation needs, and its many nicknames.
Our program begins indoors with a 15–20 minute presentation covering the woodcock’s unique physical traits, life cycle, behavior, and more. Afterward we’ll head outside to settle in and (hopefully) hear and see displaying males in the dusk twilight on their nearby courting grounds. While sightings can never be guaranteed, the only way to witness this spectacle is to be there when it happens.
Please dress more warmly than you expect to need, as we’ll be sitting still and temperatures drop as night falls. You’re welcome to bring a lawn chair or something comfortable to sit on during the outdoor portion of the program. A flashlight can also be helpful for safely returning to your car once the program concludes. Children are welcome but please keep in mind that when trying to observe the woodcocks during their displays we will need to be still and very quiet.
This event is presented jointly by Valley Forge Audubon Society and the Great Marsh Institute. Space is limited and advance registration is required: please sign up by emailing lori@greatmarshinstitute.org.
NOTE: This program is free, but donations (via cash, Paypal, or Venmo) are gratefully accepted to support the work of the Great Marsh Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to scientific studies and educational opportunities (such as this one) centered at the Great Marsh.
Photo credit: Brad Imhoff
25 attendees
Farm Fields and Feathered Friends: Birding at Lundale Farm
Lundale Farm, 2501 Pottstown Pike, Pottstown, PA, USMarch is a surprisingly active transition month for birds, and Lundale Farm is a great place to see it happen. Winter species are still present, early migrants are returning, and bird activity changes almost daily along with the weather. Join us for a relaxed walk at the farm to welcome the new season and see how quickly the landscape shifts as spring approaches. A great walk for beginners, casual birders, and anyone who enjoys watching nature change week by week.
Our trip will cover 1-2 miles along the easy-to-navigate gravel farm road. Please bring binoculars if you have them. Beginners as well as children (accompanied by an adult) are always welcome at Valley Forge Audubon Society events.
A portable toilet is available on site.
Lundale Farm is a community of regenerative farmers who work to enhance the ecology, health, and diversity of the land. Because the farm is sustainably managed, it not only provides fresh local food for consumers but also provides excellent habitat in which birds can thrive. Home - Lundale Farm
Photo credit: Savannah Sparrow, taken at Lundale Farm by Kayann Cassidy
6 attendees
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