Migration and the Isles of Shoals

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Status
  • Canceled
-
In-Person
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Spring migration is one of the most exciting times for bird watchers.  Many bird species are seen enroute to northern breeding grounds, birds are sporting their breeding plumage, and males are singing to attract females, which also makes them more evident to bird watchers.  The Isles of Shoals has long been recognized as a special place to experience migration because many migrants stop and stay there between migratory flights because of the distance to the mainland.  Appledore is the largest of the Isles of Shoals and provides more vegetation for migrating birds, leading to an increase in both the diversity and the number of birds that can be seen.  

Migration and the Isles of Shoals will provide participants the opportunity to explore Appledore and the Isles of Shoals with experienced trip leaders helping to see the migrant birds moving through the area and to see species breeding on the island, including gulls, eider, egrets, ibis, and guillemots.  Participants will have the opportunity to visit the Appledore Island Migration Station that operates from sunrise to sunset daily, weather permitting, to study bird migration.  More than 120 species of birds have been captured at the station in the spring. Additionally, evening programs will focus on different aspects of bird migration, one of the most fascinating spectacles in the natural world.

 

"Sample Itinerary" link to be added soon

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Contact

  • (603) 862-5346

    shoals.lab@unh.edu

    Price: $1175.00 for 2025 season

    THIS PROGRAM HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

    Price is per person, double-occupancy (shared room with same-gender participant or chosen registered companion.) All-inclusive with: overnight dormitory accommodations, all meals, snacks and beverages, all program activities, and round-trip boat transportation between Portsmouth, NH, and Appledore Island. Space is limited due to our vessel and housing capacities, so reserve your spot soon! This program is open to adults 18 years of age and up. 

    Participants must bring their own bedding for a twin-sized bed. We suggest a sleeping bag and extra blanket or sheet, as well as a pillow case. Pillows are available. A detailed suggested packing list will be sent to registrants prior to the program.

    Single-occupancy rooms may be available for an extra charge of $300.00 ($100 per night), dependent on availability at time of registration.

     

 

Leaders

The weekend will be led by a team of experienced and enthusiastic ornithologists.  Sara Morris has studied migration for more than 30 years, and she is the Executive Director of the Shoals Marine Lab, Director of the Appledore Island Migration Station, and the current President of the American Ornithological Society.  Becky Suomala is Biologist Emerita at New Hampshire Audubon, has led bird watching trips for more than thirty years, and she is one of the lead banders at the Appledore Island Migration Station.  Janet Anderson is a lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of New Hampshire who teaches ornithology there every spring.

 

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Island Environment: Appledore Island is a rugged landscape with uneven, slightly steep and rocky paths. Access on/off the island is via a floating dock, a steep ramp, and a set of stairs. Sturdy walking shoes are required. Please review our Safety at Shoals page for any questions about boat safety, island terrain, medical access, or dietary needs.

  • Participants should be prepared for time aboard research vessels and moderate-to-strenuous hikes around Appledore Island to various field sites.
  • This program is intended for adults interested in learning more about the migratory birds of the Isles of Shoals. No university credits are awarded.
  • If a three night program is too adventurous, consider a day-trip Appledore Island Walking Tour, with tons of natural history information packed into just one afternoon!

Cancellation Policy:

  • At least 30 days before departure = 100% refund
  • 29-15 days before departure =  50% refund
  • Less than 15 days before departure = 0%

SML boats will run rain or shine, so long as the captain deems it safe to travel. Passengers should come prepared with appropriate clothing in the event of rain or high winds (ocean spray). If the captain deems travel unsafe, boats schedules may be impacted until the weather passes. Communications regarding any weather-related delays will come via email from SML's office.