Schoodic Institute’s Seth Benz joins Holly Merker of the Mindful Birding Network to lead this all-inclusive exploration of the birds of coastal Maine and Acadia National Park. Designed for birders who enjoy learning in the field, this immersive experience blends natural history, bird identification, and the simple pleasure of spending unhurried time in one of the Northeast's most spectacular landscapes.
At a relaxed pace, we'll discover the birds that nest, migrate, and thrive along Maine's rocky coastline, spruce-fir forests, freshwater wetlands, and tidal estuaries. Together we'll sharpen our birding skills by learning birds by sight and sound, exploring habitat associations and seasonal behaviors, and practicing observation techniques that deepen both our understanding and appreciation of the birds around us. By slowing down and giving our full attention to the landscape, we'll notice more—not only identifying birds with greater confidence, but also observing the subtle interactions, sounds, and rhythms that make this ecosystem so remarkable.
Our home for the week is Schoodic Institute, an internationally recognized research and education center nestled within Acadia National Park. Just beyond the campus lies Schoodic Point, a celebrated migration watch where tens of thousands of birds pass each year. Each morning begins with the songs of Hermit Thrushes, Winter Wrens, and Magnolia Warblers outside your cozy cabin, while Blue-headed Vireos and Northern Parulas often accompany the short walk to Schooner Commons for breakfast. Between inspiring field excursions, engaging discussions, and time to simply absorb the beauty of this extraordinary coastline, you'll leave with stronger birding skills, a richer understanding of Maine's avifauna, and lasting memories of one of North America's most captivating birding destinations.