Do you think it a bit odd I’m writing about birds when there is 7 to 10 inches of snow on the ground? I agree, it is, but I have a point, really.

Blackburnian Warbler

The Marlinton Ranger District of the Monongahela National Forest has developed some pretty amazing maps for finding birds, when the weather gets a bit warmer, actually more like May and beyond. If you follow this link there are six identified regions, inside each of the regions are numerous trails. In the inventory listing for that region is a list of birds that have been sighted over the past couple of years.

Pocahontas County has a wealth of diversity of both habitat and bird life in the region. Whether this is your first excursion into bird watching or you’ve been doing it for years, there’s an opportunity here unlike many other places. The hiking trails are suitable for easy walks for the most part, although the Thornwood area offers a bigger challenge in incline and water availability.

For newcomers to the area, Pocahontas County is a nesting and breeding area for many type Warblers, including Northern Parula, Chestnut-sided, Blackburnian, Blackpoll, Northern Waterthrush, Yellow-rumped, the elusive Canada, and well, I could go on and on here.

So during the interminable days of February and March, before Mother Nature shows her other side, go to the web page and begin planning your trip. Call us at 800.336.7009 if we can you with lodging, maps, or anything.