Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust plans to hold its fourth annual Rangeley Birding Festival Friday through Sunday, June 9-11, 2022.

Throughout the weekend, guides will share their knowledge of rich bird life that flourishes at the intersection of the northern forest, clear lakes, and the High Peaks of western Maine. The Rangeley Lakes region is New England’s premier birding destination for rare and sought-after species, according to a news release from Amanda Laliberte, festival coordinator.

Rangeley provides a convenient hub to find northern specialties like Black-backed Woodpecker, Spruce Grouse, Boreal Chickadee and breeding warblers, including Cape May, Bay-breasted, and Mourning, Laliberte noted.

“The festival is intentionally small and friendly. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn to bird well with world-class guides or to check off the lifers on your list,” said Laliberte. “One of the trips — a day hike on Saddleback Mountain — will focus on one of North America’s most localized breeders, the Bicknell’s Thrush, but most trips are a half day and not nearly as rigorous as hiking down Saddleback.”

The John Bicknell Award for Birding Conservation recipient will be named on Saturday, and there will be a keynote speech at The Rangeley Inn.

While other festivals aim to catch birds as they migrate, birds have reached their destination in Rangeley and are on their territory. Birds are more reliable and display different behaviors while migrating.

The cost of attending the festival ranges from $0-$70, depending on the trip or activity for which participants sign up.

To learn more, visit rangeleybirdingfestival.com.

Check out other upcoming area events!