VSO Annual Meeting 2013

Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy is happy to host the Virginia Society of Ornithology for their 2013 Annual Meeting from April 26 - 28 here in Loudoun this year. The weekend includes engaging programs, exhibits, vendors, papers presentations and of course – great birding! Spring birding in the northern Piedmont is always interesting offering local specialties, unexpected rarities as well as migrants amidst beautiful spring wildflowers in a wide range of habitats in close proximity.

At 6 PM on Friday evening there will be a social mixer with light plates and a cash bar. After a brief business meeting at 7 PM, three past Presidents of the Montgomery County Chapter of the Maryland Ornithological Society will present, Identifying Warblers, the “Jewels of the Eastern Forest”. This presentation will cover nearly every warbler species that breeds in or migrates through Maryland and Virginia. Identification pointers and songs of birds in spring are emphasized. On Saturday morning they will lead a bird walk in nearby Maryland along the Potomac River. Prior to the banquet on Saturday evening there will be a reception with light hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar where people will be able to meet the banquet speaker, Julie Zickefoose. Julie is a widely published natural history writer and artist. Her observations on the natural history and behavior of birds are derived from more than three decades of experience in the field and as a wildlife rehabilitator. Her most recently published book, The Bluebird Effect: Uncommon Bonds with Common Birds,is about the unexpected mental and emotional capacities of birds, especially songbirds.

And of course, there will be many field trips Friday, Saturday and Sunday!

The Schedule of Events is posted here.

The region includes a number of hot spots including the Blue Ridge Center for Environmental Stewardship, the Dulles Greenway Wetlands, Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve, Algonkian Regional Park, Bles Park, Sky Meadows, Occoquan National Wildlife Refuge, and more.

Early birds will appreciate a hot breakfast buffet available from 6 - 8 am on April 27 and 28.

Hotel Reservations:
Holiday Inn at Historic Carradoc Hall
1500 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176
703-771-9200 / www.holidayinnleesburg.com / group discount code = VS1
A block of rooms has been reserved at a special rate of $99, plus tax. Don’t wait as time is running out! Reservations must be made by April 1 to secure this special rate. Reservations can be made by calling 703-771-9200 or visiting the website at www.holidayinnleesburg.com and using the group discount code, VS1. If you prefer, there are other hotel options in the vicinity.

Conference Registration:
To register for the conference, banquet and/or breakfast, select your options below or download the registration form and mail it in. Registration deadline is April 15. Note: You must be registered for the conference to attend the banquet.

If you can’t make the entire meeting but want to come to Saturday evening’s banquet to hear Julie Zickefoose, and enjoy the appetizers and the great exhibits before the banquet, buy a ticket for only $45.

Conference Registration Fee ($40 per person)

Saturday Morning Buffet ($12 per person)

Saturday Evening Banquet ($35 per person)*
*Note: To receive this price you must be registered for the conference as well

Sunday Morning Buffet ($12 per person)

Saturday Evening Banquet Only ($45)

In addition to good birds, Loudoun County offers a chance to glimpse into the past while enjoying wonderful local dining, exploring wineries, and shopping. Plan to come early or stay an extra day to make the most of your visit to Loudoun County!

Questions: contact Joe Coleman at 540-554-2542 or jcoleman@loudounwildlife.org