Birding on Bicycles
Spend a morning exploring our local trails by bike while learning to notice the birds that share these spaces with us. We will start from Base Camp and roll east on the Airline State Park Trail toward North Windham, with a stop to view the bog near the Natchaug and time to appreciate the Windham Outdoor Education Preserve. The ride blends easy-going cycling with simple birding techniques so you can enjoy both movement and observation.
What this ride is about
This is not a race. It is a relaxed, social ride that makes room for curiosity. We will keep a conversational pace, pause at natural viewing points, and practice how to look and listen while on the move. You will learn simple ways to identify birds by shape, size, behavior, and habitat, rather than memorizing long lists. The goal is to come away with a few new skills and a fresh way of seeing the trail you may already know well.
Route and rhythm
We will follow the Airline State Park Trail east from Base Camp, a mostly flat, packed-surface route that is friendly for a wide range of riders. Our turn-around point will be near North Windham. Along the way we will visit wetland edges and open stretches where birds are easier to spot. Expect short stops to scan the bog and nearby tree lines, and gentle regrouping after each stop so no one feels rushed. Cycling skills are essential for comfort and safety on shared paths.
What you might see
Early fall in our area often brings active wetlands plenty of active environments for this experience. Keep an eye out for familiar residents like red-winged blackbirds, swallows working over open spaces, and hawks circling high. At the water you may catch sight of herons hunting the shallows or ducks resting in quiet coves. In the trees and shrubs, small songbirds flit from branch to branch. We will focus on patterns that help you notice these birds in real time, even if they are on the move.
How we will learn
We will lead simple, practical exercises at a few stops along the route. We will practice scanning from near to far, using landmarks to relocate a bird, and picking one field mark to remember rather than trying to note everything at once. You will hear tips on how light, distance, and background affect what you see, and how to use behavior and habitat to make a good first guess. The goal is to help you feel more confident noticing birds on any future ride or walk.
What to bring
- A bike that is in good working order (if you need one see note below).
- A properly fitted helmet. Helmets are required for all riders.
- Water and a small snack.
- Layers suitable for morning temperatures and light wind.
- If you have binoculars, bring them. A lightweight strap helps while riding.
A limited number of bikes may be available upon request. If you need one, please reach out when you register so we can confirm availability in advance.
Safety and trail etiquette
We will ride single file when needed and give audible signals when passing other trail users. At viewing stops, we will pull fully off the path to leave room for walkers and riders to pass. Please check your brakes and tire pressure before arriving. If anything feels off during the ride, let the group know so we can pause and assist.
Who should join
This ride is a good fit for people who are comfortable riding a bike on multiuse trails and who want a gentle introduction to birding in motion. You do not need prior birding experience. Curiosity and a willingness to slow down at stops are all you need. Families with teens who ride confidently are welcome.
What you will take away
- A simple framework for noticing and identifying birds while you ride.
- Practice using habitat and behavior as quick clues.
- A fresh appreciation for the wetlands and preserves along our local trail.
- A relaxed morning outdoors with people who enjoy learning together.
Join us for a ride that blends fresh air, gentle movement, and attention to the living world around us. You will head home with a few new skills, a calmer mind, and a better sense of how to fold nature observation into everyday time on the trail.
