Every Bird Counts - on 240 Acres at Garrett Williamson!

# Every Bird Counts - Join us for our Migratory Bird Walk at Garrett Williamson! Saturday, October 10th at 8:00AM!

Mike McGraw* will lead this "Rain or Shine" event, scheduled for the peak of fall bird migration.

We are likely to see a number of warblers, sparrows, red tailed hawks, black and turkey vultures, and hope to see bald eagles and bobolinks along with many other species that breed in Pennsylvania.
The Garrett Williamson property is a total of 240 acres and has approximately 4 miles of walking trails. The trails meander through open fields and meadows, riparian areas featuring a tributary to Crum Creek and primarily beech tree dominant forest. There are many diverse habitats and edges because the property is farmed, and they have an educational garden which is visited regularly by birds. The property is private and generally closed to the public so this will be a unique opportunity to visit this large parcel of land in Newtown Square.

This event is not recommended for younger children.

This event is free, but registration is requested by the Chester-Ridley-Crum Watershed (CRC) organization - so please Register on the link below (as well as here on our meetup).

https://crcwatersheds.networkforgood.com/events/105133-fall-migratory-bird-walk-2026

### Our Guide:


*Michael McGraw is a Wildlife Biologist and Ecologist. Since 2002, Michael has performed an extensive variety of reptile, amphibian, and avifaunal surveys in the Eastern and Midwestern U.S. with a strong emphasis on endangered, threatened, and species of concern. Beyond survey and research, his work as a consulting scientist includes project design, permitting, project management, and client relations, as well as writing technical reports and proposals. Michael is currently managing numerous projects and functioning as a lead biologist on a variety of Princeton Hydro projects, including wildlife surveys, ecological assessments, threatened and endangered species surveys, population biology research, wetland mitigation, sensitive habitat restoration, FAA-mandated wildlife hazard management plans for airports, land management and site master planning, and energy development projects.

Please note: This walk is rain or shine - except in the case of extreme weather. Please wear suitable hiking boots or shoes.

Why it matters:
Your participation not only offers a memorable experience but also helps raise awareness of how we can make our community more bird-friendly. Simple actions such as:
· Reducing light pollution during migration seasons
· Choosing sustainable products like bird-friendly shade-grown coffee, and
· Planting native plants that support pollinators
All contribute to a healthier environment for our migrating species.

*GW was bequeathed by Elizabeth Garrett in 1910 “for the support and maintenance of poor children and deserving single women" who stayed in the Main Lodge during the spring, summer, and fall. It is generally closed to the public - so take advantage of this unique opportunity to hike the last large open parcel in Newtown Square.

Garrett Williamson has an Agricultural Education Division, a summer Camp Program, and an award-winning Child Care Division.