Frequently Asked Questions

Why a Birding Festival in Western New York in June? One of the best kept secrets in birding is that many migratory warbler species opt to go no farther north to nest than the fields and forests of the Allegheny Plateau along the border between southwestern New York State and northwestern Pennsylvania. Because the birds are here in June and because early summer in this region is absolutely glorious, June is a marvelous time to celebrate this concentration of nesting species. Territorial males will be in full song to delight and challenge the ear as well as the eye. Much of the focus of the field trips is to let you hear what you’ve been missing if you’re not in Western New York in June. We invite you to join us!

How difficult are the birding field trips? All of the field trips are scheduled for early mornings to take full advantage of the territorial singing by male birds. Many of the trips will be easy walking. Watts Flats is two miles one way but the return is along the same path so one may stop at any time and wait for the group to return. Akeley Swamp, despite the implication of challenge, is accessible via a raised former railroad bed that overlooks the swamp. Some other trips involve walking over modest changes in elevation, but none is very physically demanding. Most of the travel to the trip sites will be by car in caravans. We will help to arrange carpools.

What warbler species can I expect to see? Last year’s list totaled 26 species of warblers, and the most commonly observed species were Blue-winged Warbler, Northern Parula, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, American Redstart, Ovenbird, Common Yellowthroat, and Hooded Warbler. Warblers are not the only attraction as many raptors, flycatchers, thrushes and the like summer in the region. Please check the links to see the list of species seen at each venue at last year’s Festival.

Are restroom facilities available on the field trips? For sure at the start and end of a trip. Several of the trips have somewhat primitive restroom facilities. On others it will be necessary to designate “blue” and “pink” tree stands along the way or one could simply lag behind. Please check individual trip descriptions for details.

What will the weather be like? Overall in June in Buffalo the average maximum temperature in June is 72º and the minimum temperature averages 44º. There are about five days of rain during the month. Specifically in Jamestown for the days of the festival the historical average maximum is 72º and the average low is 50º. Last year the maximum was 68º and the minimum was 54º.

Is it necessary to register? Registration is required to take part in any Festival event. The registration fee is non-refundable. You are welcome to view the bird-banding demonstrations on the campus of the Roger Tory Peterson Institute without registering. The bus tours on Sunday “Birding in the Footsteps of Roger Tory Peterson” will also be available on a first-come first-served basis after registrants have been accommodated.

What is the cancellation policy? The registration fee is non-refundable as it covers our cost of processing your registration. If you cancel any time prior to May 25, 2010 the remainder of your fees will be refunded to you..

Where can I stay if I don’t wish to be in a dorm? There are several nearby motels in Jamestown - Comfort Inn Jamestown (716) 664-5920, The Hampton Inn and Suites (716) 484-7829 and Red Roof Inn in nearby Falconer (716) 665-3670.  Click on the Accommodations tab in the main menu for further information.

What are the dorms like? The dorm rooms are arranged as suites, with four rooms sharing two baths and a common area. The end suites of each floor have one double room. See the layout and a picture of a room on the RTP Festival website. There is a TV room. There will be internet access on request. A Continental breakfast is included in the price.

I’m staying in the dorm, do I need to bring anything? One towel and linen are provided so bring an extra towel, washcloth and possibly a blanket with you.  You will need to bring your own soap and other toiletries. There are kitchen facilities including a refrigerator, range and microwave and you are welcome to use them. We ask that you clean everything prior to leaving.

Where can I get breakfast at 6:00 AM?

McDonalds in Falconer. Drive two blocks from the campus to Main Street, then left several blocks to McDonalds. Bob Evans Restaurant near the Comfort Inn is also open early for breakfasts.

Is there a map showing the locations of all the activities?

Yes, click on this link for a blow-up map of the Jamestown Community College Campus.

My partner is just not into birding; are there other things to do?

Please go to the “Area Attractions” tab in the main menu at the top of this page.