Great trip. Loved every minute of it.

I didn't really know what to expect from this program, but I found it to be very interesting and an activity that I'm likely to pursue on my own. I believe others also enjoyed it; one woman was there for her third straight year! Participants were a mix of birding knowledge levels, from those who knew quite a bit about birding to quite a few (like me) who knew almost nothing. It seemed to work for all levels. The program is really what it says, training (first time or a refresher) for birders. Participants learned how to bird by lectures on related topics, by small group field walks with experienced guides (with great listening devices so all could hear the guide), and by field demonstrations. The field walks provided a glimpse of how experienced birders (primarily the guides but also a few of the participants) located and identified birds. I saw at least 38 different bird species in the field, plus the five large raptors (full-grown eagle!) brought in for one of the lectures. The lodge was located in the midst of birding territory and some of the best viewing was from the side patio of the lodge and from the lodge parking lot. A lot of the best viewing was early in the morning, so if this part is important to you be prepared to arise early! The half-day field demonstration of bird netting and banding was excellent. A chance to see birds up close (in your or someone else's hand). This provides a chance to see real details of the birds, something that is otherwise nearly impossible. The presentations were uniformly interesting and informative: choosing binoculars and other equipment, how to approach bird identification, etc. The accommodations and food were totally acceptable but not luxurious. The focus was, as it should have been, on the program. Highly recommended if you have any interest in birds.