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Birding the Land Between the Rivers and Exploring the Southern Illinois Wine Trail |
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Program Number: |
13609RJ |
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| Start
and End Dates: |
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| Duration: |
3 nights |
| Location: |
Carbondale, Illinois
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| Price starting at: |
$499.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city |
| Program Type:
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Birding
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| Meals: |
8;
3 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners |
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| Meal
Options: |
Vegetarian; Gluten Free |
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Traverse hills and hollows, diverse ecological areas of the Shawnee National Forest and wetlands of the Cache River State Natural Area in this “Land Between the Rivers” where the Mississippi and Ohio converge. Led by expert birding instructors, learn about field identification, life histories, binocular use and other techniques as you look for resident species and seasonal visitors. Then go from grape to bottle with vintners who share their expertise and give you a taste of their flavorful wines.
Highlights
• Take extensive birding field trips that vary by season. In spring look for neo-tropical migrants and nesting bird species such as warblers, tanagers, and flycatchers; in the fall search for warblers, woodpeckers, raptors and waterfowl. Plus an evening “Owl Prowl.”
• Explore 300 million-year-old sandstone bluffs and a native cypress-tupelo swamp at the Heron Pond Nature Preserve and Cache River State Natural Area.
• Go “behind the vines” at two wineries to meet and talk with expert vintners, taste wines, and keep your eyes peeled for bird species on these beautiful properties.
Activity Particulars
Walking up to two miles a day.
Date Specific Information
4-14-2013
This week we will also see woodland wildflowers and the emergence of butterflies. Our birding destinations are excellent for viewing a diversity of native wildflowers including bluebells, poppies, several types of trillium, columbine, bloodroot, shooting star, and many more!
10-7-2013
Experience the changing of seasons as Fall colors brighten the landscape throughout the forest and wetlands. Fall warblers, raptors, and waterfowl are at their peak of migration through the area.
Coordinated by Land for Learning Institute.
Carbondale
This vibrant college town in southern Illinois is a gateway to the area's highlights, including the Shawnee National Forest, a preserve of magnificent sandstone cliffs, lowland fields and abundant wildlife. The region's hills and valleys also host local vineyards producing high-quality wines.
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Accommodations
Historic lodge located in the heart of Giant City State Park. One room cabins with two double beds. Outdoor swimming pool. Home cooked meals served in the lodge; some meals in the field.
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| Road Scholar Instructors | | These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur. | Curt Carter
| | Curt Carter received a master’s in environmental education from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. He is the co-founder of the Land For Learning Institute and has more than 20 years experience leading canoe expeditions on rivers, lakes and swamps. He is a lead instructor for birding expeditions and a facilitator for Project Wild and Leave No Trace programs. Curt is also a musician who performs with an environmental message. | | | | Alan Shearer
| | Alan Shearer received his bachelor’s in outdoor recreation from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. He is the co-founder of the Land for Learning Institute, is a Wilderness First Responder, and facilitator for Project Wild and Leave No Trace. Alan has over 15 years experience leading canoe expeditions on rivers, lakes and swamps and is also a lead instructor for birding excursions. | | | |
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