25th Annual Conference Returns to UMass Boston on Dorchester Bay Sunday, March 19

LINCOLN—Mass Audubon is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the region's largest annual gathering for birders of all abilities on Sunday, March 19, when its Birders Meeting returns to UMass Boston's Campus Centre Ballroom on Dorchester Bay.

The conference, which takes place from 8 am to 4 pm, will again feature authoritative speakers and presentations that are informative, engaging, and even inspiring.

This year's theme is Warblers: From Soundscapes to Landscapes. Warblers—colorful, animated, and diverse creatures that they are—have much to teach us about the avian world. The 2017 Meeting will feature presentations on a variety of aspects of warbler natural history, from ecology and taxonomy to song and conservation.

The agenda will include a range of warblers-centric topics, including climate change impacts; species conservation strategies; genetics and hybridization; and warbler songs and other vocalizations. Welcoming remarks will be provided by Mass Audubon President Gary Clayton and conference organizer Wayne Petersen, Director of Important Bird Areas.

This year's conference will again feature a vendors area where attendees can shop for birding- and other outdoors-related equipment and gifts. Lunch and a light breakfast are included in the ticket price.

Birders Meeting tickets ordered through Sunday, February 28 are $65 for Mass Audubon members; $70 for non-members. From Monday, February 29 until Sunday, March 19, prices are $75 for Mass Audubon members; $80 for non-members.

"With more than 30 species of warblers annually occurring in Massachusetts, these colorful avian sprites are consistently among the favorites among bird watchers everywhere," Petersen said. "Because of their animated, often canopy-loving behavior and frequently difficult-to-distinguish songs, they consistently both challenge and seduce birders."

Parking is available in the Campus Center Garage and at surface lots near the Center.

Mass Audubon is especially grateful to its Birders Meeting sponsors, including Lead Sponsor RockJumper Worldwide Birding Adventures, and Supporting Sponsors Zeiss Sports Optics and Victor Emanuel Nature Tours.

To register and to learn more about the conference, please visit massaudubon.org/birdersmeeting.

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Mass Audubon protects 36,500 acres of land throughout Massachusetts, saving birds and other wildlife, and making nature accessible to all. As Massachusetts' largest nature conservation nonprofit, we welcome more than a half million visitors a year to our wildlife sanctuaries and 20 nature centers. From inspiring hilltop views to breathtaking coastal landscapes, serene woods, and working farms, we believe in protecting our state's natural treasures for wildlife and for all people–a vision shared in 1896 by our founders, two extraordinary Boston women. Today, Mass Audubon is a nationally recognized environmental education leader, offering thousands of camp, school, and adult programs that get over 225,000 kids and adults outdoors every year. With more than 125,000 members and supporters, we advocate on Beacon Hill and beyond, and conduct conservation research to preserve the natural heritage of our beautiful state for today's and future generations. We welcome you to explore a nearby sanctuary, find inspiration, and get involved. Learn how at www.massaudubon.org.