Wings Over Mercer, hosted by Pennington-based Wild Bird Research Group (WBRG), returns for a second year on Saturday, October 3! This single-day birding competition and fundraiser, open to birders of all levels, is designed to celebrate the spectacle of fall migration while raising awareness for local bird conservation.
Teams will spend the day (or as long as they want!) identifying as many bird species as possible within Mercer County’s borders. Experienced birders will be on the lookout for tricky migrants like Lincoln’s sparrows and bay-breasted warblers, while beginners can expect some easier sightings like soaring broad-winged hawks and merlins zipping through the air.
“The emphasis will be on community, conservation, and fun,” said Sean Graesser, director for WBRG. “Wings Over Mercer aims to showcase the incredible avian diversity of New Jersey while helping more people connect with nature close to home.”
The day’s festivities are designed to be welcoming to new birders. Beginners are encouraged to use tools like the Merlin Bird ID app or a field guide, and WBRG will be set up at Rosedale Park to provide tips and encouragement throughout the day. While official identification during the competition must be done independently, WBRG staff and volunteers will be on hand to support those just getting started.
For teams with a competitive streak, strategy will play a role. Birders are likely to use resources like eBird to map out hot spots across the county, planning routes that cover a mix of habitats – forests, meadows, wetlands, and suburban parks – to maximize the number of species identified.
By creating an event that is both competitive and accessible, Wings Over Mercer seeks to broaden participation in birding while drawing attention to conservation issues. Funds raised will support the nonprofit’s ongoing research and education programs in central New Jersey. Registration is open now, and details can be found at wildbirdresearch.org/
