The Place: Birders are enchanted by the joy and beauty of autumn bird migration on Monhegan Island. Late September is peak raptor migration on Monhegan. Coupled with dozens of other southbound warblers, sparrows, vireos, waterfowl and more –  a good birding day on Monhegan gives you the impression you have gone to birding heaven!  This charming and rugged island is inhabited, yet wild. It has drawn artists and lobstermen, and during the few short weeks of peak migration, it is a migrant trap for birders, too. Both fish and bird stories are swapped each evening at the local brewery or over a spectacular sunset. Our group will explore and wander in search of birds and the island’s natural beauty. Some hikes traverse varied terrain, but all walks are optional, and the best birding is in the village.

Lodging & Meals: We all stay at the iconic Trailing Yew, where a full breakfast is included daily. Rooms are simple, but charming. Bathrooms are shared. Your trip fee includes dinner each night (excluding alcohol). Lunches are not included in the trip fee and you’ll be on your own. There are options to buy sandwiches, pizza, salads, soups, etc. Picnic lunches are encouraged (the porch & lawn of the Trailing Yew are nice). Alcohol (beer, wine, etc) can be purchased on the island and should not be brought onto the  island.

Transport: Round-trip ferry transport will be via Monhegan Boat Line and is included in your trip fee. Parking is not included and costs about $8 per day and can be paid at the ferry terminal (cash or charge).

Guides: Having two skilled bird & nature guides is unusual on most birding tours. With a max size of 12 clients, you’re guaranteed ample personal attention and customized learning.

• Phil Brown is a lifelong bird enthusiast and stellar naturalist who has traveled extensively to study and appreciate birds and natural places, but equally enjoys exploring close to home. With many Monhegan trips under his belt (both spring & fall), Phil is a patient, gentle and extremely knowledgeable teacher with an eye and ear for birds like very few others. He is the Bird Conservation Director and Land Specialist for the Harris Center for Conservation Education in Hancock, New Hampshire. Phil resides in Hancock, NH with his family.
• Dan Gardoqui has been teaching, guiding, playing and learning from the more-than-human-world for 30+ years. Known for his passionate teaching style and bird mimicry skills, Dan welcomes curiosity and questions to facilitate deep nature connection in his fellow humans. He’s led multiple trips to Monhegan, but can’t wait to discover more hidden secrets! Dan’s certifications include: Registered Maine Guide, Wilderness First Aid and Certified Wildlife Tracker. He lives with his family in the Agamenticus region of southern Maine.

Trip Fee: Your trip fee includes: round-trip ferry passage from Port Clyde, Maine; 4 nights lodging and breakfasts at the Trailing Yew; 4 evening dinners; and 5 full days of expert guiding from two seasoned guides; and a donation to Monhegan Associates for island stewardship work.