This annual birding and art festival comes to the island towns of Stonington and Deer Isle on May 19-21 with nearly two dozen events to choose from.  Pack your weekend full of events or just pick one or two and then go exploring on your own!

Events range from eagle spotting, night sounds, guided shore and daily warbler walks to a live owl demonstration, art workshops and birding activities especially for kids. New offerings include a guided morning walk off scenic Pressey Village Rd, coffee break at Pilgrim’s Inn to share sightings and learn about bird-friendly coffee, a story reading and drawing workshop with artist Rebekah Raye, and a wildflower and herb walk with herbalist Brighid Dougherty.  Boat excursions feature a trip to Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge to view pelagic birds, especially puffins; a trip to Swan’s Island and a guided cruise in the Deer Isle Thorofare. There also will be a birder’’s supper in Stonington, followed by Wildlife Biologist Linda Welch’s talk about “What’s Up With Maine Seabirds?” Welch works for the Maine Coastal Island National Wildlife Refuge and has been studying seabirds here for nearly 20 years.

Some of the best birding is found on quiet roads, and there are miles of trails on the island’s 12 nature preserves, nearly all of which include shore frontage. Wings, Waves & Woods is informal, welcoming to beginners and families, and a great way to explore Deer Isle, its birds, natural areas and its art.

Download Wings, Waves & Woods 2017 Schedule.

The weekend’s full schedule is available at islandheritagetrust.org and accommodations can be found at www.deerisle.com. To register in advance, call 348-2455 or email marissa@islandheritagetrust.org. Program updates can be had by calling Island Heritage Trust at 348-2455 and on the Wings, Waves & Woods Facebook page.