During the weekend, we will be spending time in Maine's Baxter State Park in the shadow of the state's highest peak, Mt. Katahdin. We will also venture into some stunningly scenic habitat in Maine's working forest. While cruising the park’s perimeter road, we’ll pursue Spruce and Ruffed Grouse, Philadelphia Vireos, Gray Jays, Boreal Chickadees and Black-backed Woodpeckers. Bay-breasted and Blackpoll Warblers forage right next to the road. Expect Least, Olive-sided, Yellow-bellied, and Great-crested Flycatchers. Up to 20 warbler species are possible. See and hear Lincoln's and Fox Sparrows singing on their territories. Moose are common. Once again this year, we'll be staying at the Big Moose Inn. Now confirmed for June 30-July 2, 2008. For a travelogue of the 2007 tour, click here.

Each morning starts with an optional warbler walk. After breakfast, we will travel by van to visit the best sites for birds and moose, followed by a picnic lunch provided by Big Moose Inn. The afternoon features more of the same, with an emphasis on becoming familiar with the many bird songs that join the chorus in early summer. Evening feasts will be followed by a low-key workshop on birding-by-ear and perhaps an after-dark owl prowl.

The guide adheres to the ABA code of birding ethics. Tape playing is not allowed in Baxter State Park. In other locations, the guide may resort to tapes with the consent of the group. We will be in the height of nesting season when most birds are still quite vocal, so the majority of species should be found without audio. Participants should bring binoculars, and this is a particularly good tour for photographers. Spotting scopes are useful and the guide will provide one for group use, as well as a variety of bird guides and extra binoculars.

This trip will not require strenuous hiking. Hikes will be relatively short and on level ground. There may be some spots that are muddy, uneven, and slippery. Adequate footwear is advised. Insects are not likely to be a significant problem, though some mosquitoes may be present at dawn and dusk. Insect repellent is suggested. Early July tends to be warm, sunny, and dry. But conditions in the northern Maine woods are changeable. Dawn temperatures may start in the 40s and reach the 80s by afternoon.

Tour package is $285 per person including tax and gratuity (limited to 12 participants per weekend to insure individual attention). Package price includes two nights lodging, two breakfasts, two box lunches, two dinners, and guided transportation by 15-passenger van with the founder of the Maine Birding Trail. For information about the Big Moose Inn and to make reservations for the tour, contact 207-723-8391 or 1-877-MOOSE-INN (1-877-666-7346) or e-mail info@bigmoosecabins.com.

For information about the itinerary, conditions, and likely sightings, contact the guide, Bob Duchesne at 207-827-3782, or e-mail duchesne@midmaine.com.