Exploring Birdlife in the Squam Lakes Region

Spark Birding

Take in the beauty of Squam Lake, a loon nesting site, attend talks by experienced birders, enjoy a bird walk, and end with a cookout.

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Nestled in the breathtaking Lakes Region of New Hampshire, Squam Lake serves as a nesting site for loons, bald eagles, and great blue herons. Originally called Keeseenunknipee (“the goose lake”) by the Abenaki, it was changed to Asquam (“water”), then shortened to Squam.Our field trip will explore the picturesque beauty of the Squam Lakes area. We start our field trip at the <a href="https://www.nhnature.org/" title="https://www.nhnature.org/" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Squam Lakes Natural Science Center </a>and hear talks from two experienced ornithologists. Author Peter Alden will present a talk on "Perspectives on Changing Wildlife Populations in New England" and illustrate how mammal and birdlife in New England have changed dramatically since pre-colonial times to the present day. Kelly Klapper, co-author of “Birds of the Squam Lakes Region”, will describe the making of the updated book that showcases more than 280 species of birds found in the area.Next, we embark on a loon and wildlife cruise on Squam Lake (site of “On Golden Pond”) with Tiffany Grade, Squam Lake Biologist. We'll visit Common Loon nesting sites while enjoying Squam’s scenic mountain ranges, charming islands, and quiet spots.After the cruise we drive to the town Sandwich for a bird walk at the <a href="https://www.nhaudubon.org/lands/sanctuaries/alice-bemis-thompson/" title="https://www.nhaudubon.org/lands/sanctuaries/alice-bemis-thompson/" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Thompson Wildlife Sanctuary</a>, owned by New Hampshire Audubon (NHA). The extensive wetlands here provide a home for beavers, waterfowl, moose, and many unique bird species.Our final event is a reception and cookout at the residence of Spark Birding co-founder, Chris Bensley. Located at 270 Range Road in Sandwich, we'll casually watch for birds as we recollect the day's events.Our group will be led by veteran author and birder Peter Alden. Beginners welcome!What's Included: Lectures and talks, private guides, reception and dinner, and Squam Lake boat cruise. Price does not include ground transportation (carpooling options available). For questions, contact chris@sparkbirding.com.Please Note: The boat trip portion of this trip is subject to weather conditions at the time. It may be cancelled due or rescheduled due to weather conditions. Every attempt will be made to reimburse participants should this happen.Photos: Top to Bottom - Peter Alden, The Loon Center, Squam Lake Cruise boat, Birds of the Squam Lake Region book cover, Science Center building, Bald Eagle, Common Loon, Thomson Wildlife Sanctuary.About Peter Alden: Peter is a world renowned naturalist, lecturer, ecotourism guide and author of 15 books on North American and African wildlife, including the National Audubon Society’s Regional Field Guide Series. He is considered to be an authority on birds and larger mammals of the world and is often consulted by the media and the ecotourism industry for his expertise.