LOGAN, W.Va. — Chief Logan State Park is offering several opportunities for novice and ardent bird watches to observe some of West Virginia’s avian inhabitants in a natural setting.
 
“We’re calling these activities Bird Walks and Bird Sits,” said Chief Logan State Park Naturalist Lauren Cole. “Birdwatching is a great hobby because it doesn’t require a lot of equipment or prior experience. It’s quiet, relaxing and welcoming of all people, regardless of age or physical ability.”
 
Saturday events at Chief Logan Lodge start at 8 a.m. and are scheduled Feb. 16, March 2, 16 and 30, and April 6 and 20.
 
Sunday events will be at the Chief Logan Museum and start at 8 a.m. They’re scheduled Feb. 17, March 3, 17 and 31, and April 7 and 21.
 
The activity is free and open to the public. Participants also will be welcomed with hot coffee or tea and receive instructions on to how to use binoculars and field guides. Cole will have binoculars to loan during the bird walk.
 
Bird species Cole has identified on the park include Eastern Bluebirds, American Goldfinches, Eastern Towhees, Northern Flickers, Hermit Thrushes, Red-breasted Nuthatches, Purple Finches, Golden-Crowned Kinglets, Coopers Hawks and, most recently, Pine Siskins.  
 
“The type of habitat you are birding in will determine what species of bird you’re going to see,” Cole said. “But no matter where you go, there’s always the chance you may glimpse something rare, unusual or out of place.”
 
Chief Logan Lodge is located 1 mile off US 119 at Exit 30.5. Participants can take advantage of an express breakfast at a minimal charge. Arrangements for overnight stays at Chief Logan Lodge can be made at www.wvstateparks.com. Overnight room reservations include express breakfast.
 
Chief Logan Museum is located 6 miles off US 119 taking the exit marked Old Logan Rd. The museum houses the park offices and gift shop.

To contact Park Naturalist Lauren Cole, call 304-792-7229 or send an email to Lauren.E.Cole@wv.gov.