World Migratory Bird Day Weekend!
This year, on May 9th and 10th, the Friends of Missisquoi will once again join in celebrating World Migratory Bird Day. Plans are in progress to host a full weekend of art and nature experiences. As in past years, Missisquoi’s celebration will not only celebrate the day but will span the entire weekend. It promises to be a great time to come out to enjoy the refuge as the birds return. By participating in scheduled events or venturing out on the trails independently, you can help make it another successful weekend of eBird data collection.
Either way, you will be contributing to our many years of documenting what birds are utilizing the refuge during migration. Trails are open from sunrise to sunset. As you participate as a community scientist for the refuge, please stay on the open trails and waterways and be careful not to venture into any of the restricted areas.
Some events require registration.
Scheduled Events
Art Show at the Refuge
May 8th - July 10th, 2026
Visitor Center
The annual “Art Show at the Refuge” will kick off at the Missisquoi Visitor Center in May, and our 2026 Art Show will be better than ever! We will be displaying breath-taking artwork inspired by local wildlife, habitats, and birds.
Live Painting Tutorial
Project: Great Blue Heron with Jon Young
Friday, May 8th - 5:00 PM
Visitor Center
This year’s Painting Tutorial is in honor of birds found on the refuge. The subject is the Great Blue Heron. Join us and paint your own masterpiece!
Meet the Artists Reception
Friday, May 8th - 7:00 PM
Visitor Center
Immediately after our Live Painting Tutorial, there will be a Meet the Artist Reception where local artists showcase their refuge, habitat, and bird-themed art.
Daybreak Bird-walk
Saturday, May 9th - 4:00 AM
Maquam and Black Creek Trail
Join the Friends of Missisquoi NWR as they hold a daybreak bird-walk on the Maquam and Black Creek Trail.
Please register in advance
Monthly Bird-monitoring Walk
Saturday, May 9th - 8:00 AM
Stephen J. Young Marsh Trail
Join the Friends of Missisquoi NWR for their monthly bird monitoring walk on the Stephen J. Young Marsh Trail. Our May walk is part of our World Migratory Bird Day weekend! This walk is appropriate for birders of all skill levels.
Bird Walk with the Refuge Manager
Saturday, May 9th - 8:00 AM
Old Railroad Passage Trail
Join the Missisquoi NWR Refuge Manager, Ken Sturm, for this spring bird walk on the refuge. This walk is appropriate for birders of all skill levels.
Birding Paddle on the Missisquoi
Saturday, May 9th - 2:00-5:00 PM
Missisquoi River
The Friends of Missisquoi NWR and The Northern Forest Canoe Trail will join forces to offer an afternoon of paddling, birdwatching, and learning on the Missisquoi River. This event is appropriate for paddlers and birders of all skill levels.
Registration is required
Beginning Bird Walk
Sunday, May 10th - 9:00 AM
Discovery Trail
Bring Mom out for Mother’s Day and join the Friends of Missisquoi NWR for a relaxing morning of birding geared specifically for beginners.
Please register in advance