Two birding events in the region, sponsored by the Great Smoky Mountains Audubon Society, are on the horizon.

The first is birdwatching for beginners from 8 a.m. until noon on Saturday, April 28, at the Balsam Mountain Inn. Larry Thompson will be the instructor. This introductory workshop will acquaint participants with the basics of birdwatching, including how to find and identify birds, how to select and use binoculars and field guides, what homeowners can do to attract birds to their yard and which birds are found in different habitats. The workshop is open to anyone over the age of 10, and family participation is encouraged. The cost is $25. 828.452.5414 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The other workshop is a birding by ear workshop from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Friday, May 11, at the Balsam Community Center with a field trip at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 12. There are no easy tricks to learning bird songs, but there are magical methods, aids and practice that enable a new birder to conquer those troubling warbles, squeaks and chips.

Georgann Schmalz will be the instructor. The cost is $35.

828.550.5449 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..