Winter at the Ashokan Center is a time of quiet beauty. The landscape, blanketed in snow, feels serene and still. But if you listen closely, you’ll notice the calls of hardy resident birds—chickadees, nuthatches, and woodpeckers—echoing through the woods. With a little help from an Audubon bird call, you can turn your winter hike into a magical birding experience. What Is an Audubon Bird Call? The Audubon bird call is a simple, hand-held device that mimics the sounds of songbirds. By twisting its wooden and metal parts, you can produce squeaky chirps that pique the curiosity of nearby birds, encouraging them to call back or even come closer to investigate. It’s an accessible tool for birders of all experience levels, from beginners to experts. Why Use a Bird Call in Winter? Winter is an ideal time to try using a bird call. The Ashokan woods are quieter in the colder months without the full orchestra of spring and summer birds. This makes it easier to identify individual calls and catch the attention of birds that stay active year-round. The absence of foliage also makes it easier to spot birds as they flit through the trees. Using a bird call can help deepen your connection to nature, spark meaningful wildlife encounters, and provide an engaging way to observe bird behavior. Winter Birds to Look and Listen For At Ashokan in winter, you might attract and observe: Black-capped Chickadees: These friendly, curious birds often respond quickly to calls, darting through branches with their signature “chick-a-dee-dee-dee.” White-breasted Nuthatches: Known for their upside-down foraging, these birds might reward you with their nasal “yank-yank” calls. Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers: These industrious birds add percussion to the forest soundscape, and they may approach to investigate a bird call. Responsible Birding Tips While using a bird call is exciting, it’s important to prioritize the wellbeing of the birds: Use Sparingly: Limit your use to avoid distressing birds or disrupting their natural behavior. Observe Quietly: Once you’ve attracted a bird, enjoy the moment without startling it. Leave No Trace: Respect Ashokan’s pristine environment by staying on trails and packing out any trash. Winter Adventure at Ashokan Whether you’re visiting for a guided hike, a music-filled festival like the Winter Hoot, or a quiet day of exploration, an Audubon bird call is a wonderful companion. It invites you to slow down, listen deeply, and interact with the forest in a new way. So bundle up, bring your bird call, and immerse yourself in the natural symphony of Ashokan this winter. Who knows? You might even make a new feathered friend. Ready to plan your visit? Check out our events, programs, and trails at ashokancenter.org/’events.
