Mr. McCary has been observing and recording his birding experiences at Shirley since 2002. Many of his published columns can be viewed on Shirley Plantation’s website at “Bird watching” on the home page.

Shore birds, ospreys, eagles, song birds, and a wide variety of waterfowl are regulars to Shirley Plantation’s acreage on the banks of the James River. A new bird food patch has just been planted in millet and buckwheat within close view of the Great House and only yards from the river. Birding clubs in the area observe the plantation’s extensive variety through annual bird counts and walks during the year. Mr. McCary’s is also available for private groups with prior reservations.

To participate in the October 11 bird walk with Shirley’s own Tom McCary of McCary’s Migrants, prior reservations are required. Appropriate attire and good walking shoes are strongly recommended. Field glasses, binoculars, and cameras are permitted; video cameras are not allowed.

The fee for the bird walk is $15 per person and includes admission to tour Shirley Plantation’s house and grounds. Regular admission to Shirley Plantation is $11.00 for adults and $7.50 for youths (6-18), with discounts for AAA members, seniors, and military.

Shirley is located on Scenic Route 5, just 10 miles east of I-295 near Richmond and 35 miles west of Williamsburg. For more information call 1-800-232-1613.