What we’re about
The Valley Forge Audubon Society (VFAS) is a chapter of the National Audubon Society serving those residing in Southeastern Pennsylvania, including Delaware and Chester Counties, and parts of Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties. Our mission is to preserve birds, other wildlife, and their habitats by promoting appreciation and stewardship of the local natural environment through education and active participation. VFAS offers regular bird walks, hikes, events, and educational programs. Valley Forge Audubon Society is committed to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility in the birding community and beyond. We are excited to bring the joys of birding – the fun of seeing or hearing birds, the social benefits of being part of a like-minded community, and the health and wellness benefits humans receive from spending time in nature – to “everyone and every body”, regardless of someone’s physical, mental, emotional, or societal challenges. Long-time birders, ‘fledgling’ birders, able-bodied birders, and those with disabilities and health concerns are all welcome at VFAS’s programs.
We offer a number of outings that are accessible for those with various access challenges and/or health concerns.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- The Art of Bird Photography: 2 Day Event: (Day 1)Great Marsh Institute, Elverson, PA
Join local bird photographer and hobbyist Hilary Vadner for a two-part workshop on "The Art of Bird Photography", hosted and co-sponsored by The Great Marsh Institute.
Class details:
Day 1 Friday, May 2 from 6:00-8:00 pm: During this classroom session, Hilary will give a presentation of avian photography techniques and tips. This part of the program will be held in the Great Marsh Institute's nature center.
Day 2 Saturday, May 3 from 7:00-9:00 am: Attendees will reconvene at the Great Marsh for mentored practice with Hilary during the golden hours of light just after sunrise. Valley Forge Audubon Society birding guide Nick Wilson will also be in attendance to help spot and identify birds for participants in this spectacular and photo-worthy landscape.
This 2-day class will be limited to 10 participants. Cost is a suggested $50 donation to the Great Marsh Institute. To sign up or for more information, please email lori@greatmarshinstitute.org.
About the presenter:
Hilary is an avid nature photographer. Her work has been recognized by Wild Birds Unlimited BirdSpotter Contest (2022); Birds ’n Blooms Annual Photo Contest (2023); and Friends of Heinz Refuge Nature in Focus Photo Competition (2024).Photo credit: Great Blue Heron by Hilary Vadner
- The Art of Bird Photography: 2 Day Event: (Day 2)Great Marsh Institute, Elverson, PA
Join local bird photographer and hobbyist Hilary Vadner for a two-part workshop on "The Art of Bird Photography", hosted and co-sponsored by The Great Marsh Institute.
Class details:
Day 2 Saturday, May 3 from 7:00-9:00 am: Attendees will reconvene at the Great Marsh for mentored practice with Hilary during the golden hours of light just after sunrise. Valley Forge Audubon Society birding guide Nick Wilson will also be in attendance to help spot and identify birds for participants in this spectacular and photo-worthy landscape.
The class will be limited to 10 participants. Cost is a suggested $50 donation to the Great Marsh Institute which includes both days/sessions. To sign up or for more information, please email lori@greatmarshinstitute.org
About the presenter:
Hilary is an avid nature photographer. Her work has been recognized by Wild Birds Unlimited BirdSpotter Contest (2022); Birds ’n Blooms Annual Photo Contest (2023); and Friends of Heinz Refuge Nature in Focus Photo Competition (2024).Photo credit: Great Blue Heron by Hilary Vadner
- Spring Birds in Swarthmore's Crum WoodsCrum Woods - VFAS, Swarthmore, PA
Many warblers, vireos, and orioles spend the winter well south of Pennsylvania but by early May, we’re likely to hear and see them again. Join leaders Dave Eberly and Bob Scott for a spring bird walk through the 202-acre Crum Woods in Swarthmore, one of the last largely forested areas in Delaware County and one which offers crucial habitat for migrating birds. Birds we may experience include the Baltimore Oriole, Wood Thrush, Warbling Vireo, Chimney Swift, Eastern Kingbird, Red-eyed Vireo, Northern Flicker, Red-shouldered Hawk, Belted Kingfisher, and Common Yellowthroat.
All levels of birding experience are welcome, and children are most welcome if accompanied by an adult. Wear sturdy shoes suitable for rutted, hilly trails and bring binoculars if you have them. If you have extra binoculars you would be willing to lend to another participant, please bring them as well. No registration or payment is required to attend. Heavy rain cancels the walk.
Meet at 7:45 am at the Swarthmore train station at 2 S. Chester Rd (Route 320), Swarthmore. The walk will begin at 8:00 am and last about two hours. Please note that there is no restroom available at the Crum Woods.
This outing is co-sponsored by the Swarthmore Bird Town Working Group and the Valley Forge Audubon Society. For more information, email advocacy@valleyforgeaudubon.org. Hope you can join us!
To find us: We will meet at the Swarthmore train station at 2 S. Chester Rd (Route 320). There is a large parking lot off Chester Road just to the north of the underpass (GPS: WM32+62) as well as free and paid street parking around the train station.
Organizers: Dave Eberly, Bob Scott, and Shirley Dodson
Photo: Northern Flickers, taken at Crum Woods by Dave Eberly
