Weathering Climate Change: Understanding Our Shifting Local Landscapes

Offered in partnership with Chebeague and Cumberland Land Trust (CCLT)

Maine's avifauna (its birdlife) is undergoing rapid changes, largely due to dramatic shifts in the climate and the increased pace of development. Some birds are 'new on the scene' and others are disappearing. Other populations are increasing, while many more are decreasing. We'll look at some of the most familiar changes — from increasing Northern cardinals to disappearing evening grosbeaks — and discuss the hows, the whys, and what you can do to help our feathered friends.

Derek Lovitch and his wife Jeannette live in Durham, Maine. They own and operate Freeport Wild Bird Supply, a retail store that caters to birders of all levels. The store serves as a vehicle for Derek to continue to share his enthusiasm for birding, birds, and bird conservation. The store is also the home base for a growing tour guiding operation, specializing in Maine's specialties. His first book, How To Be a Better Birder, was published in March 2012 by Princeton University Press.  His second book, Birdwatching in Maine: A Site Guide was published in May 2017 by the University Press of New England.  A completely revised and updated 2^nd Edition was published in February, 2024. His writing has also appeared in a variety of magazines, and his birding throughout the state for the last 20 years has provided perspective on how rapidly Maine's bird populations are changing.

About the series: Weathering Climate Change: Understanding Shifts in Our Local Landscapes is an educational series of walks and talks aimed at informing, engaging, and uniting community members of Cumberland and Chebeague Island around local climate issues that impact us all. The series is offered in collaboration with Chebeague and Cumberland Land Trust (CCLT).