Birds of the Blue Ridge
CURRENT Birds of the Blue Ridge
While they are Arctic birds, recent years have shown an uptick in irruptions – irregular migrations outside the normal geographic range of a given species.
Our little sharply dressed messengers of winter have arrived – the “snowbirds!" Or, as others call them, Dark-eyed Juncos.
These brown-eyed beauties are highly vocal and will even call during the daytime.
As one of our largest and most strikingly decorated forest birds, the Pileated Woodpecker is a delight to see and hear.
This species is known for their bold demeanor, particularly when there’s a nest to defend.
While they are Arctic birds, recent years have shown an uptick in irruptions – irregular migrations outside the normal geographic range of a given species.
Our little sharply dressed messengers of winter have arrived – the “snowbirds!" Or, as others call them, Dark-eyed Juncos.
These brown-eyed beauties are highly vocal and will even call during the daytime.
As one of our largest and most strikingly decorated forest birds, the Pileated Woodpecker is a delight to see and hear.
This species is known for their bold demeanor, particularly when there’s a nest to defend.
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Web Extras
25 Years of Rhythm and Roots at the Birthplace of Country Music
Twenty-five years ago, a small festival dedicated to the music forged from the hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains took
September 14, 2026

Singing in the Garden
Singing in the Garden: The Practically Perfect Pear
“There are only 10 minutes in the life of [the average] pear when it is perfect to eat.” —Abraham Lincoln,
September 1, 2026
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