NORWAY – The Western Foothills Land Trust will hold its ninth annual bird-a-thon at the Bob and Mary Van Nest farm, 265 Old Stage Road (Pike’s Hill), at 7a.m. Saturday, May 17, with rain date being Sunday, May 18.

The land trust oversees conservation easements on more than 300 acres of privately-owned land in western Maine. The bird-a-thon is the trust’s spring fund-raiser.

Participants usually see approximately 50 species of birds along the way including bobolinks, meadowlarks, many types of warblers, and even a hawk or two. Using both sight and sound, this is an opportunity for birders of all levels to sharpen their skills at bird identification.

Interested people can become involved by either making a pledge to a board member or by joining in the walk. Anyone choosing to come on the walk is asked to bring a $10 contribution for individuals or $15 per family. Wear comfortable clothes, waterproof boots and bring binoculars. Fresh baked goods, coffee and tea traditionally follow the walk.

For more information, call Bob or Mary Van Nest at 743-8104.