
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- VFAS Annual Social (registration required)John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, Norristown, PA
Registration link:
https://valleyforgeaudubon.org/events/valley-forge-audubon-society-annual-meeting-and-social-490/Please join us for a fun and informative afternoon on Sunday, August 3rd from 2:00-6:00 pm at the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove. Explore everything Valley Forge Audubon Society has to offer in a relaxed and friendly setting. There will be plenty of time for mingling and the opportunity to learn more about VFAS's mission. Meet other VFAS participants, ask questions of our board members, watch a year-in-review slideshow of program participants' photos, test your knowledge at our bird ID game, enjoy a great presentation on owls, and go birding with us!
Light refreshments will be served. Children are welcome to attend if accompanied by an adult.
If you would like to submit photos from a VFAS event for the slideshow, please email valleyforgeaudubon@gmail.com.
Don't miss out! Please register for this free event by Thursday July 31 so we know how many to expect.
Schedule of events:
- 2:00 pm: Arrival, refreshments, informational tables, games, socializing
- 2:40 pm: VFAS annual meeting
- 3:00 pm: Year-in-review slideshow
- 3:45 pm: Whooooo Knew? The Mysteries of Owls (see description below)
- 5:00 - 6:00 pm: Birding field trip around Mill Grove
Whooooo Knew? The Mysteries of Owls
Explore the fascinating world of owls with us at our annual meeting and social event!John Werth of the Valley Forge Audubon Society will be our guide for an intriguing journey into the mysterious lives of owls. We'll explore their secretive habits, remarkable adaptations, and the crucial role they play in maintaining a balanced ecosystem. Then we'll experience the magic firsthand by meeting live owl ambassadors up close!
This program is perfect for nature lovers, families, and curious minds of all ages.
- Intro To BirdingWilliam Jeanes Memorial Library - VFAS, Lafayette Hill, PA
Our world is filled with colorful and vibrant birds, if you merely learn to look! During this indoor program, experts Patty and John Werth from the Valley Forge Audubon Society will guide you on getting started on this hobby that anyone can do, including what to look for and the essential tools you need.
Registration is required through the William Jeanes Memorial Library. Please register here:
Intro to Birding - William Jeanes Calendar - William Jeanes Memorial Library - Boating and Birding at Marsh Creek State ParkMarsh Creek State Park - Boat Rental Area - VFAS, Downingtown, PA
Birding from the water is a wonderful warm-weather activity, and if you have never tried it before we invite you to give it a try with us. Volunteer guides from the Valley Forge Audubon Society will accompany you for a morning of 'paddle birding', where being on the water allows access to bird habitats from a different angle and a chance to scan the shorelines at close range while moving at a gentle, quiet, self-powered pace.
Bring your own kayak, canoe, or SUP or rent one from Marsh Creek State Park's boat rental (www.marshcreeklake.com).
We will meet at 8:15 AM and launch from the boat rental area at 8:30 AM.Make sure to bring plenty of drinking water and sun protection. While we will not cover much distance on this paddle, we will be out on the water for up to two hours, although you may leave at any time. This is a wonderful event for those new to paddling, new to birding, or both.
Guides: Patty & John Werth
Photo taken by Patty Werth during a VFAS boating-and-birding event at Marsh Creek State Park in 2023.