Birding with Portland Wheelers and Maine Audubon

We provide social connection and joy

through accessible outdoor biking experiences.

Portland Wheelers and Maine Audubon partner to bring the joy of birding and the joy of biking together in one memorable experience.
 
“I’m an avid birder myself, so being able to use our trikes to get people where the birds are, and especially where Doug Hitchcox is pointing out those birds, is incredibly exciting.” Portland Wheelers Executive Director, Pete Ryan, sees this partnership as an opportunity for people to continue participating in a beloved hobby, even if age-related issues or disabilities prevent them from joining one of Maine Audubon’s scheduled Warbler Walks. “Most of the time, guided birding events involve quite a bit of walking, often on uneven ground, with limited places to sit and rest,” Ryan says. “These birding rides give people a chance to get the same professionally guided experience without those challenges. The rides are ninety percent about the birds, and then you get a little of the wind-in-the-hair fun of being on a bike for good measure. It’s hard to beat that!”
 
These birding rides are for those who are unable to participate in the walks offered by Maine Audubon at Evergreen Cemetery but would enjoy the same professionally guided experience.
 
We have scheduled two birding rides during peak songbird migration.
 
Thursday, May 7, 9 am.
Thursday, May 14, 9 am.
 
Portland Wheelers rides are always free. 
 
If you are interested in joining us, please email Program Coordinator, Kiersten Ellis (kierstene@portlandwheelers.org) for more information. 

2024 Birding ride highlights

Maine audubon

Maine Audubon works to conserve Maine wildlife and wildlife habitat by engaging people in education, conservation, and action.

Maine Audubon envisions a world where healthy ecosystems abound; where everyone can experience the diversity and wonder of nature; and where science-based education and advocacy ensure that Maine wildlife and wildlife habitat are deeply appreciated and protected.

Since 1843, Maine Audubon has worked to conserve Maine wildlife and wildlife habitat by engaging people in education, conservation, and action. The oldest and largest Maine-based conservation organization, Maine Audubon has eight public centers and sanctuaries across the state, seven chapters, and 30,000 members, volunteers, and supporters, and connects with more than 250,000 people annually.

Connection is a human right.

We know that outdoor recreation isn’t just a “nice to have”—it is essential for a happy and healthy life. For many, particularly seniors and people with disabilities, the world can become smaller over time.

We exist to expand it.

Access to the outdoors and meaningful social connection are foundational to well-being. Our rides break down the barriers of isolation, replacing them with the sensory thrill of the ride and the warmth of community. And birds. Definitely birds. 

If you share our belief that socialization and outdoor adventure are vital to our community’s health, let’s talk. Small business sponsorships and deeper partnership opportunities are available.

Let’s do this essential work together. Contact Executive Director Pete Ryan at (207) 400-7025 or pete@portlandwheelers.org.