Wings Over Water Festival in Outer Banks Begins Nov. 6

Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival explores the wild side of eastern North Carolina. The six-day event is set for Nov. 6-11, 2012 and has a wide array of program offerings.

There are programs designed for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, birders, paddlers, astronomers and photographers, both novice and skilled.

The region offers some of the country's best paddling for canoe and kayak enthusiasts. From tannin-fed cypress swamps to endless marsh mazes, it is possible to paddle the region for a lifetime yet still study charts at night, discovering unexplored areas.

Registration currently is open for an assortment of water trips escorted by leaders who are familiar with the various areas. Physical demands range from open water with wind exposure, to short distances with excellent wind protection.

Several different paddling trips are planned and include the Kitty Hawk Bay Sunset Kayak Tour that allows participants to enjoy a classic Carolina sunset over the bay while navigating through tall cord grass fields and listening for the mysterious sounds of the night marsh.

The Backcountry Expedition combines "off-road" four-wheel-drive eco-tour that explores 30 miles of beach while trained naturalists discuss the local ecology, history and shorelife. Participants will likely see some of the wild horses in the Spanish Mustang Reserve.

Alligator River Night Canoe Tour allows canoeists to explore the narrow, winding creek through the heart of Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Explore the world of the American Alligator while paddling out from Buffalo City into Milltail Creek. Bring a flashlight!
This year's keynote dinner will be at the Aquarium on Roanoke Island. Catered by Kelly's Restaurant, the keynote address will be presented by author and photographer John Sill. The cost of the keynote dinner is $35 and registration is required. Dinner includes beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages.

And the night before, eat a down-home-barbeque-style dinner at the new National Wildlife Refuges Gateway Visitor Center and see what the facility has to offer

This festival is traditionally set during the shoulder season when rates are lower for accommodations, traffic is light and the weather is mild.

To learn more about the Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival call 252-216-9464 or go to www.wingsoverwater.org.
Sponsored by the Coastal Wildlife Refuge Society, Outer Banks Sentinel, Carolina Bird Club and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.