Birds on Tap℠ – Roadtrip! Rarity Roundup

Portland Explorer (formerly Maine Brew Bus) and Freeport Wild Bird Supply are excited to continue our collaboration for six very special outings in 2024.

These unique, relaxed birding and beer-ing adventures that you have come to love combine great local birding at seasonal hotspots with visits to sample the delicious creations of some of our favorite local breweries. These tours are a perfect introduction to birding and/or craft beer, and a great opportunity to travel with significant others, friends, and family that have interest in one topic, while your interest is primarily in the other (for now!). Seasonal birding hotspots and great local beer - a perfect combination, and we'll even do all of the driving!

Early November is a fantastic time of year in Maine for vagrants - birds normally seen in far-off places. Due to a combination of weather patterns, changing seasonal food resources, falling temperatures, and other factors - some of which are not completely understood - birds that may have ended up in Maine by "accident" begin to concentrate at the coast in "migrant traps" and "hotspots." In other words, this is the time of year to expect the unexpected.
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A traditional "Rarity Roundup" involves teams of birders heading out on a given day during rarity prime time, looking for species that are not supposed to be around. And in honor of that tradition, that's exactly what we are going to do on this unique tour. We may "chase" a rarity (go to see something that has already been found, aka "twitch") or we might choose a destination known for rare birds in an attempt to find one of our own. Or perhaps, we'll do both!
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Anything between Portland and Kittery is fair game, and we might not even know where we will head until we are on the bus and the latest rare bird alert is received. For those who love adding a bird to your Life or State List, and/or basking in the thrill of discovery, well then this is the tour for you! In between seeing great birds, we'll discuss the complex factors that are involved in delivering rarities to an area, and how we go about finding them.
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After about 3-4 hours of birding, depending on drive time, we will be transported to two of our great local producers to sample their offerings and learn their styles. Our brewery destinations are subject to change, but the current plan is to visit Woodland Farms Brewing and Tributary Brewing Company.

Woodland Farms Brewery in Kittery stands out for its extensive range of beers, from traditional lagers and ales to adventurous sours and seasonal specials. They emphasize innovation and quality, constantly experimenting with new styles and ingredients to push the boundaries of craft brewing. Their commitment to variety ensures that there is always something new and exciting on tap for every palate.

Tributary Brewing Company in Kittery offers a meticulous selection of handcrafted beers, with each recipe designed to highlight the nuances of traditional brewing while embracing contemporary flavors. From silky stouts to vibrant IPAs, the beers at Tributary reflect the brewmaster's decades of experience and a deep passion for brewing excellence. Their commitment to quality and craftsmanship makes each visit a richly satisfying experience for true beer lovers.

The samples are included in the tour price, and Maine Brews Cruise will supply a light snack (TBA) and water. Bring binoculars and a spotting scope if you have one. We also recommend bringing a lunch or additional snack if you so desire. Sunscreen, an extra layer or two, and sturdy comfortable walking shoes are also recommended as we will want to be comfortable during both a long drive or a standing vigil outside.

We'll be doing all of the driving, so you can relax. And to make it even easier, we have two pick-up times and locations:

8 am
Freeport Wild Bird Supply
541 Route One, Freeport.

or 8:20 am
Marginal Way Park & Ride
(opposite the intersection with Diamond St, just east of Franklin Ave), Portland.

(Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time at either location, and please let us know where you will be meeting us)

This tour is limited to 12 participants, so sign up soon! This is a one-of-a-kind tour, and we think one you won't want to miss! Call (207-865-6000), email ([email protected]), or visit Freeport Wild Bird Supply to pay by cash or check (and for more information), or, to conveniently pay online, click on the "Book Now" link below.

Check out the trip report from 2019 to see why you don't want to miss out this year!