Thursday, September 16, 2010 9:28 am

   Local birding expert Simon Thompson, owner of Wild Birds Unlimited Asheville, along with a bevy of area ornithologists will lead walks and workshops throughout the weekend. Birding organizations will also be sharing information about their clubs and work in the birding community. Wild Birds Unlimited will sell all kinds of bird products and feeders found at their store in Asheville.

   This September weekend also coincides with the annual hawk migration when dozens, sometimes hundreds, of hawks can be seen flying over the park on their way to southern wintering grounds.

   Guided walks will be held both Saturday and Sunday at 9am, 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Workshops include: Beginner Birding on Saturday at 10am, Binoculars-How to Choose and Use on Saturday at 1pm, Bird-friendly Backyard on Sunday at 10am and Photographing Birds on Sunday at 1pm. Also on Sunday, guests will have the opportunity to view and learn about rehabilitating non-releasable birds of prey from Balsam Mountain Preserve.

   “Birding continues to be a popular activity at Chimney Rock and Flock to the Rock gives us a chance to offer programs for both the avid and beginner birder,” said Meghan Rogers, PR and events manager.

   There is no additional charge with park admission for all Flock to the Rock events and activities.

   Chimney Rock is located 25 miles southeast of Asheville in Hickory Nut Gorge on Highway 64/74-A. The Park is the focal point of the developing Chimney Rock State Park. Admission for 2010is $14 for adults and $6 for youth ages six through 15. Children under six are admitted free. For a full list of events and activities, visit www.chimneyrockpark.com or call 800-277-9611.