Area Birders, Early Sunday morning twelve birders made their way up Rt. 80 to Raven Ridge Bed & Breakfast atop Clinch Mountain. They were on their way to participate in a bird walk as part of the Virginia Highlands Festival. Most were local area birders, but one family of three from upstate New York, who were visiting relatives in the area, also took part. The valley lay under thick fog, but on Clinch Mountain the sun was out, and a cool breeze stirred the trees. Roger Mayhorn and Raven Ridge owner, Charles Kennedy led the birding/nature walk along cool trails bordered by rhododendron and tall deciduous trees. There were stops along the way to watch, listen to, and photograph birds, including both male and female Hooded Warblers, Dark-eyed Juncos, and Red-eyed and Blue-headed Vireos. The croak of a Common Raven could be heard from nearby cliffs. Roger explained how to identify certain bird calls and songs, and gave tips to make learning them easier. The group was especially impressed with Charles Kennedy's knowlege of mushrooms. Charles pointed out several different species and demonstrated to the group how to differentiate one from the other, and how to tell the poisonous ones from the edible ones. There are nine edible species found on Clinch Mountain. After the 2 hour hike the group returned to Raven Ridge B&B where the birders had a brunch at the Hummingbird Cafe, which overlooks the valley, while dozens of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds buzzed among the several feeders only a few feet away. The food, prepared by Charles' wife, Alona, who is an excellent cook, consisted of a delicious casserole, served with diced fruit and banana bread. The birders ate their fill with some birders going back for two or even three helpings. It was a great outing and all in attendance had a very enjoyable time. For those interested in seeing more about Raven Ridge B&B their website is http://www.ravenridgecampground.com For those interested the complete bird list follows. Roger Mayhorn Grundy, VA Buchanan County Ruby-throated Hummingbirds Eastern Towhees Carolina Wrens Eastern Wood Pewees Eastern Phoebe Blue-headed Vireo Red-eyed Vireos Northern Cardinal Dark-eyed Juncos Hooded Warblers (m & f) Blue Jay Common Raven American Crows American Goldfinches Black-and-white Warbler