Halcyon Gathering Celebrates Kingfishers

November 10, 2022
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What do belted kingfishers–denizens of watery, fish-filled places–have to do with well-cared-for family forests in Vermont? A whole lot, as it turns out. In late October, Vermont Family Forests hosted a gathering at Wells Farm in Lincoln to explore these connections with visiting author Marina Richie. Winner of a 2022 National Outdoor Book Award, Marina’s book, Halcyon Journey: In Search of the Belted Kingfisher, takes a deep dive into the world of these remarkable birds and the clean waters they depend on.

More than 40 people gathered at Wells Farm to learn about kingfishers and about Marina’s adventures in studying them. Photographer Jonathan Blake captured the delight of the gathering in his beautiful photographs–enjoy!

People walking up to a barn in a fall setting
Ahhh…so great to host our first public gathering since Covid began.

VFF Executive Director David Brynn welcomes visitors to the kingfisher gathering.
VFF Executive Director David Brynn welcomes visitors to the kingfisher gathering.
Author Marina Richie shares insights, images, and excerpts from her book
Author Marina Richie shares insights, images, and excerpts from her book, Halcyon Journey.

People listening to a presenter in a restored barn.
Celebrating kingfishers in VFF’s Anderson Wells Farm Middle Barn.
Marina Richie talks with participants outside the newly restored Wells Farm West Barn.
Marina Richie, right, talks with participants outside the newly restored Wells Farm West Barn.
Durga, our earth oven, fires up another pizza.
Durga, our earth oven, fires up another pizza.
People at a serving table to get a slice of pizza
Pizza and kingfishers–a delectable combination.
Evening light on a small outbuilding and tree leaves
Golden evening light created a beautiful finale to the halcyon kingfisher gathering.