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Wednesday, April 2nd
12 — 1 p.m.
Knowledge at Noon | Spring Migration
Free
Virtual
Spring Migration: Identifying South Carolina's Most Colorful Warblers
Join local birder and HC volunteer John Tjaarda as he discusses how to identify some common warblers that will be migrating through Columbia on their journey north to nest in late April and early May. Warblers are some of the brightest, most colorful, and smallest songbirds that nature has to offer. Tjaarda will show attendees what these birds look and sound like, where to find them, and how to potentially attract some to their yards this spring.
About John Tjaarda

As HC’s "Resident Bird Nerd,” John Tjaarda leads the organization’s monthly Birdwatching in the Gardens program. Tjaarda emphasizes the importance of self-care and seeks to showcase birding as an accessible tool—or just a fun hobby.
John began birding in 2011 after taking a job teaching bird study over the summer. After a short break between 2014-2018 John returned with a vengeance to the bird world and has been trying to see them all ever since.
Follow John on Instagram at @birdwalksc. He’s also available for private bird walks at birdwalk.sc@gmail.com
About Knowledge at Noon
Knowledge at Noon provides fresh perspectives on Columbia’s rich history. This monthly virtual series delves into diverse topics such as archaeology and women's history, featuring Historic Columbia staff and local experts. Each session includes a forty-five-minute presentation followed by a Q-and-A. Attendance is free, but registration is required to receive the meeting link.
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Upcoming Birdwatching and Other Garden Events
See All Events08 Aug
Saturday, August 8th: 10 — 11 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Join Chris Mathis, Horticulture Manager at Historic Columbia, on a guided tour of the diverse tree collection in the lush gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion and the Robert Mills House. Tree treks are open to all nature lovers, whether you're a seasoned arborist or just tree-curious!
13 Aug
Thursday, August 13th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Discover the birds that call Historic Columbia's gardens home! Join local birder John Tjaarda and Historic Columbia Assistant Horticulturalist Jake Armstrong for a guided bird walk through the Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.
10 Sep
Thursday, September 10th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Discover the birds that call Historic Columbia's gardens home! Join local birder John Tjaarda and Historic Columbia Assistant Horticulturalist Jake Armstrong for a guided bird walk through the Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.
24 Sep
Thursday, September 24th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Discover the birds that call Historic Columbia's gardens home! Join local birder John Tjaarda and Historic Columbia Assistant Horticulturalist Jake Armstrong for a guided bird walk through the Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.
29 Sep
Tuesday, September 29th: 5 — 7 p.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Performers from the South Carolina Philharmonic will join Historic Columbia for an enchanting outdoor concert in the gardens at the Hampton-Preston Mansion. This program will showcase Oktoberfest-inspired musical selections, highlighting the spirited melodies and musical traditions of Germany and Central Europe. Please plan to arrive any time after 5:00 p.m...
08 Oct
Thursday, October 8th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Discover the birds that call Historic Columbia's gardens home! Join local birder John Tjaarda and Historic Columbia Assistant Horticulturalist Jake Armstrong for a guided bird walk through the Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.
22 Oct
Thursday, October 22nd: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Discover the birds that call Historic Columbia's gardens home! Join local birder John Tjaarda and Historic Columbia Assistant Horticulturalist Jake Armstrong for a guided bird walk through the Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.
12 Nov
Thursday, November 12th: 8 — 9 a.m.
1615 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Discover the birds that call Historic Columbia's gardens home! Join local birder John Tjaarda and Historic Columbia Assistant Horticulturalist Jake Armstrong for a guided bird walk through the Gardens of the Hampton-Preston Mansion.