There are many attractions that draw people to Newport but what you might not have realized is that Newport is also know for its birding! Birders from all over New England and beyond have flocked (pun intended) to Newport recently to see the snowy owl. The barn owl was also recently spotted. We had a return guest visit us recently that wanted to do something outside. Since only part of cliff walk is currently open, I suggested a couple of other places he could explore for taking pictures. I told him about Sachuest Point, a nature preserve located a 10 minute drive away in Middletown. He and his wife were enjoying their trail walk and were fortunate enough to see a snowy owl in flight and he had his camera ready! I was visiting Sachuest Point this summer when I spotted many beautiful smaller birds. Another wonderful place for birding in the area is at the Norman Bird Sanctuary, not far from Sachuest Point. There are many trails to explore through the woods. If you would prefer to bird by car, there is a wonderful side road off of the Ocean Drive where I have been fortunate enough to spot many birds at sunrise.