Peregrine falcons, which nest annually in Acadia National Park, will be spotlighted at the Gilley by prize-winning journalist Jim Wright who will share his new book, “The Peregrine Falcon: The Epic Life and Times of the World’s Fastest Creature,” at the Wendell Gilley Museum in a special event with Friends of Acadia on Wednesday, Sept. 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. Free but registration requested. Books will be available for purchase at the Gilley that evening.

The 240-page book is a deep dive into the world of peregrine falcons, from their storied past and near-extinction to their amazing comeback—and how to watch them online during nesting season.

Wright has written about peregrines for more than two decades and monitors nesting peregrines and other raptors

This full-day workshop takes place on Saturday, Oct. 3, and runs from approximately 5:30am to 6:30pm. It is led by local professional photographer, J.K. Putnam, and is designed to maximize learning opportunities and provide guidance on creating the kind of images you want to create. From sunrise to sunset, you will alternate between traveling around Acadia taking photos, and classroom time where we discuss a range of topics that lead to successful, self-expressive image-making. There will also be individual instruction based on your goals and your questions.

It is all about making meaningful images. In the field, we’ll learn how to pivot and adapt our photographic approach. In the classroom, we’ll dive into what it takes to express ourselves through our photos, going beyond technique to find personal connection and creative intention.

Join artist Siri Beckman, whose work is now in the Gilley’s Special Gallery, in conversation with poet and arts writer Carl Little in this special event at the Museum on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 2 to 4pm. Free and open to all but registration is required. Reception at 2pm and program begins at 2:30pm.

In this engaging talk filled with beautiful photography, Lillian Stokes will explore the many ways people connect with birds and nature, whether birding, photography, bird-feeding, art, or even experiencing a spiritual and uplifting bond that can change one’s life and is open to all. The science of connecting has many new studies that tell us everyday encounters with birds result in less stress, anxiety and depression. 

Lillian is an award-winning coauthor (with her late husband Don) and photographer of 35 Stokes Guides, which have sold more than 6 million copies nationwide. She was also a producer, videographer, and co-host of two national PBS bird-watching TV series that were seen by about 40 million viewers. For more than 35 years, she has educated the birding public, giving keynote talks at birding festivals and organizations nationwide.