Meet Our Walk Leaders

The Headlands Birding Festival birding walk guides are experienced local birders who know the best spots to see migrating species along Lake Erie. Look for their light blue shirts labeled “Volunteer” as they lead guided walks through Headlands Beach, the Mentor Marsh area, and beyond. Each guide brings years of birding experience and a deep passion for helping participants spot and identify birds throughout the festival – learn more about them below.

If you are interested in being a walk leader for the festival, please fill out this application.

Sarah Courtier Preston

Sarah Preston

Sarah Preston is a lifelong educator who currently teaches chemistry at Lakeland Community College. Her passion for birding and eBirding was ignited when she took an ornithology course in 2012. Now she enjoys sharing her enthusiasm with others as a part-time guide for Birding Ecotours and a co-organizer of the Headlands Birding Festival.

Will Cihula

Will is a Sophomore at Kirtland High School that loves birding.

walk leders coming soon for 2026

Headlands Birding Festival

© 2024 Friends of Headlands Beach State Park

Shopping Cart