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Health & Fitness

Celebrate the Return of Migratory Birds at the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center

The birds are returning to the northern hemisphere and Schlitz Audubon Nature Center is celebrating their return with a special event dedicated exclusively to migratory birds!

The is celebrating the return of Migratory birds by hosting a special International Migratory Bird Day event on May 12 from 9 a.m. to noon.

Just like the birds returning in spring, visitors can migrate around the Center enjoying hands-on activities designed for learning and fun! The event kicks off as early as 7:30 a.m. with a morning bird walk led by expert birder Paul Boyer. Enjoy bird-friendly coffee and snacks inside the building beginning at 9 a.m. A number of guided bird hikes will take place throughout the morning, with walks focused specifically on birding by ear, identifying Warblers, and birding for children. SANC’s Birds of Prey Raptor Program will also perform a free-flight demonstration inside the building at 10 a.m.

Can you hoot like an owl? Caw like a crow? Or produce the lovely song of a Baltimore Oriole? At 11 a.m., join others in a bird-call contest. You don’t have to be a pro to participate – all ages and talent levels are welcome!

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Various “migration stations” will allow wildlife enthusiasts to choose their own adventure. Protect birds from window collisions by decorating bird silhouettes, compare your wingspan with that of your favorite bird, or take the eagle-eye challenge atop SANC’s 60-foot observation tower. Additional activities include bird-sign geocaching, crafts and games designed to help participants learn about birds and their conservation, and more! There’s sure to be something for every age level at this special “bird-themed” event.

Leading up to the International Migratory Bird Day event, students and adults can participate in a migratory bird photo contest, where one winner from each category will receive a one-year family membership to SANC. Entries can be uploaded to SANC’s Facebook page or e-mailed to bbromberek@sanc.org.

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All entries must be received by 5 p.m. on May 9. Contest rules can be found online. Winners will be announced at the May 12 event at 12 p.m. and participants must be present to win.

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