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Forest Service invites public to celebrate International Migratory Bird Day JUNEAU, Alaska–The Tongass National Forest will host International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD) activities on Saturday, May 16 at the Juneau Community Garden. The popular day of bird-oriented education and activities
is a free event organized by the U.S. Forest Service in partnership with Juneau Audubon Society and Juneau Community Garden Association. With millions of acres of forested habitat, the Tongass is a destination for temperate rainforest songbirds. Locally, most small-sized birds like warblers, thrushes, and hummingbirds are migratory, returning
to Alaska to make their nests. The event is an opportunity to see these travelers up close, and learn how scientists study them. Trained biologists will fit birds with individually numbered bands, measure, weigh, and safely release them.
Migratory birds from previous years’ events are likely to be re-captured as well. International Migratory Bird Day was initiated by bird conservationists over 20 years ago in order to increase awareness and appreciation of migratory birds. It is currently coordinated by the Environment for
the Americas. The day will mark more than 17 years of participation by Tongass National Forest. Morning events will be held at the Juneau Community Garden (off Montana Creek Road). A songbird banding demonstration will be ongoing between 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. at the large pavilion. There will be concurrent
bird-related activities for youth, also in the large pavilion. Heavy rain will cancel bird capture, but experts will still be on hand for bird viewing and kid’s birding activities. The program is family-friendly and free of charge; participants can stop by and see birds any time during the morning. For more information contact Gwen Baluss at the Juneau Ranger District, 907-789-6254 or
e-mail at gbaluss@xxxxxxxxx. -end- |
