JUNEAU — The Tongass National Forest, in partnership with Juneau Audubon Society and Juneau Community Garden Association, will host International Migratory Bird Day activities on Saturday, May 14 at the Juneau Community Garden.
The Tongass, with millions of acres of forest habitat, is a destination for temperate songbirds. Small-sized birds like warblers, thrushes and hummingbirds are returning to Alaska to make their nests.
On International Migratory Bird Day, Juneau residents will get 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.
Morning events will include a songbird banding demonstration ongoing between 8 and 10:30 a.m. at the large pavilion. Heavy rain will cancel bird capture, but experts will still be on hand for bird viewing, identification, and kid’s activities.
The program is family-friendly and free of charge; participants can stop by and see birds any time during the morning.
International Migratory Bird Day was initiated by bird conservationists over 20 years ago in order to increase awareness and appreciation of migratory birds. Saturday’s event will mark more than 18 years of participation by Tongass National Forest.
For more information contact Gwen Baluss at the Juneau Ranger District, 907-789-6254 or email at gbaluss@fs.fed.us.
