Cape Girardeau Nature Center to celebrate hummingbirds Aug. 17

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News from the region
Southeast
Published Date
08/13/2013
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CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – It’s time for ruby-throated hummingbirds to gear up for their annual fall migration to Central America. That also means it’s time for the annual Hummingbird Celebration at the Missouri Department of Conservation's (MDC) Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center on Saturday, Aug. 17.

The free public event will run from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and will include hummingbird banding, interactive informational displays, presentations, and other activities of interest to young and old alike.

Cathie Hutcheson, of Makanda, IL, will capture, band and release hummingbirds. She records important information to track the annual migration of the small birds. The banding will only occur from 8 a.m. until noon, while the birds are most active.

“If you’ve never witnessed the banding of a tiny hummingbird, you won’t want to miss this,” said Nature Center Assistant Manager Steven Juhlin.

Those attending the celebration will be able to pick up native plant seed packets to start or expand their own native plant garden, which provides the preferred nectar for hummingbirds. In addition to native flowers, many people provide needed energy for hummingbirds by hanging out feeders. Come learn how to attract hummingbirds as well as how to choose and maintain feeders.

For more information on this event and others offered at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center, call 573-290-5218 or go online to MissouriConservation.org.