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MDC to host free birding workshops and activities in February at Blue Springs
Kansas City, Mo. – Winter is a fine time to observe and enjoy birds whether afield or watching them visit backyard bird feeders. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will host free educational programs about birds during February at the Burr Oak Woods Nature Center in Blue Springs. Visitors can learn about bird identification and banding, owls, and bluebirds.
A Bird in the Hand program from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1, will give participants a chance to assist with science and learn more about birds that commonly visit feeders each winter. This program for all ages does not require advance registration. The Missouri River Bird Observatory avian experts and Burr Oak Woods staff partner in an on-going project to identify and track birds that come to the nature center’s feeders. Birds caught in mist nets are gently handled and given colored leg bands. If the bands are spotted or found again, the information is entered in a data base. Participants will be able to track movements of birds they band.
Families with children ages 6 to 13 can enjoy an Incredible Owls program from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 11. Participants can learn about the mysterious world of owls and the adaptations that make them awesome night-time hunters. Activities will include dissecting owl pellets to see what the raptors have been eating. A trek outdoors will give visitors a chance to listen for owls hooting in the Burr Oak woods. Registration is requested by Feb. 11. To register, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZmP.
Bluebirds are lovely and Missouri’s state bird. A Bluebird of Happiness program from 9 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 29, will look at the history, success, and future of bluebirds in Missouri. Participants can learn how to attract bluebirds to their property. This program is for all ages and no registration is required.
MDC’s Burr Oak Woods Nature Center is located at 1401 N.W. Park Road in Blue Springs. For more information, call 816-228-3766, or visit http://mdc.mo.gov/burroakwoods.