Stay in Touch with MDC news, newsletters, events, and manage your subscription
Xplor reconnects kids to nature and helps them find adventure in their own backyard. Free to residents of Missouri.
A monthly publication about conservation in Missouri. Started in 1938, the printed magazine is free to residents of Missouri.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Seasonal migrations and improved visual opportunities due to a lack of tree foliage makes winter an excellent time for birding.
People can get tips on what species of birds can be seen at this time of year and where are the best birding spots at two Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual birding programs on Dec. 14. Both programs will be from 6-7 p.m., are free, and are open to all ages.
Best of the Ozarks Virtual Series, Winter Birding: At this online program, MDC Naturalist Morgan Wyatt will discuss some of the species that can be seen in Missouri in winter. She’ll explain how the Ozarks winter visitors range in size from smaller birds such as juncos and pine siskins to large species like bald eagles and pelicans. Wyatt will discuss where are good places to see birds in winter and what type of equipment is essential for the best viewing. The “Best of the Ozarks” virtual series is designed to connect people with the best outdoor opportunities in the Ozarks. People can register for this program at:
https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/181067
Birdwatching 101, Winter Raptors: At this virtual program, MDC Conservation Educator Jeff Cantrell will discuss hawks, vultures, and other large raptors that can be seen in this region in winter. Some of these birds migrate here from areas further north; others are here year round, but can be seen easier at this time of year because of a lack of tree foliage and other vegetation. Cantrell will discuss how these large birds provide excellent opportunities for novices to get interested in birding and for others to hone their bird identification skills. People can register for this program at:
https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/180772
Though these programs are free, registration is required to participate. Use the link above. Registrants must provide an e-mail, so a program link can be sent to them. These programs will include a chat-based question-and-answer period where participants can interact with the presenters.
Program registrants should note that they now have the option to link their children’s accounts to their own, which will streamline the program registration process. Once a group account is set up, parents will be able to register their children for an event without having to log-off or log-in for each person. This allows parents to register an entire family or select family members for an event at the same time.
Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding virtual and in-person programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.
