Anyone interested in identifying and learning more about grassland birds is invited to celebrate International Migratory Bird Day from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 11, at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, located 20 miles east of Des Moines near Prairie City.
At 9 a.m., the free event will kick off with a bird hike led by the Neal Smith NWR’s biologist and bird expert, Karen Viste-Sparkman. Birders of all experience level and age are welcome to attend, and binoculars will be provided for use during the hike.
Other fun activities for children will be available as well. There will be bird-related arts and crafts and activities throughout the morning. Visitors also will be able to view artwork done by students across the state featured in the Iowa Junior Duck Stamp Art exhibit, which is currently showing in the Visitor Center’s art gallery.
Registration is required for the bird hike. To register, contact Michelle Garcia at (515) 994-3400 or michelle_garcia@fws.gov. Participants who wish to attend the bird hike should meet at the front desk of the visitor center at 9 a.m.