HPEC Bird Walk & Bird Banding

9AM -- Scott Rashid, Director of the Colorado Avian Research and Rehabilitation Institute (CARRI), will join us for a lively bird-banding demonstration beginning at 9:00 am. This is a wonderfully interactive and educational citizen-science opportunity for the whole family. Songbirds are caught in mist nets, and carefully measured and banded. Depending on the number of birds that arrive, attendees may have the opportunity to hold the birds and observe them up close before releasing them. Bird banding is a national program administered jointly by the US Geological Survey and the Canadian Wildlife Service to support avian research. The information recorded at our bird bandings is sent to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory in Laurel, MD to be utilized for scientific research.

10AM -- Immediately after, Sheila Webber, seasoned birder of Ft. Collins Audubon, will lead a casual bird walk around Equalizer Lake. Sheila has documented over 200 species of birds in the foothills region and loves sharing her passion with others. Birders will be given a bird checklist of species typically seen in our area, and the bird count for the day will be sent to eBird and to all registrants.

This is an outdoor event and will be held weather permitting. If cancelled due to weather, (snow, rain, or extreme wind/cold) registrants will be notified via Facebook and/or email.

Cost: Any donation, (suggested $10)
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Children: Yes
Strollers: Yes
Accessibility: Natural surface trails. Maximum 3.5 miles.
Recommended gear: Binoculars, walking shoes, dress in layers, water bottle, hat, sunscreen, sun glasses.