World Migratory Bird Day family event

Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day by participating in free and fun bird related activities for the whole family from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. Birds are on the move as they migrate from their southern breeding grounds to Iowa and beyond. Learn about their magnificent migrations and how you can help our feathered friends. All activities are free.

Guided Bird Watching Walk at 9 a.m.: Join a naturalist to search for birds along the half-mile mile Oak Savanna Trail loop. Learn bird-watching tips while enjoying the sights and sounds of spring. Loaner binoculars will be available. Register by emailing nancy_corona@fws.gov or calling 515-994-3400.

Bird Photography Workshop at 10 a.m.: Join nature photographer Gregg Punelli for an indoor presentation to learn tips on how to successfully photograph birds. Register by emailing nancy_corona@fws.gov or calling 515-994-3400.

Birds on the Move – Nature Tots, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.: Children ages 3-5, accompanied by an adult, will read a nature story, look for birds and make a bird craft. Register by emailing nancy_corona@fws.gov or calling 515-994-3400.

Ongoing Bird Activities, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.: No registration required.

• Live Birds of Prey Display by SOAR – Saving Our Avian Resources

• Iowa Bird Rehabilitation Exhibit – Learn how to help wild birds and make a paper nest for orphaned baby birds

• Bird Themed Crafts

• Coloring Page Table

• Free Stickers and giveaways

• Take a self-guided bird-watching walk along the ½ mile Overlook Trail loop. Practice your birding skills and read the bird-watching tips located on the signs posted along the trail – Birding Brochures and free loaner binoculars are available. The Overlook Trail is wheelchair accessible and loaner manual and electric wheelchairs are available at the visitor center

• Participate in a Bird Scavenger Hunt along the Overlook Trail

• Pack and lunch and eat at the indoor/outdoor eating areas

• Drive along the 5-mile Prairie Wildlife Drive to look for bison and elk

• Borrow loaner binoculars at the visitor center to view wildlife

• Enjoy the indoor exhibits and use the Explorer Sheets

• View a 15-minute introductory movie about the tallgrass prairie

• Shop at the Friends of Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge Nature Store

Contact nancy_corona@fws.gov or call 515-994-3400 for additional information.