Statewide Events in May to Help Celebrate Nebraska Bird Month

LINCOLN – Bird lovers across the state will be congregating in May in dozens of get-togethers to celebrate International Migratory Bird Month, better known as Nebraska Bird Month.

“The goal of Nebraska Bird Month is to help Nebraskans learn about and protect our feathered friends,” said Nebraska Game and Parks wildlife educator Lindsay Rogers. “Public awareness and concern are crucial components of migratory bird conservation.”

Several Nebraska state parks and recreational areas will be hosting events:

• Ponca State Park, May 7, 6:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.: A family-friendly day filled with bird-related programs and guided tours.

• Fort Kearny State Recreation Area, May 7, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.: In addition to shooting sports, fishing, and kayaking, visit the Kid Zone for bird education, crafts and activities.

• Niobrara State Park, May 14, 5:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.: Become a citizen scientist and learn to gather and identify biological information of the many birds migrating through Niobrara State Park.

An International Migratory Bird Day was first recognized in 1993, and is celebrated nationally on the second Saturday of May. Nebraska organizers lengthened the commemorative day into an entire month to allow organizers time to schedule events as needed.

To learn more about events scheduled near you, visit NebraskaBirdMonth.org.