CORNWALL, Ontario – The River Institute’s summer workshop series wraps up on Saturday, September 12, when ‘Birds in Your Backyard’ takes flight over the OPG visitor centre.
The free, family-friendly event runs from noon to 4 p.m.
“We are excited to focus on birds for our last workshop of the 2015 season,” said Cristina Charette, education coordinator for the River Institute of Environmental Sciences.
Wildlife educators have invited special guests from the Cornwall and Area Birding Club to deliver presentations and host information stations, which will highlight bird biology and identification by featuring skulls, feathers, eggs, and bird calls.
Local birder, Jean Louis Rochette, will speak on his decades-long mission to protect and provide homes for Purple Martins. Other members will discuss preservation of unique local bird and water fowl habitat, such as the work that has been taking place over the last couple of years at Cooper Marsh.
“Visitors are encouraged to bring along their cameras as local photographers provide examples of their work along with handy tips on taking pictures of wildlife,” said Karen Douglass-Cooper, communications director for the River Institute.
Participants can then put their newly acquired knowledge to the test as wildlife biologists partner with local experts to lead a bird walk.
Children are specially invited to let their imaginations take flight by dropping by the bird craft centre in the lobby. Scopes and binoculars will be available.
The summer series is run through a three-way partnership between the River Institute, Ontario Power Generation (OPG), and the St. Lawrence Power Development Visitor Centre (2500B Second Street W.).
“Our workshops and the new ‘Scientist in Residence’ program have given us an opportunity to meet with hundreds of people to explore the world of science and nature,” said Charette. “We have had a great summer working with OPG.”
For more details, call the River Institute at (613) 936-6620.
