Free birding workshop offered in Fergus Falls

“Winter is the perfect time to start learning to identify birds by their calls since fewer species live here in our hardiest season,” said Matt Conner, visitor services manager at the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center (PWLC) in Fergus Falls.

You can join other bird enthusiasts at the Outta Sight! Birding

by Ear Winter Workshop at the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center on Saturday, January 26, from 1 to 3 p.m.

During the workshop, you will take a closer listen at how birds make sounds, what their sounds mean

in winter, and which winter birds you can hear in your yard and at the PWLC. Mnemonic devices,

technological tools, taxidermy specimens, and field tips will be shared.

Indoor instruction and outdoor adventure are provided. Participants are advised to dress for the

weather in layers. Binoculars and field guides are available, or bring your own. Participants should bring

their own field notebook or recording device.

All abilities are welcome and the event is free.

All educators who participate receive a certificate documenting continuing education/clock hours. PWLC

Instructional Systems Specialist Molly Stoddard is your leader.

Register by calling (218) 998-4480 or emailing prairiewet@fws.gov .

Visitors are invited to return each season to learn new bird calls and songs in the migrating and nesting

seasons -- April 27, July 20, and October 5.

The PWLC is comprised of 330 acres of wetlands and prairies, and includes a visitor center with

classrooms, exhibit hall, and dining area, plus four miles of trails and 28 wetlands. It is located on State

Highway 210 East, south of Fergus Falls, one mile from exit 57 off I-94. For more information, call (218)

998-4480, or visit www.fws.gov/midwest/pwlc.

The PWLC is part of the Fergus Falls Wetland Management District, managed by the U.S. Fish and

Wildlife Service (Service). The Service is the principal Federal agency responsible for conserving,

protecting and enhancing fish, wildlife and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the

American people. The Service manages the 150-million-acre National Wildlife Refuge System, which

encompasses 560 national wildlife refuges, thousands of small wetlands and other special management

areas. It also operates 69 national fish hatcheries, 63 Fish and Wildlife Management offices and 81

ecological services field stations. For more information, visit www.fws.gov.

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