January Bird Language *Canceled*

**The Wildlife Refuge is Closed During the Government Shutdown**

**I am sorry to report that we are canceling our January Bird Language gathering, due to the government shutdown. We hope everything will be back up and running in time for our next gathering on Sunday, February 3**

Please join us for our next Bird Language Gathering

Saturday, January 5

9:00 - 1:00

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center

3815 American Blvd E

Bloomington, MN 55425

Registration for these gatherings is encouraged, but not required. Feel free to drop by--and it would be great to know that you are coming!

**Please note that the Refuge Visitor Center is closed during the government shutdown, and all programs are suspended. Depending on when the shutdown ends, we may cancel this gathering. Please stay posted for updates.***

Birds talk to each other. We can learn to understand it. And it's fun!

In past winters, mixed feeding flocks have kept watch over owls roosting near the Hillside Trail. After several sits, our group started to get familiar with the subtle bands of suppression and excitement that surrounded the owls. The past two years, the barred owls seemed to be roosting in a different part of the Refuge. Will they return this winter? Will we get indications of a great-horned owl in the area again? One thing is for sure--the songbirds will know. Join us as we gather to eavesdrop on their conversations. And perhaps catch sight of an owl in the process.

What should I bring?

Bring what you need to be comfortable sitting still, outside on the ground for an extended period of time—perhaps as long as an hour. You will also need something to take notes on. You do not need to have binoculars, but there is no harm in bringing a pair if you would like. Here are a few recommended and optional items to bring:

Recommended:

Note pad & pencil

Ground cloth, blanket or camp-chair

Appropriate clothing for whatever weather we have that day

Warm footware

Optional:

Water bottle

Snack

Binoculars

Sign me up!

Registration is encouraged, but not required. Feel free to drop in and join us—and it would be great to know you are coming! If you have any questions, or to register for the event:

• • E-mail Jonathan <poppele@umn.edu>

  • Use our online Contact Form

  • Link to this event here on Facebook

For a map & directions click here