International Migratory Bird Day events at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge

Come visit Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge and celebrate International Migratory Bird Day! On Saturday, May 9th, come to the Visitor Center between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for family-friendly nature activities including crafts, games, and bird walks. Check out exhibits by local nature organizations, including live raptors and an opportunity to learn about solar-powered houses. At 1:00 p.m., join refuge staff and volunteers for a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the new boardwalk trail behind the visitor center. This is a day you don't want to miss - all activities are free and open to the public.

The refuge auto tour is open both Saturday and Sunday, May 9th and 10th, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Travel through seven miles of the refuge which are normally closed to the public. Drive at your own pace as you travel along a well-marked route, following a self-guided tour brochure found at the route entrance. This is the best time of year to see migratory birds as they move through the area.

On Sunday, May 10th, Dr. Susan Orosz will present "The Miracle of Flight," at 2:00 p.m. in the Visitor Center. Dr. Orosz is the owner of Bird & Exotic Pet Wellness Center in Toledo, Ohio, and past president of the Association of Avian Veterinarians. Her presentation will focus on fascinating aspects of bird flight, behavior, and anatomy, and is part of the monthly "Naturally Speaking" seminar series presented by Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge and the Black Swamp Bird Observatory.

For more information about these or other Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge events, visit the refuge website, http://www.fws.gov/midwest/ottawa. The Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge entrance is located 15 miles east of Toledo or 16 miles west of Port Clinton on State Route 2. The entrance road is located on the north side of State Route 2.