Annual gathering at Estuarine Reserve focused on flight
19.05.11
Think you got what it takes to tell the difference between a black-throated gray warbler and a least Bell’s vireo?
Those who attended the 13th annual International Migratory Bird Day on Saturday at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve on Saturday might have a shot.
Bird watchers, nature lovers and tourists attended a day crammed with events, which included two 15-minute nature hikes, bird calling and learning how to spy birds through binoculars.
Similar events were held across the nation by hundreds of organizations hoping to call attention to the plight of migratory birds.
“What’s interesting about us and what our niche is here are our scientists,” Education Coordinator Ann Marie Tipton said. “We have scientists on hand, so we can observe birds and translate the current science, collect data and share it with the public.”
Some 370 bird species have been spotted in the estuary. Those include the endangered white-bodied, black-headed California least tern; the red-throated California brown pelican; and the light-footed clapper rail. Some 320 of the species are migratory.
Source: San Diego Union Tribune