Nebraskaland Magazine
LINCOLN – Gov. Pete Ricketts will declare May as Nebraska International Migratory Bird Month during a ceremony May 13 at Warner Chamber at the Nebraska Capitol. Family bird walks, breakfast birding outings and other educational, family-friendly events are planned statewide throughout the month of May to celebrate.
Since 1993, International Migratory Bird Day has been celebrated nationally on the second Saturday of May. In Nebraska, the celebration has been extended throughout the month of May. It is a chance for conservationists, natural resource agencies, families and individuals to celebrate birds and bird migration.
Nebraska is situated in what is known as the Central Flyway, a migration route used by hundreds of species of birds each spring and fall, which makes it an excellent place for bird watching. In addition, outdoor recreation including bird watching provides Nebraska’s economy with more than $700 million annually through travel and equipment.
“Nebraska has truly outstanding birding opportunities, and we’re thrilled that Gov. Ricketts recognizes and supports the importance of migratory birds in Nebraska.” said Lindsay Rogers, a wildlife educator for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. “Birding is a wonderful family activity that parents, grandparents and children of all ages can do together. Birding also is a great way to spur interest in nature and conservation in both youth and adults.”
Dozens of parks, nature centers, museums and other entities across Nebraska will host guided birding tours, bird counts, educational programs, bird-related crafts and more. Most events are either free or low-cost. For a complete schedule and description of events statewide, visit NebraskaBirdMonth.org.
