With the rainy weather greening things up new birds could be expected to be seen for the annual Spring Bird Walk beginning at 6:30 a.m. MDT on Sunday in the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Each year around 40-60 species of birds are observed during the expedition.
The one-hour guided stroll through Cottonwood Campground is for novice and experienced birders. Anyone interested should meet at the campground registration area, stated a recent press release.
"This spring is especially wet and green in the Badlands and we may find some unexpected birds this year," TRNP Superintendent Valerie Naylor said. "We encourage both beginners and advanced birders to join us. It is a fun event that gives us all an opportunity to enjoy an early morning in the national park."
For the past 19 years more than 80 different bird species have been sighted. This year's goal is to observe 60 species in honor of the park's 60th anniversary. Bring binoculars, field guides and keen eyes to help record the day's sightings.
At about 8 a.m. MDT, the Theodore Roosevelt Nature and History Association will host its annual Chuckwagon breakfast at the Cottonwood Campground Picnic Area. The menu includes buttermilk pancakes, country sausage, cowboy coffee and juice. There is a free will offering to help defray meal expenses, stated the press release.
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No reservations are necessary, but interested parties who would like to attend breakfast should call 701-623-4466.
"We look forward to the bird walk every year," Naylor added. "The Theodore Roosevelt Nature and History Association has sponsored it each spring for 63 years. It is truly a park tradition."
