Beginning bird watching program at Florida State College Aug. 4

July 19, 2011

Green heron perched along Rocky Bayou. Photo courtesy Walt Spence, Choctawhatchee Audubon

Learn the basics of birding from an expert

The Choctawhatchee Audubon Society kicks off it’s exciting 2011-2012 schedule with a program on beginning bird watching with master birder, Lenny Fenimore. This will be a great opportunity for those who might have an interest to gain the knowledge and practical tips which are necessary for enjoying the hobby. Birds can be elusive subjects for study, and Lenny’s presentation will arm the newcomer with tools which will help to avoid disappointment and frustration.

Mr. Fenimore has impressive birding credentials. He studied at the prestigious Cornell University Laboratory of Ornithology and has traveled extensively in North America and 18 countries in search of rare and interesting birds. He has assisted both federal and state agencies and university researchers with many projects, including the search for the ivory-billed woodpecker and monitoring burrowing owl colonies on Eglin AFB.

Lenny’s entertaining program is seasoned with wit and wisdom, and is suitable for all ages, especially students and families. He will cover such topics as species identification, optics for birding, and tips for finding and observing them. This will be especially helpful for those who are already pondering the purchase of binoculars and are wondering which type to buy.

Lenny’s program will be presented at the regular August meeting of the Choctawhatchee Audubon Society on Thursday, August 4, in the Learning Resources Center, Room 128 on the N/W Florida State College main campus, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. The meeting begins with socializing at 6:30 p.m., and the program is at 7 p.m. Admission is free and open to anyone with an interest in birds and nature. For more information, call Walt Spence at (850)582-7064, orĀ  log on to choctawhatcheeaudubon.org. For a map of the campus, log on to www.nwfsc.edu/documents/maps/niceville.pdf