Upper Falls. Photo by Sally King/BNMBNM News:
Visitors to Bandelier National Monument may enjoy participating in some special programs this weekend.
Saturday May 11 all day: Bring your binoculars to Bandelier for Internationa Migratory Bird Day. Still time to sign up!
Many migratory birds have left their wintering areas to the south and are heading towards breeding sites to the north. Spring migration bird counts conducted across the continent on IMBD provide a snapshot of bird migration in progress.
The 2013 International Migratory Bird Day focuses on bird life cycles. This year’s theme details all aspects of a migratory birds’ life, from migration to breeding to nesting and to raising young. Stopover sites, the places where birds rest and refuel during migration, are just as essential to the overall life cycles of birds as breeding and winter areas. Spring migration bird counts such as the one on May 11 will help document the importance of stopover sites, as well as documenting difference between years in the pattern of migration.
This year Bandelier National Monument is working to increase the number of people counting bird within the park. For more information, Please Call Bandelier Wildlife Biologist Stephen Fettig at 505-672-3861, extension 706
Saturday May 11, 10 a.m. Burnt Mesa Hike With Archeologist Rory Gauthier
As a part of Historic Preservation Month, Rory Gauther will be your guide on a hike to Burnt Mesa Pueblo this Saturday. Learn about Archeology of the Pajarito Plateau. Meet at the Burnt Mesa trailhead at 10 a.m. on N.M. 4 this Saturday. This moderate hike lasts 2 to 3 hours. Please come prepared with water, snacks, your hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen and hats.
Sunday May 12, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Santa Fe Raptor Center Comes to Bandelier
Visitors to Frijoles Canyon can enjoy watching and learning about raptors such as hawks, eagles and owls in the visitor center courtyard. These beautiful winged creatures are cared for by the Santa Fe Raptor Center.
All programs are subject to change in case of inclement weather. For more information about these programs, please call the Visitor Center at 505-672-3861, ext 517, www.nps.gov/band.
