Bird Day Pictures

Saturday (02 MAY) was a great day for bird lovers in the Mid-Michigan area as the Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture & Lifeways celebrated its 4th annual Bird Day Celebration.  Bird lovers from as far away as the metro-Detroit area and Grand Rapids converged on Mt. pleasant to take part in this celebration.  This event was co-sponsored by the Ziibiwing Center, the Isabella Conservation District, and the Chippewa Valley Audubon Club.  Visitors to the event enjoyed a variety of educational displays, bird-themed crafts, owl pellet dissection, and bird banding. 

Owl pellet dissection and other fun at the Ziibiwing Center

The highlight of the day for many people was the live raptor presentation by Wings of Wonder founder Rebecca Lessard.  Rebecca brought three of the Wings of Wonder raptor family to the Ziibiwing Center.  First up was Ned the Northern Saw-whet Owl.  Ned is small, but he has a big personality that awes the crowd.

Rebecca Lessard and the small but mighty Ned

The second raptor that made an appearance was Rita Mae the Peregrine Falcon.  As Rebecca explained to the crowd, Rita Mae is very motivated by food and has to be rewarded for her appearance.  Her reward?  Fresh quail meat.  At one point, Rita Mae grabbed the entire container of quail meat out of Rebecca's hand and wouldn't give it back.  This reminded me of the tug-of-war over a glove that we witnessed during our recent visit to the Wings of Wonder sanctuary.

Rebecca Lessard and Rita Mae walk through an enthusiastic crowd

The final raptor to make an appearance was Doolin the Turkey Vulture.  This was Doolin's second visit to the Ziibiwing Center.  He also appeared during the 2014 Bird Day Celebration.  Doolin has a great personality that allows him to show viewers that, despite their reputation, Turkey Vultures are indeed awesome birds.

Rebecca Lessard and Doolin

The Bird Day Celebration at the Ziibiwing Center was listed an official event for both World Migratory Bird Day and International Migratory Bird Day.  Thanks to everyone who volunteered their time and to everyone who attended!