HSV Audubon topic: ‘Bird Friendly Yard’
HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE — Hot Springs Village Audubon will host special guest speakers Jack and Pam Stewart, presenting Arkansas Audubon “Bird Friendly Yard Certification Program,” at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Coronado Center.
Many bird species are in decline as a result of habitat reduction, but home yards are capable of supplementing lost habitat. The Stewarts will introduce the criteria required for participation in the Bird Friendly Yard Program, with focus on the ecological relationships of plants, birds and the insects that most birds depend on to feed nestlings, as well as the negative impact of non-native invasive species.
They will discuss typical hazards around homes, such as windows, lighting and cats, and show examples of supplementary feeders, water features and native plant gardens.
Pam Stewart has been interested in nature and science since childhood. She has worked at New York Botanical Garden, at nature centers as a naturalist and taught science in the U.S. and in international schools in five countries. She has co-authored articles in Nature and Science and scientific journals. Since retirement, she has been instrumental in invasive plant removal projects within the Buffalo National River.
Jack Stewart became interested in birds before he was old enough to drive a car. Since retiring, he has served two terms as president of Arkansas Audubon Society and is co-chair of the Education Committee. He is on the board of the National Audubon Society, representing the Mississippi-South Region, is vice president of Buffalo River Watershed Alliance, and is a board member of Buffalo National River Partners.
Visitors are welcome, there is no charge. This is the final week of HSV Audubon’s Bird Supply Sale, so come early to order birdseed, water trays and bird nest boxes. Questions, call Wayne Krone 922-0711.