International Wildlife Film Festival roars back to life March 3

The Redwood Valley Outdoor Education Project (RVOEP) is proud to again host an engaging selection of award-winning films from the International Wildlife Film Festival (IWFF) of Missoula, Montana. The first screenings begin on Friday, March 3 at the Ukiah Civic Center, 300 Seminary Ave. The series will continue at the same venue for two more Friday evenings, ending March 17.

Participants are invited to enjoy live music and snacks starting at 6:15 p.m., with films beginning at 7 p.m. Series tickets are available at the Mendocino Book Company and at the door for a suggested donation of $30. Individual tickets can be purchased at the door for $10 for adults and $5 for children. Most films are appropriate for older children, but parental discretion is advised.

IWFF is one of the nation's oldest and most respected wildlife film festivals. Each year the organizers select some of the most noteworthy films for a Post-festival Tour. RVOEP has organized these 2022 winning films into a themed presentation for each Friday evening of the festival.

Opening night on March 3 will inspire viewers with films that feature bees, butterflies and birds. This night provides an opportunity to meet a wide variety of native bees up close and learn about the amazing migrations of monarch butterflies and a threatened and rapidly declining shorebird, the whimbrel. Live music will be provided by Bob Laughton.

Friday, March 10 brings the theme “Wildlife Warriors — Kenyans Fighting for Kenyan Wildlife.” Three 28-minute films from the award-winning series “Wildlife Warriors” will be featured: “Making Way for Rhinos,” “The Beautiful Bats of Kenya,” and “The Royal Elephants of Samburu.” Live music is provided by Kim Monroe.

The Wildlife Film Festival wraps up on March 17 with “Predator Night — Bears, Coyotes, and People.” Music will be provided by Steve Hahm.