UA’s Moundville Park Features Birds in Saturday Program

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The University of Alabama’s Moundville Archaeological Park invites visitors to a fun-filled day of activities related to birds.

The park will host a West Alabama Birding Trail-themed Saturday in the Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 30. The event is free to attend with paid park admission.

Moundville Archaeological Park is home to hundreds of avian species that can be spotted throughout the year, from Red-winged Blackbirds near the marsh to Orchard Orioles in the wooded areas, and this event is a perfect opportunity to learn more about these winged creatures, organizers said.

“Visitors can expect to learn some new things about the bird populations in West Alabama,” said Kenric Minges, Moundville Archeological Park’s AmeriCorps Volunteers in Service to America, or VISTA, member.

“This year’s program differs from last year because we have more interpreters and more hands-on activities,” Minges said.

Helena Uber-Wamble, of the Birmingham Audubon Society, will present information on changing migration patterns of birds, while Amy Walker, with the 4H Raptor Trek from Columbiana, Alabama, will showcase some predatory birds native to Alabama in an interactive Raptor Show.

A checklist of birds found in the park will be available, as will handout information on feeding birds and building birdhouses. Each visiting family can make and take a gourd birdhouse of their own.

While working on their birdhouse, visitors will learn why gourds are one of the world’s oldest domesticated plants and how Southeastern Indians used martin birds for insect control.

“Visitors will learn how to identify common birds that live here year round plus some that are just ‘passing through,'” Minges said. “And it will be a time for families to make ‘take home’ crafts together.”

Moundville’s Saturday in the Park is a series of programs featured during the spring, early summer and fall. The programs are free with paid park admission.

Admission is $6 for students (through college with student ID) and $8 for adults. Moundville Archaeological Park is located 13 miles south of Exit 71-A off of Interstate 20/59.

For more information on the West Alabama Birding Trail, visit alabamabirdingtrails.com.