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Stephen F. Austin State University

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Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµ Gardens to host backyard birding seminar

March 21, 2011

NACOGDOCHES, Texas - The Stephen F. Austin State University Pineywoods Native Plant Center will host a two-part garden seminar, "How to Identify and Attract Backyard Birds," from 6:30 to 8 p.m. March 25 and from 8 to 11 a.m. March 26.

Participants will enjoy a Friday evening lecture with Cliff Shackelford, ornithologist with Texas Parks and Wildlife, regarding identification of common local birds. On Saturday, Shackelford will lead a birding stroll through the plant center property and to the nearby Shackelford home to visit the family's backyard made "for the birds."

Shackelford is a fifth-generation Texan and began bird watching at age 9. He holds both a bachelor's degree and master's degree in biology, with an emphasis in avian ecology, from Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµ and has authored more than 50 publications on birds and birding. He is lead author of the book "Hummingbirds of Texas" that was published in 2005 by Texas A&M University Press.

Participants will meet for both sessions at the plant center, 2900 Raguet St. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and binoculars are available for first-time participants, if needed.

Cost is $20 for members of Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµ Gardens Friends and $25 for non-members. To register, call the Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµ Gardens Education Office at (936) 468-1832 or e-mail erodewald@sfasu.edu.





By Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµ Public Affairs
Contact:
University Marketing Communications
(936) 468-2605