By FHSU University Relations<\/b><\/p>\n
In celebration of International Migratory Bird Day, Fort Hays State University\u2019s Kansas Wetlands Education Center will host \u201cThe Great Migration Rally\u201d from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 29, at the center.<\/p>\n
The KWEC, 592 NE K-156 Highway, is at the southeast side of Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area, northeast of Great Bend.<\/p>\n
Participants will begin their own migration adventure with several activities, including: a migration adventure contest, crafts, a Ukrainian egg display, FHSU\u2019s MakerSpace van, games and a live bird display featuring Lurch the turkey vulture, hawks, owls and falcons presented by Pat Silovsky, Milford Nature Center director.<\/p>\n
A demonstration and display of Ukrainian eggs will be provided by Christine Slechta, Wilson. In the MakerSpace van, children will be provided with the opportunity to make a sled kite. Participants will also be able to create an edible bird house, solve an egg match and get a bird tattoo.<\/p>\n
After receiving a map, participants will drive through Cheyenne Bottoms, making two stops before making a stop at Sts. Peter and Paul Church. Children will then arrive at Barton Community College\u2019s Camp Aldrich. Participants will collect bird migration cards throughout the afternoon to earn points for prizes, including an action sport camera, tents, fishing poles, camping gear for kids and adults and local artwork.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe concept is to provide information about the hazards birds face during migration with a fun and entertaining approach,\u201d said Curtis Wolf, KWEC manager.<\/p>\n
Supper will be served, followed by a \u201cBirds of Prey Show\u201d presentation by Silovsky, and several of her live program birds.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe were very fortunate to have so many businesses, organizations and individuals donate prizes for this event,\u201d said Wolf. \u201cWe also appreciate Barton Community College\u2019s partnership, as well as sponsorships from the city of Great Bend, the Nature Conservancy, Friends of Cheyenne Bottoms and the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism.\u201d<\/p>\n