The Friends of the Kern River Preserve will hold another of our free monthly family nature programs on Saturday, February 6, 2010 from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Come learn how to become a bird watcher from Alison Sheehey, Outreach Director at the Audubon Kern River Preserve.

Birds are one of the most fascinating groups in the animal kingdom. Magical jewels that fill our lives' with movement and color. This will be an interactive workshop that will be in three parts.

1. Binocular use (please bring your binoculars if you have them... we have some to share if you don't own a pair). Many people find it frustrating to see through binoculars. There are four simple yet critical steps to make it a joyous experience. You will be taken through these steps. (See the back page of this newsletter for some hints from Nikon)
2. Watching birds and seeing field marks are two different things. Many of us learn to see the whole bird and put a name on it. That works but takes a long time. Learn how to observe different parts of birds to create the whole picture and then use a field guide to find that bird.
3. After learning how to use a field guide... take a walk with an expert and get help identifying the species seen.

For those interested, after a short lunch break there will be a driving tour around Isabella Reservoir to see more species.

Monthly events are free and appropriate for ages 5 and up. All interested persons (children are welcome but those under 14 must be accompanied by an adult).

All of the Friends of the Kern River Preserve are held outdoors at the Audubon Kern River Preserve headquarters.

Please dress for variable weather, bring drinks, sunscreen and bug spray. Binoculars and a camera are always a good idea if you have them.

For more information please contact the Kern River Preserve at 1-760-378-2029 or krpfriends@ audubon.org.

Directions to the preserve at 18747 Highway 178, Weldon, CA 93283: on state Highway 178, the preserve is 57 miles east of Highway 99 in Bakersfield and 30 miles west of Highway 14 near Inyokern. Look for a large Audubon California sign at the entrance to the Kern River Preserve. The entrance is 100 feet west of Kelso Valley Road. Turn on the dirt easement road… drive 0.2 miles to the parking area inside the forest.