SFA Gardens to host popular backyard birding seminar

Cedar waxwings at bird bath

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. Friday Nov. 16 and from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday Nov. 17.

Participants will enjoy a Friday evening lecture with Cliff Shackelford, ornithologist with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 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 seventh-generation Texan and began bird watching at age 9. He holds both bachelor's and master's degrees in biology, with an emphasis in avian ecology, from SFA and has authored more than 60 publications on birds and birding. He is lead author of the book "Hummingbirds of Texas" published 2005.

Participants will meet for both sessions at the Pineywoods Native Plant Center, 2900 Raguet St. Comfortable walking shoes and binoculars are recommended.

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