We are excited to host this complementary, two-part program starting at 6:15:

Part 1 from 6:15-7:00pm:

Speakers: Duval Audubon Vice-President Elizabeth Filippelli & Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens Curator Mike Taylor

This program's goal is to connect with our community and provide education about the perils to birds of artificial light pollution at night and reflective window glass, as well as the many simple solutions to address these perils. You will learn about and see the new Acopian Bird Saver Cords that are installed on the windows of the Nature Center. Mike and Elizabeth will do a quick demonstration on this amazing and easy DIY to help birds avoid reflective glass. A sign up sheet will be available to a future Acopian Bird Savers DIY Workshop. It's a "how to" create your own Acopian Bird Savers and take them home to use on your reflective windows.

Part 2 from 7:00-8:00pm:

Speaker: Charlie Muise, Director of UF Bird Observatory

Since 1992, Charlie Muise has banded over 40,000 birds of more than 100 species across the eastern U.S. This year, a group of researchers at the University of Florida hired him to kickstart the new University of Florida Bird Observatory (UFBO). The goals of the observatory are to train graduate and undergraduate students, assist with permitting and logistics of various projects, conduct public outreach and education, and collect samples for multiple investigators, all while conducting statistically valid research into bird populations.

Charlie will give an update on the first few months of this endeavor, including current and continuing projects, as well as some future possibilities. He will explain how it fits into current research and outreach programs and talk about the need for volunteers and support from local birders.

Location: Tillie Fowler Regional Park Nature Center, 7000 Roosevelt Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32244.

The Tillie Fowler Nature Center is at the north end of the road through the park. The City of Jacksonville parks naturalist team has recently revitalized this fantastic nature center. We also house our new Joan and Richard Becker Nature Library there with over 100 books available for members to check out and return!

This meeting will start with refreshments and networking at 6:00 pm. We will provide snacks and drinks; please feel free to BYOD (Bring Your Own Dinner) and enjoy it during the program. Please also bring your own cup to help cut down on plastic trash at this event. Thank you!