Bird Banding at the Elkhart Oasis presented by Professor Tony Rothering

The Elkhart Historical Society will welcome Professor Tony Rothering of LLCC to the Friday June 23, 2023, dinner lecture podium to present, “Bird Banding at the Elkhart Oasis.” Rothering will discuss the process and purpose of bird banding and the significance of a high biodiverse “island” (oasis) to migrating birds. Elkhart Hill’s Forest measures approximately 600 acres of mature hardwoods, which is surrounded primarily by monocultures of corn and soybeans fields where very few hedge rows or groves of trees remain. For the many species of migrating birds Elkhart Hill offers a much-needed rest and refueling stop. Many species of warblers that transit the hill are on their way north to breeding grounds in the upper Midwest and Canada. Rothering is a federally permitted bird bander and has just completed a successful annual banding on Elkhart Hill, where over 120 birds were recorded, banded and released.

The event will take place at Horsefeathers Wild Hare Café in Elkhart, Illinois; and the two entrees offered are Beef Bourguignon or Coq au Vin. For menu details and a reservation form please go to the website – elkharthistoricalsociety.org. The total cost is $45 which includes the meal, tax, tip and $15 for the lecture.

Reservations are required and can be made by calling 217 947 2238. Please leave your information when prompted, and you will be confirmed by a return call.