This year's Festival of Birds marks the largest yet. With the extra appeal of birding favorite David Allen Sibley, as of mid-April more than 200 people had already signed up for the May 17-20 event, representing 19 states.
Detroit Lakes seems to be the right place to see many different species of birds. The area marks the spot where three transition zones - prairie, hardwood and conifer forest - come together. Mike Murphy, manager of Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge until its recent office closing, said the three major biomes coming together is quite rare.
Hamden hosts many species of shorebirds thanks to the many lakes and wetlands on the 3,200 acres, and prairie grass birds - "We've got piles of them."
Birds, he says, are the "world's vacuum cleaners," turning over every leaf to eat the insects or seeds, depending on the bird and ecosystem they live in.
Those attending the festival will have a chance to see many of those birds. In 1990, birders saw 145 species. Now, they are seeing around 225 species.
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"We're a changing habitat. People realize that and are coming from all over the US," Cleone Stewart, co-organizer of the festival, said.
Each year, besides birds, organizers are including other interests to the festival, like dragonflies and wildflowers.
"Others have described us as not only the best in the state, but best in the nation," Murphy said of the festival.
"Bird watching has become a big hobby in the US," he added.
During the festival, each tour will have one naturalist and three to six bird experts to answer questions.
"It's very good individual attention," Stewart said.
And for those who decide not to take the tours, there will be a silent auction, activities and exhibitors at the headquarters - Minnesota State Community and Technical College, Detroit Lakes - all weekend.
"It's a good opportunity to get involved," Stewart said.
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Besides the birds, one major draw to the festival this year is Sibley. He will be the keynote speaker Saturday evening and will hold a book signing as well.
Sibley is known for his illustrations and bird guidebooks.
Birders can visit www.visitdetroitlakes.com for more information or to sign up for the festival. Or call the Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber of Commerce at 218-847-9202 or 800-542-3992.
