Help Decorate A Christmas Tree For The Birds

SOUTHBURY — The Audubon Center at Bent of the River’s annual children’s program “Christmas Tree for Birds” is slated for Sunday, December 7, at 2 pm.

Families with children in elementary school are invited to join Ellen Turner to create a Christmas tree just for birds. Participants will meet at the nature center’s kiosk, near the parking lot, to a search for natural bird foods and a hike on the River Trail.

Back at the barn, the children will string garlands of cranberries and popcorn and make colorful ornaments the birds can eat. They will also hang dried fruit slices and bagels tied to the tree with festive red yarn.

After the tree is decorated, hot drinks will be provided for the children and adults. Binoculars will be available for those who wish to stay and watch the birds’ response to their new food source.

Suggested donation is $5, and reservations are required for this popular program. Call the center at 264-5098.

The Audubon Center at Bent of the River is at 185 East Flat Hill Road, off Route 172 (between South Britain Congregational Church and South Britain General Store) in Southbury, about one mile from I-84 Exit 14.

Trails at the center are open to visitors every day, dawn to dusk. Please, leave pets at home. For more information call 264-5098 during business hours.