Neonicotinoids are the most widely used insecticides in North America. They are applied to our crops, nursery plants, and lawns in vast amounts. These chemicals are uniquely problematic for birds; they are coated onto seeds, leached into waterways, and drifted into habitats.

 We will explore the chemistry behind neonics that makes them so harmful, the ways they are used in modern life, the various ways they impact birds, and learn how to reduce our dependence on them. 

From our backyards to our halls of power, we all can take action to understand and reduce the negative impacts of neonics on birds. 

Join us for this free virtual presentation on Neonics and Birds: A Toxic Relationship on Thursday, February 13, 2025 from 7:00-8:30pm CT.

About the Speaker:

Hardy Kern is the Director of Government Relations for American Bird Conservancy. Hardy works to find legislative and policy solutions to threats to birds from toxic pesticides, lead, and degraded habitats. He has a B.S. in Zoology from The Ohio State University and Master of Public Administration degree from Kent State University. Hardy lives in Columbus, Ohio with his wife, two dogs, snake, and ever-growing native plant garden.

This presentation is co-hosted by:

• Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance,

• Wisconsin Society for Ornithology,

• Wisconsin’s Green Fire,

• International Crane Foundation.

View more event details here.

For Release: May 2, 2024

The Lake Michigan Bird Observatory invites you to a celebration of World Migratory Bird Day from 8 a.m.

to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 18 at Upper Lake Park in Port Washington. All activities are free and open to the public!

This year World Migratory Bird Day will focus on the importance of insects for migratory birds, an essential source of energy for many migratory bird species, not only during the breeding seasons but also during their migrations. Along their migration routes, birds actively seek out insects in fields, forests, wetlands, and various habitats during stopovers. The timing of their bird migration often coincides with peak insect abundance at stopover locations, supplying nourishment for birds to replenish their energy reserves before continuing their journey.

8 a.m.: Beginner Bird Walk. Join Nick Gall, Ecological Restoration Manager, Mequon Nature Preserve, on a guide bird walk geared toward beginning birders. Bring binoculars or borrow some from the Lake Michigan Bird Observatory.

9:00 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Native Plant Sale. With over 55 species of native plants, your home can become a bird paradise to feed the birds we all know and love. Beautify your yard and support the pollinators and insects that our favorite birds need to survive.

10 a.m.: Live Raptors. See live birds of prey up close! Jeannie Lord is executive director of the Pine View Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center, in Fredonia. She will show you live birds, describe their habits and amazing adaptations, and recount the many threats they face.

Recurring presentations:

Backyard Bird Feeders

Introduction to Bird Identification

All Day Activities:

Activities and displays. Learn more about how important insects are to sustain birds with activities, crafts, and displays from the ARTservancy, International Crane Foundation, Pine View Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Riveredge Nature Center and more!

Upper Lake Park in Port Washington, Wis.

Saturday, May 18, 2024

8 a.m. to 2p.m.