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Birds of Paradise: Amazing Avian Evolution

June 16 - Sept 22, 2013

In 2004, National Geographic photographer Tim Laman and Cornell University Lab of Ornithology scientist Edwin Scholes began a series of 15 targeted expeditions to document these bizarre birds.

Eight years and 37 distinct geographic locations later, they completed the first comprehensive study of all 39 known species of birds-of-paradise. Coverage includes photographic documentation of all varieties and several never before documented behaviors and interactions.

The fascinating stories of ground breaking research and adventure paired with amazing footage and photography are the foundation of this highly interactive exhibition. Birds of Paradise is a story of daring expeditions, world culture, extreme evolution and conservation, as only National Geographic can present, with stunning imagery, compelling video, soundscapes, artifacts, and engaging educational activities for all ages.

Designed to appeal to a wide demographic of visitors, Birds of Paradise is a science exhibition, art show, and natural history display presented as one.

Birds of Paradise has been co-developed by the National Geographic Society and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology”

Museum admission during this special exhibition will be $10 adults, $5 children (5-12 years), museum members, and NMC Students.

The Dennos Museum Center at Northwestern Michigan College will present a range of public programs in conjunction with the National Geographic exhibition, Birds of Paradise: Amazing Avian Evolution. All programs are free with museum admission ($10 adults, $5 children and museum members).


SUNDAYS ARE FOR THE BIRDS

June 30, 1 p.m. – Bird & Bugs Outdoor Explorers

Join SBTH for an exploration of NMC Main Campus in search of birds and the bugs they eat! Ages 4 and up, with adult. Meet in lobby. Free with museum admission.

August 11, 2 p.m. – Northern Michigan Birds of Paradise

SBTH will present an illustrated lecture about the migration and selection processes of Northern Michigan birds. Meet in the Dennos lobby. Free with museum admission.

August 18, 1 p.m. - Birding at NMC

SBTH Director Kay Charter will lead a group on a birding expedition through NMC Main Campus. Binoculars provided. All ages welcome. Meet in lobby. Free with museum admission.

August 25, 1 p.m. - Bird & Bugs Outdoor Explorers

Since our migrating birds have finished with their nesting duties and the fledglings are all grown up, most have now begun that long flight back to their Tropical wintering grounds. Join us to take a virtual "Bird 'n Bug Safari" by playing Saving Birds Thru Habitat's Great Migration Game." This game will help people of all ages learn about the challenges faced by migrating birds.

August 30, 1 p.m. – A Bird’s-Eye View: An Interactive Raptor Experience

Wings of Wonder’s Rebecca Lessard will present an exciting and educational program featuring live birds. All ages welcome. Meet in lobby. Free with museum admission.

September 8, 2 p.m. – Michigan’s Tropical Connections

Greg Butcher, Migratory Bird Program Coordinator at the US Forest Service, will present an illustrated lecture about Neotropical migratory patterns of birds that breed in Michigan. Meet in the Dennos lobby. Free with museum admission.

A Bird’s-Eye View: An Interactive Raptor Experience

July 15, August 15, August 30 – 1 p.m.: Visit the Dennos on the 15th of July, August, and September for a special treat. Included with museum admission, Wings of Wonder’s Rebecca Lessard will present exciting and educational programming featuring live birds! All ages welcome. Meet in lobby. Free with museum admission.

All attendees are encouraged to call (231) 995-1029 to reserve a space for each program.