Prominent birder, habitat specialist to host group walk at Pickering Pond Trails

Pickering Pond Trails, where the walks will be held. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - The University of NH Cooperative Extension will be hosting a special program on the identification and role of native and non-native shrubs as essential bird habitats in New Hampshire.

Led by Professor Matt Tarr, the two walks will educate participants about bird-friendly shrub species and their impact on local ecosystems.

Tarr is an Extension Professor and State Wildlife Habitat Specialist for the University of NH Cooperative Extension. Much of his research and work is focused on determining how nonnative shrubs function as habitats for songbirds and on how birds respond to land use and habitat management practices at different landscape scales. Tarr is an avid birder who enjoys photographing and recording birds.

The program will take place on Wednesday from 5:30-8 p.m., and Friday from 7:30-10 a.m., at the Pickering Ponds Trails in Gonic. Each program will allow 15 participants, with no repeat registrants.

Attendees are encouraged to bring binoculars and dress appropriately. To register and learn more about the program, visit www.seacoastchapter.org/programs. For general inquiries, contact Matt Tarr at Matt.Tarr@unh.edu.