News Release For Immediate Release: January 4, 2017 Contact: Kim King-Wrenn Phone: [phone] Kids Can Learn to Be Citizen Scientists at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Department of the Interior

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

1987 Scrub Jay Way

Titusville, FL 32782

Phone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

http://www.fws.gov/refuge/merritt_island
News Release

For Immediate Release: January 4, 2017

Contact: Kim King-Wrenn

Phone: [phone]

Kids Can Learn to Be Citizen Scientists at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Titusville: On Saturday, January 14th, 2017 kids and families will have the chance to become citizen scientists by taking part in an old tradition with a new twist, the 2017 Christmas Bird Count for Kids (CBC4K).
This special event will be held at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center from 9am-12pm. A binocular boot camp will kick-off the event, after which kids will divide into teams and head out into the field with volunteer experts to count and record the species of birds they locate. Teams will meet back at the visitor center after the count for snacks and hot chocolate and to tally their results.
The CBC4K is designed as a way for families to have fun outdoors and learn more about local birds. Kids of all birding abilities are encouraged to participate. All participants should come dressed for spending time outdoors. Bring your own binoculars or borrow some from the Refuge. Parents must accompany their children..
For more information, please contact the Refuge Visitor Center at 321-861-0669.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is part of the National Wildlife Refuge System which is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

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