ELKHART, Ind. -- Elkhart County Parks invites the community to celebrate a Wednesday Bird Walk on Mar. 4 beginning at 8 a.m. at the Baintertown Dam in River Preserve County Park. 

The hike will introduce participants to the basics of birding by ear just as spring migration begins to build. From noticing when a hawk is about to take flight to tracking down a hidden warbler, attendees will learn how bird behavior connects to the sounds they hear in the field.

The group walk will include exploratory exercises on ways to slow down, practice deep listening, and orient to the season before the rush of spring migration sets in.

Participants will explore meadow and woodland trails while practicing listening techniques and tips for identifying common early-season songsters. 

Guests should dress for the weather and plan for extended time outdoors. Binoculars will also be available for use.

The walk is free, open to ages eight and up, and no registration is required.

The Elkhart County Parks offers themed bird walks on the first Wednesday of every month starting at 8 a.m.

For event details, park directions, or to discover more upcoming events, visit the Elkhart County Parks website.