Skidaway Audubon News: Skidaway Birds Presentation October 19

Skidaway Audubon’s speaker series continues on October 19, with Landings resident Russ Wigh discussing Skidaway Island’s bird migration habits and the possible impacts of noise pollution on bird populations in our community.

Wigh has lived on the island for the past 22 years and has spent many years studying and photographing birds. During most of that time, he has compiled extensive data on the abundance and distribution of birds on Skidaway Island. He has paid particular attention to wintering ruby-throated hummingbirds along coastal Georgia, and most recently has focused on eastern screech owls. His objective is to determine the reasons for their disappearance and whether manmade noises are a factor.

Wigh also has spent two years studying Skidaway Island’s butterfly populations. Earlier in his career as a citizen scientist, he volunteered with Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary, and researched the prevalence of various sea birds, which contributed to the scant knowledge of the abundance and distribution of seabirds on the South Atlantic Bight in the Atlantic Ocean.

Weigh has been recognized by Friends of Skidaway Audubon (FOSA) for his work as a highly skilled citizen scientist, and he has received awards for his photographic work as well. His presentation, slated for Thursday, October 19, at 4 p.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, is free for FOSA members and $5 for guests, payable online or at the door. Attendees are asked to pre-register online at SkidawayAudubon.org.

Skidaway Audubon’s mission is to enhance and conserve Skidaway Island’s natural environment. In addition to implementing a wide variety of projects, it strives to promote environmental awareness through education and outreach. For more information about Skidaway Audubon activities, or to make a much-needed and appreciated donation to help continue these programs, visit SkidawayAudubon.org. Information also is available on the Friends of Skidaway Audubon Facebook page.

Eastern Screech Owl

Photo by Amy Collings