Volunteer Helen Hall with young bird banding recruits.

As part of National Wildlife Refuge Week, the Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex presented a day-long celebration at the Kettle Pond Visitor Center.  The theme for the event was "Migratory Birds: Wingbeats and Brushstrokes."  A live "Raptors of the Refuges" show and bird banding demonstration and illustrations were designed to follow the day's theme.  In addition, visitors participated in guided nature walks focusing on the site's glacial moraine, nature games, interactive exhibits, and nature crafts.

For many visitors it was their first outing to the newly built Kettle Pond Visitor Center. Others said they visit often because it is a great place for families to enjoy nature while learning about wildlife, wildlife habitat and the work of the refuge system.

Approximately 500 visitors attended the event, several of whom participated in all of the day's activities and can not wait until next year's celebration!