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Bird watchers and nature enthusiasts are invited to learn about the many birds of West Tennessee during the 11th annual Hatchie BirdFest beginning this Friday, April 26 – Sunday, April 28, in Brownsville.  The three-day event will offer a variety of activities for all ages and skill levels, including hikes and demonstrations.

The festival kicks off  Friday evening with an opening reception at the historic Temple Adas Israel, 140 North Washington. The historic synagogue is Tennessee’s oldest and is known for its beautiful stain glass windows and perfect acoustics, making it a favorite host location for cultural events.  Guests are invited to experience this location beginning with a performance by the Dirt Pilgrims at 5:30 pm. Dirt Pilgrims is a Jackson, Tenn., based folk-Americana band and was started by three professors from Jackson State Community College. They share a love of acoustic music and perform an eclectic mix of songs written by some of their favorite artists, including some originals, too.

Much has changed since Brownsville established its charter 200 years ago, including the area’s bird life.  Following the concert, wildlife biologist and bird expert Bob Ford will talk about “Bird of the Hatchie” at 6:3- pm. The focus will be on how bird population and distribution has changed in 200 years and what may happen in coming years. The newly-formed Hatchie River Conservancy will also be a topic of conversation.

Early risers are invited to gather at the Delta Heritage Center for a Saturday morning afield with experienced bird guides learning about the more than 200 species of birds who make their home on or are migrating through the Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge.  If wildlife photography is more your thing, bring your camera and join the hands-on photography walk.

The popular Birds of Prey program takes place at noon Saturday and features live bird demonstrations. This highlight of the festival utilizes injured birds through the rehab and environmental education program at Reelfoot Lake State Park. This is a great program to introduce youth to birding. Saturday afternoon features sessions on binocular choices, butterflies and nocturnal habits of area wildlife.

Sunday morning hikes are informal and led by wildlife biologist Bob Ford. Sunday afternoon features a seminar with UT Horticulturalist Celeste Scott. Scott will help you take a closer look at the unique and oftentimes specialized relationship of plants, pollinators and wildlife as well as the role we can play to support these connections. Sunday afternoon takes place at Willow Oaks Flower Farm, Highway 54 North, where owners David and Sarah Levy will showcase their greenhouses for the event.

All hikes and activities are free and most originate at the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, 121 Sunny Hill Cove, Brownsville. For a complete schedule, visit www.hatchiebirdfest.com or call the Delta Heritage Center at 731-779-9000.

About the Hatchie BirdFest:  The Hatchie BirdFest is held annually at the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center in Brownsville, Tenn. The three day event features unique outdoor activities for all ages and is perfect for seasoned or beginner birders. Participants explore the Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge and other prime bird watching locations that serve as home to more than 200 species of birds. The weekend includes expert speakers, demonstrations, hikes and exhibitors. To learn more about the festival, visit www.hatchiebirdfest.com or call 731-779-9000.

About the Center: The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, in Brownsville, is a music heritage destination that offers a refreshing Southern experience showcasing the history and culture of rural West Tennessee. Inside visitors can learn about the history of cotton, explore the scenic and “wild” Hatchie River and get to know the legendary musicians who call West Tennessee home. Also located on the grounds is the Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School, the childhood school of Tina Turner, and the last home of Blues pioneer Sleepy John Estes. The Delta Heritage Center is also a featured stop along the Americana Music Triangle connecting Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans. To learn more about the Center, visit www.westtnheritage.com or call 731-779-9000.

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