Western Great Lakes Bird and Bat Observatory

Join us at the Forest Beach Migratory Preserve for International Migratory Bird Day

Join us at the Forest Beach Migratory Preserve for International Migratory Bird
Day, on May 16th! See more information at: http://owlt.org/news/205-international-migratory-bird-day-2015

For the Birds

(A bird house building contest)

Port Washington, WI: Calling all birders! Calling all woodworkers! Do you love building bird houses? Is it a passion or a hobby? Put your skills to the test and enter the 2015 For the Birds bird house building
contest. You can win $100.

The contest is being held as a part of the International Migratory Bird Day celebration on Saturday, May 16, at the Forest Beach Migratory Preserve in Port Washington.

There are two entrance categories – functional (designed specifically for a bird type) and whimsical (just for fun.) You can win $100 as the winner of either category or take home the prize as the "people's
choice" winner. In all, three people can win $100. The bird houses will be judged at 3pm.

Even if you don't enter the contest, you should still come for the International Migratory Bird Day celebration. The annual event features guided bird tours, raptor displays, bird discussions, a nature photography workshop, music, lunch and a silent auction. It's a great way to celebrate birds!

Call Marilyn for more information at (262) 338-1794 or email her at

To enter a birdhouse in the contest:

  • Visit www.OWLT.org/for-the-birds to download an entry form
  • Choose an entrance category – functional or whimsical
  • Drop off your completed bird house at 200 Wisconsin Street in West Bend no later than May 12
  • Come to the Forest Beach Migratory Preserve on May 16 to watch the judging and enjoy the party

What: For the Birds birdhouse building contest and celebration

When: Saturday, May 16, 1–4pm

Where: The Forest Beach Migratory Preserve 4960 Country Club Beach Road, Port Washington, WI 53074

Contact: Marilyn Schlotfeldt (262) 338-1794

Since 1992 the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust mission is to protect and preserve the natural
areas, open spaces and rural character of Ozaukee and Washington Counties.
Through conservation, education and outreach, the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust
will preserve the region's rich natural and rural heritage for the benefit of
future generations. For more information, visit www.OWLT.org

The Forest Beach Migratory Preserve is a 142 acre preserve located in a critical area along
the Lake Michigan Flyway. The intent for FBMP is to create and enhance a
variety of natural habitats to attract migratory birds. This property provides
a unique opportunity to restore a mosaic of habitats that can be highlighted as
a natural attraction for nature viewing and environmental education, focusing
on the importance of the Lake Michigan Flyway for migratory birds. As of 2014,
over 280 different bird species have been observed on the preserve.