EVANS NOTCH – The U.S. Forest Service is inviting “early birds” to get into the fresh spring air to celebrate the return of our migrating feathered friends on International Migratory Bird Day May 10.

Wildlife biologist Lesley Rowse will go on a two-hour bird walk in the White Mountain National Forest. People can meet at 7 a.m. at the junction of Route 113 (Evans Notch Highway) and the Wild River Road, about 3 miles south of Route 2 in Gilead.

The rain date is Sunday, May 11. People may phone the Evans Notch Visitor Center in Bethel for possible postponement if the forecast looks rainy.

New bird watchers, families and experienced birders are welcome to come along to listen for bird song and learn to identify these special visitors as they complete their journey from the tropics to their summer homes in northern New England.

Migratory birds fly from Central America, South America, Mexico and the Caribbean to find nesting habitat in North America. People will have the opportunity to become acquainted with these travelers and learn why they are important, and what troubles they sometimes face in developing landscapes.

The bird walk is free and all are welcome. People should wear comfortable shoes for walking on easy terrain, binoculars, camera, and a sense of discovery.

For more information and directions, people may phone the White Mountain National Forest’s Evans Notch Visitor Center in Bethel at 824-2134.