Audubon Society presents program on the special birds of Cuba in Moultonborough on Thursday

On Thursday, April 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Loon Center in Moultonborough, the Lakes Region Chapter of the Audubon Society of NH will sponsor a program titled The Special Birds of Cuba. Bob and Dana Fox, of North Andover, Mass. and Center Tuftonboro, NH will present the program. The public is invited and admission is free.

They have traveled extensively in both the Caribbean region and in over 50 countries worldwide, studying the birds and learning about the people, life and culture of places they have visited. Their varied backgrounds in biology, geology, education, and environmental science gives them a unique perspective on both scientific and cultural issues.

Research, help from scientists and authors, and pictures drawn for many sources will augment their own thoughts about Cuba a country and island so near and yet so distant for most tourists. Bob Fox will focus on the geological events that enabled the endemic birds of Cuba to reach the island.

All current endemic species will be included in the presentation, from the Cuban national bird to the charming Cuba Tody; the secretive Quail-Doves; and the smallest bird in the world, the Bee Hummingbird.

The country is a curious mixture of modern tourism and high-rise buildings, 16th century cities, and a varied rural landscape that is isolated from us yet seen by many world travelers. The birds are a mixture of migrants and Caribbean species that have arrived and evolved as can only happen on islands. This will be a story of Cuba, its people and its birds, their history, their present status, and possibly their future.

The Loon Center is located on Lee's Mill Road in Moultonborough; follow the signs from Rte. 25 near the Moultonborough Central School or from Route 109. For more information see www.loon.org or call 603-476-5666. Refreshments will be served.