There is a whole lot of feathered fun happening on January 4 at Quinta Mazatlan. The Center for Urban Ecology is hosting the first Hobbies in Nature session of 2020 – “Begin to Birdwatch”. The 2-hour program invites guests into the world of birds, where they will be amazed by the beautiful colors, fascinating behaviors, and incredible diversity of birds found all around us.

After a fun-filled introduction (ever wonder what a grackle’s theme music would be?), guests will go through a binocular boot camp to learn binocular tips and tricks.

“You can see a lot of birds without binoculars”, said urban ecologist John Brush. “But there are some cool details that binoculars bring to light.” One such detail: the bright blue eye-ring of White-winged Doves – a stark contrast to their red irises.

Guests can put their newfound skills to use on a guided bird walk, where they will get to look for show-off kiskadees, chatty green jays, and the elusive Common Pauraque (master of camouflage).

Come fly by Quinta Mazatlan and get birdy on Saturday, January 4, from 2 to 4 p.m. for birdwatching fun. The program fee is $5 per person and no advance reservation is required. The Hobbies in Nature series is designed for adults and older youth.

Quinta Mazatlán is located at 600 Sunset Drive in McAllen, one block south of La Plaza Mall on 10th Street. For more information, contact Quinta Mazatlán at (956) 681-3370 or visit www.quintamazatlan.com.