Spring is on the horizon and so are the birds. Migrating neo-tropical songbirds are returning to Alabama's Gulf Coast after wintering in Central and South America. These fine-feathered friends won't have to wait for a welcome once they arrive. The Hummer/Bird Study Group (HBSG) will greet them as they land at the spring bird banding at Fort Morgan Historic Site April 3-17.

The HBSG, a volunteer organization led by Bob and Martha Sargent, will be on-hand as the birds make their first landfall after their non-stop flight across the Gulf of Mexico. The group operates the banding station during spring and fall migrations. Population levels, general health and effects of the weather on the birds are monitored here. The public is invited to the site to observe the trained and experienced banders capture, retrieve, weigh, measure, band and release these winged travelers.

With many species of birds heading north, expect to see an abundance of beautiful birds. Bob Sargent said, "Come prepared to be blown away by a steady parade of newly arrived migrant birds wearing their finest spring duds. You will definitely want to bring your good camera and plenty of film or plug-in memory sticks, �cause this is the best place to get some super-duper in-hand bird shots.�

Sargent and his crew of banders will begin checking nets at dawn and close the nets mid-afternoon, depending on the activity of the birds. Early morning is generally the best time to visit and can be full of surprises. Sargent said of the fall banding, � A special bonus was in store for a large number of visiting guests that set their alarm clock, bit the bullet, and joined us in the beautiful twilight hours at Fort Morgan. Over the years, most of us have heard the haunting calls of Whip-poor-wills and Chuck-will�s-widows, but few of us have ever seen one in the hand. It is a very special thrill to get the opportunity to see, touch and photograph these mysterious birds of the night.� The banders invite you to consider visiting before daylight. Sargent says dawn at Fort Morgan is special. For comfort, bring a folding chair, camera, water, and bug repellent. Get all your bird questions ready�the group will have an answer.

As a bonus, on April 10 Bob Sargent will lecture on the indigenous birds that lived on the peninsula during Fort Morgan�s construction in the 1830�s.

There is an admission charge to Fort Morgan but the banding site is free.

For more information call the Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau at 251-968-7511, 800-745-SAND or visit the CVB website at www.gulfshores.com. For a free Alabama Coastal Birding Trail guide, visit the Gulf Shores or Orange Beach Welcome Centers or download a copy from www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com.

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Media Contact: Bebe Gauntt +1 251-974-1510 bgauntt@gulfshores.com