Goldfinches on sunflowers in Kamloops in September.

Image Credit: SUBMITTED/ Kurtis Huston

B.C. wildlife experts and avid birders are flocking together to host a free open house event this weekend in Kamloops, Sept 18.

The event will include special guests from the B.C. Wildlife Park and the Kamloops Naturalist Club and will be held at Wild Birds Unlimited from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wild Birds Unlimited owner, Kurtis Huston, said he initiated the collaboration to educate the public on the importance of conserving wildlife, the environment and songbirds.

READ MORE: Growing hobby of backyard bird feeding inspires new Kamloops store

“Working as a collaborative team of educators on a local level will have a big impact,” he said. “We all share the same value, which is conserving our native habitat and wildlife species. We want to show the public how they can use their properties to promote wildlife, insects and native plants.”

Huston said a team of educators from the B.C. Wildlife park will be bringing in live animals, including birds of prey, reptiles and artifacts, while the naturalist club will be providing information on planting native species for birds.

"This event will be good for families and anyone who is interested in birds and nature education," he said. "It's for anyone who is interested in learning about insects and gardening, or getting involved with these kinds of initiatives. It is incredibly important to get kids interested in these things to pass onto future generations. The easiest ways to get them involved is by putting up a bird feeder in your yard."

Huston said they are providing gifts for kids and doing an in-store raffle with prizes, that include bird seed for a year, a basic pole system, a Joy of Birdfeeding book and some starter bird feeding kits. 

Wild Birds Unlimited is located in Kamloops at 760 Tranquille Road.

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