ORD, Nebraska -- The Lower Loup NRD has announced a new outdoors event to coincide with Nebraska Bird Month. On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the Lower Loup NRD will host its inaugural Spring Birding Event at the Lower Loup NRD Arboretum in Ord.

Nebraska Bird Month is an annual celebration throughout the month of May — a time when birders and nature lovers come together to appreciate the more than 400 bird species that live in or pass through Nebraska.

The LLNRD Arboretum is planted with nearly 60 different species of trees and shrubs. That habitat, in conjunction to the Arboretum’s proximity to Dane Creek, Auble’s Pond, Ord Cemetery, and rural areas makes it a comfortable place for birds to feed, nest, and rest.

“I walk the Arboretum trail most days before work and keep a list of the wildlife I’ve seen there,” said LLNRD Information & Education Coordinator Alan Bartels. “In addition to rabbits, squirrels, toads, frogs, and even a fox, I’ve seen about 40 bird species ranging from songbirds and waterfowl to raptors such as owls and hawks in or over the Arboretum. Our event will take place when many birds are passing through the area or are preparing to nest, so there should be no shortage of feathered critters spotted during the event.”

Participants should check in at the shelter house at the northwest corner of the Arboretum at 2620 Airport Drive in Ord. Refreshments will be provided, and children will be able to make a bird-related craft to take home. Bird identification materials will be available for reference. There is no charge for this family fun event. The Spring Birding Event will begin at 8 a.m. and last until 11 a.m.

Direct questions to LLNRD Information Specialist Brant Bechtold at bbechtold [at] llnrd.org.