Although the birds were the stars of the 3rd Annual Migratory Bird Celebration, there was much more to excite the gaggle of attendees at this all-ages event.

The University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, in partnership with the UOG College of Natural & Applied Sciences co-hosted the event on Saturday, February 17 at Jeff’s Pirates Cove.   

The event gave attendees an opportunity to identify and learn about native and migratory bird species through family-friendly activities such as birdwatching, arts and crafts, and onsite presentations. UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant arrived in full force, showcasing their various programs through different booths, with each catering to various age demographics.  

Gabriella Topasña, UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant outreach assistant engaged passersby from the Guam Green Growth (G3) Makerspace & Innovation Hub booth.  

“It was actually my first migratory bird festival, but I think we had a great turnout! I assisted Franceska [De Oro] who is our Makerspace attendant. We had a little activity for the kids, making bird-shaped finger puppets from recycled paper taken from an upcycled book, which the kids also painted and took home afterward.” 

Topasña mentioned that her booth attracted a large number of visitors, particularly enthusiastic children, who used up almost all the upcycled materials for making finger puppets. Crafting each puppet provided an opportunity to educate the youth about the significance of safeguarding both native and migratory birds, as well as the ecosystems they inhabit. 

“We highly encouraged the kids and their parents to get to know the native birds of the Marianas and to try and do their part to protect them. Let’s continue to grow the birds’ numbers for future generations to study and enjoy,” said Topasña.

While children enjoyed bird-themed arts and crafts at the G3 Makerspace & Innovation Hub booth, other UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant booths catered to different age groups.

From short presentations about native plant species gifting visitors with ifit tree seeds and seedlings to pamphlet distribution at the Navigating Home fellowship table, there was much to share with the community regardless of age.  

Annania Nauta Kemp, UOG Guam Green Growth coordinator, documented the festival.  Kemp, has attended every migratory bird celebration since its inception.  

Kemp highlighted the importance of showcasing various conservation organizations to people of all ages and expressed her enthusiasm for future community engagement. 

With the 2024 Migratory Bird Celebration completed, Kemp looks ahead to next year’s celebration.  

 “I think it’s a wonderful event for the community to learn about both the native and migratory species of birds, but more importantly, why it is necessary to protect them and the ecosystems they depend on. I’m looking forward to being able to share that with our people and working with all the other organizations that strive for the same ideals,” said Kemp.