In late September 2012, a wayward Common Cuckoo was discovered in the Watsonville Wetlands, and hundreds of birders flocked to the area during the course of the next 2 weeks, hoping for a glimpse of this elusive Old World bird. Thousands of miles were driven or flown by birders in pursuit of the now famous cuckoo, and the carbon footprint generated by the rare sighting was enormous.

On Wednesday, May 8, Watsonville Wetlands Watch will host Scott Smithson, local birder and founder of The Green Big Day, as he recounts the amazing appearance of the cuckoo and speaks about a new generation of “green birders” who are leaving their cars at home or carbon offsetting their obsession by supporting habitat restoration efforts.

From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Fitz Educational Resource Center, at the top of the Pajaro Valley High School campus in Watsonville. Map/directions. Admission is free but you must reserve a seat by contacting Kathy Fieberling at 831-345-1226 or kathy@watsonvillewetlandswatch.org.

We meet at the Fitz WERC located at the top of the Pajaro Valley High School campus (500 Harkins Slough Rd) at 9 a.m. Please bring water, and wear layered work clothes, sturdy shoes and a sun hat. We will provide tools, gloves, and a snack. Map/directions. Afterwards we will go on a nature walk. Contact Mary for more information at 831-566-4938 or mary@watsonvillewetlandswatch.org.

We meet at the Fitz WERC located at the top of the Pajaro Valley High School campus (500 Harkins Slough Rd) at 9 a.m. Please bring water, and wear layered work clothes, sturdy shoes and a sun hat. We will provide tools, gloves, and a snack. Map/directions. Afterwards we will go on a nature walk. Contact Mary for more information at 831-566-4938 or mary@watsonvillewetlandswatch.org.