Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
P. O. Box 329
Columbia, North Carolina 27925

Contact: Susan Russo- 252-796-3004 ext 223

News Release

April 23, 2004


Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Co-hosts Neotropical Migratory Bird Workshop with North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission

Coastal North Carolina is a major breeding spot for neotropical migratory birds. These birds winter in Central and South America, and make their summer home in this area. More than 200 bird species have been identified on the refuge. Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge and the NC Wildlife Resources Commission are offering a program where we will learn about the biology, habitat requirements and life cycles of these well traveled birds. We will also explore the various habitats of the refuge to identify birds by sight and sound. The program will be held at the Pocosin Lakes Field Station on May 26 from 9:00-4:00. The day will consist of field work in a variety of conditions, and will be held regardless of weather conditions. Please bring warm weather and rain gear, as well as lunch. There is no charge for these workshops. For more information, and to register, please contact Susan J. Russo at (252) 796-3004 x223.


The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the principal Federal agency responsible for conserving, protecting and enhancing fish, wildlife and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. The Service manages the 95-million-acre National Wildlife Refuge System which encompasses almost 540 national wildlife refuges, thousands of small wetlands and other special management areas. It also operates 70 national fish hatcheries, 64 fishery resource offices and 78 ecological services field stations. The agency enforces Federal wildlife laws, administers the Endangered Species Act, manages migratory bird populations, restores nationally significant fisheries, conserves and restores wildlife habitat such as wetlands, and helps foreign governments with their conservation efforts. It also oversees the Federal Aid program that distributes hundreds of millions of dollars in excise taxes on fishing and hunting equipment to state fish and wildlife agencies.

- FWS -