Asheville Wild Birds Unlimited holds anniversary celebration, Oct. 31

From a press release:

Asheville Wild Birds Unlimited holds anniversary celebration, Oct. 31

The Asheville Wild Birds Unlimited is celebrating one year since their migration to the new shop in Gerber Village. On Friday, October 31st from 9am – 6pm, there will be Halloween festivities and specials throughout the store. Stop by for food, fun and be sure to dress in full costume to receive a discount off your purchase.

As Certified Bird Specialists, they receive many questions this time of year about our migrating birds. More than 300 bird species found in North America during the summer will make their way to Latin America or the Caribbean, some covering distances of nearly 7,000 miles. Parks, backyards and nature refuges across the country will host these winged visitors for the next few weeks as the birds make their way to their fall and winter destinations.

“Migration is a fascinating part of bird behavior,” explained Chris Jaquette, owner of the Asheville Wild Birds Unlimited. “Besides the amount of daylight, it appears that age, sex, weather and the availability of food, water and shelter are the major factors in migratory behavior.” While migration is still not completely understood, it appears that some birds orient themselves by the stars on clear nights while others seem to have a built-in magnetic compass. Some birds travel over large bodies of water, and birds commonly lose one fourth to one half of their body weight during such over-water migration.

In order to survive their grueling trip, birds accumulate fat prior to migration. This physiological change helps the birds maintain their energy reserves. “Not only can we enjoy migrating birds as they pass through our area, but we can also play a role in their survival by providing food, water, habitat and/or shelter to help them conserve and replenish their energy supply during their journey. Foods that are high in fat, such as suet, Bark Butter and a seed blend with lots of sunflower seeds, help birds refuel their energy supply,” stated owner Simon Thompson.

Visit the shop to learn more about birds traveling through our area and join in the Halloween & Anniversary Celebration.

Wild Birds Unlimited specializes in bringing people and nature together with bird feeding and nature products, expert advice and educational events. Visit website at www.asheville.wbu.com.