LAKE CARLOS — The Prairie Lakes Audubon Chapter will have its spring migration and oriole feeders workshop at the Lake Carlos State Park Visitor Center on Tuesday, May 10 at 7 p.m.

All are welcome to attend. The Prairie Lakes Audubon Chapter is the local chapter of National Audubon Society and is for anyone interested in birds and nature.

Informal meetings are held monthly, along with at least one birding field trip each month. More information can be found online on the group's Facebook page .

Ben Eckhoff, Department of Natural Resources naturalist and program coordinator for the chapter, will present information to the Audubon chapter. He has been the park’s area naturalist for 10 years.

Spring is a favorite time for bird watching because of the diversity of birds moving through the area on their way to their nesting grounds. According to the chapter, Eckhoff finds that every year is different and spring brings him a renewed excitement to get outdoors and see what new birds are around as it can change by the day this time of year.

Eckhoff will discuss some of the bird migration happening in the area as well as highlight the birds that will be arriving in the coming days or weeks. He will focus on two species – the ruby-throated hummingbird and Baltimore oriole. Eckhoff will explain how to use feeders appropriately to attract them.

After the presentation, chapter members will have the opportunity to build their own oriole feeder to take home. A suggested freewill donation of $5 will be asked to cover the cost of materials. All materials and supplies will be provided. Please bring a cordless drill if you own one, but if not, some will be provided.

This is also a good time to check your bluebird houses, replace them or start a new set of nesting boxes, the chapter said. There will be modified Gilbertson PVC Bluebird nest boxes for purchase during this program as well for a cost of $30 each. This includes the nesting box and rebar/conduit mounting kit.

Note: A vehicle permit is required to enter Minnesota state parks. Although permits are available at the park, save time by getting one in advance. Visit mndnr.gov/reservations.

Those who are planning to attend, should email Ben Eckhoff at benjamin.eckhoff@state.mn.us .