Jefferson City, MO -- Join the 2023 American Birding Association Young Birder of the Year Zita Roberston and her family at Wakonda State Park at 6 a.m. on the following Sundays: March 12, 19 and 26, and April 2, 9, 16 and 23. Zita will lead hikers on a 60-90 minute walk, starting at the Agate Lake parking lot and covering about a mile on the trails.

What started with a presentation at the local library has progressed to Zita organizing bird walks through the park. During the upcoming walks, participants will not only see various species of birds, but also learn tips and tricks for identifying them. Zita led walks this winter, during which participants saw swans, geese and ducks in plain view on the water. This time, participants will search the trees and bushes along the trail for warblers and other migratory birds traveling through the area. The birds are expected to be more active closer to sunrise. Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather and bring binoculars, field guides and any questions about birds and birding.

Wakonda State Park is located 3 miles south of LaGrange on U.S. Highway 61. For more information, please call 573-655-2280. In the event of inclement weather, the walk will be canceled.

For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.