Morrill Hall's 'Sunday Scientist' explores birds Nov. 18

            The University of Nebraska State Museum's next Sunday with a Scientist program for children and families will go to the birds -- so to speak. The program will explore ornithology, the study of birds, and will take place from 1:30-4:30 p.m. Nov. 18 at Morrill Hall, south of 14th and Vine Streets on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln City Campus. Museum Sunday hours are 1:30-4:30 p.m.

            Paul A. Johnsgard, foundation professor emeritus of biology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, will help museum visitors understand bird behavior, ecology, anatomy and populations.

            Birds play a significant role in our lives. They are key indicators of our environmental health, such as air, soil and water quality. Many species (waterfowl, upland game birds) are important economically because of hunting revenues, or as tourism attractions for bird-watchers (cranes, prairie grouse). Other birds pollinate plants (hummingbirds), control harmful insects (many songbirds) or rodents (owls, hawks), and clean carcasses (vultures).

            Sunday with a Scientist is a series of presentations that highlights the work of State Museum scientists and those from other UNL departments and institutions, while educating children and families on a variety of topics related to science and natural history. Presenters will share scientific information in a fun and informal way through demonstrations, activities, or by conducting their science on site. Sunday with a Scientist programs are 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Morrill Hall on the third Sunday of each month.

            The following Sunday with a Scientist event on Dec. 16 will be about the Platte River Time Lapse Project. For additional information about the Sunday with a Scientist program and the NU State Museum, visit www.museum.unl.edu.

            The University of Nebraska State Museum in Morrill Hall is open 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and Friday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursdays, and 1:30-4:30 p.m. Sundays. Regular admission is $6 for adults (19 and over), $3 for children (5-18 years, 4 and under are free), and $13 for families (up to two adults and children). UNL staff, faculty, and students are admitted free with NU ID. Friends of the Museum are also free with valid membership card. There is an additional charge for planetarium shows. Parking is free in front of the museum. For further information, telephone the museum at 402-472-3779, visit its website or Mueller Planetarium's website, www.spacelaser.com, or contact Kathy French, education coordinator, at 402-472-6647 or by email.

Writer: Dana Ludvik, Public Relations Coordinator, NU State Museum, 402-472-3779