Submitted by Orcas Island Garden Club.

Please join us on Wednesday, Feb. 19, at the Orcas Center when the Orcas Island Garden Club welcomes Kim Middleton to speak about the how and why of attracting birds to gardens. Birds are an important part of the environment. They help plants thrive through pest and weed control, fertilization, pollination and seed distribution. Learn what birds require and how to attract them to your garden.

Middleton was born and raised in Sitka, Alaska, and graduated from Western Washington University with degrees in biology and chemistry. After working as an analytical and research chemist, Middleton volunteered with the United States Peace Corps as a science teacher in a remote village in Botswana, Africa. After the Peace Corps, she has spent her life working with and studying birds as a biologist, wildlife rehabilitator and bird trainer, environmental educator and bird watcher.

Middleton says: “My passion for birds is strong, so I strive to meld all facets of my life around birds, whether I am painting, conducting biologic work, teaching, or traveling. The complexity of the avian world inspires me, and I yearn to spark the viewer’s awareness and compassion for birds through compelling art compositions or bird outings that evoke emotions and a sense of awe. My personal mission is to bring bird appreciation to every household through art, education, and excursions.”

The presentation begins at 10 a.m. at the Orcas Center. Middleton will present from there. For a link to the live Zoom presentation go to the Orcas Island Garden Club website and click the link below the list of presentations. The presentation will be recorded. To watch the recorded presentation, go to the link “Recorded Presentations” under “Events” on the club website. Garden club presentations are free and open to the public.

For more about Middleton and her art go to: https://www.kimmiddleton.com/.