Courtesy Post: Bagels and Buntings (Bird Observation and Bagel Buffett)

Courtesy Post: This event is being hosted by Merritt Island Wildlife Association (MIWA) – The Friends Group for the Merritt Island NWR. Please use contact details below for questions.

**Bagels and Buntings**
Join us as we celebrate the return of the beautiful Painted (Passerina ciris) and Indigo (Passerina cyanea) Buntings arriving in Florida. Painted and Indigo Buntings are primarily migrant and winter residents here from the breeding grounds north of us. Painted Buntings breed along the east coast from NE Florida up to about Virginia. Indigo Buntings breed over much of the eastern US.
We will gather briefly in the auditorium to share a few tips for safe viewing of the birds. The group will proceed to the boardwalk area for a chance to observe the buntings at the feeder. Participants are welcome to capture photographs and video footage. Binoculars are recommended (arrive early if you would like to check out a loaner pair from our Visitor Center Welcome Desk).

The group will return to the auditorium after the observation time to enjoy a Bunting Themed Bagel Buffet. The buffet will include Painted Bunting Peanut Butter & Jelly, Indigo blue berry jams, and Millet morning trail mix. During the bagel breakfast we will share some tips on attracting buntings to your wild space.
Please wear sun protection and bring a refillable water bottle.

**Mention “Buntings” at the Gift Shoppe to receive 10% off your total purchase (Discount applies to event attendees only and expires at 4pm on Sept 29, 2023)**

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (MINWR)
Visitor Center Auditorium
1987 Scrub Jay Way
Titusville FL 32782
(3.5 miles from the Max Brewer Bridge – follow signs to the MINWR Visitor Center – some map programs do not recognize the address)
Questions? Call MIWA office at 321-861-2377 or email [[email protected]](http://mailto:[email protected])