Special to The Hays Daily News

Getting started in bird watching might seem a daunting task, but a new program at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center makes it easy.

Birding 101, offered at 2 p.m. Sunday, will provide beginning bird watchers with information on equipment, guides and identification.

Longtime bird watcher and Hays resident Terry Mannell will provide information on binoculars, spotting scopes and bird guides during the first half of the program.

Mannell served as interim director of the Wetlands Center and has enjoyed birding for several years.

Those interested in getting started in this new and exciting hobby don't have to spend a lot of money; Mannell will provide information on inexpensive equipment just in time for the holiday season.

Ellinwood resident Rob Penner will present information on bird identification for beginners during the second half of the program.

Penner, who is the avian programs manager for the Nature Conservancy, has been a bird watcher since the age of 14. He will provide tips he has learned in more than 30 years of birding.

The program is free, but registration is required by Friday.

For more information or to register, contact the Wetlands Center at (620) 785-7456.