If you're at or near Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota this weekend, there's a birding walk scheduled for Sunday in the South Unit of the park.

The park's 59th Annual Bird Walk is being sponsored by the Theodore Roosevelt Nature and History Association. It will start at 6:30 a.m. MDT in the Cottonwood Campground.

The casual one-hour stroll will meander along the Little Missouri River and onto the surrounding prairie in search of as many bird species as possible. Each year, 40-50 species are heard and seen during this popular event.

Following the walk, the TRNHA will host the 52nd annual Chuckwagon Breakfast at the Cottonwood Picnic Area shelter, which is adjacent to the campground. Buttermilk pancakes, country sausage, cowboy coffee and juice will be served beginning at about 8 a.m. A free-will donation is suggested to help defray expenses of the meal. Those interested in attending the breakfast should notify TRNHA in advance in order to assist in planning the event.

“Anyone can participate in the birdwalk,” said Superintendent Valerie Naylor. “It is an excellent opportunity for beginning birders to go into the field with birders who have experience. The birdwalk and breakfast take place rain or shine, and it is always fun to see how many birds are spotted or heard.”

As the national park’s non-profit partner, the Theodore Roosevelt Nature and History Association sells books and other interpretive materials in the park’s visitor centers. Proceeds are donated to the park to support interpretation and research.

Participants should bring binoculars, field guides, and keen eyes to help record the day’s sightings, and should be prepared for any kind of weather. To make reservations for the breakfast, call 701-623-4730 ext 3419 or e-mail [email protected].