Bosque event is a hoot despite setbacks

With the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge shuttered due to the ongoing government shutdown, wildlife enthusiasts, educators and families gathered at the Socorro Convention Center this weekend to celebrate and learn about New Mexico’s rich biodiversity.

The event, organized by Friends of the Bosque del Apache, transformed the convention center into a vibrant hub of environmental education. Booths from various nonprofit organizations offered interactive exhibits and presentations, drawing both children and adults eager to engage with nature despite the refuge’s temporary closure.

JulieAnna Blomquist, event organizer and member of Friends of the Bosque del Apache, emphasized the importance of community support during the shutdown.

“We run entirely off donations,” she said. “When the refuge can’t raise funds, we step in to help with unexpected needs, whether it’s replacing a bridge or buying a tractor.”

Among the highlights was a presentation by the Raptors of New Mexico Foundation, where attendees met ambassador birds and learned about the unique traits of raptors, including leucistic bird, those with partial albinism. Laura McCann, a falconer and educator, shared stories of individual birds, including a turkey vulture found at the local bosque and a red-tailed hawk with unusual plumage.

“Captive birds do weird stuff,” McCann said, explaining how one bird’s behavior revealed its gender after years of uncertainty, by laying eggs.

The Rattlesnake Museum of Old Town Albuquerque captivated audiences with live reptiles and educational talks on snake behavior and conservation. Meanwhile, the Department of Transportation showcased its “Share with Wildlife” license plates, which help fund conservation efforts across the state.

Geology enthusiasts explored the region’s natural history through hands-on exhibits, and a special presentation highlighted the Bolson Tortoise, recently reintroduced to the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge, a milestone in species recovery efforts.

Despite the change in venue, turnout was strong. Blomquist credited outreach efforts, including city emails and signage, for keeping the public informed.

“It’s very kid-friendly,” she added. “This event is geared toward getting children interested in nature.”

The Friends group also encouraged attendees to support the refuge through their online nature store, which remains operational during the shutdown.

Looking ahead, the organization plans to host another event in early December, The Festival of the Cranes, focused on the seasonal arrival of sandhill cranes and geared more toward adult audiences, though family-friendly activities will still be available.

For more information or to support the refuge, visit friendsofbosquedelapache.org.