Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) on Morro Strand State BEach, Morro Bay, CA 21 March 2008 - Photo by Michael "Mike" L. Baird http://bairdphotos.com, Canon 1D Mark III with 100-400mm IS lens handheld.
If you’re looking for something really unique to do in Port Hope this Sunday, why not check out the first-ever Turkey Vulture Festival?
What on earth is that, you say? Caolaidhe Keelor, wife of Blue Rodeo’s Greg Keelor, is the organizer, and she has been waiting for this to come to fruition for some time now.
Keelor admits that turkey vultures often have a very negative connotation attached to them, being associated with death and decay. But she says the treatment they get in movies is not at all what they’re really about.
It’s no accident that the vultures descend on the Port Hope area every year. It coincides with the annual salmon run, when there are thousands of dead fish for the vultures to consume before they migrate south for the winter months.
Things kick off Sunday at 10 a.m., with Mayor Olena Hankivsky giving opening remarks at Tim David Café on Walton Street, where you can treat yourself to a special “Turkey Vulture Brew” to get you started on your day.
Inside the café, there will be art pieces from local artisans, with proceeds from the sale of the works going toward turkey vulture research.
The festival begins at 11 a.m. with a scavenger hunt for kids and adults. Armed with your “Carrion Passport,” which you’ll pick up at Rotary Park, you’ll make your way through downtown Port Hope, gathering giant turkey vulture Fun Pack Cards.
Once you collect all your stamps from the various businesses, you’ll be eligible to win tons of great prizes, says Keelor.
Birds of prey, courtesy of Wild Ontario, will be on site from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., and Keelor says there will be plenty more for those who want to learn about conservation.
Hubby Greg Keelor will be on hand as part of the day’s entertainment, along with Travis Good of the Sadies and a handful of others.
Keelor says the day is really about education and awareness in a fun and unique setting that will appeal to people of all ages.
Admission is completely free.
(Written By: Richard Evans)
