Extinct Bird Sculptures Land at Bellevue Botanical Garden

The Bellevue Botanical Garden is set to host a striking art installation featuring large bronze sculptures of five extinct North American bird species, part of Todd McGrain's Lost Bird Project, starting mid-September. This exhibit aims to highlight the importance of conservation and habitat preservation while engaging the public in ornithology. The featured birds include the passenger pigeon, Carolina parakeet, Labrador duck, great auk, and heath hen, all of which disappeared by 1932. The sculptures will be displayed in the Urban Meadow for a full year, enhancing the garden's mission of educating visitors about plant and animal connections. To kick off the programming, a festival will take place on October 19, featuring a panel discussion with McGrain and a screening of the documentary "The Lost Bird Project." Additionally, the Eastside Audubon Society will organize monthly bird walks at the garden during the exhibit. This initiative is supported by the Bellevue Botanical Garden Society and funded by individual donors. More information about the exhibit and related programs can be found on the BBG Society's website.