A birding tour for beginners is scheduled for Saturday, May 12, in conjunction with the 14th annual Ute Mountain-Mesa Verde Birding Festival in Cortez.

The hands-on introduction to bird-watching skills will give participants a primer on choices in field guides and binoculars and the ways to use them. Participants will travel by van to Thomas Preserve to practice birding skills in varied habitats, such as learning the first steps to identifying birds at feeders and in the wild.

Cost for the half-day tour is $10 and includes transportation. Bring a sack lunch for a birding picnic at Denny Lake.

Pre-register at www.utemountainmesaverdebirdingfestival.com or call the Cortez Cultural Center at 970-565-1151.