
Join us for a free online author talk with Smithsonian Biologist Jay Falk. Delve into the fascinating world of birds through astonishing photography and clear explanations in this absorbing global guide, The Bird Book: The Stories, Science, and History of Birds.
Birds are dinosaurs with a history going back millions of years. Our fascination with them runs deep in history, and our close association is reflected in creation stories, myths, legends, songs, and children’s stories.
This book and presentation explore:
- Both the natural history of birds and that deep cultural connection. From their evolution and anatomy to their behavior and diversity.
- Hawks, finches, swans, or birds of paradise, moving the focus away from a predictable species-by-species account and allowing for truly global coverage.
- The bold nature of European Robins and why they are associated with Christmas; the mythical Phoenix, which rises from the ashes; and learn about eagles, from their hunting prowess to their myriads of stories and symbolism.
Packed with information, beautiful photography, and illustrations, The Bird Book is a must-have for nature enthusiasts. Register today to learn more about your very own backyard friends!
About the Author: Dr. Jay Jinsing Falk is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute and the University of Colorado. He is an evolutionary biologist and behavioral ecologist fascinated by the diversity that can be found within species, especially in sexual traits. During his PhD, he began studying White-necked Jacobin hummingbirds as a STRI Short-Term Fellow, and later as a Smithsonian Predoctoral Fellow. His findings, that some females of this species look like males while others do not, has become the cornerstone of his research program. He is inspired by the dizzying array of feather coloration that can be found in hummingbirds. After completing his PhD at Cornell University, he moved to the University of Washington to study hummingbird movement and metabolism. Now at the University of Colorado, he is investigating the genetics and development of feather coloration. Jay currently lives in Gamboa, Panamá, where he studies the hummingbirds that visit the feeders at his house on the edge of the forest.

Learn the basics of Fabric Dye and create a project to take home! Using simple techniques, participants will personalize a canvas pencil case using the color of their choosing.
Intended for children 6 and up.
Join us at 11 a.m. Friday, April 10 for a lunch-and-learn event focused on U.City’s senior residents. The monthly series features local experts discussing programs and services that are available for seniors in the St. Louis area. This program will feature a presentation from Crown Center.
Lunch is provided free-of-charge to those over 60 who pre-register for the event. Free transportation may be available to those who qualify. Call 636-207-0847 to register and learn more. You can also register by clicking here.
This series is presented in partnership with the University City Senior Commission and Aging Ahead.
Join us at 11 a.m. Friday, March 13 for a lunch-and-learn event focused on U.City’s senior residents. The monthly series features local experts discussing programs and services that are available for seniors in the St. Louis area. This program will feature a presentation from University City Senior Services.
Lunch is provided free-of-charge to those over 60 who pre-register for the event. Free transportation may be available to those who qualify. Call 636-207-0847 to register and learn more. You can also register by clicking here.
This series is presented in partnership with the University City Senior Commission and Aging Ahead.
Join us at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 13 for a lunch-and-learn event focused on U.City’s senior residents. The monthly series features local experts discussing programs and services that are available for seniors in the St. Louis area. This program will feature a presentation from St. Louis Village.
Lunch is provided free-of-charge to those over 60 who pre-register for the event. Free transportation may be available to those who qualify. Call 636-207-0847 to register and learn more. You can also register by clicking here.
This series is presented in partnership with the University City Senior Commission and Aging Ahead.
Join us at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 9 for a lunch-and-learn event focused on U.City’s senior residents. The monthly series features local experts discussing programs and services that are available for seniors in the St. Louis area. This program will feature a presentation from the University of Missouri Extension, discussing senior nutrition.
Lunch is provided free-of-charge to those over 60 who pre-register for the event. Free transportation may be available to those who qualify. Call 636-207-0847 to register and learn more. You can also register by clicking here.
This series is presented in partnership with the University City Senior Commission and Aging Ahead.
Join us at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 12 for a lunch-and-learn event focused on U.City’s senior residents. The monthly series features local experts discussing programs and services that are available for seniors in the St. Louis area. This program will feature a presentation on estate planning and probate.
Lunch is provided free-of-charge to those over 60 who pre-register for the event. Free transportation may be available to those who qualify. Call 636-207-0847 to register and learn more. You can also register by clicking here.
This series is presented in partnership with the University City Senior Commission and Aging Ahead.
Join us at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14 for a lunch-and-learn event focused on U.City’s senior residents. The monthly series features local experts discussing programs and services that are available for seniors in the St. Louis area. This program will feature a presentation on public safety from the University City Chief of Police.
Lunch is provided free-of-charge to those over 60 who pre-register for the event. Free transportation may be available to those who qualify. Call 636-207-0847 to register and learn more. You can also register by clicking here.
This series is presented in partnership with the University City Senior Commission and Aging Ahead.
Join us at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 12 for a lunch-and-learn event focused on U.City’s senior residents. The monthly series features local experts discussing programs and services that are available for seniors in the St. Louis area. This program will feature a presentation on Medicare
Lunch is provided free-of-charge to those over 60 who pre-register for the event. Free transportation may be available to those who qualify. Call 636-207-0847 to register and learn more. You can also register by clicking here.
This series is presented in partnership with the University City Senior Commission and Aging Ahead.
Join us at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 12 for a lunch-and-learn event focused on U.City’s senior residents. The monthly series features local experts discussing programs and services that are available for seniors in the St. Louis area. This program will feature a presentation on exercise for seniors.
Lunch is provided free-of-charge to those over 60 who pre-register for the event. Free transportation may be available to those who qualify. Call 636-207-0847 to register and learn more. You can also register by clicking here.
This series is presented in partnership with the University City Senior Commission and Aging Ahead.