The ninth annual “Ding” Darling Film Series adapts to distancing and pandemic safety protocols with virtual airings and follow-up discussions via Zoom. It continues on Wednesday, Feb. 17, with Bird of Prey, a 94-minute documentary that takes viewers on a journey upon the wings of the world’s rarest eagle, the Philippine eagle.
Unlike other films in the series, this film ONLY is available to be streamed from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. EST on Feb. 17, so make sure to mark your calendars for this time. The Zoom virtual discussion is scheduled for 5 p.m. Pre-registration for the film and discussion are required; visit dingdarlingsociety.org/articles/lecture-and-film-series for links. Those who register for the film will receive an email a day before the showing that contains the streaming link and password along with a link to the Zoom discussion.
Bailey’s General Store wine buyer Calli Johnson has recommended Uncaged Red Blend, produced by the namesake singer of the Zac Brown Band, to enjoy with the post discussion.
“The label features a barn owl, another bird of prey that struggles with some of the same challenges as the great Philippine eagle,” says Johnson.
In Bird of Prey, world-renowned wildlife cinematographer Neil Rettig embarks on the challenging assignment to film the rare and majestic bird. Woven with stunning cinematography, the award-winning documentary from Cornell Lab of Ornithology soars to the heights of the vanishing species while telling the tale of an inspiring group of people determined to save the species from extinction.
A multiple film festival selection and winner, the documentary explores the Philippine eagle’s critical endangerment, caused by habitat loss and human persecution, yet leaves the viewer with hope for the future of the species, whose population is now estimated at fewer than 1,000.
“Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge hosts the free film showings with sponsorship from Sanibel Captiva Beach Resorts (SCBR). Below is the schedule of the season’s remaining films.
Discussions that follow each film allow visitors to gain more from their documentary-viewing experience by listening to other people’s points of view and analyzing what they just watched. For more information, visit dingdarlingsociety.org/articles/lecture-and-film-series.
Wednesday, Feb. 17 – Bird of Prey
Monday, March 8 – A Sense of Wonder
Monday, April 12 – Just Eat It
ABOUT DDWS
As a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, DDWS works to support J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge’s mission of conservation, wildlife and habitat protection, research, and public education through charitable donations and Refuge Nature Shop profits.
To support DDWS and the refuge with a tax-deductible gift, visit dingdarlingsociety.org or contact Birgie Miller at 239-472-1100 ext. 4, or [email protected].
