Numerous snow geese take flight March 9 at Squaw Creek Wildlife refuge.

Sunday is the start of National Wildlife Refuge Week, and local residents can take part.

The Big Sit, one of the week’s events, will take place from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Sunday at Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge near Mound City.

Bird lovers and watchers will gather on the observation tower for The Big Sit to watch and count the number of different species of birds they spot.

“The tower offers a good vantage point,” said refuge manager Ron Bell.

The event is free and open to the public. Jim Voltz, a member of the Audubon Society and one of the organizers, said people come out, bring food and sit around the campfire while watching for birds.

“It’s a scientific bird count, but it’s also a social event,” he said.

Past Big Sit events have brought in people from as far away as Columbia and Jefferson City. The Big Sit also is a good way for people interested in bird watching to learn about the hobby.

“If they want to learn more about the Audubon Society, we’re there to explain and answer any questions,” Mr. Voltz said.

The Big Sit also provides people with an opportunity to visit Squaw Creek and learn more about the refuge.

“Once it gets light and we get a few visitors, it’s nice to talk about the refuge and the birds and what they’re doing,” said Mr. Bell. “... It gives them an opportunity to drive around the refuge.”

Mr. Voltz said people interested in participating in the Big Sit can just drop in or bring their lawn chairs and stay all day. He encouraged them to dress for the weather as well.

“It’s a little colder since it’s at the river basin,” he said.

Lacey Storer can be reached at lstorer@npgco.com