This little shop on the south end of Downtown Helena is a tribute to all things birds — bird feeders, bird baths and bird food.

Given its dedication to avian life, it’s only fitting that Birds and Beasleys, along with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and the Helena National Forest, have teamed up to host “bird day” next month in celebration of International Migratory Bird Day.

“What’s happening with our growth, we’re losing important habitat that’s affecting our birds,” said Sandy Shull, owner of Birds and Beasleys and one of the event’s sponsors. “We’ve always used birds as an indicator species. If we lose our birds, it tells us something is going on with that ecosystem.”

Several thousand bird species migrate between North and South America each year. While changes are taking place across the two continents, from deforestation in the rain forest to the retreat of arctic ice, some changes close to home are also taking a toll.

Shull said pine beetle infestations are killing large stands of trees that are home to various bird species. Fire suppression has also altered grass and forested ecosystems, changing certain habitats that depend on fire for life.

“This bird-day event is an opportunity for kids and family to come out and learn about birds and habitat,” Shull said. “As those habitats shift, the bird population shifts.”

Amy Teegarden, public information officer with the Helena National Forest, called International Migratory Bird Day a celebration of birds and their amazing journeys between their winter and summer homes.

This year’s theme, dubbed “Tropics to Tundra,” highlights the birds that make migratory journeys, the habitats on which they depend, and the people who help conserve vital habitat along the way.

As part of the event, bird banners will adorn the downtown district — decorated by area students. Activities scheduled at the Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir include bird hikes, storytelling, expert pointers, and a bird house construction class, among other things.

“New this year, we’ll have an artist’s tent featuring local artisans and musicians,” Teegarden said. “You can build a birdhouse, weave a willow bird roost, design a windsock or try your hand at other activities to increase your knowledge and enjoyment of birds.”

The event takes place Saturday, May 3, at the Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. with guided “early bird” hikes beginning at 6:30 a.m.

To find out more, call 495-3734.