ALTOONA, Pa. — Penn State Altoona will hold the third annual Birding Classic beginning at noon on Saturday, April 14, and ending at noon on Sunday, April 22. The goal of the event is for teams in seven different categories to count as many species of birds as possible in Blair and surrounding counties in a 24-hour period during the week. Winners will receive their awards during closing ceremonies immediately following the event.

Registration is free, with a deadline of April 8. To register and for more information, contact Catherine Farr at catiegk5059@gmail.com. All ages and levels of birders are invited to participate.

The nonprofit event is co-sponsored by the Environmental Studies Program at Penn State Altoona and the Juniata Valley Audubon Society. Team members and their pledges will support bird conservation and education in central Pennsylvania.