Experience a virtual visit to Southern France at Audubon Community Nature Center’s First Friday on Jan. 2. Nature Educator and Animal Care Specialist Charlotte Schmaltz will share her recent trip with photographs and recordings of birds like these Greater Flamingos.

The Audubon Community Nature Center’s First Friday at 11 a.m. Jan. 2 will feature Charlotte Schmaltz, Audubon nature educator and animal care specialist, presenting “The Birds of Southern France.”

Schmaltz will share photos and audio recordings of birds and stories of nature and her travel experiences on her recent week-long trip to Southern France. Her visit included an entire day at the Camargue Regional National Park, a wetland wildlife preserve with an ornithological park. Whether it was listening to birdsong during morning walks to the local patisserie or spending several hours outside with a camera and binoculars, she saw and heard many species. Some birds were like those found in Western New York, while others were completely unexpected and new.

In addition to her work at Audubon, Schmaltz is also an avid birder and wildlife photographer. Since moving to Jamestown in January 2025, she has enjoyed learning about the nature and ecology of the region. So far, her favorite trails are the ones at ACNC and those maintained by the Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy. When not outside experiencing nature, Schmaltz likes relaxing with her bird, Pepper.

Those attending can bring a packed lunch and visit with attendees and the speaker after the program. The fee is $8 or $6 for Nature Center members and children ages 9 to 15. Reservations are appreciated and can be made by calling 716-569-2345 or online at AudubonCNC.org/January-First-Friday. Walk-ins are welcome.

The Nature Center building will be closed on New Year’s Day. It will also be closed Jan. 5-16 for annual planning.