This Team Is for the Birds

A team of researchers from Haddonfield are leading an exhibit at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University in Philadelphia.

Their research is on the accomplishments of Haddonfield's most prominent naturalist, Samuel Nicholson Rhoads (1862-1952). Rhoads' work included specimen collections both local and abroad. Through his meticulous technique, he has become a celebrated and eminent resource to the Academy of Natural Sciences. The partnership was formed when the Academy learned the Historical Society had access to a large volume of Rhoads' works.

Members of the team include Kim Custer and Kathy Tassini from the , Ron Smith, an environmental teacher at , students from the high school and staff of the Academy.

The exhibit, “Legacy in the Making, Past, Present and Future of Ornithology at the Academy of Natural Sciences,” will be held on the weekend of June 9 and 10 at the Academy, at 19th and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia. There is a charge, $15 for adults and $13 for children 12 and under.

One of the interactive, featured exhibits for the weekend will be presented by the Rhoads Team. The event allows visitors to meet a real ornithologist, view tables of specimens, listen to bird experts, watch bird-skinning, identify local birds, participate in bird-banding, and design their own binoculars to take home.