DENVER – The Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies announce the lineup for the 2017 lecture series. All presentations will be held at the Museum, 2001 Colorado Blvd.

Migration and Adaptation in Our Changing World
When: Oct. 25, 7 p.m., Ricketson Auditorium

When animal populations are impacted by human-caused changes, they are forced to move to new places, modify how they behave, or face extinction. Ellen D. Ketterson, professor of biology at Indiana University Bloomington, addresses our need as invested citizens to understand animal migration and seasonality in relation to the loss of biodiversity. Ketterson will examine the very real implications of our changing world through the lens of a model bird species, the dark-eyed junco, commonly known as the snowbird. By focusing on the details and consequences of environmental change and how organisms respond, humans will be equipped to develop ways to predict future responses to ongoing environmental change and champion the biodiversity that makes our planet so amazing.

The Genius of Birds
When: Nov. 2, 7 p.m., Phipps IMAX Theater

Examine the true brilliance of birds and delve into the mysteries of their avian brains with acclaimed science and nature writer Jennifer Ackerman, author of the new book “The Genius of Birds.” From the beaches of Barbados to the rainforests of New Caledonia, experience Ackerman’s adventures firsthand as she shares wild stories and stunning photos to better understand these often underestimated creatures. Explore the richness of Ackerman’s work as she demonstrates how birds make and use their own tools, teach each other new skills, count, exercise their incredible knack for memory and even pass along cultural traditions. A book sale and signing will follow the lecture.

Each lecture is $12 for members of the Museum or Bird Conservancy of the Rockies and $15 for nonmembers. For registration details, visit dmns.org/afterhours.