The UNL School of Natural Resources, along with The Wild Bird Habitat Store and Nebraska International Migratory Bird Month, is sponsoring the premiere of the film “The Messenger.” More than a dozen scientists were featured in the film, including Bridget Stutchbury, biologist at York University in Toronto, Ontario. She will give this presentation about tracking bird migration and will discuss how her research on Purple Martins’ and Wood Thrushes’ migration could help save songbirds.

Producer JoAnne Jackson will co-present starting at 3:15 p.m. and will give insight into the research behind the film, as well as what went into filming to make the documentary possible.

Seating for the presentation is limited. RSVPs should be made as soon as possible to wildbird1@neb.rr.com or 402-420-2553. A reception will follow the presentation.

The women also will be part of a question-and-answer session following the film premiere at the Mary Riepma Ross Theater at 7:30pm. To purchase tickets for viewing and event, visit theross.org. For more information on the film, visit songbirdsos.com.

The documentary chronicles the struggle of songbirds worldwide to survive in turbulent environmental conditions brought about by humans. The film, by award-winning director Su Rynard, argues that songbirds’ demise could signify the crash of the ecosystems globally, akin to the disappearance of honey bees and the melting of the glaciers.