2019-20 Texas Birding Calendar
Compiled by Desirae Parker
The Lone Star state has some of the most unique and diverse birds, boasting 650 species. We offer birding information and events that can help you better understand the species around you. So, grab your binoculars, get out, and join the fun! Beginning and experienced birders alike are invited to attend the community events below and increase their life list.
In addition to these events, a regularly updated calendar of events hosted at Texas Parks and Wildlife facilities can be found online (www.tpwd.state.tx.us/calendar). Click “Birding” for a complete list of bird walks, owl prowls, bird identification classes and more offered at various Texas State Parks, including the state park World Birding Centers. Additional events at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center and Sea Center Texas can be found by selecting “Site Calendars” from the list of options on the main calendar page.
Monthly or Recurring Events
Seabourne Bird Hike: 1st Wednesday of each month Oct. – May
All ages and levels of birders are welcome! Binoculars and weather appropriate clothing and footwear are recommended.
Host: Coastal Prairie Chapter Texas Master Naturalist
Location: Seabourne Creek Nature Park Rosenberg, Tx 77471
Time: 8:00 am – 10:30 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 34 miles from Houston
(281) 633-7033 www.txmn/coastal/
1st Saturday Birding: First Saturday of each month Sept. – May
Bring your binoculars and field guide to join a staff naturalist or volunteer for an early morning glimpse of the park’s bird life. Birders and nature lovers of all levels are invited. Guest guides include Jones Park Assistant Director Matt Abernathy, expert birder Donna Krolcyzk and Claire Moore. Ages 10+
Host: Jessie H. Jones Park and Nature Center
Location: 20634 Kenswick Dr. Humble, Tx 77338
Time: 7:45 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 22 miles from Houston
(281) 446-8588 www.hcp4.net/jones
2nd Saturday Bird Week: Second Saturday of each month Sept. - June
Join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations on LLELA’s nature trails.
Host: LLELA Nature Preserve
Location: 201 E. Jones St. Lewisville, Tx 75057
Time: 7:30 am
Fee: $5 entry fee
Closest major city: 30 miles from Dallas
(972) 219-3550 www.LLELA.org
RNC Bird Walk and Talk: 3rd Saturday of each month
Meet Paul & Deloris Sellin in front of the Visitor Center to go birding along the Guadalupe River on the river trail.
Host: Riverside Nature Center
Location: 150 Francisco Lemos St. Kerrville, Tx 78028
Time: 8:00 am – 9:30 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 67 miles from San Antonio
www.riversidenaturecenture.org
Early Morning Birding: Most Saturdays July – Aug
Bring binoculars and field guide or borrow ours! Our expert birders will lead you on a guided birding hike through the trails of the Great Trinity Forest.
Host: Trinity River Audubon Center
Location: Trinity River Audubon at 6500 Great Trinity Forest Way Dallas, Tx 75217
Time: 7:30 am – 9:30 am
Fee: $15 register in advance, $20 at the door
Closest major city: 10 miles from Dallas
(214) 309-5801 www.Trinityriver.audubon.org
Monthly Bird Banding at Gulf Coast Bird Observatory: Aug. – July
Join licensed bird banders Robert and Kay Lookingbill as they band birds at the sanctuary. See a variety of birds up close as they are captured for banding and fitted with a small leg band to help gather important data. See a variety of birds up close as they are captured for banding in very fine nylon nets known as “mist nets” and fitted with a small leg band to help gather important data.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, TX 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
979-480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Beginners Bird Walk: Jan – Dec
Beginners birders or newcomers to the area, all are welcomed! Can provide binoculars to those without ones.
Host: San Antonio Audubon Society
Location: Judson Nature Trails 246 Viesca St., Alamo Heights
Time: 8:00 am each month except June, July, August at 7:30AM
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 8 miles from San Antonio
(210)342-2073 www.saaudubon.org
Smith Point Hawk Watch: Aug 15 – Nov 30
One of the great spectacles in nature is a sky full of swirling raptors soaring their way to central and South America for the winter. Smith Point on the eastern shore of Galveston Bay, where GCBO has a 30 ft. observation tower, it’s a natural concentration point for southwardly moving raptors in fall migration. Come join us as we count raptors daily!
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: Candy Abshier Wildlife Management Area, at Smith Point, Tx
Time: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 72 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Gulf Coast Bird Observatory Experience Auction: Nov 15 – Dec 6
Our online auctions are a fun way to support our mission and programs, while you get to go on awesome nature experiences or enjoy fine items! Bid on the chance to stay in a secluded nature resort, shadow our biologists in the field, go on bird tours with experts and much more!
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: In the comfort of your own home!
Time: runs continuously until closing
Fee: Your bid, your choice
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
August
Aug. 31: Boerne Birders 5th Saturday Birdwalk
Join the Boerne Birders for bird walks taking place at parks throughout Boerne area. Each walk will be hosted by an experienced bird watcher. Birders of all skills are welcomed.
Host: Cibolo Nature Center and Farm
Location: See website calendar for location details
Time: 8:00 am – 10:00 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 32 miles from San Antonio
(830) 249-4616 www.cibolo.org
September
Sept. 7: First Saturday Birding
Birders and nature lovers of all experience levels are invited to come out for this guided walk. Jones Park Assistant Director Matt Abernathy will lead visitors on a hike to see and document the birds of the park. Binoculars are recommended. Ages 10+
Host: Jesse Jones Park and Nature Center
Location: 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble, Tx 77338
Time: 7:45 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 22 miles from Houston
(281) 446-8588
Sept. 14: Second Saturday Bird Walk
Join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations on LLELA’s nature trails. Ages 10+.
Host: LLELA Nature Preserve
Location: 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville, Tx 75057
Time: 7:30 am
Fee: $5 a vehicle (cash or check)
Closest major city: 30 miles from Dallas
(972) 219-3550 www.LLELA.org
Sept. 14 & 21: Xtreme Hummingbird Xtravaganza (XHX)
XHX is a yearly event taking place during the peak of Ruby-throated Hummingbird migration in the fall that features symbolic hummingbird adoptions and live hummingbird banding where you get the opportunity to see these amazing birds up close and in the hand! Informative and entertaining talks held both days, activities for the kids, live animals at nature booths, a hummingbird and butterfly plant sale, our nature gift shop is open, and snacks and drinks will be available for purchase.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: $4 for adults, kids 12 and under are free
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Sept. 19-22: 31st Annual Hummerbird Celebration
Hummerbird celebration is an annual event held each Sept. in the charming and friendly coastal towns of Rockport and Fulton to celebrate the spectacular fall migration of the Ruby- throated hummingbirds. Enjoy field trips, boat trips, programs and workshops.
Host: Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce
Location: Rockport-Fulton Middle and High School throughout the town
Time: 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Fee: $75 depending on selection
Closest major city: 33 miles from Corpus Christi
(361) 729-6445 www.rockporthummingbird.com
Sept. 27 – 29: Celebration of Flight
The Corpus Christi Hawk Watch invites all to witness the peak of raptor migration. There will be live raptor show, speakers and guidance on finding/identifying the hawks and much more. This is the 23rd year of the celebration held during the peak of hawk migration. In the past we counted over 100,000 birds in one single day!
Host: Hawk Watch, International and Audubon Outdoor Club of Corpus Chrisit
Location: Hazel Bazemore County Park
Time: 9:00 am – 5 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 17 miles from Corpus Christi
(361) 876-2429 Joel.simon44@yahoo.com
Sept. 28 – 29: Hawk Watch Weekend
Overnight trip to the Central Texas Coast to view fall hawk migration, this includes Bazemore Park. The hawk watch site is located north of Corpus Christi.
Host: Penfeathers Tours, LLC
Location: Depart from Houston, Tx
Time: 7:00 am – 9:00 pm Sunday
Fee: $350 Single / $650 Couples
(832) 698-1175
Sept 30: Fall Incidental Bird Counts
This purposeful event is a bird survey completed each fall and spring since 2005. The data is submitted to Cornell Labs of Ornithology, which collects citizen science data from around the world. Enjoy a peaceful morning walk with us while listening and watching for song birds amongst our four habitats!
Host: Cibolo Nature Center
Location: 140 City Park Rd. Boerne, Tx 78006
Time: 7:45 am – 10:00 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 32 miles from San Antonio
(830) 249-4616 www.cibolo.org; sign up at https://givepul.se/jt24h2
October
Oct. 1: Fall Incidental Bird Counts
This purposeful event is a bird survey completed each fall and spring since 2005. The data is submitted to Cornell Labs of Ornithology, which collects citizen science data from around the world. Enjoy a peaceful morning walk with us while listening and watching for song birds amongst our four habitats!
Host: Cibolo Nature Center
Location: 140 City Park Rd. Boerne, Tx 78006
Time: 7:45 am – 10:00 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 32 miles from San Antonio
(830) 249-4616 www.cibolo.org; sign up at https://givepul.se/jt24h2
Oct. 4: Fall Incidental Bird Counts
This purposeful event is a bird survey completed each fall and spring since 2005. The data is submitted to Cornell Labs of Ornithology, which collects citizen science data
from around the world. Enjoy a peaceful morning walk with us while listening and watching for song birds amongst our four habitats!
Host: Cibolo Nature Center
Location: 140 City Park Rd. Boerne, Tx 78006
Time: 7:45 am – 10:00 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 32 miles from San Antonio
(830) 249-4616 www.cibolo.org; sign up at https://givepul.se/jt24h2
Oct. 5: First Saturday Birding
Birders and nature lovers of all experience levels are invited to come out for this guided walk. Expert birder Donna Krolcyzk will lead visitors on a hike to see and document the birds of the park. Binoculars are recommended. Ages 10+
Host: Jesse Jones Park and Nature Center
Location: 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble, Tx 77338
Time: 7:45 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 22 mi from Houston
(281) 446-8588 www.hcp4.net/community/parks/jones
Oct. 11: Keynote Talk on Raptors of the Rio Grande Valley by Bill Clark
Bill will discuss raptors of the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, with extensive coverage of Aplomado falcon, Gray hawk, White-tailed hawk, Harris’s hawk and Hook-billed Kite. Photos will be shown of many raptors in hand and will discuss their vocalizations and aspect of their biology. We will have Bill’s books on hand for purchase and to get them signed.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Fee: Free, yet $5 generous donation appreciated
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999
Oct. 12: Flight in Focus at Houston Audubon’s Raptor & Education Center
Join Houston Audubon in the celebration of 50 years of bird conservation. This special weekend is dedicated to bird photography. Saturday workshops and live raptor photography shoot. Sunday Field Trip to Smith Point Hawk Watch.
Host: Houston Audubon
Location: Houston’s Audubon’s Raptor & Education Center 3997 River Dr., Houston, Tx 77017
Time: Sat 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Sunday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: $100 per person
Closest major city: 9 miles from Houston
(713) 640-2407 https://houstonaudubon.org/
Oct. 12: Second Saturday Birdwalk
Join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations on LLELA’s nature trails. Ages 10+.
Host: LLELA Nature Preserve
Location: 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville, Tx 75057
Time: 7:30 am
Fee: $5 a vehicle (cash or check)
Closest major city: 30 miles from Dallas
(972) 219-3550 www.LLELA.org
Oct. 12 – 13: Raptor ID Workshop
Learn to identify raptors in flight at this workshop with renowned expert Bill Clark. Saturday will feature a series of lectures presented by Bill at the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory headquarters, followed by an experiential field trip on Sunday to Smith Point, which will also feature bird banders Robert and Kay Lookingbill catching live raptors to show participants.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566 and Candy Abshier WMA
Time: Sat 9:00 am – 5:00 pm; Sun 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Fee: $150 per person
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Oct. 19: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory Spring Native Plant Sale
Make Gulf Coast Bird Observatory your one stop shop for your fall gardening plans. Come browse the wide selection of plants in our native plant nursery, learn more about what plants best attract birds and wildlife; and support Gulf Coast Bird Observatory’s conservation efforts.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free entry; plant prices vary
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Oct. 19: Monthly Bird Banding at Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Join licensed bird banders Robert and Kay Lookingbill as they band birds at the sanctuary. See a variety of birds up close as they are captured for banding in very fine
nylon nets known as “mist nets” and fitted with a small leg band to help gather important data.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Oct. 26: Matagorda Raptor Tour
This fun tour from Galveston to Matagorda and back provides the opportunity to see as many as 12 species of raptors, including the Burrowing owl and Bald Eagle. We’ll stop for lunch midday at a local restaurant.
Host: Birding for Fun
Location: Galveston, Tx
Time: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Fee: $100 per person
Closest major city: 51 miles from Houston
(832) 372-8236 www.birdingforfun.com
November
Nov. 2: First Saturday Birding
Birders and Nature Lovers of all experience levels are invited to come out for this guided walk. Expert birder Claire Moore will lead visitors on a hike to see and document the birds of the park. Binoculars are recommended. Ages 10+
Host: Jesse Jones Park and Nature Center
Location: 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble, Tx 77338
Time: 7:45 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 22 miles from Houston
(281) 446-8588 www.hcp4.net/community/parks/jones
Nov. 6 – 10: Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival
In our 26th year, this festival celebrates the special birds and birding places of the Rio Grande Valley. Field trips, seminars, trade show, silent auction, socials and family activities.
Host: Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, Inc.
Location: Harlingen, TX
Time: 5:00 am – 8:00 pm daily
Fee: Many free family activities, or $25 registration fee plus field trip costs
Closest major city: 35 miles from McAllen
(956) 423-5565 and (209) 227-4823
Nov. 9: Second Saturday Bird Walk
Join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations on LLELA’s nature trails. Ages 10+.
Host: LLELA Nature Preserve
Location: 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville, Tx 75057
Time: 7:30 am
Fee: $5 a vehicle (cash or check)
Closest major city: 30 miles from Dallas
(972) 219-3550 www.LLELA.org
Nov. 16: Monthly Bird Banding at Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Join licensed bird banders Robert and Kay Lookingbill as they band birds at the sanctuary. See a variety of birds up close as they are captured for banding in very fine nylon nets known as “mist nets” and fitted with a small leg band to help gather important data.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Nov. 30: Boerne Birders 5th Saturday Birdwalk
Join the Boerne Birders for bird walks taking place at parks throughout Boerne area. Each walk will be hosted by an experienced bird watcher. Birders of all skills are welcomed.
Host: Cibolo Nature Center and Farm
Location: See website calendar for location details
Time: 8:00 am – 10:00 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 32 miles from San Antonio
(830) 249-4616 www.cibolo.org
December
Dec. 7: First Saturday Birding
Birders and Nature Lovers of all experience levels are invited to come out for this guided walk. Expert birder Claire Moore will lead visitors on a hike to see and document the birds of the park. Binoculars are recommended. Ages 10+
Host: Jesse J
Location: 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble, Tx 77338
Time: 7:45 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 22 miles from Houston
(281) 446-8588 www.hcp4.net/community/parks/jones
Dec. 7-8: Whooping Crane Weekend
Overnight trip to the Central Texas Coast to view wintering whooping cranes, wintering waterfowl and other species. Includes a boat trip on The Skimmer out of Fulton Harbor near Rockport, TX.
Host: Penfeathers Tours, LLC
Location: Departs from Houston, Tx
Time: Sat 7:00 am – 9:00 pm Sun
Fee: $350 single / $650 couples
(832) 698-1175
Dec. 14: Second Saturday Bird Walk
Join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations on LLELA’s nature trails. Ages 10+.
Host: LLELA Nature Preserve
Location: 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville, Tx 75057
Time: 7:30 am
Fee: $5 a vehicle (cash or check)
Closest major city: 30 miles from Dallas
(972) 219-3550 www.LLELA.org
Dec. 14-15: Holiday with the Cranes
Spend a wild weekend in Galveston celebrating the Island’s wintering flocks of Sandhill Cranes and other winter and resident birds at our annual Holiday with the Cranes. A weekend nature experience like no other, its chock-full of indoor and outdoor birding activities!
Host: Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council
Location: Moody Gardens Golf Course and other locations on Galveston Island.
Time: morning and afternoon activities
Fee: varies depending on activity
Closest major city: 51 miles from Houston
(409) 789-8125 www.galvestonnaturetourism.org
Dec. 21: Monthly Bird Banding at Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Join licensed bird banders Robert and Kay Lookingbill as they band birds at the sanctuary. See a variety of birds up close as they are captured for banding in very fine nylon nets known as “mist nets” and fitted with a small leg band to help gather important data.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
January
Jan. 4: Annual Winter Bird Count
Join a local bird guide and assist in documenting as many birds as possible during this single day Jones Park bird survey. Bring binoculars and field guide!
Host: Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center
Location: 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble, Tx 77338
Time: 7:45 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 22 miles from Houston
(281) 446-8588 www.hcp4.net/jones
Jan. 4: Winter Bird Count
Birders of all skill levels are encouraged to attend! Volunteer guide and birding expert Barbara Hoffmann will lead birders on a hike to document and identify our resident and overwintering birds. Birders ages 12+
Host: Jesse Jones Park and Nature Center
Location: 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble, Tx 77338
Time: 7:45 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 22 miles from Houston
(281) 446-8588 www.hcp4.net/jones
Jan. 10-11: Hill Country Overnight Trip
We welcome you on an overnight trip to the Hill Country to view wintering eagles on Lake Buchanan. This trip includes a boat trip on Lake Buchanan to view Bald eagles and possibly Golden eagles.
Host: Penfeathers Tours LLC
Location: Departs from Houston, Tx
Time: Sat 7:00 am – 9:00 pm Sun
Fee: $ 350 single/ $650 couples
(832) 698-1175
Jan. 11: Second Saturday Bird Walk
Join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations on LLELA’s nature trails. Ages 10+.
Host: LLELA Nature Preserve
Location: 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville, Tx 75057
Time: 7:30 am
Fee: $5 a vehicle (cash or check)
Closest major city: 30 miles from Dallas
(972) 219-3550 www.LLELA.org
Jan. 16-19: Guided Tour of Coastal Texas & Rio Grande Valley
This tour includes stops at many great Texas coastal birding destinations. Beginning and ending in Galveston; Matagorda, Padre Island Nation Seashore and Boca Chica are all featured in this trip. Visitations also include birding hotspots such as: Laguna Atascosa NWR, Estero Llano Grande State Park, Edinburg Scenic Wetland and World Birding Center and Anzalduas Dam and County Park.
Host: Birding for Fun
Location: Galveston, Tx
Time: 4 days and 3 nights
Fee: $1000 per person by 12/1/19; 1,250 per person thereafter this date.
Closest major city: 51 miles from Houston
(832) 372-8236 www.birdingforfun.com
Jan. 18: Monthly Bird Banding at Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Join licensed bird banders Robert and Kay Lookingbill as they band birds at the sanctuary. See a variety of birds up close as they are captured for banding in very fine nylon nets known as “mist nets” and fitted with a small leg band to help gather important data.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
February
Feb. 1: Beginning Birding
Novice birders join birding expert Barbara Hoffman to learn about the basic birding equipment including; field guides, binoculars, song and calls. Followed by an outing to catch a glimpse of the park’s bird life. Birders ages 10+. Reservations required by Jan. 22, 2020.
Host: Jesse Jones Park and Nature Center
Location: 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble, Tx 77338
Time: 8:30 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 22 miles from Houston
(281) 446-8588 www.hcp4.net/community/park/jones
Feb. 5-8: 8th Laredo Birding Festival
The Laredo Birding Festival will give you a chance to spread your wings and discover a world of birding adventures in a lively border city that bridges two cultures and plays host to pleasant winter weather. Imagine being able to observe nearly 200 species of dazzling birds; encounter lovely vistas along the Rio Grande; access nearly two dozen historic South Texas ranches and experience quality field trips in small intimate groups led by professional field guides. Come join us!
Host: Rio Grande International Study Center; Monte Mucho Audubon Society, Laredo Convention and Visitors Bureau
Location: Laredo, Tx
Time: Field trip times vary
Fee: Several day long packages to suit birding needs
Closest major city: 144 miles from McAllen
(956) 718-1063 www.laredobirdingfestival.org
Feb. 8: Second Saturday Bird Walk
Join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations on LLELA’s nature trails. Ages 10+.
Host: LLELA Nature Preserve
Location: 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville, Tx 75057
Time: 7:30 am
Fee: $5 a vehicle (cash or check)
Closest major city: 30 miles from Dallas
(972) 219-3550 www.LLELA.org
Feb. 15: Monthly Bird Banding at Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Join licensed bird banders Robert and Kay Lookingbill as they band birds at the sanctuary. See a variety of birds up close as they are captured for banding in very fine nylon nets known as “mist nets” and fitted with a small leg band to help gather important data.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Feb. 20-23: Whooping Crane Festival
Get your binoculars and checklists ready! The Coastal Bend is the only spot in the United States where the endangered Whooping Crane can be viewed at close range, and the Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce celebrates this astonishing natural wonder with an annual festival honoring these grand birds. Birding tours by land and sea are highlights during the festival. Other activities include a trade-show with optics, paintings, photography and one of a kind gift items, presentations from world-renowned speakers at The University of Texas Marine Science Institute, photography workshops and a variety of field trips
Host: Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce
Location: Various locations in Port Aransas, TX
Time: Varies
Fee: $20 registration fee; separate fees for tours and fieldtrips
Closest major city: 39 miles Corpus Christi
(361) 749-5919
March
Mar. 7: NatureFest
Enjoy a variety of Houston are nature education exhibitors, tours, workshops and guest speakers at the 16th annual Nature Fest. Family event includes pontoon boat tours, guided walks, live animals and catch-and-release fish tanks.
Host: Jesse Jones Park and Nature Center
Location: 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble, Tx 77338
Time: 7:45 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 22 miles from Houston
(281) 446-8588 www.hcp4.net/jones
Mar. 14: Second Saturday Bird Walk
Join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations on LLELA’s nature trails. Ages 10+.
Host: LLELA Nature Preserve
Location: 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville, Tx 75057
Time: 7:30 am
Fee: $5 a vehicle (cash or check)
Closest major city: 30 miles from Dallas
(972) 219-3550 www.LLELA.org
Mar. 21: Brew on the Bayou
Come sample and enjoy specialty brews from local breweries as well as wines. Listen to live music, grab a bite to eat from local food trucks and check out some hot items at our silent auction. Our beautiful wooded grounds will be lit by torchlight making it a perfect
spot to enjoy the brews, the food, and the music! Birds of prey show with live raptors and pontoon rides on the bayou are included as well.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Fee: $20 presale; $25 at event. ID required for brew tasting
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Mar. 27-29: Matagorda Bay Birdfest
Drawing attention to the beauty and Diversity of species, the 4th annual Matagorda Bay Birdfest celebrates its adjacency to the habitat where 229 species were counted in last year’s 117th Audubon CBC with Mad Island Marsh ranked #1, once again. This year’s Birdfest celebration features surprise Keynote Speaker, birding on the bay, eight other speakers some who will be signing books, bird art, vendors, professionally guided bird tours, kayak tours, a bird parade, raptor show and photography contest!
Host: MARSH
Location: East Side Annex, 901 Second St., Palacios TX
Time: Friday from 6:30 am through Sunday at noon (See website for schedule of events)
Fee: Birding tours $20 to $40, many free events including Bird Parade & Raptor Show
Closest major city: 107 miles from Houston
(956) 285-3234 / (832) 805-9434
Mar. 28-29: Attwater's Prairie Chicken Festival
Experience the beautiful courtship dance of the male Attwater's prairie chicken, one of North America's most endangered birds. You will also experience the beauty of native Texas Coastal Prairie’s plants and flowers. We will also have guest speakers, native plant walking tours and guided birding tours.
Host: Attwater Prairie Chicken National Wildlife Refuge (NWR)
Location: Attwater Prairie Chicken National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), 6.5 miles northeast of Eagle Lake, TX off FM 3013
Time: 7:00 am – 1:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 63 miles from Houston
(979) 234-3021
www.fws.gov/refuge/attwater_prairie_chicken
April
April 1: Great Texas Birding Classic Registration Deadline
The 24th Annual Birding Classic runs from April 15-May 15, but teams must register by April 1st to take part in this fun birding for conservation event! Gather your friends and
family to put together your team for this year’s event. There are tournament categories for all ages and skill levels!
Host: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
Location: statewide
Time: half-day, 24-hour, 48-hour, and weeklong categories
Fee: varies depending on tournament category
(512) 389-4500 www.birdingclassic.org
Apr. 4: First Saturday Birding
Birders and Nature Lovers of all experience levels are invited to come out for this guided walk. Expert birder Claire Moore will lead visitors on a hike to see and document the birds of the park. Binoculars are recommended. Ages 10+
Host: Jesse Jones Park and Nature Center
Location: 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble, Tx 77338
Time: 7:45 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 22 miles from Houston
(281) 446-8588 www.hcp4.net/community/parks/jones
Apr. 4-5: Flight in Focus at Houston Audubon’s High Island Sanctuaries
Join Houston Audubon in celebrating 50 years of bird conservation! This special weekend is dedicated to bird photography; photography workshops, live raptor photography shoot will be included. Early morning guided photography hikes in sanctuaries including Smith Oaks Rookery.
Host: Houston Audubon
Location: Houston Audubon’s High Island Sanctuaries High Island, Tx
Time: Sat. 7:00 am – 6:00 pm; Sun. 8:00 am – 12:00pm
Fee: $100 per person
Closest major city: 80 miles from Houston
(713) 640-2407
Apr. 4 - May 10: Spring Fling
Treat yourself to the amazing spectacle that is called spring migration on the Gulf Coast by viewing it from the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory’s new observation tower at the Quintana Neotropical Bird Sanctuary. Volunteers will be on hand daily to answer question, keep a daily list, and sell water, snacks, field guides, and keepsake t-shirts. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the wide variety of species that migrate through Texas in their spring finery and to see colorful birds like orioles, grosbeaks, tanagers, and numerous warbler species, just to name a few!
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: Quintana Neotropical Bird Sanctuary, 814 Lamar St., Quintana, Tx
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm daily
Fee: Free, donations appreciated
Closest major city: 67 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Apr. 11: Second Saturday Bird Walk
Join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations on LLELA’s nature trails. Ages 10+.
Host: LLELA Nature Preserve
Location: 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville, Tx 75057
Time: 7:30 am
Fee: $5 a vehicle (cash or check)
Closest major city: 30 miles from Dallas
(972) 219-3550 www.LLELA.org
Apr. 16-19: Galveston Feather Fest Birding and Nature Photography Festival
Mark your calendar now to attend the 18th annual FeatherFest; the largest birding festival on the Upper Texas Coast! 100+ field trips, workshops, social events, and Fledging Fest. There is something for everyone at one of the top locations in the country for birding.
Host: Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council
Location: 4700 Broadway Galveston Island; Festival Headquarters
Time: morning, afternoon, and evening activities
Fee: varies depending on activity
Closest major city: 50 miles from Houston
(832) 459-5533 www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
Apr. 18: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory Spring Native Plant Sale
Make Gulf Coast Bird Observatory your one stop shop for your spring gardening plans. Come browse the wide selection of plants in our native plant nursery, learn more about what plants best attract birds and wildlife, and support Gulf Coast Bird Observatory efforts.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free entry; plant prices vary
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Apr. 18: Monthly Bird Banding at Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Join licensed bird banders Robert and Kay Lookingbill as they band birds at the sanctuary. See a variety of birds up close as they are captured for banding in very fine nylon nets known as “mist nets” and fitted with a small leg band to help gather important data.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
Apr. 22-25: Spring Chirp
Come join our boutique birding festival, where you spend 3 days exploring renowned public lands and private properties with world-class trip leaders. The Festival is taking place during one of the prime birding seasons, when you may reasonably expect to see more than 50 species in a day.
Host: Valley Nature Center
Location: Weslaco, Tx
Time: 6:00 am –time varies
Fee: $500; 3 meals per day are included. One field trip each day and festival transportation.
Closest major city: 17 miles from McAllen
(956) 969-2475 www.springchirp.com
Apr. 24-26: 20th Annual Balcones Songbird Festival
This small group of birding tours will take you to see rare and endangered species.
Host: Friends of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
Location: Texas Hill Country
Time: 6:00 am
Fee: $75
Closest major city: 35 miles from Austin
(512) 267-5916 www.balconessongbirdfestival.org
Apr. 22-26: Birdiest Festival in America
Preparing for its fourth year, Corpus Christi’s “Birdiest Festival in America” during spring migration in perhaps North America’s busiest flyway has become a popular, well established event! In 2019, it grew to five days, 160 registered birders from 16 states, more than 100 attending the opening Texas barbecue dinner, 286 different sighted species, 14 different field trips including world-famous King Ranch, four photo workshops, 11 expert presentations and eight new “150 Club” members plus a continuous local birding video running in the Visitor Center. Plans for 2020 include a nationally-known keynote, speaker, field trips to additional ranches and local partner organizations.
Host: South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center HQ
Location: Corpus Christi, surrounding Gulf Coast, nature areas and ranches
Time: Varies with field trips, other activities
Fee: Tentative $35 basic registration, including trade show, “Raptor Project,” Artisan Market, Family Day. Extra fees for opening dinner, field trips and added presentations.
(361) 852-2100
May
May 2: First Saturday Birding
Birders and Nature Lovers of all experience levels are invited to come out for this guided walk. Expert birder Donna Krolcyzk will lead visitors on a hike to see and document the birds of the park. Binoculars are recommended. Ages 10+
Host: Jesse Jones Park and Nature Center
Location: 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble, Tx 77338
Time: 7:45 am
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 22 miles from Houston
(281) 446-8588 www.hcp4.net/community/parks/jones
May 9: Second Saturday Bird Walk
Join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations on LLELA’s nature trails. Ages 10+.
Host: LLELA Nature Preserve
Location: 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville, Tx 75057
Time: 7:30 am
Fee: $5 a vehicle (cash or check)
Closest major city: 30 miles from Dallas
(972) 219-3550 www.LLELA.org
May 16: Birding and Photography Boat Tour to North Deer Island Rookery
This special tour abroad will give you a rare chance to view the North Deer Island Rookery located in Galveston Bay. The protected shorelines of this and other small nearby islands host over 12,000 nesting pairs of birds of many different species, including Brown Pelicans, roseate Spoonbills, and Great Blue Herons.
Host: Birding for Fun
Location: Galveston, Tx
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00pm
Fee: $65 per person
Closest major city: 51 miles from Houston
(832) 372-8236 www.birdingforfun.com
May 16: Monthly Bird Banding at Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Join licensed bird banders Robert and Kay Lookingbill as they band birds at the sanctuary. See a variety of birds up close as they are captured for banding in very fine nylon nets known as “mist nets” and fitted with a small leg band to help gather important data.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
June
June 8-12: Kid’s Summer Bird Camp
Come spend 5 fun packed days at the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory in Lake Jackson learning about birds and spending time in nature. Daily bird walks around the property’s many trails, taking a trip to the beach, making a bird feeder, catching insects in the wetland, visiting a wildlife rehab, and seeing birds up close during bird banding are just some of the fun activities planned. Designed for youth ages 8-11.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm daily
Fee: $150 per child; 2 scholarships available
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
June 13: Second Saturday Bird Walk
Join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations on LLELA’s nature trails. Ages 10+.
Host: LLELA Nature Preserve
Location: 201 E. Jones St., Lewisville, Tx 75057
Time: 7:30 am
Fee: $5 a vehicle (cash or check)
Closest major city: 30 miles from Dallas
(972) 219-3550 www.LLELA.org
June 20: Monthly Bird Banding at Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Join licensed bird banders Robert and Kay Lookingbill as they band birds at the sanctuary. See a variety of birds up close as they are captured for banding in very fine nylon nets known as “mist nets” and fitted with a small leg band to help gather important data.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
July
July 18: Monthly Bird Banding at Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Join licensed bird banders Robert and Kay Lookingbill as they band birds at the sanctuary. See a variety of birds close as they are captured for banding in very fine nylon nets known as “mist nets” and fitted with a small leg band to help gather important data.
Host: Gulf Coast Bird Observatory
Location: 299 Hwy 332 West, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: Free
Closest major city: 53 miles from Houston
(979) 480-0999 www.gcbo.org
