Summer Tanager. Photo by Peter Hogan, Audubon Photography Awards.
Georgia Bird FEst 2025
april 11 to may 16
Early Registration for Patrons: Opens: March 4 at 7:00 AM
Birds Georgia Member Registration Opens: March 11 at 7:00 AM
Non-Member Registration: Opens: March 18 at 7:00 AM
Birds Georgia Member Registration Opens: March 11 at 7:00 AM
Non-Member Registration: Opens: March 18 at 7:00 AM
Birds, y'all! As Georgia's largest bird and nature festival, Georgia Bird Fest features a full month of activities, including guided field trips to Georgia's best birding hotspots, nature-based workshops, and guest speakers. Events are tailored to all levels of bird, nature, and outdoor enthusiasts—there's something for everyone during Georgia Bird Fest!
Your participation in Georgia Bird Fest supports Birds Georgia's conservation, education, and community engagement programming. Thank you for helping us build places where birds and people thrive!
Your participation in Georgia Bird Fest supports Birds Georgia's conservation, education, and community engagement programming. Thank you for helping us build places where birds and people thrive!
EVENT FULL? JOIN THE WAITING LIST
If the event you are interested in is full, please join the Wait List by completing our Wait List Form. Responses are time- and date-stamped, and as space opens in an event, we will contact people in the order in which they completed the Wait List Form. Payment, if necessary, will not be due until we contact you. Please contact us if you have questions or if you experience any difficulty with the Wait List.
If the event you are interested in is full, please join the Wait List by completing our Wait List Form. Responses are time- and date-stamped, and as space opens in an event, we will contact people in the order in which they completed the Wait List Form. Payment, if necessary, will not be due until we contact you. Please contact us if you have questions or if you experience any difficulty with the Wait List.
AFTER REGISTRATION
You will receive an immediate email confirming your registration. If you do not receive this email, please check your spam folder or contact us so that we may troubleshoot.
Registered participants will receive full event instructions, including meeting location, a list of what to bring, and contact information for their trip/workshop leader approximately 10 days in advance of the event. Instructions will be emailed to all registered participants using the email address provided during registration. Please be sure to use a valid email address and one that you check regularly during registration. If you do not receive a registration confirmation email or event instructions 10 days before your event, please email Sheridan Alford.
CANCELLATION POLICY
If you need to cancel your registration more than 7 days prior to the event, we will refund the registration fee less a 20% processing fee. Cancellations six (6) days or less prior to the event are non-refundable unless we can resell the spot. All events/classes are rain or shine unless otherwise noted. If a class or event must be cancelled because of weather or other unforeseen circumstances, registered participants will receive a full refund.
You will receive an immediate email confirming your registration. If you do not receive this email, please check your spam folder or contact us so that we may troubleshoot.
Registered participants will receive full event instructions, including meeting location, a list of what to bring, and contact information for their trip/workshop leader approximately 10 days in advance of the event. Instructions will be emailed to all registered participants using the email address provided during registration. Please be sure to use a valid email address and one that you check regularly during registration. If you do not receive a registration confirmation email or event instructions 10 days before your event, please email Sheridan Alford.
CANCELLATION POLICY
If you need to cancel your registration more than 7 days prior to the event, we will refund the registration fee less a 20% processing fee. Cancellations six (6) days or less prior to the event are non-refundable unless we can resell the spot. All events/classes are rain or shine unless otherwise noted. If a class or event must be cancelled because of weather or other unforeseen circumstances, registered participants will receive a full refund.
saturday, April 12
Bald Eagle by David Rein
Birding the Restricted Treatment Wetlands of Clayton County Water Authority
Time: 8:00 to 11:00 AM Leader: Danielle Bunch & Anne McCallum Limited to 25 participants Cost: $40/person Location: Hampton, GA (Henry/Clayton Counties) Difficulty Level: Easy Rain Date: May 3 (Note: The majority of the treatment wetlands must be birded by car, so caravanning will be necessary with several high-clearance vehicles. Each car will be given a walkie-talkie to communicate bird sightings.) Newman Wetlands Center’s Senior Conservationist, Danielle Bunch, will guide us on a tour of the restricted-access Treatment Wetlands area. Participants on past trips have observed lingering winter and resident waterfowl such as Wood Duck, Gadwall, Blue-winged Teal, and Northern Shoveler; American Bittern; rail species such as Sora, Common Gallinule, and American Coot; vireos; Marsh Wren; swallows; Osprey; nesting Bald Eagles; and more. This is your chance to check out a typically-restricted access site with recent unusual-for-the-area sightings, with a small chance for Limpkin and night-herons. This trip is not to be missed! 4 spots remain! |
Red-eyed Vireo by Sheryl Hopkins
Exploring Nature at Chattahoochee Bend State Park Time: 8:00 to 11:30 AM Leader: Malcolm Hodges Limited to 15 participants Cost: $40/person Location: Chattahoochee Bend State Park (Coweta County) Difficulty Level: Moderate Rain Date: Rain or Shine (Note: Registrants are responsible for the $5 State Park parking fee unless they have a state park pass.) Chattahoochee Bend State Park showcases a spectacular tract of wilderness in northwest Coweta County. Located in a graceful bend of the Chattahoochee River, the park is a haven for all types of recreation. We'll explore everything from granite outcrops and pine woodlands down to the bottomlands of the Chattahoochee River, looking for birds, plants, lichens, or anything animal, plant, or mineral we can find at this relatively new and underused state park. All flavors of spring migrants and resident Piedmont birds can be expected this time of year here, including Wild Turkey, tanagers, vireos, and an assortment of warblers. 3 Spots Available. |
Photo by Luke Franke
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Little Blue Heron by Kurt Wecker
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Birding by Canoe, Chattahoochee River
Time: 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM Leader: Rose Guerra Limited to 14 participants Cost: $50/person Location: Roswell, GA (Fulton County) Difficulty Level: Moderate, must be able to sit in a canoe for several hours and must be able to paddle a canoe. Rain Date: Rain or Shine Celebrate spring migration and World Migratory Bird Day with our partners at Chattahoochee Nature Center. Commune with nature and join birding canoe guides as you explore the hidden backwaters along the Chattahoochee River. This 3.5-hour trip is a treat for birders of any skill level. Canoeing equipment, including a personal flotation device, is provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own binoculars. Please note that participants must be at least 14 years old. Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here. |
Eufaula NWR
Time: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM Leader: Wes Hatch Limited to 15 participants Cost: $40/person Location: Florence, GA (Stewart County) Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult; approximately 3-5 miles walking with no shade; no restrooms Rain Date: Rain or Shine Eufaula NWR, straddling the Georgia/Alabama state line, was established in 1964 to provide habitat for wintering waterfowl and other migratory and resident wildlife. The Bradley Unit of Eufaula, an Audubon Important Bird Area, adjoins the Chattahoochee River on the Georgia side and contains several ditched impoundments, weedy fields, as well as hardwood and floodplain forests. Eufaula NWR hosts a number of resident and migratory birds, including a multitude of hard-to-find species in Georgia. As such, we'll hope to find King Rail; Barn Owl; Purple Gallinule; migratory and breeding warblers including Prothonotary; shorebirds; Least Bittern; wading birds such as Little Blue Heron and Snowy Egret; Common Ground Dove; and lingering and resident waterfowl. |
Photo by Roger Williams
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Woodstork Festival
Dates: April 11 and 12
Trip Organizer: Camden County Audubon Society
Cost: Visit website for pricing information on excursions and registering for this event. A $5 parking fee or Georgia State Park Pass is required
Location: Camden County
Difficulty Level: Easy
Rain Date: Rain or Shine
Hosted by Camden County Audubon Society, participants will delight in a day filled with expert-led birding programs, artisanal crafts, ranger-led kayak paddles and much more. Activities include pontoon boat birding trips, guided bird walks, the Georgia Southern University Raptor program, films, food trucks, and Plein Aire competition with cash prizes.
For more information on this event, please visit https://www.woodstorkfestival.com/
Dates: April 11 and 12
Trip Organizer: Camden County Audubon Society
Cost: Visit website for pricing information on excursions and registering for this event. A $5 parking fee or Georgia State Park Pass is required
Location: Camden County
Difficulty Level: Easy
Rain Date: Rain or Shine
Hosted by Camden County Audubon Society, participants will delight in a day filled with expert-led birding programs, artisanal crafts, ranger-led kayak paddles and much more. Activities include pontoon boat birding trips, guided bird walks, the Georgia Southern University Raptor program, films, food trucks, and Plein Aire competition with cash prizes.
For more information on this event, please visit https://www.woodstorkfestival.com/
sunday, April 13
Field Sparrow by Susan Murray
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Eastern Meadowlark by Sheri Douse
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Birds and Lichen of Palm Creek
Time: 8:00 to 11:00 AM Leaders: Nathan Griswell and Malcolm Hodges Limited to 12 participants Cost: $40/person Location: Gwinnett County, GA Difficulty Level: Moderate with variable terrain, sloping paths, possible slick rock, and a couple of stream crossings Rain Date: Rain or Shine This protected granite outcrop is a fascinating conjunction of high-energy creeks, nestled in patches of mature pine and oak forests. Join Birds Georgia friend Malcolm Hodges for a truly special experience at the as-yet-undeveloped "Palm Creek Park" (proposed name) outcrop in Gwinnett County, Georgia. Malcolm will lead a walk on county property (he’s recently retired as The Nature Conservancy's state ecologist); participants will see a very different-looking outcrop with odd outcrop-endemic plants and rich surrounding forests, and discuss the unique features of this special place. Birds will of course be on the menu, as will all aspects of natural history. Optional: bring lunch for a picnic on the shaded rock following our hike. Participants may assist in removing litter from the trails on the way out; gloves and trash bags will be provided. 4 spots remain! |
Pole Bridge
Time: 8:00 to 11:00 AM Leader: Patrick Maurice Limited to 15 participants Cost: $40/person Location: Lithonia, GA (DeKalb County) Difficulty Level: Easy, no restrooms Rain Date: April 20 The mixed habitat surrounding Pole Bridge Wastewater Treatment Facility has become a highly popular birding location among local birders in South DeKalb County, thanks in large part to a few rarities and several surprises that have been found here over the years. Although public access is limited, over 150 species of birds have been identified at this single location in the metro-Atlanta area. Join Patrick Maurice, one of the current Georgia Big Day record-holders, as we look for grassland birds such as Wild Turkey, Eastern Meadowlark, and possibly American Pipit. This is also a great opportunity to possibly find breeding American Kestrels, an uncommon sight in metro Atlanta. We will also look for migrating shorebirds, warblers, thrushes, and sparrows. Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here.
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Yellow Warbler by Camilla Cerea
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Canadian Geese by Matthew Pearson
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Bird Banding Research with the Georgia Gwinnett College Bird Lab
Time: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM Leader: Maribel Fernandez Cost: $40/person Location: Harbins Park (Gwinnett) - GGC Bird Lab Limited to 20 participants Difficulty: Moderate Rain Date: 4/19 or 4/20 Join the Georgia Gwinnett College Bird Lab for a banding day starting at 6:00 am for banding or starting at 8:00 am for point counts (birding on a system). This is part of a project to evaluate the effect of urbanization on bird diversity. Participants will be able to aid in important research and choose whether they would like to do both banding and point counts or 1 of the 2. |
Chattahoochee Riverkeeper at West Point Lake
Time: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM Leader: Gillian Barber Cost: $50/person Location: West Point Lake Limited to 30 participants Difficulty: Easy Rain Date: Rain or Shine Join Chattahoochee Riverkeeper for a tour of the birds and other fauna and flora of West Point Lake. We’ll cruise on the 40-foot Miss Sally and enjoy views of nesting osprey and Great Blue Herons. Along the way, we'll discuss the importance of a healthy lake to our birds as well as the history of West Point Lake and CRK’s work to protect the Chattahoochee River Basin. |
Red-headed Woodpecker by Rushing Outdoors
Mud Creek Farm
Time: 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Leader: Wes Hatch
Limited to 15 participants
Location: Mud Creek Farm, Albany, GA (Dougherty County)
Difficulty Level: Moderate with over 3 miles of walking
Rain Date: Rain or Shine
Mud Creek Farm in Albany, GA, has been owned by the Fowler Family for the last 100 years. The late host to Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom, Jim Fowler grew up on this property and later turned it into an Ostrich Farm with a number of other exotic species that still call the farm home. The farm is now taken care of by his children and nieces and nephews. This is a unique property that hosts southern specialties such as Northern Bobwhite, Bachman’s Sparrow, Red-headed Woodpeckers, and so much more. Plan to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the farm!
Time: 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Leader: Wes Hatch
Limited to 15 participants
Location: Mud Creek Farm, Albany, GA (Dougherty County)
Difficulty Level: Moderate with over 3 miles of walking
Rain Date: Rain or Shine
Mud Creek Farm in Albany, GA, has been owned by the Fowler Family for the last 100 years. The late host to Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom, Jim Fowler grew up on this property and later turned it into an Ostrich Farm with a number of other exotic species that still call the farm home. The farm is now taken care of by his children and nieces and nephews. This is a unique property that hosts southern specialties such as Northern Bobwhite, Bachman’s Sparrow, Red-headed Woodpeckers, and so much more. Plan to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the farm!
Wednesday, April 16
Photo by Sydney Walsh
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Cedar Waxwing, Columbus, Georgia by Collins Kilgore/Audubon Photography Awards
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Basics of Bird Photography (Zoom & Field Session)
Zoom Session: April 16 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM Field Session: April 19 form 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Blue Heron Nature Preserve Leaders: Eric Bowles Cost: $50/person Limited to 18 participants Difficulty: Easy Rain Date: Field Session, April 20 Whether you are using a compact camera, a phone, a DSLR, or the latest mirrorless camera, you still want to create good bird photographs. Professional nature photographer Eric Bowles will guide participants in this two-part workshop, which features a live webinar via Zoom to cover the classwork session (April 16) and an in-person, outdoor field session for hands-on practice and instruction at the Blue Heron Nature Preserve in Buckhead (April 19). In this workshop, you’ll receive tips, suggestions, and answers to help you take better photos with your camera. We’ll talk about equipment and its limitations, exposure settings, focus, and basics of bird composition. |
Native Gardening with Birds Georgia
Time: 1:00 - 3:00 PM Leader: Sebastian Hagan Cost: Free Limited to 20 participants Location: Island Ford Wildlife Sanctuary Difficulty: Easy Rain Date: April 17 Join Birds Georgia's Habitat Team for a hands-on native gardening workshop at the scenic Island Ford unit of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. This comprehensive workshop will cover everything you need to know to create a thriving native garden that supports local biodiversity. Discover the beauty and resilience of native plants. Gain valuable knowledge and skills to create a sustainable and ecologically beneficial garden. Connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts and contribute to the conservation of native habitats. What to expect: Indoor Session: Learn to identify native plants and their invasive counterparts, discover the benefits of native gardening, and get expert advice on plant selection and garden design. Outdoor Session: Explore the Island Ford Visitor Center's native plant garden, learn practical tips on garden management, proper planting techniques, and strategies to attract and support local wildlife. What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for the outdoor portion A reusable water bottle Something to take notes Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here. |
Friday, April 18
Lyon Farm at Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area
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Habitat and History of Lyon Farm
Time: 8:00 to 11:30 AM
Leaders: Gabe Andrle and Jennifer Dickie
Location: Lyon Farm (DeKalb County)
Limited to 30 participants
Cost: $40/person
Difficulty Level: Easy - 2 to 3 miles of walking on paved trail and lawn
Rain Date: April 22
Join Arabia Mountain Heritage Area Alliance Program Manager, Jennifer Dickie and Birds Georgia Habitat Program Manager, Gabe Andrle on a habitat and history tour of the historic Lyon Farm property and South River riparian forest. Participants will begin the day with a 2 mile walk from the historic farm site down to the South River to look for warblers, flycatchers, vireos and other migrants. Upon returning to the historic site, they will learn the story of people who lived at Lyon Farm, free and enslaved, as we visit the existing structures and imagine the historic landscape. We'll consider how the landscape alteration over 200 years changed everything for the humans, plants, and animals who lived here. What was lost? What was gained? Where are we today?
Time: 8:00 to 11:30 AM
Leaders: Gabe Andrle and Jennifer Dickie
Location: Lyon Farm (DeKalb County)
Limited to 30 participants
Cost: $40/person
Difficulty Level: Easy - 2 to 3 miles of walking on paved trail and lawn
Rain Date: April 22
Join Arabia Mountain Heritage Area Alliance Program Manager, Jennifer Dickie and Birds Georgia Habitat Program Manager, Gabe Andrle on a habitat and history tour of the historic Lyon Farm property and South River riparian forest. Participants will begin the day with a 2 mile walk from the historic farm site down to the South River to look for warblers, flycatchers, vireos and other migrants. Upon returning to the historic site, they will learn the story of people who lived at Lyon Farm, free and enslaved, as we visit the existing structures and imagine the historic landscape. We'll consider how the landscape alteration over 200 years changed everything for the humans, plants, and animals who lived here. What was lost? What was gained? Where are we today?
Saturday, April 19
Red-cockaded Woodpecker by Dave McKissick
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American Woodcock by John Troth/Audubon Photography Awards
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Red-cockaded Woodpeckers at Piedmont NWR
Time: 8:00 to 11:00 AM Leader: Jim Ferrari Cost: $40/person Location: Round Oak, GA (Jones County) Limited to 15 participants Difficulty: Moderate, with driving on dirt roads through the refuge and short walks; no restrooms Rain Date: May 3 In 1999 Georgia became the first state in the nation to develop a statewide conservation plan to provide management options and protection of suitable habitat for the endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker. Historically widespread in the southeast, the Red-cockaded Woodpecker suffered severe population declines due to the loss of mature pine forests. Today, approximately 1% of the woodpecker’s original population can still be found across the southeast. We’ll caravan through several areas of the refuge to look for some of the 57 family groups that call Piedmont NWR home. Other key species we’ll keep an eye (and ear) out for during the trip are Northern Bobwhite, Bachman’s Sparrow, Wild Turkey, Prairie Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, and plenty of other spring migrants. |
Panola Mountain Bio Blitz
Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM Leaders: Sebastian Hagan and Logan Jones Location: Birds Georgia Restoration Area at Panola Mountain State Park Limited to 35 participants Cost: Free Difficulty Level: Moderate due to walking off-trail Rain Date: TBD A bio blitz is a communal effort to record as many species within a designated location and time period as possible. We will work together to identify everything possible in the restoration area at Panola Mountain State Park. This guided event will gather citizen science data to be submitted for our current habitat restoration sites and be a great opportunity to learn some new ID tips! Downloading the iNaturalist app beforehand may be helpful preparation. We will work together to identify everything possible in the restoration area at Panola Mountain State Park. |
Yellow-throated Warbler by Richard Hall
Georgia’s Birdiest Backyard - Yard Tour and Little Sit in Athens
There are 2 sessions for this event
Session 1: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM This Slot is Full.
Session 2: 4:00 to 6:00 PM This Slot is Full.
Leaders: Gabe Andrle and Richard Hall
Location: Athens, GA (Clarke County)
Limited to 10 participants
Cost: $40 per person
Difficulty Level: Easy - some walking and some sitting. Area is mostly flat and consists of mulch, concrete, dirt, and wood surfaces. Contact trip leader [email protected] with any accessibility questions.
Rain Date: April 20
How do you attract and observe over 150 species of bird including rarities like Hooded Oriole, Bell’s Vireo, and Connecticut Warbler in a yard that is less than a quarter of an acre? Join us for an opportunity to tour the infamous yard, hear how it all began, get some inspiration, and see some birds along the way. Homeowner, Dr. Richard Hall, and Habitat Program Manager, Gabe Andrle will lead a discussion about what makes this Birds Georgia Certified yard special and how you can work on building your yard list while the group observes the regular yard birds and hopes for some spring migrant action.
Note: Nearby State Botanical Garden Native Plant Sale is from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM - get a head start on your backyard sanctuary.
There are 2 sessions for this event
Session 1: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM This Slot is Full.
Session 2: 4:00 to 6:00 PM This Slot is Full.
Leaders: Gabe Andrle and Richard Hall
Location: Athens, GA (Clarke County)
Limited to 10 participants
Cost: $40 per person
Difficulty Level: Easy - some walking and some sitting. Area is mostly flat and consists of mulch, concrete, dirt, and wood surfaces. Contact trip leader [email protected] with any accessibility questions.
Rain Date: April 20
How do you attract and observe over 150 species of bird including rarities like Hooded Oriole, Bell’s Vireo, and Connecticut Warbler in a yard that is less than a quarter of an acre? Join us for an opportunity to tour the infamous yard, hear how it all began, get some inspiration, and see some birds along the way. Homeowner, Dr. Richard Hall, and Habitat Program Manager, Gabe Andrle will lead a discussion about what makes this Birds Georgia Certified yard special and how you can work on building your yard list while the group observes the regular yard birds and hopes for some spring migrant action.
Note: Nearby State Botanical Garden Native Plant Sale is from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM - get a head start on your backyard sanctuary.
Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here.
Sunday, april 20
Blue Grosbeak by Jorja Feldman
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Birds of Serenbe
Time: 8:00 to 11:30 AM
Leaders: Gus Kaufman and Vinod Babu
Location: Palmetto, GA (Fulton County)
Limited to 15 participants
Cost: $40/person
Difficulty Level: Moderate with approximately 4 miles covered over uneven terrain; no restrooms on the trail
Rain Date: April 26
When registering, please be mindful that this date coincides with the Easter Holiday.
Always a fan favorite and consistently boasting a species list of 60+, this trip is sure to book quickly. Bird the private trails of Serenbe, a planned community focused on sustainable agriculture, the arts, and well-being located in south Fulton County. Trails meander through a mix of habitat, including pine and hardwood forests, open meadows, and shrub/scrub. We can expect a big species count for this walk, including good numbers of birds like Kentucky Warbler, Prairie Warbler and Blue Grosbeak, which can be hard to find within Atlanta itself.
Time: 8:00 to 11:30 AM
Leaders: Gus Kaufman and Vinod Babu
Location: Palmetto, GA (Fulton County)
Limited to 15 participants
Cost: $40/person
Difficulty Level: Moderate with approximately 4 miles covered over uneven terrain; no restrooms on the trail
Rain Date: April 26
When registering, please be mindful that this date coincides with the Easter Holiday.
Always a fan favorite and consistently boasting a species list of 60+, this trip is sure to book quickly. Bird the private trails of Serenbe, a planned community focused on sustainable agriculture, the arts, and well-being located in south Fulton County. Trails meander through a mix of habitat, including pine and hardwood forests, open meadows, and shrub/scrub. We can expect a big species count for this walk, including good numbers of birds like Kentucky Warbler, Prairie Warbler and Blue Grosbeak, which can be hard to find within Atlanta itself.
Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here.
Tuesday, April 22 |
Wednesday, April 23 |
Red Salamander by Gabe Andrle
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Birding and Herping Fernbank Forest
Time: 6:00 PM to 9:15 PM Leaders: Gabe Andrle Location: Druid Hills, GA (DeKalb County) Limited to 15 participants Cost: $40/person Difficulty Level: Moderate - uneven forested terrain and hills over 1.5 miles of walking. Contact trip leader [email protected] with any accessibility questions. Rain Date: April 23 Join Birds Georgia Habitat Program Manager, Gabe Andrle on an evening adventure exploring the 65 acre old-growth forest of Fernbank Museum to look for reptiles, amphibians, and birds. The walk will take participants from the museum, through Wild Woods, and into the Forest as the sun goes down. We will hope to encounter an evening chorus of bird song along with salamanders, snakes, lizards, and frogs. Participants will learn more about the array of reptiles and amphibians that call Georgia home and how to look for them and observe them responsibly. Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here. |
Webinar: We! Bird
Time: 7:00 to 8:30 PM Leader: Jack Bruce Cost: $12/person Location: Via Zoom Webinar Birding, and more particularly engaging with the birding community, can be an antidote to the epidemic of loneliness and social isolation in our country. In this interactive session, we look at how birding enhances existing relationships, opens doors to new relationships, and leads to greater involvement with others who are committed to birds, the environment, and conservation. Whether you are looking for another great reason to bird or looking for a way to take your passion for birding to help others, join us to learn more about the surprising social wellbeing benefits of birding. |
April 25 to 27
White Ibis, Photo by Adam Betuel
Shorebird Weekend on the Georgia Coast
Friday, April 25 through April 27, 2025
Leader: Adam Betuel
Cost: $380/person for members and $430/person for non-members
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
**THIS TRIP COST DOES NOT INCLUDE THE Georgia Bird Fest Summit. Please purchase a Summit ticket separately FOR SATURDAY!**
Join Birds Georgia’s Senior Director of Programs, Adam Betuel, for this special weekend full of amazing birds and expeditions, bracketing our Jekyll Island Summit. This trip will highlight the northbound shorebird migration and exciting diversity the Georgia Bight holds. Thousands of migrating shorebirds rely on our very own Georgia coast, including Red Knots, Semipalmated Sandpipers, Short-billed Dowitchers, Marbled Godwits, Ruddy Turnstones, and more! This area is also vital for breeding shorebirds like Wilson's Plover and American Oystercatcher and has even been recognized as a landscape of importance by the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network. In addition to the shorebirds, we will have great opportunities to spot wading birds, rails, raptors, and a diversity of resident and migratory songbirds.
The coastal trip kicks off with an optional Thursday evening gathering at Silver Bluff Brewing on April 24 at 6:30 pm. Friday, the group will start the morning at the restricted access hotspot known as Andrew’s Island. This spoil site is one of the premiere birding destinations of the southern Georgia Coast. It is one of, if not the best spots, to see Long-billed Dowitchers. American White Pelicans, American Avocets, lingering ducks, and thousands of shorebirds of a variety of species are possible. Buntings, sparrows, gnatcatchers, and warblers should all be present. The rest of the day will be spent visiting other hotspots around Brunswick and on Jekyll Island, potentially including Altamaha WMA or the south end of Jekyll. We will endeavor to detect new birds for the day and if the tides are right, possibly Seaside Sparrows.
Saturday is the day of the summit! Before the focal event, our group will visit the amphitheater pond where we will look for breeding wading birds, resident warblers such as Northern Parula and Yellow-throated Warbler, and possibly a Painted Bunting or Peregrine Falcon flyover. We will then report to the Villa By The Sea for a day of presentations, tables, and community. After the summit, if there is interest, we can do a bit more birding on Jekyll.
Sunday, we will have the very exciting opportunity to explore Little St Simons Island (LSSI). On LSSI, we will team up with the lodge's naturalist to explore various parts of the island and learn about the way this pristine place is managed and how it supports native flora and fauna. Using the lodge’s trucks, we will visit the island's seven miles of unspoiled beaches, make stops at various ponds home to breeding wading birds, and explore the pine and maritime forests that cover much of the island. Lunch on the island is included in your trip fee. We will leave the island on the 3:30 pm and should be back on St Simons and ready for a relaxing afternoon by 4:00 pm.
Please scroll to Monday, April 28 to see optional add-on extension.
The cost of the trip includes Adam’s time and guiding, including eBirding the entire weekend and creating a trip report at the end. Additionally, the tour price includes the day trip to Little St Simons.
The cost does not include transportation (we will carpool once on the coast), lodging, food expenses (outside of lunch on LSSI), summit registration, or the pass for Jekyll Island. If you join the Altamaha boat trip, you may want to tip our exceptional boat captain.
The pace of the trip will be easy to moderate, but the days will be long and full of birdwatching (sunrise to late afternoon). No individual walk should exceed a mile, though multiple short walks are likely on a given day and can add up. While often very pleasant, this trip can be quite warm and buggy.
Lodging is not provided for this trip but Adam is happy to make recommendations. One could consider the Villa By The Sea if you are already staying there for the night of the Summit. Participants will need to book their own rooms. Trip leader Adam Betuel can assist should you have any questions about locations and drive times to likely birdwatching destinations, and he will provide specifics just before the trip.
1 Spots Available.
Friday, April 25 through April 27, 2025
Leader: Adam Betuel
Cost: $380/person for members and $430/person for non-members
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
**THIS TRIP COST DOES NOT INCLUDE THE Georgia Bird Fest Summit. Please purchase a Summit ticket separately FOR SATURDAY!**
Join Birds Georgia’s Senior Director of Programs, Adam Betuel, for this special weekend full of amazing birds and expeditions, bracketing our Jekyll Island Summit. This trip will highlight the northbound shorebird migration and exciting diversity the Georgia Bight holds. Thousands of migrating shorebirds rely on our very own Georgia coast, including Red Knots, Semipalmated Sandpipers, Short-billed Dowitchers, Marbled Godwits, Ruddy Turnstones, and more! This area is also vital for breeding shorebirds like Wilson's Plover and American Oystercatcher and has even been recognized as a landscape of importance by the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network. In addition to the shorebirds, we will have great opportunities to spot wading birds, rails, raptors, and a diversity of resident and migratory songbirds.
The coastal trip kicks off with an optional Thursday evening gathering at Silver Bluff Brewing on April 24 at 6:30 pm. Friday, the group will start the morning at the restricted access hotspot known as Andrew’s Island. This spoil site is one of the premiere birding destinations of the southern Georgia Coast. It is one of, if not the best spots, to see Long-billed Dowitchers. American White Pelicans, American Avocets, lingering ducks, and thousands of shorebirds of a variety of species are possible. Buntings, sparrows, gnatcatchers, and warblers should all be present. The rest of the day will be spent visiting other hotspots around Brunswick and on Jekyll Island, potentially including Altamaha WMA or the south end of Jekyll. We will endeavor to detect new birds for the day and if the tides are right, possibly Seaside Sparrows.
Saturday is the day of the summit! Before the focal event, our group will visit the amphitheater pond where we will look for breeding wading birds, resident warblers such as Northern Parula and Yellow-throated Warbler, and possibly a Painted Bunting or Peregrine Falcon flyover. We will then report to the Villa By The Sea for a day of presentations, tables, and community. After the summit, if there is interest, we can do a bit more birding on Jekyll.
Sunday, we will have the very exciting opportunity to explore Little St Simons Island (LSSI). On LSSI, we will team up with the lodge's naturalist to explore various parts of the island and learn about the way this pristine place is managed and how it supports native flora and fauna. Using the lodge’s trucks, we will visit the island's seven miles of unspoiled beaches, make stops at various ponds home to breeding wading birds, and explore the pine and maritime forests that cover much of the island. Lunch on the island is included in your trip fee. We will leave the island on the 3:30 pm and should be back on St Simons and ready for a relaxing afternoon by 4:00 pm.
Please scroll to Monday, April 28 to see optional add-on extension.
The cost of the trip includes Adam’s time and guiding, including eBirding the entire weekend and creating a trip report at the end. Additionally, the tour price includes the day trip to Little St Simons.
The cost does not include transportation (we will carpool once on the coast), lodging, food expenses (outside of lunch on LSSI), summit registration, or the pass for Jekyll Island. If you join the Altamaha boat trip, you may want to tip our exceptional boat captain.
The pace of the trip will be easy to moderate, but the days will be long and full of birdwatching (sunrise to late afternoon). No individual walk should exceed a mile, though multiple short walks are likely on a given day and can add up. While often very pleasant, this trip can be quite warm and buggy.
Lodging is not provided for this trip but Adam is happy to make recommendations. One could consider the Villa By The Sea if you are already staying there for the night of the Summit. Participants will need to book their own rooms. Trip leader Adam Betuel can assist should you have any questions about locations and drive times to likely birdwatching destinations, and he will provide specifics just before the trip.
1 Spots Available.
You must register for this event seperately
April 25 and 26
You must register for this event seperately
Saturday, April 26
Red-shouldered Hawk by Jeremy Neipp
Raptor Walk at Chattahoochee Nature Center
Time: 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Leader: Kathryn Dudeck Limited to 12 participants Cost: $40/person Location: 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell, GA (Fulton County) Difficulty Level: Easy Rain Date: Rain or Shine From owls to hawks, eagles to vultures, join Chattahoochee Nature Center for a guided tour of their Wildlife Walk, home to rehabilitated, non-releasable birds of prey. Get an up-close look at species of raptors found across Georgia with wildlife director and rehabilitator, Kathryn Dudeck, who will share their natural history, personal stories that brought them into CNC’s care, and introduce you to a special avian ambassador. Afterward, feel free to explore the 127 acres of Chattahoochee Nature Center’s property and the variety of birds that call it home. (Note: Meet at the picnic tables in the parking lot island.) Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here. |
Photo by Rose Guerra
Family Day at E.M.B.A.R.C. Community Youth Farm
Time: 9:00 to 11:00 AM Leader: Jennifer McLaurin Limited to 12 participants Cost: $40/person Location: Lithonia, GA (DeKalb County) Difficulty Level: Easy Rain Date: April 27 Join us for an exciting Birding Hike open to kids, teens, and adults! Led by an experienced birder, this hike will help you discover and learn about local bird species in their natural habitats. No experience is required—just bring your curiosity! After our hike, kids can enjoy a fun craft session, where they’ll create artwork inspired by the birds they’ve seen. All materials will be provided. |
Sunday, April 27
Chestnut-sided Warbler,
Steven Chu/Audubon Photography Awards
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American Redstart, Photo by Denise Dupras/Audubon Photography Awards
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Campbellton Park
Time: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM Leader: Giff Beaton Limited to 20 participants Cost: $40/person Location: South Fulton County Difficulty Level: Easy Rain Date: Rain or Shine Campbellton Park is the newest greenspace addition to the city of Chattahoochee Hills, located in the southern portion of Fulton County, and features nearly 2,000 feet of frontage along the Chattahoochee River. Giff Beaton is the author of several books including Birding Georgia, Birds of Kennesaw Mountain, The Breeding Bird Atlas of Georgia, and Dragonflies and Damselflies of Georgia and the Southeast. He will guide the group as we explore the riparian forest, riverbank, and scrubby edges looking for lingering winter birds, returning summer breeders, and migrants passing through. Our species goal for this trip will be 50+, and we will have good chances at several warbler species such as American Redstart, Hooded Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Northern and Louisiana Waterthrush, and Northern Parula. Tanagers, flycatchers, vireos, sparrows, raptors, and perhaps an oriole species or two should also be expected. We'll keep our eyes and ears open for other surprises as well. This is a great opportunity to bird with one of Georgia's top birders and naturalists. Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here. |
Birding Bouckaert Farm
Time: 6:45 AM to 12:00 PM Leaders: Nathan Farnau and Richard Taylor Limited to 14 participants Cost: $40/person Location: Near Fairburn, GA (Fulton County) Difficulty Level: Easy with mostly driving between spots with a few short walks on flat ground not to exceed 1/2 mile each. Rain Date: Rain or Shine The 8,000-acre Bouckaert Farm is the brainchild of Olympian (equestrian) Carl Bouckaert. It is private land in south Fulton County bordered on the west/north by the Chattahoochee River. "Chatt Hills Eventing" is used primarily for high-level equestrian events, but is also a frequent site for movie making. Portions of Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame and Black Panther were filmed on the Farm. Netflix, HBO, Fox, and Paramount have also filmed on the property. Bouckaert Farm has only been birded a handful of times and just a few times during peak migration with a species total in the low 90s including a half dozen sparrows and more than a dozen different warbler species. Join us as we look to add to this property's species list and explore the varied habitat of riparian woodlands, grassy meadows, mowed fields, ponds, and streams. Participants will carpool on the property to reduce the vehicle footprint. Plan to bring a sack lunch. There are restrooms available. Participants will be required to sign a waiver from Bouckaert Farm prior to the start of the trip. Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here.
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Fernbank Forest. Photo by Christian Rock, Flickr Creative Commons.
City Nature Challenge Bird and Plant Walk in Fernbank Forest
Time: 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Leaders: Logan Jones
Location: Druid Hills, GA (DeKalb County)
Limited to 20 participants
Cost: $40/person
Difficulty Level: Moderate - uneven forested terrain and hills with at least 2.5 miles of walking
Rain Date: May 4
Join Birds Georgia Habitat Program Specialist, Logan Jones on a hike through the 65-acre old-growth forest of Fernbank Museum to look for and document a wide array of bird and plant life in addition to anything else we find along the way. The City Nature Challenge is a global effort to document biodiversity while connecting people to nature using iNaturalist. The hike will take participants from the museum, through Wild Woods, and into the Forest where we will encounter giant tulip poplars and oaks, a variety of pollinator-friendly plants, and everything in between.
Time: 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Leaders: Logan Jones
Location: Druid Hills, GA (DeKalb County)
Limited to 20 participants
Cost: $40/person
Difficulty Level: Moderate - uneven forested terrain and hills with at least 2.5 miles of walking
Rain Date: May 4
Join Birds Georgia Habitat Program Specialist, Logan Jones on a hike through the 65-acre old-growth forest of Fernbank Museum to look for and document a wide array of bird and plant life in addition to anything else we find along the way. The City Nature Challenge is a global effort to document biodiversity while connecting people to nature using iNaturalist. The hike will take participants from the museum, through Wild Woods, and into the Forest where we will encounter giant tulip poplars and oaks, a variety of pollinator-friendly plants, and everything in between.
Monday, April 28
Photo by Adam Betuel
Altamaha Delta Boat Tour
Time: 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM EST
Leader: Adam Betuel
Limited to 17 participants
Cost: $150 per person
Location: Hampton River Marina Address: 1000 Hampton River Club Marina Dr, St Simons Island, GA 31522
Rain Date: Rain or Shine
Join Senior Director of Programs, Adam Betuel, on an exciting boat trip exploring the Altamaha River Delta. After departing the Hampton River Marina, we will cruise along parts of the Hampton and Altamaha Rivers, passing alligators, flushing herons, and calling grackles. As we finally reach the mouth of the Altamaha, we will inspect places such as the north end of Little St. Simons Island, Little Egg Island, and Wolf Island Bar, looking for concentrated shorebirds during the rising tide. This river mouth is one of the most resource rich areas in our state and we are likely to have memorable experiences with gulls, terns, Wilson’s Plovers, Red Knots, Marbled Godwits, Whimbrel, and possibly a lingering Long-billed Curlew (rare). After a few hours on the boat, we will slowly make our way back at the Hampton River Marina in time for lunch. If time and interests is there, we can make other stops along the island, possibly targeting Gray Kingbird, Painted Buntings, or Black-bellied Whistling Ducks.
Time: 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM EST
Leader: Adam Betuel
Limited to 17 participants
Cost: $150 per person
Location: Hampton River Marina Address: 1000 Hampton River Club Marina Dr, St Simons Island, GA 31522
Rain Date: Rain or Shine
Join Senior Director of Programs, Adam Betuel, on an exciting boat trip exploring the Altamaha River Delta. After departing the Hampton River Marina, we will cruise along parts of the Hampton and Altamaha Rivers, passing alligators, flushing herons, and calling grackles. As we finally reach the mouth of the Altamaha, we will inspect places such as the north end of Little St. Simons Island, Little Egg Island, and Wolf Island Bar, looking for concentrated shorebirds during the rising tide. This river mouth is one of the most resource rich areas in our state and we are likely to have memorable experiences with gulls, terns, Wilson’s Plovers, Red Knots, Marbled Godwits, Whimbrel, and possibly a lingering Long-billed Curlew (rare). After a few hours on the boat, we will slowly make our way back at the Hampton River Marina in time for lunch. If time and interests is there, we can make other stops along the island, possibly targeting Gray Kingbird, Painted Buntings, or Black-bellied Whistling Ducks.
Wednesday, April 30
Black-throated Blue Warbler, Photo by William Hauck/Audubon Photography Awards
Webinar: Gardening for Birds and Building Your Backyard Sanctuary
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 PM
Instructor: Ellen Honeycutt, Georgia Native Plant Society
Cost: $12 per device
Location: Online via Zoom Webinar
Do you enjoy attracting birds and other beneficial wildlife to your yard? Do you know which types of plants will attract hummingbirds or which plants are the top producers of fruits for other birds? Do you have invasive plants you want to rid from your yard? Join Ellen Honeycutt from the Georgia Native Plant Society for this workshop on how to create a Wildlife Sanctuary on your own property. You’ll learn which plants give the biggest bang for your buck in terms of food production, shelter, and nesting sites and which plants you may want to avoid. Learn how to manage your Wildlife Sanctuary without the use of harmful pesticides and herbicides and where to go within north Georgia to source native plants for your own landscaping needs.
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 PM
Instructor: Ellen Honeycutt, Georgia Native Plant Society
Cost: $12 per device
Location: Online via Zoom Webinar
Do you enjoy attracting birds and other beneficial wildlife to your yard? Do you know which types of plants will attract hummingbirds or which plants are the top producers of fruits for other birds? Do you have invasive plants you want to rid from your yard? Join Ellen Honeycutt from the Georgia Native Plant Society for this workshop on how to create a Wildlife Sanctuary on your own property. You’ll learn which plants give the biggest bang for your buck in terms of food production, shelter, and nesting sites and which plants you may want to avoid. Learn how to manage your Wildlife Sanctuary without the use of harmful pesticides and herbicides and where to go within north Georgia to source native plants for your own landscaping needs.
Friday, May 2
Yellow-breasted Chat, by Megumi Aita/Audubon Photography Awards
**NEW** Talladega National Forest - Pinhoti Trailhead Coleman Lake
Time: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM EST
Leaders: Jack Bruce
Limited to 15 participants
Cost: $40/person
Location: Talladega National Forest
Difficulty Level: Moderate, We will be walking up to four miles, including a portion of the Pinhoti Trail. The terrain includes hills and uneven dirt and rock paths.
Rain Date: Rain or Shine
This is an eBird hotspot in the Talladega National Forest in Cleburne County, Alabama, known for being a home for the Red-cockaded Woodpecker. We also hope to see migrating summer warblers, vireos, sparrows, tanagers, and other birds common to the forest with its longleaf and loblolly pines. We may even see a shorebird or waterfowl on Coleman Lake.
The trail is well maintained but it is a hiking trail through the forest and will at times be uneven.
Time: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM EST
Leaders: Jack Bruce
Limited to 15 participants
Cost: $40/person
Location: Talladega National Forest
Difficulty Level: Moderate, We will be walking up to four miles, including a portion of the Pinhoti Trail. The terrain includes hills and uneven dirt and rock paths.
Rain Date: Rain or Shine
This is an eBird hotspot in the Talladega National Forest in Cleburne County, Alabama, known for being a home for the Red-cockaded Woodpecker. We also hope to see migrating summer warblers, vireos, sparrows, tanagers, and other birds common to the forest with its longleaf and loblolly pines. We may even see a shorebird or waterfowl on Coleman Lake.
The trail is well maintained but it is a hiking trail through the forest and will at times be uneven.
Saturday, May 3
Eastern Towhee, Photo by Calli Cook/Audubon Photography Awards
Birding at Cooper's Furnace
Time: 7:30 to 11:00 AM Leaders: Shannon Fair Limited to 12 participants Cost: $40/person Location: Cooper's Furnace Day Use Area, Cartersville Difficulty Level: Easy but lots of walking uphill Cooper's Furnace is one of North Georgia’s most popular day use areas. Nestled on the Etowah River, this park features rolling hills, waterfront tree lines and hardwood forested trail. Join us as we explore this lush space in search of woodpeckers, warblers and water birds. Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here. |
King Rail, Photo by Joshua Galicki/Audubon Photography Awards
Phinizy Swamp Nature Park
Time: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM Leader: Peter Stangel and Kathy Harte Limited to 12 participants Cost: $40/person Location: Augusta, GA (Richmond County) Difficulty Level: Easy, 3 mile walk on level grassy or gravel paths. No wheelchairs or strollers (we do have one staircase to go down). Minutes from downtown Augusta, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park offers wetlands and habitat edges bursting with birds. We’ll search for Bald Eagles, Black-bellied Whistling Ducks, White Ibis, Least Bitterns, King Rails, and Painted Buntings, as well as migratory warblers. Nearly 250 species of birds have been recorded here and this is a great spot to see American alligators! Note: the Park’s address is 1858 Lock and Dam Road; do NOT follow signs to the Phinizy Swamp Wildlife Management Area. This trip is co-hosted with Augusta-Aiken Audubon Society. 1 Spot Available |
Photo by Simon Law, Flickr Creative Commons.
Birding by Bicycle
Time: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Leaders: Ranger Jonah P. McDonald, Joy Carter, and Ken Boff
Limited to 15 participants
Cost: Free
Location: Begins in Historic Mason Mill Park (Dekalb County)
Difficulty Level: Moderate, must have biking equipment and ability
Rain Date: Rain or shine
Join Ranger Jonah, Joy Carter, and Ken Boff for a “Birding by Bicycle” adventure. Your trip leaders are avid birders and Jonah and Ken are also long-time bicycle commuters. They invite you to join them for 6-miles of biking and 1.5 miles of walking. The route is entirely on PATH trails and quiet neighborhood streets and allows us to visit 4 very different habitats in which to view birds. Please arrive with a well-functioning bicycle, helmet, water bottle, snack, binoculars, bike lock, and backpack for valuables. Helmets are REQUIRED on this trip. Participants are responsible for their own safety while on their bicycles.
Time: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Leaders: Ranger Jonah P. McDonald, Joy Carter, and Ken Boff
Limited to 15 participants
Cost: Free
Location: Begins in Historic Mason Mill Park (Dekalb County)
Difficulty Level: Moderate, must have biking equipment and ability
Rain Date: Rain or shine
Join Ranger Jonah, Joy Carter, and Ken Boff for a “Birding by Bicycle” adventure. Your trip leaders are avid birders and Jonah and Ken are also long-time bicycle commuters. They invite you to join them for 6-miles of biking and 1.5 miles of walking. The route is entirely on PATH trails and quiet neighborhood streets and allows us to visit 4 very different habitats in which to view birds. Please arrive with a well-functioning bicycle, helmet, water bottle, snack, binoculars, bike lock, and backpack for valuables. Helmets are REQUIRED on this trip. Participants are responsible for their own safety while on their bicycles.
Sunday, May 4
Osprey by Joanne Wuori
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**NEW** Chattahoochee Riverkeeper at Lake Lanier
Time: 9:00 to 11:00 AM
Leader: Becca Risser
Limited to 30 participants
Cost: $50/per person
Location: Lake Lanier (River Forks Park in Gainesville, GA)
Difficulty Level: Easy, equipment provided
Rain Date: Rain or shine
Join Chattahoochee Riverkeeper (CRK) for an tour of the birds and other Fauna and Flora of Lake Lanier. We will travel the lake together on CRK's 40ft "floating classroom" and enjoy views of nesting Osprey and Great Blue Herons on the shores and islands. We'll also see assorted other bird and aquatic life that calls the Chattahoochee Watershed home. Along the way, we'll discuss the importance of a healthy lake to our bird populations, as well as the history of Lanier and CRK's work to protect the Chattahoochee.
Time: 9:00 to 11:00 AM
Leader: Becca Risser
Limited to 30 participants
Cost: $50/per person
Location: Lake Lanier (River Forks Park in Gainesville, GA)
Difficulty Level: Easy, equipment provided
Rain Date: Rain or shine
Join Chattahoochee Riverkeeper (CRK) for an tour of the birds and other Fauna and Flora of Lake Lanier. We will travel the lake together on CRK's 40ft "floating classroom" and enjoy views of nesting Osprey and Great Blue Herons on the shores and islands. We'll also see assorted other bird and aquatic life that calls the Chattahoochee Watershed home. Along the way, we'll discuss the importance of a healthy lake to our bird populations, as well as the history of Lanier and CRK's work to protect the Chattahoochee.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird on coral honeysuckle by David M. Shipper/Audubon Photography Awards
Birding the Hike Inn Trail & Overnight at the Hike Inn
10:00 AM on Sunday, May 4, to 3:00 PM on Monday, May 5
Trip Leaders: Jay Davis and Cassie Herschel
Limited to 14 Participants
Cost: Double Occupancy (shared room, 2 attendees): $150.00 per person, total $300.00
Single Occupancy (private room, 1 attendee): $200.00 per person
Location: Dawsonville, GA (Dawson County)
Difficulty Level: Strenuous, 5-mile hike with significant elevation change
Rain Date: Rain or shine
If you haven't been to the Len Foote Hike Inn, you are in for a treat. Nestled in the mountains north of Amicalola Falls, the location is beautiful, the stars at night are bright, and the best part is that after a challenging 5 mile hike, you have the opportunity to shower and eat a family-style meal. After dinner, a cozy game and puzzle room beckons. Accommodations are bunk beds (2 per room), with bathrooms and hot showers in a separate bathhouse.
We will meet at 10:00 AM at the Hike Inn parking lot at the top of Amicalola Falls in Amicalola Falls State Park.
New for this year, we will deliberately target wildflowers and other possible flora & fauna along the way. Both trip leaders are Master Naturalists as well as Master Birders!
The hike will take 4-5 hours along a 5-mile trail. Birds we will likely see include Indigo Bunting, Scarlet Tanager, Blue-headed Vireo, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Ovenbird, Black-and-White Warbler and Hooded Warbler. Flowers could include Pink Ladyslipper, Mayapple, Rattlesnake Plantain, Catesby's Trillium and Yellow Stargrass. The hike crosses small streams, traverses scenic ridges, and ambles through stands of Mountain Laurel and Rhododendron.
Backpacker magazine included the trail as one of 36 “Best American Hikes” and the Inn is included on National Geographic Traveler’s “Stay List.”
After spending the night at the Hike Inn, we will make our way back to the Hike Inn parking lot the following day, again looking for birds and other natural wonders, arriving back to the parking lot by 3:00 PM.
10:00 AM on Sunday, May 4, to 3:00 PM on Monday, May 5
Trip Leaders: Jay Davis and Cassie Herschel
Limited to 14 Participants
Cost: Double Occupancy (shared room, 2 attendees): $150.00 per person, total $300.00
Single Occupancy (private room, 1 attendee): $200.00 per person
Location: Dawsonville, GA (Dawson County)
Difficulty Level: Strenuous, 5-mile hike with significant elevation change
Rain Date: Rain or shine
If you haven't been to the Len Foote Hike Inn, you are in for a treat. Nestled in the mountains north of Amicalola Falls, the location is beautiful, the stars at night are bright, and the best part is that after a challenging 5 mile hike, you have the opportunity to shower and eat a family-style meal. After dinner, a cozy game and puzzle room beckons. Accommodations are bunk beds (2 per room), with bathrooms and hot showers in a separate bathhouse.
We will meet at 10:00 AM at the Hike Inn parking lot at the top of Amicalola Falls in Amicalola Falls State Park.
New for this year, we will deliberately target wildflowers and other possible flora & fauna along the way. Both trip leaders are Master Naturalists as well as Master Birders!
The hike will take 4-5 hours along a 5-mile trail. Birds we will likely see include Indigo Bunting, Scarlet Tanager, Blue-headed Vireo, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Ovenbird, Black-and-White Warbler and Hooded Warbler. Flowers could include Pink Ladyslipper, Mayapple, Rattlesnake Plantain, Catesby's Trillium and Yellow Stargrass. The hike crosses small streams, traverses scenic ridges, and ambles through stands of Mountain Laurel and Rhododendron.
Backpacker magazine included the trail as one of 36 “Best American Hikes” and the Inn is included on National Geographic Traveler’s “Stay List.”
After spending the night at the Hike Inn, we will make our way back to the Hike Inn parking lot the following day, again looking for birds and other natural wonders, arriving back to the parking lot by 3:00 PM.
Wednesday, May 7
Northern Parula, May 2024, Gharpure
Heggie’s Rock, Georgia's National Natural Landmark
Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Leaders: Sebastian Hagan and Heather Levy
Location: Heggie's Rock Preserve
Limited to 10 participants
Cost: $40 per person
Difficulty Level: Moderate; Walking on exposed rock, might be slippery
Rain Date: May 9th
Join us for an exciting day at Heggie's Rock Preserve, where we will delve into the unique habitats of various outcrop-endemic plant and invertebrate species. This beautiful preserve spans 101 acres in Columbia County, just 20 miles east of Augusta, Georgia, and is nestled near the picturesque Little Kiokee Creek, leading to the Savannah River.
Our adventure will take us through the enchanting perimeter forest of oaks, pines, and hickories. The highlight of our trip will be the captivating granite outcrop known as Heggie’s Rock. Marvel at the exposed granite adorned with lichen and moss, explore the intriguing soil islands, and discover the stunning vernal pools, or dish gardens, that harbor rare and unusual plant species.
Heggie's Rock Preserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity, featuring a blend of dry outcrop, forests, and beaver-impounded streams that create a sanctuary for wildlife. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with nature, learn about the local ecosystem, and appreciate the beauty of this remarkable preserve!
Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here.
Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Leaders: Sebastian Hagan and Heather Levy
Location: Heggie's Rock Preserve
Limited to 10 participants
Cost: $40 per person
Difficulty Level: Moderate; Walking on exposed rock, might be slippery
Rain Date: May 9th
Join us for an exciting day at Heggie's Rock Preserve, where we will delve into the unique habitats of various outcrop-endemic plant and invertebrate species. This beautiful preserve spans 101 acres in Columbia County, just 20 miles east of Augusta, Georgia, and is nestled near the picturesque Little Kiokee Creek, leading to the Savannah River.
Our adventure will take us through the enchanting perimeter forest of oaks, pines, and hickories. The highlight of our trip will be the captivating granite outcrop known as Heggie’s Rock. Marvel at the exposed granite adorned with lichen and moss, explore the intriguing soil islands, and discover the stunning vernal pools, or dish gardens, that harbor rare and unusual plant species.
Heggie's Rock Preserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity, featuring a blend of dry outcrop, forests, and beaver-impounded streams that create a sanctuary for wildlife. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with nature, learn about the local ecosystem, and appreciate the beauty of this remarkable preserve!
Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here.
Saturday, May 10
Photo by Shawn Taylor.
Intermediate/Advanced Bird Photography (Zoom & Field Session)
Zoom Session: May 7 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM Field Session: May 10 form 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Blue Heron Nature Preserve Leaders: Eric Bowles Cost: $50/person Limited to 18 participants Difficulty: Easy Rain Date: Field Session, May 11 You’ve got a good camera, but your bird photos are not quite as good as you’d like. What makes a great bird photo? How do you take advantage of light and wind conditions? How do you make images of difficult subjects such as birds in flight or songbirds in a wooded area? How does the situation affect your choice of camera settings? What focus settings should I use? We’ll answer all these questions and provide tips and techniques to help you make better bird photographs. This program will have extra emphasis on AutoFocus given the innovations of all recent cameras. This program has two components – a classroom session and a second session featuring a bird walk at Blue Heron Nature Preserve to apply what you’ve learned and answer your questions. Professional nature photographer Eric Bowles will be leading this half day class for intermediate and advanced photographers. |
American Goldfinch. Photo by Hazel Erickson, Audubon Photography Awards
**NEW** Picturesque Northeast Georgia Valley & Hike to Rabun Bald
Time: 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM Leader: Jay Davis and Bryan Shelby Cost: $50/person Limited to 12 participants Location: Near Dillard, GA Difficulty Level: Challenging, 3.2 miles round-trip hike with a steady elevation gain of 1,036 feet. You will need to be in good physical condition to accomplish the hike. There will be rocky and possibly muddy terrain. We will spend the morning and early afternoon birding and hiking in Northeast Georgia, beginning the day in Dillard, GA, searching for birds in this picturesque valley. Then we head up into the southern edge of North Carolina where we drop back into Georgia to reach the northern trailhead to Rabun Bald. Rabun Bald is the second highest mountain in Georgia. We will eat lunch on the summit (please bring a bag lunch!), so you will need a backpack for your lunch and at least two bottles of water. Wear shoes that are comfortable for walking in rocky or muddy conditions. If the weather cooperates, expect to see 55-70 species of birds, including Black-and-white Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Ovenbird, Yellow Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Blue-headed Vireo, Scarlet Tanager, Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, and Eastern Meadowlark. 5 spots remain! |
Prairie Warbler by Megan Mahon/Audubon Photography Awards
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Common Grackle by Darren Smith/Audubon Photography Awards
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**NEW DATE 5/17** Standing Boy Trails
Time: 8:00 to 11:00 AM Leader: Adam Betuel and Mason Jarrett Limited to 20 participants Cost: $40/person Location: Columbus, GA (Map) Difficulty Level: Moderate, dirt or gravel (on the roads) surfaces with muddy areas possible Rain Date: Rain or shine (Note: There is a $5 parking fee per vehicle which can be paid at the parking lot via one's phone.) Standing Boy Trails is a former GADNR Wildlife Management Area now being managed by the City of Columbus. This site has over 30 miles of trails for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. This property borders the Chattahoochee River and is home to a nice mix of habitats - pine forest, deciduous forests, historic dove fields, bottomland forests, marsh, and open water. On this walk, we will be searching for migratory and breeding songbirds primarily, with a focus on warblers. It is not impossible to top 20 species of warblers on a good morning, in addition to many vireos, woodpeckers, raptors, grassland birds lingering waterfowl, and potentially, rail species. This site has massive potential for bird diversity and increased birdwatcher engagement and Birds Georgia is excited to partner in the future with the organizations stewarding this property. 5 spots remain! |
Cochran Shoals Bio Blitz
Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM Leaders: Sebastian Hagan and Logan Jones Location: Cochran Shoals Unit of the CRNRA Limited to 35 participants Cost: Free Difficulty Level: Moderate due to going off-trail Rain Date: TBD A bio blitz is a communal effort to record as many species within a designated location and time period as possible. We will work together to identify everything possible in the Sparrow Field restoration area at Cochran Shoals. This guided event will gather citizen science data to be submitted for our current habitat restoration sites and be a great opportunity to learn some new ID tips! Downloading the iNaturalist app beforehand may be helpful preparation. |
Sunday, May 11
Downy Woodpecker by Katrina Baker
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Painted Bunting by Lillian Beasley
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Blue Heron Nature Preserve
Time: 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM Leader: Rob McDonough Cost: Free Limited to 20 participants Location: Atlanta, GA (Fulton County) Difficulty Level: Easy, walking on packed dirt trails Rain Date: May 17 Join us at the Blue Heron Nature Preserve for an exciting adventure into the urban bird habitat! Our walk will focus on the enchanting world of migratory species and year-round residents, including vibrant songbirds, industrious woodpeckers, and elegant waterfowl. This experience is perfect for beginner birders and families looking to connect with nature. Prepare for a fun-filled morning of exploration and discovery as we spot these fascinating creatures together. Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here. |
Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Time: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM Leader: Chad Posick and Sam Holcomb Cost: $40/person Limited to 8 participants Location: Townsend, GA (McIntosh County) Difficulty Level: Easy, driving the wildlife drive and stopping for short walks on packed dirt trails to view ponds Rain Date: Rain or Shine Harris Neck has served as a premier nesting, foraging, and wintering habitat for many species of wildlife. Signature species include Wood Storks, which nest in a large colony on Woody Pond, and the colorful and uncommon Painted Bunting, which favors nesting habitat in the refuge's maritime scrub areas. The refuge encompasses six man-made freshwater ponds, as well as extensive salt marsh, open fields, forested wetlands, and mixed hardwood/pine forest. This diversity of habitat makes the refuge an important resource for migratory birds (342 species of birds have been seen on the refuge and 83 species breed here). We will drive the wildlife drive through the refuge, stopping along the way to view birds and other wildlife (including alligators!) at the various ponds. |
Friday, May 16
Tufted Titmouse by Julia Kohn
Brickyard Ponds & Birds and Brew Outing
Time: 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Leader: Heather Levy
Cost: Free
Limited to 30 participants
Location: Augusta, GA - Brickyard Ponds, followed by Savannah River Brewing Co.
Difficulty: Easy
Please note there is a $4 fee/person to enter Brickyard Ponds. We will meet at the bait shop to pay the fee and organize a carpool to take as few cars into the ponds as we can. We will bird until sunset, driving and getting out to walk, looking for breeding birds. After, we will caravan to Savannah River Brewing to enjoy some local beers and talk all things bird!
Time: 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Leader: Heather Levy
Cost: Free
Limited to 30 participants
Location: Augusta, GA - Brickyard Ponds, followed by Savannah River Brewing Co.
Difficulty: Easy
Please note there is a $4 fee/person to enter Brickyard Ponds. We will meet at the bait shop to pay the fee and organize a carpool to take as few cars into the ponds as we can. We will bird until sunset, driving and getting out to walk, looking for breeding birds. After, we will caravan to Savannah River Brewing to enjoy some local beers and talk all things bird!
Saturday/Sunday, May 17-18
Hooded Warbler, Photo by Megumi Williamson/Audubon Photography Awards
Warbler Weekend in the North Georgia Mountains
Pre-trip Orientation & Warbler ID Webinar via Zoom: Tuesday, May 13 from 6:30 to 8:30 PM
Trip: May 17 to May 18
Limited to 11 participants
Leader: Melanie Furr
Location: Clayton, GA to Blairsville, GA
Cost: $175 per person
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate with full days of birding along different terrains
Stretch your neck and warm up those ears. It's time to prepare for spring migration! Melanie Furr will lead participants to various hotspots in the North Georgia mountains, where it's possible to find more than 20 species of warblers, many of which will be singing on their breeding grounds. The group will visit some mountain hotspots as well as some new warbler-rich locations. This guided trip will be preceded by a classroom session on a date Tuesday, May 13. Registration fee does not include food, transportation, or lodging.
Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here.
Pre-trip Orientation & Warbler ID Webinar via Zoom: Tuesday, May 13 from 6:30 to 8:30 PM
Trip: May 17 to May 18
Limited to 11 participants
Leader: Melanie Furr
Location: Clayton, GA to Blairsville, GA
Cost: $175 per person
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate with full days of birding along different terrains
Stretch your neck and warm up those ears. It's time to prepare for spring migration! Melanie Furr will lead participants to various hotspots in the North Georgia mountains, where it's possible to find more than 20 species of warblers, many of which will be singing on their breeding grounds. The group will visit some mountain hotspots as well as some new warbler-rich locations. This guided trip will be preceded by a classroom session on a date Tuesday, May 13. Registration fee does not include food, transportation, or lodging.
Event is now full. Please fill out waiting list form here.
Thank you to our georgia Bird Fest partners and host sites
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