by Sheridan Alford

Each spring, Georgia Bird Fest brings people together through a shared appreciation for birds, nature, and community. This year, our Centennial celebration was no exception. From mountaintop hikes to coastal paddles, art showcases to conservation conversations, Bird Fest 2026 was a true reflection of how far this community has come and where we’re headed next.

A Month of Birds, Community, and Discovery
Over the course of the festival, 40 events took place across the state, offering something for every level of birder and nature enthusiast. Participants explored Georgia’s diverse landscapes through guided field trips, including birding by boat, canoe, and kayak; overnight hikes; and visits to habitat restoration sites.

We were proud to collaborate with incredible partners like Georgia Rivers, the Trust for Public Land, the Georgia Native Plant Society, Jekyll Island Authority, and Ocmulgee Audubon Society to expand opportunities for people to engage with birds and conservation in meaningful, place-based ways. We also celebrated alongside the Atlanta History Center in their own Centennial year, marking a unique moment of shared legacy.

From artist talks and creative showcases to hands-on conservation experiences, this year’s Bird Fest highlighted the many ways people connect with birds and with each other.

The Summit: A Day to Gather and Reflect
Our Bird Fest Summit, held at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, was a standout moment of the festival. Set against a vibrant spring backdrop, the day brought together birders, artists, conservationists, and curious newcomers for a shared experience rooted in learning and connection.

Throughout the day, speakers offered a wide range of perspectives that deepened our understanding of birds and the communities that surround them.

• Giff Beaton explored the rich history of birding in Georgia
• Susan Berthelot, Don Kopanoff, and Mahdi Woodard shared insights into the art and sport of bird photography
• Dr. Michelle Moyer reminded us of the importance of slowing down and truly listening to birdsong
• Alex Troutman spoke on diversity and representation in the birding experience
• And George Armistead delivered a keynote, Walk with Me, that was both thoughtful and engaging

Beyond the stage, the Summit buzzed with creativity. Artists Chantelle Chapman and Raven Waters showcased their work, while Eagle Eye Book Shop and Wild Birds Unlimited offered books and birding gear for attendees to explore. We also shared a preview of an upcoming limited-edition illustrated playing card deck, an exciting glimpse at what’s ahead.

Our partners were present in full force, providing tangible ways for attendees to stay engaged in conservation efforts across Georgia.

Why It Matters
As one of our largest annual events, Georgia Bird Fest plays a vital role in supporting Birds Georgia’s conservation, education, and community engagement work. Every field trip, workshop, and conversation helps build momentum toward a future where both birds and people can thrive.

A theme that carried throughout the Summit, and the festival as a whole, was the strength of this community. In his remarks, Executive Director Adam Betuel reflected on the wonder of spring migration: that birds, many weighing less than a cellphone, undertake extraordinary journeys each year. It’s a reminder of both the resilience of these species and the importance of protecting the habitats they depend on.

Looking Ahead
We’re deeply grateful to everyone who participated in Georgia Bird Fest 2026, whether you joined us for a single hike or followed along for the entire month. A special thank you goes to our Centennial Patrons, whose support makes this work possible and sustains the festival's growth year after year.

Bird Fest is more than a series of events; it’s a community in flight. And if this year is any indication, the future is full of possibilities.

Birds Georgia is proud to announce the newest site enrolled in our Habitat Stewardship Program: the Chick-fil-A Support Center.

Spanning more than 70 wooded acres, the Chick-fil-A Support Center is an ArbNet-certified arboretum and serves as the company’s headquarters. The campus features extensive botanical gardens, walking trails, streams, ponds, and specialized tree collections, all designed to foster a “work full of life” environment.

As part of maintaining both native and curated plantings, the site incorporates native trees such as magnolia, oak, and pine, along with native shrubs and wildflowers that provide valuable habitat for birds and other wildlife. Plans are also underway to install and maintain bird and bat boxes to further support native species.

The Birds Georgia Habitat Stewardship Program partners with public and private landowners and managers to advance conservation through practical, science-based habitat improvements. The program connects participants with educational resources, technical assistance, cost-share opportunities, and other tools that help make stewardship efforts both impactful and sustainable.

We are delighted to welcome the Chick-fil-A Support Center as a Habitat Steward and applaud their commitment to building places where birds and people thrive.