Check out these Upcoming Winter Classes that still have open spots:
SPRING 2025 Class List
BIRD-413: Preventing Window Collision Workshop on March 8th. This hands-on workshop, led by Dr. Steven Fletcher, teaches homeowners how to create and apply affordable window treatments to protect migratory birds from collisions. Participants will learn about bird behavior and effective techniques using materials like tempura paint, paracord, and vinyl tape, while gaining practical experience in reducing window hazards for birds.
BIRD-120: Birding by Ear – with Mikael Behrens begins on March 8. This three-hour workshop at Travis Audubon’s Chaetura Canyon Sanctuary, will teach participants how to identify and appreciate birds by sound rather than sight. Through a combination of listening exercises and a slow walk along a canyon trail, attendees will deepen their connection to nature and improve their birding skills.
BIRD-109: Intro to Swifts and Swallows – with Liz Kurpiers begins on Mar 31. This introductory to intermediate class explores the fascinating world of swifts and swallows, with a focus on identifying species commonly found in Central Texas. The course includes two Zoom lectures and a field trip to Hornsby Bend, where participants will observe and learn more about these vital aerial hunters.
BIRD-410: Hornsby Bend in the Springtime – with John Bloomfield begins on April 1. This class provides an in-depth introduction to Hornsby Bend, covering its ecological history, significance in Austin’s birding community, and the bird species found there, with a focus on springtime sightings. The course includes two Zoom sessions and a field trip to the site, where participants will gain practical birdwatching experience and learn about citizen science opportunities through the Hornsby Bend Bird Observatory Program.
BIRD-412: Native Bee Workshop on April 5. This workshop, led by Chris Garza, will teach participants about the vital role of native bees in Central Austin and offer practical tips for supporting their populations. The session includes a lecture on bee biology and conservation, a hike to observe local habitats, and the opportunity to assemble a native bee hotel with materials provided by Scouts from Troop 61.
BIRD-101: Intro to Birds and Birding Spring 2025 begins on April 8th. This introductory class, led by Chris Gunter, consists of four virtual lectures and four field trips, designed for beginners who want to actively learn about birding and bird identification through both online instruction and field experiences around Austin. Participants will explore topics like bird behavior, identification techniques, birding tools, and local birding hotspots, with a field guide provided to support their learning.
BIRD-307: Advanced Warblers – begins on April 23. This intermediate to advanced class that begins on April 23, led by Doug Booher and Amy Bishop, focuses on identifying warblers in Texas, teaching participants how to recognize key features from various viewpoints. The course includes three virtual lectures and three field trips, including a weekend trip to the upper Texas coast, where students will practice their identification skills in real-world settings.
BIRD-117: Intro to Flycatchers – begins on May 6th. This introductory to intermediate class, led by Dave Read, will focus on identifying the most common flycatcher species in the Austin area, exploring their unique hunting skills, vocalizations, and visual traits. The course includes two virtual lectures and a field trip, where participants can practice identifying these fascinating birds in the field.
BIRD-411: Breeding Birds of Commons Ford with Shelia Hargis begins May 6th. This class is designed for beginner birders and focuses on the bird species that breed at Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park, highlighting their identification, breeding behaviors, and preferred habitats. The course includes a field trip to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, providing students with the knowledge and appreciation needed to bird the park throughout the spring and summer.
BIRD-110: How to Host and Identify Hummingbirds in Central Texas – begins on May 20th. This introductory class, co-taught by James Giroux and Richard Deulofeut, will introduce participants to the hummingbird species commonly found in Central Texas, focusing on identification tips and behaviors. The course includes two virtual lectures and a field trip to Pedernales State Park, where students can observe hummingbirds in their natural habitat and learn about creating hummingbird-friendly environments.
BIRD-120: Birding by Ear on May 24th. This three-hour workshop at Travis Audubon’s Chaetura Canyon Sanctuary, will teach participants how to identify and appreciate birds by sound rather than sight. Through a combination of listening exercises and a slow walk along a canyon trail, attendees will deepen their connection to nature and improve their birding skills.
