BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Galveston FeatherFest - ECPv4.6.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Galveston FeatherFest
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Galveston FeatherFest
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC+0:20260416T063000
DTEND;TZID=UTC+0:20260416T113000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20160903T042649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T160254Z
UID:5291-1776321000-1776339000@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Galveston Complete Birding Sampler #1
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \nGalveston is a Gulf coastal island renowned for its many habitats.  Explore the entire island with our local leaders. They know the birding spots well\, and will consider the weather\, tides\, and what they have seen just prior to or during the festival\, to decide what to view and where to go. In that regard\, the tour is not fixed rigidly in advance\, but is more a birding adventure. You’ll go where the birds are! \nWhat to Expect:  On the Gulf beaches\, we’ll scan out on the swells and incoming surf for rafts of waterfowl and seabirds. Walking along the beach\, the edge of the surf is active with the antics of the island’s year-round and migrating peeps\, Reddish Egret\, Great Blue Heron\, and shorebirds foraging on “what the tide brung-in.” \nAway from the water among the dunes of San Luis Pass\, East Beach and Galveston Island State Park\, Savannah Sparrow and Horned Lark flit about. Beyond the dunes are briny ponds holding roosting waterbirds\, Nelson’s and Seaside Sparrows\, rails\, and coots. In the bay and tidal marshes\, migrating and nesting herons\, egrets and cormorants in their breeding best forage. The avian fauna is always in flux with the advance and retreat of the tide moving the food chain in and out. Among the tidally influenced habitats and the open coastal prairies and oak mottes\, migrating songbirds refuel and find fresh water. \nTargets: American Avocet\, Black-necked Stilt\, Roseate Spoonbill\, sandpipers\, waterfowl\, prairie birds\, sparrows\, raptors\, herons\, egrets\, and dowitchers. If migrant songbirds are on the Island\, these leaders will find them! \nWhat to Bring:  water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and wear closed-toed walking shoes. \nImportant Information:  Participants will begin at FeatherFest Headquarters where they will board a bus for this field trip. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/galveston-complete-birding-sampler-1/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC+0:20260416T063000
DTEND;TZID=UTC+0:20260416T150000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20161021T205533Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T234022Z
UID:5890-1776321000-1776351600@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Bolivar Birding with Greg Miller & Wyatt Egelhoff
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \nJoin Greg Miller and Wyatt Egelhoff at what is called “one of the finest migratory locations in North America” – the southern end of the Bolivar Peninsula. Shorebirds\, terns\, herons\, egrets\, and other water birds will give participants an unforgettable field experience. \nLocation:  Bolivar Peninsula stretches east of the confluence of the Galveston Bay system and the Gulf of Mexico. This Gulf coast barrier peninsula is the result of natural processes and human activity. The peninsula’s natural features pull in fisherman\, beach combers\, shell collectors and birders. Thousands of Houstonians seek out Bolivar’s beaches every weekend\, but the birds far outnumber the humans on any given day. \nThe peninsula holds habitat zones that drift between brackish and briny depending on the tides. These habitats serve as the hatcheries for many species of saltwater fish. Fresh water is available on Bolivar\, too. Between Bolivar’s shores\, lie patches of coastal prairie grasses\, willow and mangrove that surround rain charged ponds. \nIts blend of wetland and tidal habitats hold lots of bird species not normally found together. But the peninsula attracts and holds birds year-round for three reasons: location\, location\, location. During spring migration\, Bolivar is often the first spit of land migrants see marking the end of a Gulf crossing.  Migrating shorebirds and songbirds mix with resident waders and wintering waterfowl. \nWhat to Expect:  We will follow Hwy 87 to Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary\, a Globally Important Bird area and Site of International Importance in the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network. This sanctuary plays daily host to several thousand roosting and feeding shorebirds\, waterbirds\, and wading birds on the sand dunes and mudflats. We will visit additional areas along the peninsula depending on the tides\, weather\, and your leader’s expertise. Be sure to look up as we head back to Galveston Island\,  perhaps you will spot a Magnificent Frigatebird cruising over the bay! \nTargets: Expect to see at least 80 – 100 species! For example\, 5 species of plovers\, 7 species of terns\, 4 species of gulls\, dowitchers\, Peregrine Falcon\, Northern Harrier\, American Avocet\, Marbled Godwit\, Long-billed Curlew\, Whimbrel\, Red Knot\, White-tailed Kite\, Marsh Wren\, Seaside Sparrow\, Clapper Rail and Osprey \nWhat to Bring:  water\, lunch\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and wear closed-toed walking shoes. \nImportant Information:  Participants will begin at FeatherFest Headquarters where they will board a bus for this field trip. \nPhoto: Gary Seloff\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/bolivar-birding-with-greg-miller-and-wyatt-egelhoff/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T063000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T153000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20251120T155319Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T172932Z
UID:17091-1776321000-1776353400@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Birding High Island
DESCRIPTION:   \nLocation:  This trip will take you to Boy Scout Woods\, Smith Oaks\, The Rookery\, and more! \nFrom under an ancient sea\, a salt dome emerged. After a few thousand years the dome reached 38 feet above a pancake-flat coastal plain; the highest point-of-land on the immediate coast from Mobile Bay to the Yucatan Peninsula. This is High Island\, which is now a wooded beacon amongst the coastal marshland providing food\, water\, and places to rest for weary Gulf migrants. The daily afternoon arrival of neotropic migrants often includes dozens of species\, along with local and resident waterfowl\, raptors\, seabirds\, shorebirds\, and passerines. Weather fronts in April and May can easily produce over 100 species (including 30+ species of warblers) in a single day! \nA community of Texas birders of the Houston Audubon Society (HAS) created several sanctuaries in the area.  In time\, High Island’s beacon pulled in birders from around the world for a few weeks every year. This visit will be to HAS’ premier Smith Oaks Sanctuary.  One of the best features is a man-made reservoir\, Clay Bottom Pond. Colonial waterbirds\, who prefer islands for nesting to deter mammalian predators\, found the U-shaped Island in the middle of the pond perfect for a rookery. Nine species of heron\, egret\, spoonbill\, ibis\, cormorant\, and Anhinga nest within inches of each other. The High Island rookery offers birders a close view of the annual dramedy of waterbird nesting activity including vibrant breeding plumage\, mating hustle and nestlings. Read more about High Island on the Houston Audubon website. \nWhat to Expect:  We plan to visit three HAS and Texas Ornithological Society (TOS) sites at High Island.   We will be watching for the annual arrival of dozens of neotropic migrants along with local and resident waterfowl\, raptors\, seabirds\, shorebirds\, and passerines. Heading back down the Bolivar Peninsula’s Hwy 87 we return to Galveston. Time permitting\, there may be stops along the way. The peninsula holds habitat zones that drift between brackish and briny depending on the tides. These habitats serve as the hatcheries for many species of saltwater fish. Fresh water is available on Bolivar\, too. Between Bolivar’s shores lie patches of coastal prairie grasses\, willow and mangrove that surround rain charged ponds. This attracts dozens of interesting waterfowl\, herons\, egrets\, marsh\, and shore birds. \nWhat to Bring:  water\, lunch\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and wear closed-toed walking shoes. \nImportant Information:  Participants will begin at FeatherFest Headquarters where they will board a bus for this field trip. \n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/birding-high-island/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC+0:20260416T070000
DTEND;TZID=UTC+0:20260416T120000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20160916T205026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T161557Z
UID:5507-1776322800-1776340800@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Texas City Prairie Preserve
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \nThis Nature Conservancy preserve is 2\,303 acres of coastal prairie at the intersection of urban expanse and rural beauty. The coastal grasslands found here are vital to the natural resilience of the Gulf Coast—prairies and marshlands act as a natural buffer during storms and hurricanes\, absorbing and dispersing water from storm surges and floods. The sponge-like qualities of the prairie are also important for filtering the freshwater that flows into the Gulf of Mexico—more than three million gallons enter the Gulf from the Mississippi River alone. \nWhat to Expect:  Normally\, only 40 acres of this preserve are open to the public. With the permission of preserve staff\, we will bird through grassland prairie and wetlands\, on to the large dike that protects Texas City. The wetlands support migratory and year-round populations of waterfowl\, shorebirds and wading birds and the preserve provides a home for wintering and migrating grassland songbirds. Birds such as the Brown Pelican\, White Ibis\, Peregrine Falcon\, White-tailed Hawk\, Forster’s Terns\, and Seaside Sparrows routinely inhabit the preserve. Various species of ducks\, gulls\, herons\, egrets\, terns\, raptors\, shorebirds\, and flycatchers can also be viewed here. While traveling through the preserve you will also see many native plants including big and little bluestem\, yellow Indiangrass\, switchgrass\, eastern gamma grass\, gulf cordgrass and the rare coastal gayfeather. \nTargets: American & Sprague’s Pipit\, Seaside Sparrow\, Upland Sandpiper\, Marsh Wren\, American Oystercatcher\, Common Loon\, Red-breasted Merganser\, Yellow and Virginia Rails\, Bobolink\, Meadowlark\, Whimbrel\, White-tailed Hawk\, White-tailed Kite\, Merlin\, late season waterfowl and possible Monk Parakeets. \nWhat to Bring:  water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and wear closed-toed walking shoes. \nImportant Information:  Participants will begin at FeatherFest Headquarters where they will board a bus for this field trip. \nPhotos: R.J. Hinkle\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/texas-city-prairie-preserve/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T070000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T110000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20210108T182712Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T160605Z
UID:11008-1776322800-1776337200@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:East Beach Birding with Glenn Olsen #1
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \nThis trip will focus on gaining a deeper understanding of bird identification. Our approach is to observe differences in body structure\, behavior\, habitat preferences\, and feeding styles of various species of birds. This trip allows us time to observe and discover the distinct characteristics of each species as opposed to generating a list of a larger number of species that we know little about. Notebooks are encouraged! \nWhat to Expect:  We will proceed from the meeting site down Boddecker Rd through the East End Lagoon Nature Preserve\, catching views of a precious and increasingly rare ecosystem. We will explore 684 acres of Galveston’s largest undeveloped habitat including one of the few remaining sizable tracts of coastal prairie. The site contains both tidal and nontidal wetlands\, beach dunes\, a freshwater pond\, black mangroves and upland prairie\, along with an extensive marine coastline. The wetlands and lagoon create a variety of food sources that attract many species of birds. Raptors hunt in the grassy uplands\, which serve as a breeding ground for certain species and winter habitat for different birds. Sandpipers and plovers pick for food along the sandy edges of the lagoon and ship channel\, while large flocks of gulls\, pelicans\, terns and cormorants often rest on the sandbars along the beach. \nWe then travel to Corps Woods\, an area of woods\, brush\, grasses and fresh water\, accessed by paths\, decks and a viewing blind. This area is famous for migrating songbirds. Here we will search for buntings\, tanagers\, and warblers\, among others and learn identification strategies for these colorful migrants. \nWhat to Bring:  water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and wear closed-toed walking shoes. \nImportant Information:  This is a meet-at-site trip. Driving directions will be emailed prior to the trip. \n. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/east-beach-birding-glenn-olsen-1/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T133000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20181016T204103Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T163838Z
UID:8399-1776324600-1776346200@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Galveston Birding with Martin Hagne & Greg Whittaker
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \nGet ready to see the full avian diversity Galveston Island has to offer with guides who bird the Island regularly! This trip promises to be a fun-filled way to begin the festival\, with destinations possible anywhere along the full length of the island. \nWhat to Expect:  The itinerary will be decided on the fly\, based on scouting expeditions in the days prior. You’ll have the opportunity to check out some of Galveston’s best birding hotspots\, with exact locations determined by where the most desirable birds are being seen. Potential sites include Corps Woods\, East End Lagoon and Flats\, Laffite’s Cove Nature Preserve\, Sportsman and Settegast Roads\, Dos Vacas Muertas Bird Sanctuary\, and San Luis Pass. \nA variety of barrier island habitats will be covered on this trip\, including sandy beach\, mudflat\, lagoon\, estuarial saltmarsh\, coastal prairie\, oak motte\, scrub\, and freshwater ponds. These wide-ranging habitats are attractive to an extensive array of species\, and you never know what will show up during spring migration – the sky is the limit! \nWhat to Bring:  water\, lunch\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and wear closed-toed walking shoes. \nImportant Information:  Participants will begin at FeatherFest Headquarters where they will board a bus for this field trip. \nPhoto: Stan Bravenec\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/galveston-birding-hagne-whittaker/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T120000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20231106T224713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T163414Z
UID:14952-1776324600-1776340800@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Spring Migrants of the West End #1
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \nFocusing on discovering migrating songbirds on Galveston’s West End\, this trip will feature warblers\, vireos\, tanagers\, orioles\, grosbeaks\, and buntings. Located at the intersection of two important migratory flyways\, Galveston Island provides critical resources and cover for birds as they journey northward. During stormy weather\, fallout events are common\, as birds seek shelter and much-needed rest at the first sight of land. \nWhat to Expect:  Our first stop is planned for Laffite’s Cove Nature Preserve\, Galveston’s crown jewel during spring migration. We will take our time walking the winding trails within the dense grove of trees\, spotting songbirds in the canopy and checking for activity at the water drips. The freshwater ponds in the preserve provide close views of a variety of waterfowl\, herons and egrets\, and shorebirds. Highlights include the potential of Spotted Sandpiper\, Wilson’s Snipe\, Sora\, and Bufflehead. \nWe will continue our trip with a drive along Settegast Road\, watching the fence lines and protected coastal prairie habitat for migrants. This beautiful area should be highly productive\, with the possibility of a variety of songbirds including flycatchers\, buntings\, and tanagers. White-tailed Kites nest in the area and are usually present\, as well. We will make a brief stop at Oppenheimer Bird Observatory to explore the small pond from an elevated platform. Additionally\, we will take a quick break for those who need to use the portable restroom. \nOur final stop will be at Dos Vacas Muertas Bird Sanctuary in the Far West End. Although it is not as well-known as Lafitte’s Cove\, this small spring hotspot protected by Houston Audubon can be just as productive for spring migrants. Providing a small water feature and dense cover within salt cedar\, yaupon\, dead trees lost during Hurricane Ike\, and newly planted oaks\, this sanctuary is a magnet for migrating birds. We will view the small pond from the elevated bird blind\, walk the boardwalk and short trail\, and work the edge of the sanctuary from the entrance road. Highlights in this area include the potential of Bronzed Cowbird\, Scarlet and Summer Tanager\, Rose-breasted Grosbeak\, Marsh Wren\, and White-tailed Kite. \nWhat to Bring :  water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and wear closed-toed walking shoes. \nImportant Information:  Participants will begin at FeatherFest Headquarters where they will board a bus for this field trip. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/spring-migrants-west-end-1/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T110000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20250110T214940Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T160015Z
UID:16501-1776326400-1776337200@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Laffite's Cove with Birdability's Virginia Rose
DESCRIPTION: \n#cmsms_row_69d739dc4ffb6 .cmsms_row_outer_parent { \n	padding-top: 0px; \n} \n\n#cmsms_row_69d739dc4ffb6 .cmsms_row_outer_parent { \n	padding-bottom: 50px; \n} \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \n \nWe are pleased to offer this accessible outing for birders with limited mobility\, disabilities\, or other health concerns\, and for those interested in an easier-paced birding trip. We also welcome those interested in creating and understanding inclusive\, accessible birding experiences. \nThis outing will be led by Virginia Rose\, Founder of Birdability\, an organization committed to making the birding community and the outdoors accessible\, safe\, welcoming and inclusive for everybody and every body. \nLocation:  This meet-at-site field trip will introduce birders to Laffite’s Cove Nature Preserve\, Galveston’s crown jewel during spring migration. Please note there are no water fountains.. \nWhat to Expect:  We will take our time following the wide\, shady\, winding paved trails within the dense grove of trees\, spotting songbirds in the canopy and checking for activity at the water drips. Potential sightings in the woodlot area include Northern Parula; Ovenbird; Louisiana and Northern Waterthrush; Hooded\, Black-throated Green\, and Black-and-White Warbler; American Redstart; Blue-headed\, White-eyed\, Red-eyed\, and Yellow-throated Vireo; Wood\, Swainson’s\, and Hermit Thrush; and more. \nSeveral mulberry trees just outside the woodlot are also highly attractive to colorful migrants\, offering the possibility for close extended views of Scarlet and Summer Tanager; Baltimore and Orchard Oriole; Rose-breasted Grosbeak; Painted and Indigo Bunting; and Gray Catbird. \nThe freshwater ponds in the preserve provide close views of a variety of waterfowl\, herons and egrets\, and shorebirds. Highlights include the potential of Spotted Sandpiper\, Wilson’s Snipe\, Sora\, and Bufflehead. \nAccessibility:  Check out Laffite’s Cove Nature Preserve on the Birdability Map. \nOther access features include benches and ample shade. There are no steps\, gates or obstacles. \nNote: Although there is no designated disabled parking\, volunteers will be on hand to help facilitate safe parking for participants. We will be entering the Preserve at the Jibstay entrance. Detailed parking instructions for both vans and cars will be emailed to participants prior to the festival. \nWhat to Bring:  water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and a hat. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/accessible-lafittes-cove-virgnia-rose/
CATEGORIES:Accessible,Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T163000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20171109T213947Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T160745Z
UID:7850-1776342600-1776357000@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:From Backyard to Beachfront: Birding Basics for Beginners
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n    \nThis workshop/field trip combo is for beginning birders learning the fundamentals and those wanting to brush up on their birding skills. The one-hour workshop will introduce you to learning how to get started and improve birding skills\, techniques\, and confidence. \nWhat to Expect:  Topics covered include birding practices\, optics selection and use\, field guides\, bird identification considerations and techniques\, field notebooks\, birding etiquette and ethics\, and common birds of Galveston Island. Emphasis will be placed on the field identification of common species. \nAfter a 15-minute comfort break\, we’ll board the bus and go to select locations designed to test your skills by applying the techniques discussed during the earlier presentation. Birding sites could include Corps Woods\, East End Lagoon and Big Reef Nature Park. The East End Lagoon and Big Reef Nature Park allows us to explore all habitats associated with a barrier island – beach\, uplands\, freshwater ponds\, brackish lagoons\, marsh\, and wetlands. Corps Woods is a heavily wooded area located adjacent to a large spoils area and the Galveston Ship Channel\, which serves as a local migrant songbird trap. \nTargets: pelicans\, cormorants\, gulls\, terns\, grackles\, doves\, herons\, egrets\, shorebirds\, and other common Galveston species. \nThis trip is designed to give each participant the extra attention needed to develop the skill sets to increase their confidence in the field. \nWhat to Bring:  Binoculars\, field guides\, field notebook\, insect repellent\, water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, dress for outdoors\, and wear closed-toed shoes. \nImportant Information: This session will begin as a workshop at FeatherFest Headquarters.  After the 1-hour workshop\, participants will board a bus for the field trip portion of the session. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/backyard-beachfront-birding-basics/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips,Birding Workshops
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC+0:20260416T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC+0:20260416T163000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20160916T211820Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T160906Z
UID:5525-1776344400-1776357000@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Galveston Bay Birding\, the Flip Side #1
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \nThis is your opportunity to explore “the other side” of Galveston Bay. We head over the causeway to explore birding areas on the mainland\, including the Tiki Island\, Texas City\, and La Marque areas. One of our best kept secrets and most under-explored areas\, participants will be surprised at the number and variety of birds seen on this outing. \nWhat to Expect:  Birding locations may include some privately-owned land with freshwater ponds that provide easy observation of migrating shorebirds and ducks. American Golden Plover\, Upland Sandpiper\, Buff-breasted Sandpiper\, and Wilson’s Phalarope are often seen at this location during migration. \nWe then continue to the Texas City Dike\, one of the world’s longest man-made piers. This levee extends over 5 miles into East Galveston Bay. Along its length\, it offers magnificent views of the lower bay\, including nearby coastlines and islands including the Bolivar Peninsula\, Virginia Point\, Pelican Island\, and the East End of Galveston. It is also famous for the many brown pelicans that call it home year-round. \nRecreational areas along the dike and Skyline Drive provide excellent vantage points to see birds in a true marine environment. These underappreciated birding spots are excellent locations to see Eared Grebe\, Common Loon and late wintering waterfowl. Along the shoreline\, we will look for Roseate Spoonbill\, Great and Snowy Egrets\, Ruddy Turnstone\, American Oystercatcher\, various peeps\, and other shorebirds. Out in the bay\, we will look for the Red-breasted Merganser\, Lesser Scaup\, Common Goldeneye\, Bufflehead\, and Ruddy Duck. We may even see a Peregrine Falcon perched on a structure or flying overhead! Rarities such as Greater Flamingo\, Great Black-backed Gull\, Glaucous Gull\, Pacific Loon and the white morph of the Great Blue Heron have been seen here in the past. \nContinuing\, we will look for colonies of nesting Cave and Cliff Swallows under several interstate overpasses. If time permits\, we may visit Highland Bayou Park seeking Anhinga and other wading birds along the freshwater canal. \nWhat to Bring:  water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, and insect repellent. Wear closed-toed walking shoes. \nImportant Information: This is a meet-at-site trip. Driving directions will be emailed prior to the trip. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/galveston-bay-birding-the-flip-side-1/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T160000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20221111T174400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T160947Z
UID:13361-1776344400-1776355200@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Birding & Nature Journaling with Christina Baal Field Trip
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \nHave you ever wanted to practice nature journaling\, but found it difficult to know how to start? Or maybe you already love drawing\, but want to learn some new tips and tricks to enhance your practice?  This nature journaling outdoor workshop is designed to break through the trepidation of the “white page” and get you journaling right away. \nWhat to Expect:  We will learn simple but effective techniques to improve drawing and observation skills that can be easily practiced even alongside hectic daily schedules. Most importantly\, this workshop is designed to convince you that drawing is fun and can be a practice to improve your skills as an artist AND as a birder. Birding and nature observation will be built into the workshop and will continue afterwards as we practice looking at the natural world with an artist’s eye.  While this outdoor workshop is geared toward beginners\, all skill levels are welcome! \nWhat to Bring:  water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and wear closed-toed walking shoes.  Also\, please bring a hard sketchbook or a clipboard/paper and pencil/pen/eraser as we will be drawing in the field. Other basic art materials will be provided\, but you are welcome to bring your own favorites. Please note that since we will be outdoors\, you may also want to bring a small portable camp chair or towel to sit on depending on your comfort level. \nImportant Information: This is a meet-at-site trip. Driving directions will be emailed prior to the trip. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/birding-nature-journaling-christina-baal/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T180000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20231106T215937Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T172131Z
UID:14937-1776344400-1776362400@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Birding Galveston's Renowned West End #1
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \nGalveston’s West End has drawn birders from all over the world for nearly 100 years. In addition to estuarial saltwater marsh\, it contains freshwater ponds\, pockets of scrubland\, mudflats\, and sandy beach habitat. This combination attracts a wide variety of shorebirds\, waterfowl\, raptors\, songbirds\, and more. \nWhat to Expect:  We will begin the trip by viewing tidal pools on the Gulf of Mexico side and work our way to the estuaries on the edge of West Bay\, stopping at freshwater ponds along the way. This area is sure to be highly productive with a lot of water bird activity and the potential of migrant songbirds\, so we will take our time on this portion of the trip. Highlights here include the potential of American Oystercatcher\, Clapper Rail\, Common Loon\, Reddish Egret\, and Northern Crested Caracara. \nOur journey westward continues with a stop at the Oppenheimer Bird Observatory\, which provides access to coastal prairie habitat via a short boardwalk and hiking trail\, as well as an elevated deck overlooking a small freshwater pond. We will look for resident White-tailed Kite and lingering Northern Harrier and may discover an early Purple Gallinule. We should also see a nice variety of shorebirds\, waterfowl\, sparrows\, and songbirds. This stop will also provide a portable restroom break. \nWe will continue birding as we head toward the end of the Island\, checking for Long-billed Curlew in grassland habitat\, watching for raptors over the coastal prairie\, scanning for waterfowl in the freshwater ponds\, and scoping the beaches of San Luis Pass\, where critical sandy beach habitat attracts thousands of migrating shorebirds. Here we hope to see American Avocet\, Marbled Godwit\, Black Skimmer\, and a variety of plovers\, sandpipers\, gulls\, and terns. This area may only be partially accessible due to rain levels\, so we have selected spots in the area to capture the best views. \nWhat to Bring:  water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and wear closed-toed walking shoes. \nImportant Information: Participants will begin at FeatherFest Headquarters where they will board a bus for this field trip. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/birding-galvestons-renowned-west-end-1/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T160000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20250110T213949Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T161038Z
UID:16504-1776344400-1776355200@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Birding by Car Accessible Field Trip
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n    \nWe are pleased to offer this accessible outing for birders with limited mobility\, disabilities\, or other health concerns\, and for those interested in an easier-paced birding trip. We also welcome those interested in creating and understanding inclusive\, accessible birding experiences. \nThis outing will be led by Virginia Rose\, Founder of Birdability\, an organization committed to making the birding community and the outdoors accessible\, safe\, welcoming and inclusive for everybody and every body. Joining Virginia on this trip is FeatherFest guide Anna Deichmann. Anna is the Gulf Coastal Program Director for the American Bird Conservancy and is excited to be co-leading with Virginia for FeatherFest. \nWhat to Expect:  This meet-at-site field trip will be done caravan style\, introducing birders to accessible birding by car along the historically renowned birding hotspot at 8-Mile Road and Sportsman Road. Carpooling is encouraged when possible. We will not be getting out of our cars during this field trip. Participants will be communicating with the guide via walkie talkies which we will provide. \nWe will take our time birding the entire length of both roads\, which intersect near Galveston’s West Bay\, stopping frequently to scan for interesting species. Freshwater and brackish ponds along 8-Mile Road attract a variety of resident and overwintering waterfowl\, including Blue-winged and Green-winged Teal\, American Wigeon\, Northern Shoveler\, and Black-bellied Whistling-Duck. These ponds should be productive for shorebirds as well\, such as Black-necked Stilt\, American Avocet\, Spotted Sandpiper\, and Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs. \nAs we proceed toward Sportsman Road\, we will watch the fence lines and coastal prairie habitat for migrants. This area can be highly productive\, with the possibility of a variety of songbirds including flycatchers\, buntings\, and tanagers. White-tailed Kites and Northern Crested Caracara nest in the area and are usually present\, as well. \nSportsman Road is bordered by protected saltmarsh estuarial habitat\, providing close views of a variety of large and small waders\, shorebirds\, gulls and terns\, and more. Highlights include the potential of Reddish Egret\, American Oystercatcher\, Black Skimmer\, Neotropic Cormorant\, Osprey\, and Belted Kingfisher. Clapper Rail nests in this area and is often easily viewed near the ditches along the roadside. \nAccessibility:  Please note that there are no water fountains or accessible restrooms at this field trip location.  There are no benches or shade. There are no steps\, gates or obstacles. \nWhat to Bring:  water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and a hat. \nImportant Information:  If you are a disabled person and have questions not addressed in the provided description\, please email Eowyn Johnson at dir@gintc.org. \nIf you are a participant with a disability or other health concern and the cost of this trip makes it inaccessible to you\, please reach out to Eowyn Johnson at dir@gintc.org to request a sliding-scale option. \nDriving and parking directions will be emailed prior to the festival. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/birding-car-accessible-field-trip/
CATEGORIES:Accessible,Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T190000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20211106T215636Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251221T161908Z
UID:11691-1776351600-1776366000@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:High Island's Famous Sites by Car #1
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \nThe accident of geology makes the Upper Texas Coast a beacon to weary neotropical migrants finishing a 10+ hour\, nonstop flight across the Gulf of Mexico. \nLocation:  From under an ancient sea\, a salt dome emerged. After a few thousand years the dome reached 38 feet above a pancake-flat coastal plain; the highest point-of-land on the immediate coast from Mobile Bay to the Yucatan Peninsula. This is High Island\, which is now a wooded beacon amongst the coastal marshland providing food\, water\, and places to rest for weary Gulf migrants. The daily afternoon arrival of neotropic migrants often includes dozens of species\, along with local and resident waterfowl\, raptors\, seabirds\, shorebirds\, and passerines. Weather fronts in April and May can easily produce over 100 species (including 30+ species of warblers) in a single day! \nA community of Texas birders of the Houston Audubon Society (HAS) created several sanctuaries in the area.  In time\, High Island’s beacon pulled in birders from around the world for a few weeks every year. This visit will be to HAS’ premier Smith Oaks Sanctuary.  One of the best features is a man-made reservoir\, Clay Bottom Pond. Colonial waterbirds\, who prefer islands for nesting to deter mammalian predators\, found the U-shaped Island in the middle of the pond perfect for a rookery. Nine species of heron\, egret\, spoonbill\, ibis\, cormorant\, and Anhinga nest within inches of each other. The High Island rookery offers birders a close view of the annual dramedy of waterbird nesting activity including vibrant breeding plumage\, mating hustle and nestlings. Read more about High Island on the Houston Audubon website. \nWhat to Expect:  This trip is targeted to catch any lingering migrants and catch afternoon arrivals. We plan to visit three HAS and Texas Ornithological Society sites. Watch for the afternoon drop of dozens of neotropic migrants along with local and resident waterfowl\, raptors\, seabirds\, shorebirds\, and passerines. April weather fronts can produce 30 or more species of songbirds in a single day! \nWhat to Bring:  water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and wear closed-toed walking shoes. \nImportant Information:  This is a meet-at-site trip. Driving directions will be emailed prior to the trip. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/high-islands-famous-sites-car-1/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T200000
DTSTAMP:20260409T053212
CREATED:20211106T220406Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T123600Z
UID:11697-1776355200-1776369600@www.galvestonfeatherfest.com
SUMMARY:Birding the Coastal Heritage Preserve #1
DESCRIPTION:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   \nOn this meet-at-site walking field trip\, you’ll be birding prairies\, woodlots\, and marshes of Artist Boat’s Coastal Heritage Preserve. We’ll top off the evening with a homemade pizza dinner made on the spot! \nWhat to Expect:  Join us for a birding adventure at Artist Boat’s Coastal Heritage Preserve. Walk and explore the marshes\, prairies\, and oak motts across the Preserve. Spring migration on the Preserve has hosted up to 103 species identified in a 24-hour period. The spring prairie is famous for heaps of Indigo and Painted Buntings\, Dickcissel\, Bobolink\, and more feasting on dew berries. The spring “Peake” woods host warblers\, tanagers\, and orioles. From different vantage points\, one can find shorebirds\, terns\, and pelicans in the marshes and over the bay. \nThe Preserve is a 775+ acre conservation area and utilized for educational purposes. This is special and private access. The only way to experience the depth and breadth of the Preserve’s wilds and varied ecosystems is to slowly walk the three miles of loop trails on the bay tract. Migration events have hosted moments of seeing thousands of buntings at one time on the prairie\, a small oak mott at our plant nursery hosting 15 species of warblers\, and even a sleeping Swallow-tailed Kite in a tree. \nIf you want to see how ecosystems work and what ecosystem feeding means\, this is the adventure and guide for you. Karla is always enamored with the entire field of view and helping people learn how and when to find what bird in Galveston. Don’t come to identify birds\, come to see! We will go as slowly as needed to “see” while crossing prairies\, marshes\, and wood lots. Come comfy and ready to walk up to 3 miles on an uneven surface. \nAt dusk we will watch the dramatic sunset across the prairie and preserve while enjoying an artisan prepared pizza. It’s all absolutely spectacular! \nNote: There will be both vegetarian and non-vegetarian toppings. Tea and water will be provided. If you’d like to BYOB\, feel free to do so. Please note there are no gluten free pizza choices. \nWhat to Bring:  water\, snacks\, sunscreen\, insect repellent\, and to participate\, you must wear closed-toed walking shoes.  Scopes\, binoculars\, and cameras are welcome. \nImportant Information: This is a meet-at-site trip. Driving directions will be emailed prior to the trip. \n\njQuery(document).ready(function () { jQuery("#cmsms_hover_slider_69d739dc55490").cmsmsHoverSlider( { sliderBlock : "#cmsms_hover_slider_69d739dc55490"\, sliderItems : ".cmsms_hover_slider_items"\, thumbWidth : "100"\, thumbHeight : "60"\, activeSlide : 1\, pauseTime : 3000\, pauseOnHover : true } );} );\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
URL:https://www.galvestonfeatherfest.com/event/birding-coastal-heritage-preserve-1/
CATEGORIES:Birding Field Trips
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR