Join the premier celebration of the wild birds, habitats, and bird-friendly people at the San Diego Bird Festival.
Schedule of Events
March 1, 2025
Bird Photography at Mission Trails with Alexander Eisengart
Event Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:30 AM
Event Type: Photography
Guide/Speaker: Alexander Eisengart
Fee: $50.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Kumeyaay Lake Campground
Meet@: Kumeyaay Lake Campground
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Join Alex Eisengart at Mission Trails Regional Park for bird photography.
The Mission Trails Regional Park includes a series of mountains that lie within the city limits of San Diego. Although they are not as tall as the mountains to their east, Cowles Mountain is the highest point in San Diego. It towers 1,592 feet over the ocean, where it is noticeably cooler than the rest of the city. Out in Mission Trails, you truly feel as if you’re out in the wilderness. Cool convections slide down the mountain slopes, shrub-scrub habitat covers the mountain sides, and birds chirp beside the trail. Mountains provide amazing backdrops for photography, and shrubs look great as framing in photographs. This is going to be an active workshop. We will be doing a lot of hiking along the trail deep into the thicket, grassland, and canyons. Be ready to take lots of steps!
This is a photography workshop! Be prepared to get "down and dirty" when photographing birds. A lot of our subjects are on the ground, so Alex will encourage you to put your camera as close to birds'-eye-level as possible. Alex will help you get the best shot and work with your camera settings.
This is a Meet-you-there field trip. Participants must provide their own transportation.
Birding the Border I
Event Hours: 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Lindsay Willrick | Mandy Mathews
Fee: $160.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
Discover the birds of the Tijuana River Valley! Join us as we explore some of the most renowned birding hotspots in the southern part of the county, guided by expert birders. We’ll visit key areas known for their rich variety of species, offering a mix of waterfowl, shorebirds, gulls, and passerines.
Some exciting sightings from previous trips include Brant, Heermann's Gull, Tri-colored Blackbird and Black-throated Magpie Jay.
This field trip is a bus tour, starting and ending at Marina Village Conference Center. If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us. Lunch is included with this trip.
100 or More I Sponsored by Sabrewing Nature Tours
Event Hours: 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Kat Wendel | Sabrewing Guide 1
Fee: $160.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
Join us for an action-packed birding adventure across one of the nation's birdiest places—San Diego County! With the goal to spot 100 species (or more) in a single day, this fast-paced field trip is designed to give you the thrill of high-volume birding. From shorebirds to raptors, you’ll be immersed in the excitement of spotting some of the region's most common species, while keeping an eye out for rare surprises. Don’t miss this ultimate birding challenge!
This trip is all about volume, pushing you to have your biggest birding day ever! The adventure begins and ends at Marina Village Conference Center, with breakfast served before our early morning departure. If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us. Lunch is included with this trip.
Dancing with Grebes
Event Hours: 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Krisztina Scheeff | Jill Hays
Fee: $30.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Lake Hodges Visitor Center
Meet@: Lake Hodges Visitor Center
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Join Professional Photographer Krisztina Scheeff / KS Nature Photography for a look at the amazing courtship behaviors of Western and Clark's Grebes...and other species that live around Lake Hodges.
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
Meeting Point: The big parking lot in front of concessions. Enter yellow gates from Lake Drive, and take the road to the end, you will see a huge lot and a single PALM tree on your right and concessions building straight. I will meet you in front of the concessions.
Birding the Border II
Event Hours: 6:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Robert Patton | Steve Huggins
Fee: $160.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
Discover the birds of the Tijuana River Valley! Join us as we explore some of the most renowned birding hotspots in the southern part of the county, guided by expert birders. We’ll visit key areas known for their rich variety of species, offering a mix of waterfowl, shorebirds, gulls, and passerines.
Some exciting sightings from previous trips include Brant, Heermann's Gull, Tri-colored Blackbird and Black-throated Magpie Jay.
This field trip is a bus tour, starting and ending at Marina Village Conference Center. If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us. Lunch is included with this trip.
100 or More II
Event Hours: 6:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Sabrewing Guide 2
Fee: $160.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
Join us for an action-packed birding adventure across one of the nation's birdiest places—San Diego County! With the goal to spot 100 species (or more) in a single day, this fast-paced field trip is designed to give you the thrill of high-volume birding. From shorebirds to raptors, you’ll be immersed in the excitement of spotting some of the region's most common species, while keeping an eye out for rare surprises. Don’t miss this ultimate birding challenge!
This trip is all about volume, pushing you to have your biggest birding day ever! The adventure begins and ends at Marina Village Conference Center, with breakfast served before our early morning departure. If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us. Lunch is included with this trip.
Eagle Peak Ranch and Ramona Grasslands Sponsored by Fieldguides Birding and Nature Tours and San Diego River Park Foundation
Event Hours: 6:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Natalie Borchardt | Doug Gochfeld
Fee: $160.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
A behind-the-gates experience at a conservation property in the mountains East of San Diego, followed by a visit to the Ramona Grasslands, a hot spot for raptors. Here, you can sometimes see Ferruginous Hawks and Prairie Falcons, birds that are not commonly seen in urban San Diego.
If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us. If you prefer a meet-you-there version of this trip, please refer to Friday's version of this trip.
Lunch is included with this trip.
At Eagle Peak Ranch, there is a fairly short trail with some uneven footing that travels around the main pond (0.34 loop) and along the tree lined creek corridor. This trail has very little elevation gain or loss. Visitors are also welcome to just relax and sit to enjoy birding at the main pond or walk along the flatter gravel road. One of our most frequent visitors, the red-winged black bird, will entertain you. There are other slightly longer trails in the same vicinity that visitors can enjoy and there are benches and picnic areas to sit and enjoy a snack, lunch or a sip of water. Long pants and closed toed shoes are recommended as well as plenty of drinking water and sun protection. There is one portable restroom on site. No potable water available.
Bird Yoga with Deb Schork
Event Hours: 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Event Type: Fun Stuff
Guide/Speaker: Deb Schork
Fee: $20.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
We'll do some yoga together, according to our ability. Many of the poses will be bird poses! We'll follow our yoga session with a relaxing walk.
Deb is a C-IAYT (Certified International Association of Yoga Therapists) and is dedicated to empowering others in their well-being through yogic tools. In 2018, she became a Certified Be Well Yoga for Cancer Recovery Teacher, Yoga Teacher, and Reiki Master. Having dealt with her own chronic condition from a kickboxing injury, Deb helps others with traumatic/chronic conditions with tools to find balance, connection and healing.
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
Pelagic Trip
Event Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Paul Lehman | Rick Grove | Paul Mulholland | Bruce Rideout | Alex Abela | Matt Sadowski
Fee: $165.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: MVCC- Starboard Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Boat
Join us for an exhilarating Pelagic Birding Field Trip aboard the New Seaforth, as we venture out to the renowned 9-Mile Bank off the coast of San Diego. This exciting boat trip offers a rare opportunity to observe a wide variety of seabirds in their natural offshore habitat, providing fantastic birding opportunities that are hard to find on land.
As we head out into deeper waters, we’ll pass through the San Diego Bay, and then make our way to the 9-Mile Bank, known for its abundance of marine life and diverse bird species. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for Black-vented Shearwaters, Western Grebes, and Sooty Shearwaters gliding effortlessly over the water. The waters here are also frequented by Red Phalaropes, Pomarine Jaegers, and Cory’s Shearwaters, making it an ideal spot for those interested in observing the majestic and often elusive seabirds that inhabit the open ocean.
As we approach the 9-Mile Bank, we will also be on the lookout for Sabine’s Gulls, Wilson’s Storm-petrels, and possibly even the rare Long-tailed Jaeger. You may also spot marine mammals such as California sea lions, dolphins, and possibly even blue whales or gray whales during migration seasons.
The New Seaforth is a comfortable, spacious boat equipped with knowledgeable crew members who will assist with bird identification and provide valuable insights into the behavior and ecology of these fascinating seabirds. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a newcomer to pelagic birding, this trip offers an unforgettable experience to witness the incredible diversity of marine birds and wildlife in the Pacific Ocean.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore one of the most productive birding areas off the San Diego coast and immerse yourself in the world of pelagic birding!
The group will meet in the Starboard room for some important information sharing prior to the trip. The group will then walk approximately 0.25 mile to the Marina to board the boat.
If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us.
Lunch is not provided on this trip, but there is a galley on the boat.
The Big Sit
Event Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Dan Jehl
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: San Diego River Mouth at Quivira Way
Meet@: San Diego River Mouth at Quivira Way
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
A Big Sit is a bird monitoring activity where you stay within a circle (marked out on the ground) and try to see the largest number of species of birds possible, without straying from the circle. Sit with us by the San Diego River and try to break last year's record.
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
Canyon Walk
Event Hours: 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Anitra Kaye
Fee: $30.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Marian Bear Open Space
Meet@: Marian Bear Open Space
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Marian Bear Open Space is part of Tecolote Canyon system and one of several protected urban canyons in the San Diego area that support native plant communities and associated bird life. Birds that are here for the entire year include hawks, Anna’s Hummingbird, California Thrasher, House Wren, Wrentit, and both California and Spotted Towhees. You can never tell what you may see. It is a moderate walk with some uneven ground, as well as slight uphills. Restrooms at the trailhead.
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
Kayak Trip Mission Bay
Event Hours: 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Ocean Connectors | Leader TBA
Fee: $80.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Action Water Sports Mission Bay
Meet@: Action Water Sports Mission Bay
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Experience birds from a completely different point of view, and learn about the ReWilding efforts in Mission Bay. Paddle through calm, serene waters as we explore this beautiful coastal ecosystem.
This field trip offers a great opportunity to observe birds from the water, with views into Kendall-Frost Marsh (we are unable to paddle into the marsh) and Fiesta Island.
In late February, Mission Bay is a prime spot for birdwatching as it serves as an important stopover for migratory species. Keep an eye out for Pacific Loons and Eared Grebes. You'll see Willets and Long-billed Curlews foraging along the shores. Black-crowned Night Herons and Great Blue Herons perch in trees along the shore, while Osprey hunt from the air above. As we paddle through the tranquil waters, the chances to observe bird behaviors up close are abundant. This field trip is an unforgettable way to connect with nature for beginners and seasoned birders.
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
Bird Art Basics with Christina Baal
Event Hours: 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM
Event Type: Art
Guide/Speaker: Christina Baal
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Marine Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
Have you ever wanted to draw birds, but found it difficult to know how to start? Or maybe you already love drawing birds, but want to learn some new tips and tricks to enhance your practice? This bird drawing workshop is designed to break through the trepidation of the “white page” and get you drawing birds right away. 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 look forward to in order to improve your skills as an artist AND as a birder.
While this workshop is geared toward beginners, all skill levels are welcome! Basic art materials will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own favorites.
Birding by Bike
Event Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Event Type: Birding
Fee: $50.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Join us for an exciting Birding & Biking Field Trip at Mission Bay, one of San Diego’s most popular and scenic birding locations. This unique event combines the joy of birdwatching with the fun of cycling, as we explore the lush coastal habitat of Mission Bay on two wheels.
Starting at one of the park's scenic spots, we’ll bike along the network of paths that wind through the bay's diverse ecosystems, from saltwater marshes to mudflats, and open water. Mission Bay is home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Along the ride, you’ll have the opportunity to spot Black-Necked Stilts wading along the shoreline, Wester Sandpipers and Least Sandpipers foraging in the mudflats, and the graceful Snowy Egret and Great Egret hunting for fish in the shallows.
As we cycle through the area, look out for large flocks of Californa Gulls and Ring-Billed Gulls that often gather in the open spaces. During migratory seasons, you may also spot Eelegant Terns and Forester's Terns skimming across the water or resting on the sandbars.
The cormorants and pelicans are frequent visitors to the bay, so keep your eyes peeled for Double-Crested Cormorants drying their wings in the sun or Brown Pelicans diving for fish. Additionally, Osprey are often seen soaring above, scouting the waters for prey, while Red Tailed Hawks may be spotted perched high on nearby trees or gliding over the bay.
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a beginner, this event offers a perfect blend of birdwatching and outdoor adventure. So, bring your binoculars, and your enthusiasm for nature as we enjoy the beauty of Mission Bay and the incredible variety of birdlife it supports.
This field trip includes use of a bicycle and a helmet. If you have your own bike, please sign up for the Birding by Bike (BYOBike)
Birding by Bike (BYOBike)
Event Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Event Type: Birding
Fee: $30.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Join us for an exciting Birding & Biking Field Trip at Mission Bay, one of San Diego’s most popular and scenic birding locations. This unique event combines the joy of birdwatching with the fun of cycling, as we explore the lush coastal habitat of Mission Bay on two wheels.
Starting at one of the park's scenic spots, we’ll bike along the network of paths that wind through the bay's diverse ecosystems, from saltwater marshes to mudflats, and open water. Mission Bay is home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Along the ride, you’ll have the opportunity to spot Black-Necked Stilts wading along the shoreline, Wester Sandpipers and Least Sandpipers foraging in the mudflats, and the graceful Snowy Egret and Great Egret hunting for fish in the shallows.
As we cycle through the area, look out for large flocks of Californa Gulls and Ring-Billed Gulls that often gather in the open spaces. During migratory seasons, you may also spot Eelegant Terns and Forester's Terns skimming across the water or resting on the sandbars.
The cormorants and pelicans are frequent visitors to the bay, so keep your eyes peeled for Double-Crested Cormorants drying their wings in the sun or Brown Pelicans diving for fish. Additionally, Osprey are often seen soaring above, scouting the waters for prey, while Red Tailed Hawks may be spotted perched high on nearby trees or gliding over the bay.
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a beginner, this event offers a perfect blend of birdwatching and outdoor adventure. So, bring your bike, your binoculars, and your enthusiasm for nature as we enjoy the beauty of Mission Bay and the incredible variety of birdlife it supports.
Bring your own bike for birding on Mission Bay!
Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Optics with Land, Sea and Sky
Event Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM
Event Type: Nature
Guide/Speaker: Whitney Lanfranco
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Terrace Room
Meet@: MVCC- Terrace Room
Transportation Type: None
Join us for an informative and engaging presentation on how to start birding and the essential equipment you'll need to get started. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to enhance your birdwatching experience, this session will provide you with all the knowledge and tips to begin your birding journey with confidence.
Famosa Slough
Event Hours: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Fee: $25.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Famosa Slough
Meet@: Famosa Slough
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
A walk with Jim Peugh and Ian Swirka of Friends of Famosa Slough for birding and to learn about the extraordinary continuing effort of the local community to save this urban oasis for birds.
Birding Through the Lens: A Beginner’s Guide (1 Hour), Presented by Christopher Gilbert, Fujifilm Senior Product Technical Representative
Event Hours: 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Christopher Gilbert
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Starboard Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
You've spotted them, now learn to photograph them! This beginner-friendly class introduces the essentials of bird photography, tailored for enthusiasts of all camera brands. Learn techniques to improve your images, understand key settings, and get tips on selecting the right equipment to match your needs. Whether you're photographing birds in your backyard or exploring a local park, this workshop is your perfect starting point for an exciting adventure. Fujifilm will also have GFX/X Series cameras and long lenses available for loan at the Fujifilm booth.
Christopher Gilbert is a photographer and national educator/trainer/marketer for FUJIFILM North America utilizing web/in-person content/events to expand target audience, increase brand awareness, and create an open environment where sales and education feed into one another. His two decade photographic career provides the variety of challenges he needs to continue to set career milestones and gives him the experience to simplify complex subject matter into a digestible form to empower individuals with the enthusiasm they need to craft and connect with their passion.
Ecotourism as a Tool for Conservation with Neblina Forest
Event Hours: 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM
Event Type: Nature
Guide/Speaker: Xavier Munoz
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Starboard Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
Join us for an insightful presentation on how ecotourism can be a powerful tool in preserving our planet's most fragile ecosystems. Hosted at the Marina Village Conference Center and presented by Neblina Forest, this session will explore the intersection of tourism and conservation, demonstrating how responsible travel practices can help protect biodiversity while benefiting local communities.
Demystifying Birding in Colombia, one bird at a time
Event Hours: 12:00 PM to 12:45 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Giovani Ortiz
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Terrace Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
Join us for an engaging presentation on one of the world’s most biodiverse birding destinations – Colombia! This session, Demystifying Birding in Colombia, will provide an in-depth look at the incredible variety of bird species that inhabit this vibrant country, making it a must-visit for birdwatchers from around the globe.
Discover Nature Travel in South America with Holbrook Birding Expeditions
Event Hours: 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM
Event Type: Nature
Guide/Speaker: Debbie Jordan | Jill Hays
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: MVCC- Terrace Room
Transportation Type: None
Come with us on a whirlwind journey to some incredibly birdy-and-photogenic nature hotspots in Brazil, Ecuador, Colombia and more! For those interested, we’ll have a few goodies to raffle off at the end of our adventure. Join us!
Argentina, 1000 Birds and More!
Event Hours: 1:30 PM to 2:15 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Luis Segura
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Starboard Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
Argentina’s vast and varied landscapes are home to an impressive array of ecosystems, that support an extraordinary level of biodiversity. Covering approximately 1.07 million square miles, the country stretches from subtropical rainforests in the north to subpolar regions in the south, encompassing a wide range of habitats and climate zones. This geographic and ecological diversity enables Argentina to host some of the most distinctive wildlife assemblages in the world. A central highlight of Argentina's natural heritage is its bird diversity, with close to 1,000 species recorded within its borders. This lecture is an imaginary journey through Argentina's main natural habitats to learn about its birds and other wildlife.
Smart Backyard Birding: Discover the Future of Birdwatching with Birdfy
Event Hours: 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Estelle Yang
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: MVCC- Terrace Room
Transportation Type: None
Dive into the world of backyard birding with Birdfy's smart technology! As a smart bird feeder brand, Birdfy will demonstrate how technology helps in birdwatching. Birdfy's products identify and notify you when birds visit, making birdwatching more accessible and enjoyable. Also learn how these feeders contribute to conservation efforts and educational programs by providing valuable ecological data. Join us for an interactive session to experience the feeders firsthand, and don't miss the chance to win free gifts and giveaways!
Australia: Land of Parrots
Event Hours: 2:30 PM to 3:15 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Peter Waanders
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Starboard Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
Australia, the land of parrots. Over 50 species in all! Parrots live in every different habitat found in the "country down under". Habitats vary from botanical gardens and dense forests in the south, to rugged and dry regions in the interior, while others are only found in the northern tropical rainforests. Watch these iconic birds come to life during a multi-media exploration of Budgerigars, Rosellas, Lorikeets, Corellas, Cockatoos and many more!
With Peter Waanders of Bellbird Birding, Wildlife & Photo Tours / Australia-Naturally Travel
Community Conservation and Ecotourism Initiatives in Uganda: A Spotlight on the International Conference for Women Birders
Event Hours: 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Herbert Byaruhanga
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Terrace Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
Herbert Byaruhanga, Founder and CEO of Bird Uganda Safaris, will deliver an inspiring talk at the San Diego Birding Festival 2025 on Community Conservation and Ecotourism Initiatives in Uganda: A Spotlight on the International Conference for Women Birders. His presentation will highlight Uganda's rich biodiversity, featuring an array of birds, mammals, and breathtaking landscapes. Herbert will also delve into Uganda’s cultural heritage, scenic mountains, and modern infrastructure that make it a premier destination for eco-tourism. Discover how Uganda is empowering women in conservation while promoting sustainable tourism in this captivating
Birds & More - Photo Journey through Scotland and Ireland
Event Hours: 3:30 PM to 4:15 PM
Event Type: Nature
Guide/Speaker: Krisztina Scheeff
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Starboard Room
Meet@: MVCC- Starboard Room
Transportation Type: None
Scotland and Ireland offer incredible opportunities for natural encounters, whether you are a photographer or not. Through the lens and stories of award-winning photographer Krisztina Scheeff, embark on an up-close view of these wonderful wildlife-rich places. Krisztina will take you on a photographic journey of some of the special places in Scotland and Ireland: Atlantic Puffins, Northern Gannets, White-tailed Eagles, Red Kites, all the small cute birds among gorgeous landscapes. Join her for a session of photos, videos, stories and more of these two favorite places so close to each other yet so different.
Low Tide Estuary Walk
Event Hours: 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Christopher Gilbert
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: MVCC- Courtyard
Transportation Type: Walking
An easy walk to the San Diego River Mouth at low tide. This walk follows sidewalks to the street, crosses Quivira Way and proceeds on dirt paths along the river, stopping for views of shorebirds on the sand bars.
Embark on a scenic birding walk from the Marina Village Conference Center to the San Diego River Mouth, a prime spot for observing coastal and migratory birds, especially during low tide. The walk, approximately 1 mile round trip, takes you along the water’s edge, offering a close-up view of diverse bird species, particularly on the sandbars exposed by the receding tide. If you have mobility challenges you can meet us at the San Diego River Mouth. Just pick a group that matches your interests! We'll have reps from some of our optics companies with gear to showcase. Join the Fujifilm Tech Rep to try out Fujinon Techno-stabi, Hyper-clarity and Mariner Binoculars.
Starting at the Marina Village Conference Center, you’ll follow the shoreline path toward the river mouth. At the river mouth itself, the sandbars provide excellent habitat for a variety of shorebirds.
Birding in Panama with Canopy Family
Event Hours: 4:00 PM to 4:45 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Carlos Bethancourt
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: MVCC- Starboard Room
Transportation Type: None
Nestled between North and South America, Panama, though compact in size, rivals the natural splendor of much larger nations. This tiny powerhouse of biodiversity, no larger than South Carolina, is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts. With over 1,015 bird species, myriad mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and an astonishing array of over 10,000 plant species, Panama's ecological richness is truly remarkable. Join Carlos Bethancourt, a seasoned guide from the Canopy Family, as he takes you on a captivating photographic journey. Explore the lush habitats, from the historic Canal Zone to the rolling foothills of western Panama and the untamed beauty of the Darién lowlands in the east. Encounter everything from majestic toucans and vibrant hummingbirds to the elusive Panamanian Night Monkey and playful Kinkajous. Carlos's enthralling stories and vivid imagery promise to transport you right into the heart of Panama's wilderness. Get ready to immerse yourself in an adventure where every turn reveals why Panama is undeniably a paradise for birding and nature exploration.
Backstage with Amy Tan
Event Hours: 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Event Type: Nature
Guide/Speaker: Amy Tan
Fee: $95.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: USD Shiley Theater
Meet@: USD Shiley Theater
Transportation Type: None
Join Amy Tan before the program for a limited-attendance mixer with drinks and light refreshments. Your ticket also entitles you to reserved seating for the main program.
Join us for an evening of storytelling, inspiration, and, of course, birds, with award-winning author Amy Tan. She will take the stage at the Shiley Theater at USD on Saturday, March 1 for a unique conversation about her literary journey and her recent work, including The Backyard Bird Chronicles.
Best known for her groundbreaking novel The Joy Luck Club, Amy Tan has long been celebrated for her exploration of complex family dynamics, cultural identity, and the immigrant experience. In her more recent work, The Backyard Bird Chronicles, she reflects on themes of nature and transformation. A Conversation with Amy Tan will offer an exclusive opportunity to delve into the ways in which her life, experiences, and observations of the world have shaped her work.
The event will be followed by a book signing where attendees can meet Amy Tan personally and have her sign copies of her books. Warwicks will be on-site selling her works, including The Backyard Bird Chronicles and other releases, for those who wish to purchase a copy.
A Conversation with Amy Tan (transportation provided)
Event Hours: 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Event Type: Nature
Fee: $65.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: USD Shiley Theater
Meet@: USD Shiley Theater
Transportation Type: None
Join us for an evening of storytelling, inspiration, and, of course, birds, with award-winning author Amy Tan. She will take the stage at the Shiley Theater at USD on Saturday, March 1 for a unique conversation about her literary journey and her recent work, including The Backyard Bird Chronicles.
Best known for her groundbreaking novel The Joy Luck Club, Amy Tan has long been celebrated for her exploration of complex family dynamics, cultural identity, and the immigrant experience. In her more recent work, The Backyard Bird Chronicles, she reflects on themes of nature and transformation. A Conversation with Amy Tan will offer an exclusive opportunity to delve into the ways in which her life, experiences, and observations of the world have shaped her work.
The talk will be followed by a book signing (7:30 - 8:30 pm) where attendees can meet Amy Tan personally and have her sign copies of her books. Warwicks will be on-site selling her works, including The Backyard Bird Chronicles and other releases, for those who wish to purchase a copy.
This verison of this program includes transportation from Marina Village Conference Center.
A Conversation with Amy Tan
Event Hours: 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Event Type: Nature
Fee: $35.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: USD Shiley Theater
Meet@: USD Shiley Theater
Transportation Type: None
Join us for an evening of storytelling, inspiration, and, of course, birds, with award-winning author Amy Tan. She will take the stage at the Shiley Theater at USD on Saturday, March 1 for a unique conversation about her literary journey and her recent work, including The Backyard Bird Chronicles.
Best known for her groundbreaking novel The Joy Luck Club, Amy Tan has long been celebrated for her exploration of complex family dynamics, cultural identity, and the immigrant experience. In her more recent work, The Backyard Bird Chronicles, she reflects on themes of nature and transformation. A Conversation with Amy Tan will offer an exclusive opportunity to delve into the ways in which her life, experiences, and observations of the world have shaped her work.
The talk will be followed by a book signing (7:30 - 8:30 pm) where attendees can meet Amy Tan personally and have her sign copies of her books. Warwicks will be on-site selling her works, including The Backyard Bird Chronicles and other releases, for those who wish to purchase a copy.
Rancho Jamul
Event Hours: 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Autumn Turner | Andrea Gibbons
Fee: $160.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
A behind-the gates look at Rancho Jamul Ecological Reserve, operated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in southwestern San Diego County. It sports large, open grasslands provide foraging habitat for abundant and diverse raptor species, coastal sage scrub habitat valuable for numerous sensitive species, and willow-sycamore riparian areas providing nesting habitat and water sources for wildlife.
If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us.
Lunch is included with this trip.
Salton Sea Overnight Trip- Saturday-Sunday
Event Hours: 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Bruce Aird | Kurt Leuschner
Fee: $625.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
Join us for an overnighter in the Desert! We'll board the bus at Marina Village Conference Center and head for the Salton Sea and Anza-Borrego. Our guides are familiar with the area and can help us get the most out of it, from Burrowing Owls to Sandhill Cranes. Meals and lodging are included. The trip will conclude in San Diego at Marina Village Conference Center.
Includes lodging, meals, transportation and guides.
This trip begins Saturday March 1 at 6 am and returns to Marina Village at approximately 4:00 pm on Sunday March 2.
If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us.
Salton Sea Overnight Trip with Single Supplement- Saturday-Sunday
Event Hours: 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Kurt Leuschner | Bruce Aird
Fee: $700.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
Join us for an overnighter in the Desert! We'll board the bus at Marina Village Conference Center and head for the Salton Sea and Anza-Borrego. Our guides are familiar with the area and can help us get the most out of it, from Burrowing Owls to Sandhill Cranes. Meals and lodging are included. The trip will conclude in San Diego at Marina Village Conference Center. Use this item if you are attending this event alone.
Includes lodging, meals, transportation and guides.
This trip begins Saturday March 1 at 6 am and returns to Marina Village at approximately 4:00 pm on Sunday March 2.
If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us.
Date: February 26 - March 2, 2025
