Birders and nature lovers flock to south Alabama every year to experience one of the Gulf Coast’s prime birdwatching opportunities during fall migration. During Alabama Coastal BirdFest, hosted by the South Alabama Land Trust (SALT), more than 370 bird species have been spotted at various locations along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, and BirdFest guides expertly lead attendees on boat and walking trips to some of the best birding spots in the area, including locations along the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail.
Alabama Coastal BirdFest takes attendees into the Mobile Delta, to the Dauphin Island Bird Sanctuary, historic Fort Morgan, the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, and more. Back by popular demand, we have also included a trip to our neighboring state, Mississippi, to the Sand Hill Crane Refuge. The three-day event also includes workshops on subjects such as hummingbirds, the basics of birding, workshops on how to use common birding apps such as eBird and Merlin Bird ID, and understanding bird box design for specific species. A free, family-friendly Bird and Nature Expo will be held at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Saturday of BirdFest, October 5th, from 9am-1pm. The Expo highlights other local non-profits and environmental agencies and offers hands-on activities and boat cruises lead by a junior birder! Click here to learn more about the Bird and Nature Expo.
Since 2004, BirdFest has raised more than $100,000 to help preserve and protect vital coastal bird and wildlife habitat and increase awareness of the great biological diversity of the Alabama Gulf Coast.
- Dates: October 4-6, 2024
- Activities:
- Guided birding tours
- Eco-tours and nature hikes
- Educational workshops on birding and conservation
- Family-friendly activities
- Nature Expo: Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Interactive booths and demonstrations
- Nature-related activities for families and kids
· Location, Schedule, and Registration: Full details available at southalabamalandtrust.org/birdfest
· Focus: Celebrating bird migration and promoting conservation of coastal habitats