Birds & More – Photo Journey through Scotland and Ireland with Krisztina Scheeff

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. (Limit of 60)

Atlantic Puffin by Krisztina Scheeff

Exploring Arizona’s Pygmy-Owls with Stephen Vaughan

Come join us for an engaging and enlightening program that takes a closer look at the captivating world of Arizona’s Pygmy-Owls. Arizona is fortunate to host two distinct species – the Northern Pygmy-Owl and the Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl. This program is a deep dive into the lives of these fascinating birds, shedding light on their biology, ecology, and conservation status, with a special emphasis on how they adapt to the unique Arizona desert environment. What sets this program apart is the invaluable firsthand observations of Steve Vaughan, a seasoned owl expert with decades of experience. For the past six years, Steve has dedicated his efforts to studying owls, particularly in southern Arizona. This means you’ll get a firsthand account from someone with an intimate knowledge of these remarkable creatures, going beyond what’s readily available in published materials. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a unique insight into the world of Arizona’s Pygmy-Owls! (Limit of 100)

Optimizing Optics: The Right Binocular for You with Whitney Lanfranco

Whitney Lanfranco from Sabrewing Nature Tours will walk you through the optics you can use for birding and beyond.  There are many different manufacturers and models, all built to serve certain needs. Find out more about the questions to ask when optic shopping, what optics might work best for you, and learn how to get the most of the optics you already have. (Limit of 60)

Whitney Lanfranco from Sabrewing Nature Tours will walk you through the optics you can use for birding and beyond.  There are many different manufacturers and models, all built to serve certain needs. Find out more about the questions to ask when optic shopping, what optics might work best for you, and learn how to get the most of the optics you already have. (Limit of 60)

Community Habitat Restoration Partners | CHiRP! with Tucson Audubon’s Community Conservation Team

Be it a balcony, backyard, school, HOA common space, park, or golf course, our urban “green” spaces provide critical refuge and refueling stations for birds and other wildlife navigating the built environment. Join our Community Conservation team to learn about efforts to transform turf into terrific habitat, support wildlife through green stormwater infrastructure, and inspire neighbors and friends to do the same by becoming Community Habitat Restoration Partners (CHiRP!).  (Limit of 100)

Backyard Birding in the Desert with Kathe Anderson

Whether you’re just starting to bring birds to your backyard, or hoping to enhance your backyard experience with different birds, this class will help guide you to create the habitat that attracts a variety of birds—and keeps them safe. In addition, we’ll identify a number of common local backyard species you can hope to attract. (Limit of 60)

Digiscoping Big Year: The Quest to photograph over 1,000 bird species through a spotting scope! with  Jeff Bouton of Kowa Sporting Optics

Vermillion Flycatcher by Mick Thompson

From bird biologist & bird guide to optics professional with Kowa Sporting Optics, Jeff Bouton has been in the industry for over 35 years – writing articles, speaking & guiding and pioneering digiscoping techniques since the early 90’s. He first tracked digiscoped year birds during the pandemic and captured images of 518 bird species in 2021. Working at various birding events in 2023, he broke his own record in just over 4 months and jokingly quipped, “I wonder if I can double this by year’s end?” Join Bouton as he recaps chasing the elusive 1,000th digiscoped year bird in this entertaining talk! (Limit of 60)

Wings of Darien: Navigating Panama’s Rich Birding Landscape with Carlos Bethancourt

Dive into the heart of the Darien with Carlos Bethancourt from the Canopy Family and uncover the secrets of Panama’s birding paradise. This lecture shines a spotlight on the majestic Harpy Eagle, Panama’s proud national symbol, alongside other remarkable species like the Crested Eagle, Black Oropendola, and the elusive Grey-cheeked Nunlet. Discover how the Darien, with its rich tapestry of ecosystems, supports not only these incredible species but also a myriad of other avian wonders. Learn about the region’s conservation challenges and successes, and how ecotourism initiatives like the Canopy Camp are making strides in preserving this vital habitat for future generations. Prepare to be enthralled by stories of Darien’s feathered residents and ongoing efforts to preserve their habitat. This lecture is not just a birding  journey, it’s a tribute to the Harpy Eagle and the vibrant biodiversity of Panama’s most enchanting region. (Limit of 100)

Bird Photography: It’s Not About the Gear, or Is It? with Stephen Vaughan

Each of us has varied objectives when photographing birds. Some aim to meticulously document different bird species, while others seek to enhance their creativity in capturing bird images. There are also those who endeavor to capture specific bird behaviors or moments of peak action. Each of these approaches demands a distinct skill set and, potentially, different photographic equipment. Equipment is advancing at an accelerated pace it is hard to keep up. What gear is really worth the investment? Join Steve as he imparts valuable tips and techniques to elevate your proficiency in bird photography. (Limit of 60)

Community Conservation and Ecotourism Initiatives in Uganda: Spotlight on the International Conference for Women Birders with Herbert Byaruhanga

Community conservation and ecotourism initiatives in Uganda have gained significant traction, with a particular focus on engaging women birders. The International Conference for Women Birders serves as a pivotal platform for highlighting these efforts. Through community-led conservation projects and ecotourism endeavors, Uganda aims to promote sustainable practices while empowering women in the field of birding. This conference sheds light on innovative approaches, success stories, and challenges faced in integrating gender-sensitive conservation strategies within the broader framework of ecotourism development. By showcasing the contributions of women birders and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the conference seeks to advance the cause of conservation and sustainable tourism in Uganda. (Limit of 100)

Making Tucson an Urban Bird Treaty City with Olya Weekley

The Urban Bird Treaty (UBT) Program is a city designation effort through the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The program works with local, state, and federal government agencies, non-profit organizations, corporations, and local communities to conserve migratory birds through education, hazard reductions, community science, conservation and habitat improvement strategies in urban/suburban areas. Tucson Audubon and project partners are currently leading the effort to make Tucson a UBT City. Join Olya Weekley to learn more about the effort and how you can make urban spaces more bird-friendly from your own backyard.

 (Limit of 60)