Archives: Festival Events

Woodpeckers represent one of the most specialized bird families in the world, and North America’s woodpeckers play critical roles in our continent’s forests and woodlands. In fact, nowhere else on Earth are woodpeckers such important characters in woodland ecology. Join naturalist and woodpecker specialist, Steve Shunk, for an exciting journey into the lives and times of Arizona’s amazing woodpeckers. Steve will share the secrets of woodpecker anatomy, and he will translate anatomical adaptation into the fascinating behaviors we love to watch among our woodland carpenters. Each species’ anatomy perfectly suits its unique lifestyle, with different woodpeckers possessing adaptations for aerial acrobatics; for drilling sap wells; for extracting wood-boring beetle larvae; or for extracting ants from underground burrows. He will demystify woodpecker feeding, courtship, and nesting behaviors, including the reasons why woodpeckers pound on our houses and what we can do about it. Steve will also reveal the keystone ecological roles played by our local woodpeckers, and he will send you home with a mission: Prepare to be entertained, educated, and inspired as ambassadors for woodpecker conservation. Sponsored by Naturalist Journeys. (Limit of 100)

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)

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)

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 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)

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)

Join Sabrewing Nature Tours Photo guide Jamie Cunningham on this immersive photo workshop that will help you create unique images! Jamie will help you learn tips and tricks to create various styles of images by using light, composition and editing techniques. Jamie will help you think outside the box and learn what it takes to make a shot that really stands out! (Limit of 100)