FESTIVAL OF BIRDS
Rookery Bay’s
22nd Annual Festival of Birds
Pre-registration is required for all activities (prices vary).
Friends of Rookery Bay members receive exclusive early access to registration before it opens to the public.
The annual Festival of Birds celebrates Southwest Florida’s remarkable wildlife with guided field trips, birding adventures, and a special keynote event. Explore top birding destinations like Corkscrew Swamp, Fakahatchee Strand, and Ten Thousand Islands by foot, bike, boat, or kayak.
This year’s festival features exciting new experiences, including a sunrise walk in Picayune Strand Forest, a sleuthing adventure at Tigertail Beach, and a sunset kayak trip at Rookery Bay Research Reserve. Check out the details below and start planning your next birding adventure!
January 2026 Festival of Birds Activities
January 15th
Duration: 2 hours
Description:
Spend the morning with Field Trip Leader, Charlie Ewell, walking along Bunche Beach, the mainland side of San Carlos Bay, which is a part of the Lee County Conservation 20/20 program. Shorebirds are the big draw here, but wintering gulls, terns, and wading birds should also be in abundance. Shorebirds likely to be seen include Western and Least Sandpipers, Dunlin, Short-billed Dowitcher, Sanderling, Ruddy Turnstone, Willet, and up to 4 species of plover including Black-bellied, Wilson’s, Semipalmated, and Piping. Additional shorebird possibilities include Red Knot, Spotted Sandpiper, and Marbled Godwit. Roosting flocks of Black Skimmers may also be present.
What to Wear:
Clothing appropriate for the weather. Wading shoes (it may be necessary to access the mud flats with shallow tidal pools), long sleeved shirt and long pants if you are susceptible to sun, and a hat.
What to Bring:
Binoculars, water, snacks, and sunscreen. Insect repellant is possibly needed, as no-see-ums can be present early AM when winds are calm. The leader will have a bird field guide and a spotting scope, although you may prefer to bring your own if you are comfortable walking with it. We also suggest that you bring a small day or fanny pack to carry these items in so that your hands will be free while birding.
The only facilities are restrooms that are available on the top floor of the visitor’s center that is located on the right after the small bridge as you approach the beach.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 3 hours
Description:
Experience the peaceful sights and sounds of the awakening swamp with our naturalists guiding you to look for birds. Learn about the birds’ life habits and the importance to these birds of the native upland and freshwater wetland plants and habitats that occur at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Plus, learn what you can do in your own yard to improve habitat for birds. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is an Important Bird Area, part of the Atlantic Flyway for bird migration, is the regional gateway site for the Great Florida Birding Trail, and is a Ramsar designated Wetland of International Importance.
What to Wear:
Clothing appropriate for the weather. Hiking boots or tennis shoes, long sleeved shirt and long pants if you are susceptible to insect bites or sun, and a hat. This walk is on the Corkscrew Boardwalk, participants will be walking up to 2.25 miles.
What to Bring:
Binoculars, camera, water, sunscreen, insect repellant. We also suggest that you bring a small day or fanny pack to carry these items in so that your hands will be free while birding.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 4.5 hours
Description:
Paddle one of the scenic waterways in Big Cypress National Preserve to explore the diversity of plant and animal life along the way. This rain-fed system provides the healthy, crystal clear, fresh water that is essential to the marine life in the estuary of the 10,000 Islands below.
Bring Your Own Kayak, Paddle, and PFD!
What to Wear:
Warm, comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and paddling.
What to Bring:
We do not supply the kayaks or gear! Bring your kayak, paddle, PFD, waterproof bag, snacks or lunch, plenty of water, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, and shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Do not bring expensive cameras or binoculars as they may get wet. All gear should be in dry bags or freezer zip-lock bags.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 4 hours
Description:
Explore a unique swamp forest with Park staff. The interior of the Fakahatchee Strand supports a rich growth of tropical plants. Many birds and animals inhabit the swamp; Red-shouldered Hawk, Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Barred Owl, Common Ground Dove, Great Egret, White Ibis, Limpkin, Florida black bear, River otter, Everglades mink and the endangered Florida Panther. Since there is no path, participants wade through cypress forest and popash-pondapple sloughs in water from 1 to 2 feet deep!
What to Wear:
Prepare to get wet. Long pants and secure footwear (lace-up boots or sneakers) are necessary. Slip -on waders are not recommended. Also bring a long-sleeved shirt and a hat. A change of dry clothes and dry footwear will make the drive home more comfortable.
What to Bring:
Water, snacks and lunch for thirst and energy as a four-hour “wade” can be strenuous. Mosquito repellant, a waterproof camera and a small backpack are also recommended. Put anything you don’t want to get wet inside a waterproof bag or a “zip lock” plastic bag.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 3 hours
Description:
In this program, we will learn about the habitat of the Painted Bunting, what they eat, how and where to look for them in the field, and more. We will go on a short walk on our boardwalk to look for them, and for the last 2 hours of the program we will learn how to sketch/draw/paint a Painted Bunting, all art materials will be provided.
What to wear:
Clothing appropriate for the weather. Hiking boots or tennis shoes, long sleeved shirt and long pants if you are susceptible to insect bites or sun, and a hat. This walk is on the Corkscrew Boardwalk, participants will be walking up to 0.5 miles.
What to bring:
Binoculars, camera, water, sunscreen, insect repellant. We also suggest that you bring a small day or fanny pack to carry these items in so that your hands will be free while birding.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Doors open at 5:30pm
Enjoy appetizers and refreshments while exploring the exhibits and art gallery at the Environmental Learning Center.
Speaker begins at 6:00pm
Paul N. Gray, Audubon Florida, Science Coordinator in the Everglades Restoration Program presents:
Brief History of Ornithology in the Americas, Florida and the Birth of the Audubon Societies
Paul will talk about the discovery and history of avian life in the new world – the Americas and Florida. At one time, birds were heavily hunted in Florida for table meat, market meat, decorations for hats from their plumes and recreational hunting. Many populations of avian life were on the verge of extinction. The exploitation inspired the establishment of Audubon Societies to protect them. Shooting and hunting is now controlled, but habitat loss and degradation continue to be a threat. Paul will tell this story and how Audubon’s Everglades Restoration program continues this work today in South Florida.
January 16th
Duration: 2 Hours
Description:
We will spend time walking along an elevated berm around a portion of Harns Marsh Preserve, which is a part of the Lehigh Acres Municipal Services Improvement District (Lee). Snail Kites and Limpkin are the big draw here, but other fresh water birds often secretive and difficult to see can also be present here, like American and Least Bittern, Purple Gallinule, Gray-headed Swamphen, and King Rail. After Harns Marsh, an optional side trip in the same general area will be offered for Florida Scrub-Jay.
What to wear:
Clothing appropriate for the weather. Walking/hiking shoes, long sleeved shirt and long pants if you are susceptible to sun, and a hat.
What to bring:
Binoculars, water, snacks, and sunscreen. Insect repellant is usually not needed, but good to have with you as this is Florida! The leader will have a bird field guide and a spotting scope, although you may prefer to bring your own if you are comfortable walking a moderate distance with it. We also suggest that you bring a small day or fanny pack to carry these items in so that your hands will be free while birding.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 3 hours
Description:
We will hop on our bikes in our parking lot and then pedal approximately eight miles over gravel and dirt paths, while exploring some of the different habitats found in our 13,000+ acre preserve. Along the way, we will stop to observe the bountiful wildlife that calls Corkscrew Swamp its home, as well as learn about the Corkscrew watershed, our land management practices and local history of the area.
The bike tour will take approximately three hours. Participants must be at least 15 years of age and must be physically able to bike slowly for at least eight miles. Once we leave the parking lot, the route is unpaved and will traverse over uneven terrain including gravel, rocks, shallow and deep sand, grass, tree roots, and possibly shallow water and mud.
Off- road bikes, such as mountain, gravel or fat tire bikes, are highly recommended. E-bikes are allowed, but participants must stay with the group. We will be pedaling leisurely, stopping throughout the tour to better observe wildlife, and may even explore some areas by foot.
This is a self-supported tour, so bring enough food and water for three hours. Only bring extra gear that you can comfortably carry for a long period of time. Ensure your bike is in good working order and the tires inflated to an appropriate level, as we do not have the ability to repair bikes.
We may have a spare wide tire bicycle or two for people to use, if you do not have one. However you must let us know at least one week ahead of time if you need one and to make sure if one is still available.
What to Wear:
Bike helmet, Closed-toed shoes, Bicycle and weather appropriate clothing
What to Bring:
Mountain, gravel or fat tire bike with flat (non-clip) pedals; Helmet (must be worn), Repair kit, Water (at least one liter), Snacks, Sun protection, Camera, Binoculars, and Backpack
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 2 hours
Description:
Join Refuge Manager, Mark Danaher, to learn about Florida panthers and current efforts to restore the Florida Everglades’ critical ecosystem to its former glory while traveling on the paths of Florida panther, black bear, deer, turkey and other wildlife that make their home on the Refuge. It is not unusual to see some of the 125+ species of birds and more than 25 species of mammals that share these lands.
*Participants need to be able to climb up into the 4 to 5 foot high buggies (like climbing a ladder with the rungs far apart). There is no other way to get into these vehicles.
What to wear:
Closed-in shoes and warm clothing appropriate for the weather. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are recommended. Bring a jacket if necessary.
What to bring:
Binoculars, camera, water, sunscreen, and insect repellant.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 1.5 hours
Description:
Experience the unique habitat at Tigertail Lagoon! Survey fish with a seine net, uncover mysteries in the mud, and observe birds wading through water. Prepare to get wet, have fun, and learn something new!
What to wear:
Clothing appropriate for the weather and the beach. Comfortable shoes that can get wet, clothing you feel comfortable walking in the sun with, sun protection such as a hat or sunglasses.
What to bring:
Water and sunscreen. $10 parking fee may apply if you do not have a Collier County Beach Parking Sticker.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 3 hours
Description:
Join us for an exciting opportunity to participate in one of our Beginner Swamp Walks! On this educational adventure, you can experience Corkscrew in a whole new way and visit a part of the sanctuary that few have seen before.
You will explore the cypress forest with your guides, who will teach you about our watershed, the importance of the habitats we encounter, and the work we are doing to preserve and protect the Sanctuary. We will keep a lookout for plants such as rare orchids, wildflowers, shrubs and trees, bromeliads and ferns, and birds and other wildlife. We will also have a look at some of the aquatic wildlife.
Note that we will be walking through uneven surfaces with some roots, branches and logs to navigate through and around. We will provide walking sticks to all participants. Participants must be physically able to walk on uneven and sometimes difficult terrain through water and vegetation, step and/or climb over logs and branches, and be able to climb a ladder onto a vehicle. All participants must sign a liability waiver and must be at least 10 years of age to participate in this Beginner Swamp Walk.
What to Wear:
Prepare to get wet, wear long pants and long sleeves, a hat, and laced-up, close-toed shoes that you do not mind getting wet and dirty (old sneakers are perfect) (waders are not recommended). Bring a change of footwear and clothes to change into after the tour.
What to Bring:
Change of clothes, Snacks, Water, Mosquito repellant, Waterproof Camera and Binoculars
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 1.5 hours
Description:
Add a touch of coastal charm to your home at this special Festival of Birds art class! Join a local crafter to learn the timeless art of shell decoupage, where colorful images of birds and butterflies are carefully applied to large clam shells, then sealed with a glossy finish. Personalize your piece by adding beads and jewels for extra sparkle and style.
This hands-on workshop is easy, fun and perfect for all skill levels. Each participant will leave with a one-of-a-kind decorative shell. This beautiful keepsake that can be displayed as art or used as a jewelry holder. Celebrate nature’s winged wonders through creativity and take home a unique reminder of Rookery Bay’s Festival of Birds!
What’s included
All materials will be supplied. Same day admission to the Environmental Learning Center.
Duration: 2 hours
Description:
Join Refuge Manager, Mark Danaher, to learn about Florida panthers and current efforts to restore the Florida Everglades’ critical ecosystem to its former glory while traveling on the paths of Florida panther, black bear, deer, turkey and other wildlife that make their home on the Refuge. It is not unusual to see some of the 125+ species of birds and more than 25 species of mammals that share these lands.
*Participants need to be able to climb up into the 4 to 5 foot high buggies (like climbing a ladder with the rungs far apart). There is no other way to get into these vehicles.
What to wear:
Closed-in shoes and warm clothing appropriate for the weather. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are recommended. Bring a jacket if necessary.
What to bring:
Binoculars, camera, water, sunscreen, and insect repellant.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 2 hours
Description:
Join your biologist guides to experience an evening in the estuary! Our journey begins when the sun is low over the Gulf of Mexico. As the sun sets, the estuary is full of wildlife! Paddle out into the Rookery Bay Reserve and visit two Bird Rookery Islands that are home to hundreds of nesting herons, egrets, pelican, cormorant, and anhinga. After a long day of feeding, these birds return to their roost as the sun dips below the horizon in an amazing spectacle with a backdrop of our picturesque Gulf Coast Sunset. Keep your eyes out for dolphin, leaping mullet, and other interesting wildlife looking to get a meal in before resting for the night. Learn about the nesting habits and migrations of our local bird species before paddling back in the twilight!
What to Wear:
Winter winds coming off of Rookery Bay can be quite chilly and so please dress warmly for the weather if appropriate. Gloves and hats are recommended!
What to Bring:
Jacket, hat, gloves, binoculars, water, insect repellant
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 2 Hours
Description:
Discover the fascinating lives of the animals that wake up after the sun goes down during a moonlight hike. Join the CREW Trust staff as we walk the CREW Marsh Trails while we listen for nocturnal wildlife and discuss their amazing adaptations.
What to wear:
Long pants, closed toe shoes, and clothes you don’t mind getting wet are recommended!
What to bring:
Water and insect repellant
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
January 17th
Duration: 6 hours
Description:
Join a Park Ranger to learn the easy-to-get-to spots in the Big Cypress National Preserve that can be enjoyed by amateur and expert birders alike. The drive from Rookery Bay to Big Cypress always provides amazing birding opportunities during the winter months. We’ll carefully stop at some of the best spots along the roadside to view the variety of waterbirds that draw birders to this area. Once we reach the preserve, we’ll do more birding up Turner River Road and finish with an hour and a half WET WALK into a cypress strand to look for songbirds.
What to wear:
Wear long pants, old sneakers (no sandals, crocs or boots) and dress for the weather.
You will be walking in water that is knee to thigh deep.
The trail is just over a mile long and moderately easy to traverse with some roots, rocks and cypress knees as tripping hazards. We will supply walking sticks.
What to bring:
Binoculars, camera, water, snacks, sunscreen, bird field guide if you have one. We also suggest that you bring a small day pack or dry bag to carry these items in so that your hands will be free while birding and to keep keys, cameras and phones up out of the water during the wet walk.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 2 Hours
Description:
Join us on an adventure as we spot resident and migratory birds along the boardwalk at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve. The Preserve is over 3,500 acres of intermingled wetland and upland ecosystems that provide year-round habitat for resident birds and an important stop for migratory birds. This 1.2 mile meander will have you encountering native species such as great blue herons, white ibis, great egrets, common yellow throats, palm warblers, magnolia warblers, white-eyes vireos, and many more – with the possibility of seeing our more famous residents, screech owls. Every trip is a success when you have Dr. Jose Padilla leading the way!
What to wear:
Dress for the weather and wear close-toed shoes. The boardwalk is elevated and fully accessible. The majority of the boardwalk is shaded but sunscreen is advised.
What to bring:
Binoculars are strongly encouraged and a water bottle. Photography is allowed (no flash photography).
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 4 Hours
Description:
We’ll walk through a mangrove forest along the approximately half-mile boardwalk which crosses over the small bridge that spans Clam Bay. From here we should see a variety of wading birds and often an Osprey or two. Next we’ll head directly to Clam Pass to view an early morning assortment of coastal waterbirds, both on the beach and fishing along the inlet.
What to Wear:
Clothing appropriate for the weather and comfortable shoes appropriate for boardwalk and beach. If you are susceptible to the sun, a long sleeved shirt, long pants and a hat may be appropriate.
What to Bring:
Binoculars, camera, water, sunscreen, bird field guide (if you have one). We also suggest that you bring a small day or fanny pack to carry these items in so that your hands will be free while birding.
$10 parking fee may apply if you do not have a Collier County Beach Parking Sticker.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
January 18th
Duration: 2.25 hours
Description:
Just starting out as a birder? Not sure what that big white bird in your backyard is? Then join us for an easy walk at a great birding spot. This trip provides an introduction to birding and tips on how to identify the most common birds in the area.
What to Wear:
Clothing appropriate for the weather.
What to Bring:
Water, sunscreen, and insect repellant if you want them. Bring binoculars and a bird field guide if you have them. There are bathroom and water facilities. Wheelchair accessible.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 4 Hours
Description:
We’ll walk down the Marsh Trail path, which is at the beginning of the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Along the trail there are a variety of wetland habitats and many opportunities to see a variety of birds, including many unique wading and marsh species.
What to wear:
Clothing appropriate for the weather and comfortable shoes appropriate for boardwalk and beach. If you are susceptible to the sun, a long sleeved shirt, long pants and a hat may be appropriate. Bugs can be intense!
What to bring:
Binoculars, camera, water, sunscreen, bird field guide (if you have one). We also suggest that you bring a small day or fanny pack to carry these items in so that your hands will be free while birding.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 5.5 hours
Description:
Bike through the hardwood hammocks, pinelands, cypress swamps and prairies of the Bear Island Unit in Big Cypress National Preserve. Because of the diversity of these habitats, a variety of plant and animal species can be seen here on this leisurely 14 mile ride, especially birds! Bring your binoculars and prepare to see a little bit of everything. Maybe even a glimpse of a Florida Panther!
What to Wear:
Cool, comfortable clothing for biking, closed toed shoes, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
What to Bring:
We DO NOT supply the bikes!
Bring your own bike. Fat tire bikes only – hybrids or mountain bikes to ride on the hard rock road. Bring your helmet, camera, binoculars, field guides. Bring a snack or lunch and we’ll stop halfway for a picnic. Bring plenty of water!
There are no restrooms at the trailhead, but there is one about 2 miles into the ride.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
January 19th
$130/person
Duration: 2 hours
Description:
Venture out into the estuary at dawn to witness a spectacular event seen by very few in Southwest Florida as over a thousand birds fly off of the famous Bird Rookery Island in a massive unified fly-off! Meet at the gate to Shell Island Road where your biologist captain will lead you to the Rookery Bay Field Station to board one of our comfortable vessels. We will quietly make our way through Rookery Bay under the veil of night as your biologist captain explains the wonders of the estuary en route to the famous Bird Rookery Island. Arriving just before the break of light, witness the stirrings of over 1,000 birds who have chosen to sleep in the protection of the mangrove island. Increasing chatter and rustling as the different species get ready to start their day, you will begin to see them fly off into the estuary little by little. Just before sunrise as light breaches the mangroves, the most spectacular display occurs as the majority of the island’s avian residents take off ALL AT ONCE!! A jaw-dropping experience that you’ll never forget as the birds blanket the surrounding landscape to start their day in their home, the Rookery Bay Reserve.
This 2-hour nature cruise captained by the area’s only active local biologist captains that will allow you to surround yourself with some of the most beautiful wildlife Southwest Florida has to offer! Learn about the nesting habits and migrations of our local bird species before cruising back in the morning sun!
What to Wear:
Winter wind gusts coming off of Rookery Bay can be quite chilly and blustery so please dress warmly for the weather. Gloves and hats are recommended.
What to Bring:
Jacket, hat, gloves, binoculars, camera, water, insect repellant, bird field guide.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
Duration: 2 Hours
Description:
We will be walking on the 3.5-mile Sabal Palm Hiking Trail through a mix of pine flatwoods and freshwater swamp. Mixed in to these two ecosystems are a variety of birds we will be able to see. Some of these birds include Barred Owl, Northern Bobwhite Quail, Hairy Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, American Kestrel, Brown-headed Nuthatch, and many more.
What to Wear:
Wear clothing appropriate for the weather as well as shoes, you don’t mind getting wet and muddy.
What to Bring:
Water, binoculars, insect repellant, and snacks.
Enjoy FREE admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
As part of the Festival of Birds, each field trip registrant receives one free admission ($10 value) between January 15 – 31, 2026. Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday; 9am – 4pm, and closed on State Holidays.
FEATURING DR. PAUL GRAY
Doors open at 5:30pm
Enjoy appetizers and refreshments while exploring the exhibits and art gallery at the Environmental Learning Center.
Speaker begins at 6:00pm
Paul N. Gray, Audubon Florida, Science Coordinator in the Everglades Restoration Program presents:
Brief History of Ornithology in the Americas, Florida and the Birth of the Audubon Societies
Paul will talk about the discovery and history of avian life in the new world – the Americas and Florida. At one time, birds were heavily hunted in Florida for table meat, market meat, decorations for hats from their plumes and recreational hunting. Many populations of avian life were on the verge of extinction. The exploitation inspired the establishment of Audubon Societies to protect them. Shooting and hunting is now controlled, but habitat loss and degradation continue to be a threat. Paul will tell this story and how Audubon’s Everglades Restoration program continues this work today in South Florida.
WORKSHOPS & CLASSES
Join us for other fun and exciting classes and workshops throughout the month of January!
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- January 3rd @ 9:30am-12:00pm – Forest Bathing Wellness Walk
- January 3rd @ 5:15pm-6:45pm – Moon Walk: Nights in Nature
- January 10th @ 10:00am-11:30am – Perfect Paint Pairs: A Colorful Escape for Every Duo
- January 15th @ 9:30am-12:30pm – Watercolors & Wildlife: Painting Birds with Jan
- January 16th @ 9:30am-10:30am – Nature Collage
- January 16th @ 1:30pm-3:00pm – Nature Journaling
- January 16th @ 1:30pm-3:00pm – Birds & Butterflies: Shell Decoupage Workshop
- January 17th @ 9:30am-12:30pm – Essentials of Digital Photography
- January 18th @ 5:30pm-7:00pm – Moon Walk: Nights in Nature
- January 21st @ 12:00pm-1:00pm – Lunch & Learn Lecture Series
- January 24th @ 8:00am-11:00am – Birding with Biologists
- January 29th @ 9:30am-12:30pm – Watercolors & Wildlife: Painting Birds with Jan
Become a Member
Connecting people with southwest Florida’s dynamic coastal environment in support of Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.
