Archives: Festival Events

When considering a South American birding destination, Ecuador should come first to your mind. This little Country packs a whopping 1700 plus species into an area less than the size of Arizona. There are numerous habitats, including Mountain coastal and rain-forest climates. Over half the Global total amount of Tanagers – 143 are found in Ecuador! Ecuador also holds the world record for the amount of Hummingbirds at over 132 Species! In this presentation we will discuss the numerous types of birds present, where you can see them and the efforts underway to conserve their habitats. Ecuador is an easy destination for US-based travelers as they use the American dollar as currency, no Visa requirements and the same electrical standards as the USA, and we will offer tips for first time travelers. (Limit of 60)

Glistening-green Tanager by Francisco Munoz

This presentation will begin with a discussion about Wally and Marion Paton, and how their hard work and willingness to open their yard to public was the beginning of a truly amazing birding location. We will discuss the current Paton Center, as it is under to ownership of Tucson Bird Alliance with a description of the property, its features and a short coverage of the birds that can found there. Then we will cover the future plans for the Paton Center, repairs, remodels, additions and our expanded property and trail system. (Limit of 100)

After spending over 30 years exploring India’s forests, grasslands, wetlands, and high-altitude habitats, I’ve come to believe that the heart of conservation beats strongest when people are involved—and when you experience wildlife firsthand. From tiger safaris in Central India to birding tours across the country, I’ve witnessed how empowering local communities—through eco-tourism, education, and shared passion—not only transforms them into protectors of their land, but also creates deeply fulfilling experiences for travelers. What started as a love for wildlife slowly turned into a mission: to blend storytelling, photography, and local voices to build awareness and appreciation for India’s wild spaces. Join me for a visual and conversational journey through some of India’s most biodiverse corners. Expect colorful birds, elusive mammals, stunning landscapes—and, more importantly, stories of the incredible people behind the conservation efforts. (Limit of 60)

Great-Hornbill-Ashley-Boon

Drawing is about looking deeply. Since the days of Audubon, art has been a way to understand birds on an intimate and detailed level. In this workshop, we will focus on the patterns found on birds of the Sonoran desert. First we will enjoy some bird images from art history with a focus on charcoal drawing. Next we will draw sample patterns using charcoal, a fun and forgiving medium that allows you to quickly render an image. Step by step, I will walk you through drawing techniques that make this process of creating patterns fun and accessible to beginners as well as more advanced participants. Finally, working from a photo, we will draw an Elf Owl using these simple techniques to create a charming charcoal drawing. Materials provided by The Drawing Studio, 2760 N. Tucson Blvd. Limited to 12 participants.

Charcoal Drawing by Laura Milkins

It can be incredibly rewarding to photograph birds in flight. Equally, however, there can be nothing more frustrating than the very same thing. In this classroom & field workshop professional photographer Krisztina Scheeff with KS Nature Photography will teach you lots of tips and tricks, camera settings and more to help you get those fantastic in flight bird shots. (Limit of 100)

Mountain Bluebird by Krisztina Scheeff

Hawaii is tragically known as the endangered species capital of the world and the archipelago is home to approximately one third of all endangered species in the United States. We will introduce you to Hawaii’s rare endemic birds, from petrels to honeycreepers, share the threats they face, and highlight the conservation initiatives in place to help save them from the brink of extinction.

Iiwi by Mandy Talpas