Join the premier celebration of the wild birds, habitats, and bird-friendly people at the San Diego Bird Festival.
Schedule of Events
March 2, 2025
Birding the Border I
Event Hours: 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Rick Grove | Adam Sell
Fee: $160.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
Discover the birds of the Tijuana River Valley! Join us as we explore some of the most renowned birding hotspots in the southern part of the county, guided by expert birders. We’ll visit key areas known for their rich variety of species, offering a mix of waterfowl, shorebirds, gulls, and passerines.
Some exciting sightings from previous trips include Brant, Heermann's Gull, Tri-colored Blackbird and Black-throated Magpie Jay.
This field trip is a bus tour, starting and ending at Marina Village Conference Center. If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us. Lunch is included with this trip.
100 or More
Event Hours: 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Martha Wild | Sabrewing Guide 2
Fee: $160.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
Join us for an action-packed birding adventure across one of the nation's birdiest places—San Diego County! With the goal to spot 100 species (or more) in a single day, this fast-paced field trip is designed to give you the thrill of high-volume birding. From shorebirds to raptors, you’ll be immersed in the excitement of spotting some of the region's most common species, while keeping an eye out for rare surprises. Don’t miss this ultimate birding challenge!
This trip is all about volume, pushing you to have your biggest birding day ever! The adventure begins and ends at Marina Village Conference Center, with breakfast served before our early morning departure. If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us. Lunch is included with this trip.
Eagle Peak Ranch and Ramona Grasslands Sponsored by Fieldguides Birding and Nature Tours and San Diego River Park Foundation
Event Hours: 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Natalie Borchardt | Doug Gochfeld
Fee: $160.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
A behind-the-gates experience at a conservation property in the mountains East of San Diego, followed by a visit to the Ramona Grasslands, a hot spot for raptors. Here, you can sometimes see Ferruginous Hawks and Prairie Falcons, birds that are not commonly seen in urban San Diego.
If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us. If you prefer a meet-you-there version of this trip, please refer to Friday's version of this trip.
Lunch is included with this trip.
At Eagle Peak Ranch, there is a fairly short trail with some uneven footing that travels around the main pond (0.34 loop) and along the tree lined creek corridor. This trail has very little elevation gain or loss. Visitors are also welcome to just relax and sit to enjoy birding at the main pond or walk along the flatter gravel road. One of our most frequent visitors, the red-winged black bird, will entertain you. There are other slightly longer trails in the same vicinity that visitors can enjoy and there are benches and picnic areas to sit and enjoy a snack, lunch or a sip of water. Long pants and closed toed shoes are recommended as well as plenty of drinking water and sun protection. There is one portable restroom on site. No potable water available.
Dancing with Grebes
Event Hours: 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Krisztina Scheeff | Jill Hays
Fee: $30.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Lake Hodges Visitor Center
Meet@: Lake Hodges Visitor Center
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Join Professional Photographer Krisztina Scheeff / KS Nature Photography for a look at the amazing courtship behaviors of Western and Clark's Grebes...and other species that live around Lake Hodges.
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
Birding the Border II
Event Hours: 6:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Kat Wendel | Autumn Turner
Fee: $160.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
Discover the birds of the Tijuana River Valley! Join us as we explore some of the most renowned birding hotspots in the southern part of the county, guided by expert birders. We’ll visit key areas known for their rich variety of species, offering a mix of waterfowl, shorebirds, gulls, and passerines.
Some exciting sightings from previous trips include Brant, Heermann's Gull, Tri-colored Blackbird and Black-throated Magpie Jay.
This field trip is a bus tour, starting and ending at Marina Village Conference Center. If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us. Lunch is included with this trip.
North County Birding Hotspots
Event Hours: 6:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Patti Langen
Fee: $160.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
Join Buena Vista Audubon Society for a relaxing and educational field trip as we explore some of North County’s premier birding hotspots—Whelan Lake and Guajome Park. This walking and birding adventure will be perfect for bird enthusiasts of all levels.
If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us.
Lunch is included with this trip.
Pelagic Trip
Event Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Paul Lehman | Dan Jehl | Bruce Rideout | Jimmy McMorran | David Povey | Dan King
Fee: $165.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: MVCC- Starboard Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Boat
The group will meet in the Starboard room for some important information sharing prior to the trip. The group will then walk approximately 0.25 mile to the Marina to board the boat.
If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us.
Lunch is not provided on this trip, but there is a galley on the boat.
Canyon Walk
Event Hours: 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Anitra Kaye
Fee: $30.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Marian Bear Open Space
Meet@: Marian Bear Open Space
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Marian Bear Open Space is part of Tecolote Canyon system and one of several protected urban canyons in the San Diego area that support native plant communities and associated bird life. Birds that are here for the entire year include hawks, Anna’s Hummingbird, California Thrasher, House Wren, Wrentit, and both California and Spotted Towhees. You can never tell what you may see. It is a moderate walk with some uneven ground, as well as slight uphills. Restrooms at the trailhead.
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
Birding by Bike
Event Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Event Type: Birding
Fee: $50.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Join us for an exciting Birding & Biking Field Trip at Mission Bay, one of San Diego’s most popular and scenic birding locations. This unique event combines the joy of birdwatching with the fun of cycling, as we explore the lush coastal habitat of Mission Bay on two wheels.
Starting at one of the park's scenic spots, we’ll bike along the network of paths that wind through the bay's diverse ecosystems, from saltwater marshes to mudflats, and open water. Mission Bay is home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Along the ride, you’ll have the opportunity to spot Black-Necked Stilts wading along the shoreline, Wester Sandpipers and Least Sandpipers foraging in the mudflats, and the graceful Snowy Egret and Great Egret hunting for fish in the shallows.
As we cycle through the area, look out for large flocks of Californa Gulls and Ring-Billed Gulls that often gather in the open spaces. During migratory seasons, you may also spot Eelegant Terns and Forester's Terns skimming across the water or resting on the sandbars.
The cormorants and pelicans are frequent visitors to the bay, so keep your eyes peeled for Double-Crested Cormorants drying their wings in the sun or Brown Pelicans diving for fish. Additionally, Osprey are often seen soaring above, scouting the waters for prey, while Red Tailed Hawks may be spotted perched high on nearby trees or gliding over the bay.
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a beginner, this event offers a perfect blend of birdwatching and outdoor adventure. So, bring, your binoculars, and your enthusiasm for nature as we enjoy the beauty of Mission Bay and the incredible variety of birdlife it supports.
This field trip includes use of a bicycle and a helmet. If you have your own bike, please sign up for the Birding by Bike (BYOBike)
Birding by Bike (BYOBike)
Event Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Event Type: Birding
Fee: $30.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Join us for an exciting Birding & Biking Field Trip at Mission Bay, one of San Diego’s most popular and scenic birding locations. This unique event combines the joy of birdwatching with the fun of cycling, as we explore the lush coastal habitat of Mission Bay on two wheels.
Starting at one of the park's scenic spots, we’ll bike along the network of paths that wind through the bay's diverse ecosystems, from saltwater marshes to mudflats, and open water. Mission Bay is home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Along the ride, you’ll have the opportunity to spot Black-Necked Stilts wading along the shoreline, Wester Sandpipers and Least Sandpipers foraging in the mudflats, and the graceful Snowy Egret and Great Egret hunting for fish in the shallows.
As we cycle through the area, look out for large flocks of Californa Gulls and Ring-Billed Gulls that often gather in the open spaces. During migratory seasons, you may also spot Eelegant Terns and Forester's Terns skimming across the water or resting on the sandbars.
The cormorants and pelicans are frequent visitors to the bay, so keep your eyes peeled for Double-Crested Cormorants drying their wings in the sun or Brown Pelicans diving for fish. Additionally, Osprey are often seen soaring above, scouting the waters for prey, while Red Tailed Hawks may be spotted perched high on nearby trees or gliding over the bay.
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a beginner, this event offers a perfect blend of birdwatching and outdoor adventure. So, bring your bike, your binoculars, and your enthusiasm for nature as we enjoy the beauty of Mission Bay and the incredible variety of birdlife it supports.
Bring your own bike for birding on Mission Bay!
Kayak Trip South Bay
Event Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Ocean Connectors | Leader TBA
Fee: $80.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Bayside Park
Meet@: Bayside Park
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Experience birds from a completely different point of view, and learn about the restoration efforts in South Bay. Join us for a peaceful and immersive birding kayak trip in San Diego Bay, one of the most biodiverse coastal ecosystems in Southern California. As we paddle through the calm waters of the bay, we'll have the chance to observe a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat. All while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding wetlands, tidal flats and nearby wildlife refuges. In late February, the bay is teeming with resident and migratory birds preparing for spring breeding. Keep your eyes peeled for Brant geese and Northern Pintails swimming in the shallows while American Wigeons and Northern Shovelers often forage along the edges. Shorebirds like Black-bellied Plovers and Western Sandpipers can be spotted probing the mudflats for food. The majestic Double-crested Cormorants and Brown Pelicans glide over the water. You might also catch a glimpse of Great Blue Herons hunting along the shoreline. This kayak trip provides a unique vantage point for observing these birds up close in a serene environment. Kayak experience not necessary!
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
Famosa Slough
Event Hours: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Ian Swirka
Fee: $25.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Famosa Slough
Meet@: Famosa Slough
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
A walk with Jim Peugh and Ian Swirka of Friends of Famosa Slough for birding and to learn about the extraordinary continuing effort of the local community to save this urban oasis for birds.
Birding Through the Lens: A Beginner’s Guide, Presented by Christopher Gilbert, Fujifilm Senior Product Technical Representative
Event Hours: 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Christopher Gilbert
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Starboard Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
You've spotted them, now learn to photograph them! This 1 hour beginner-friendly class introduces the essentials of bird photography, tailored for enthusiasts of all camera brands. Learn techniques to improve your images, understand key settings, and get tips on selecting the right equipment to match your needs. Following the classroom session, the group will go out to try gear in an outdoor setting.
Whether you're photographing birds in your backyard or exploring a local park, this workshop is your perfect starting point for an exciting adventure. Fujifilm will also have GFX/X Series cameras and long lenses available for loan at the Fujifilm booth.
Christopher Gilbert is a photographer and national educator/trainer/marketer for FUJIFILM North America utilizing web/in-person content/events to expand target audience, increase brand awareness, and create an open environment where sales and education feed into one another. His two decade photographic career provides the variety of challenges he needs to continue to set career milestones and gives him the experience to simplify complex subject matter into a digestible form to empower individuals with the enthusiasm they need to craft and connect with their passion.
Discovery Walk with Zovargo!
Event Hours: 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM
Event Type: Nature
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Courtyard
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
A fun walk with the folks (and wild friends) from Zovargo. All ages welcome!
Bird Photography for Young People (ages 13-17)
Event Hours: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Krisztina Scheeff
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: MVCC- Marine Room
Transportation Type: None
Join Krisztina Scheeff, an experienced birding and wildlife photographer, for an exciting and educational birding photography walk designed specifically for young adults ages 13-17! This hands-on event will combine the thrill of birdwatching with the art of capturing stunning wildlife moments through your camera lens.
Discovery Walk with Zovargo!
Event Hours: 1:15 PM to 1:45 PM
Event Type: Nature
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Courtyard
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
An easy walk with the folks (and wild friends) from Zovargo!
Animals of Land, Sea and Air with Zovargo!
Event Hours: 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM
Event Type: Nature
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Terrace Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
Meet animal ambassadors up close and learn about their habits and habitats.
Thank You Mixer with Jeop-Birdy by Zovargo (bus) Sponsored by Valley Nature Center/Spring Chirp
Event Hours: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Event Type: Fun Stuff
Fee: $40.00
Trip Type: Special Event
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Bus
Get a ride with us to the party! The bus will take you to Novo Brazil Brewery in Mission Valley and back to Marina Village.
A self-drive version of this trip is being offered. Please sign up for the other one if you wish to drive yourself.
Thank You Mixer with Jeop-Birdy by Zovargo (Self-drive) Sponsored by Valley Nature Center/Spring Chirp
Event Hours: 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Event Type: Fun Stuff
Fee: $20.00
Trip Type: Special Event
Venue: Novo Brazil Brewery- Mission Valley
Meet@: Novo Brazil Brewery- Mission Valley
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
A version of this event is being offered with bus transportation. Please register for that trip if you wish to get a ride with us.
Photo Stroll at Tijuana Estuary with the SDBA Photo Club
Event Hours: 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Mike Kalichman | Annie Gorbonosov Artzer | Braden Artzer
Fee: $30.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Tijuana Slough Visitor Center
Meet@: Tijuana Slough Visitor Center
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
Stroll with the San Diego Bird Alliance Photo Club to watch birds and photograph them. This activity recognizes that everyone in the group has knowledge and something to share. The group will break into smaller groups and explore the area, sharing knoweldge and experiences as they go.
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
Pajareando en Parvada
Event Hours: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Laura Ibarra
Fee: $10.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Meet-You-There
Venue: Bayside Birding and Walking Trail
Meet@: Bayside Birding and Walking Trail
Transportation Type: Self-Drive
This birding trip is aimed at the Latino community, beginners and advanced birdwatchers who want to learn more about the birds of the region.
This trip is presented in Spanish!
Birding for beginners on the Bayside Birding and Walking Trail.
You must provide your own transportation to and from the meeting place for this trip.
Bird Friendly Coffee Hour with Cafe Ibis
Event Hours: 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
Event Type: Birding
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Terrace Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
Join our friends from Cafe Ibis to learn about where Bird-friendly coffee comes from, and why birders should consider making the switch to coffee grown in the shade.
Behind the Gates at the Saltworks
Event Hours: 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM
Event Type: Birding
Guide/Speaker: Robert Patton
Fee: $90.00
Trip Type: Field Trip- Transportation Provided
Venue: Marina Village Conference Center
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: Van
It's back! The Saltworks, operated by the Fish and Wildlife Service, is valuable habitat for shorebirds. Join us in this special behind-the-gates look at a festival favorite!
If you are staying at the Dana, a free shuttle will be available to take you from the hotel to Marina Village from 5:30 am until 7:30 am. Breakfast is available in the Marine Room from 5:30 to 7:30. Please drop by and enjoy some breakfast with us.
Lunch is included with this trip.
Meet the birds from Avian Behavior International
Event Hours: 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM
Event Type: Fun Stuff
Guide/Speaker: No Leaders
Fee: $0.00
Trip Type: Presentation
Venue: MVCC- Terrace Room
Meet@: Marina Village Conference Center
Transportation Type: None
Date: February 26 - March 2, 2025