Balcones Songbird Festival

The Texas Hill Country is a rest stop for migrating birds—a way station where they can relax, catch a good meal, and gather strength for the rest of their journey. Nestled in the Hill Country is the 24,000-acre Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge that offers some of the best bird watching and habitat in Texas, with more than 215 bird species part or all year. The refuge also provides critical habitat for two endangered songbird migrants—the Black-capped Vireo and the Golden-cheeked Warbler. They not only stop to rest, they stop to nest. Other specialities include Painted Bunting, Black-crested Titmouse, Vermilion Flycatchers, Bushtits, Black-throated Sparrows, LeConte’s Sparrows, and Canyon Towhees.  Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks nest regularly as well as Cooper’s Hawks. 

The Balcones Songbird Festival is a celebration of nature through a collection of interpretive events to experience both bird species and their habitat. There are bird walks, presentations, and talks. Small group focus tours, with leaders of distinction who will provide you with a quality and fun-filled experience. Experienced guides help you add to your life list.

While many of the nature tours and events take place across the Hill Country, the main event will be located at the Refuge Headquarters on FM 1431 just west of Lago Vista. It’s hosted by the Friends of Balcones and Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge and supported by local and national conservation-minded sponsors who make this event possible. 

Contact: Friends@friendsofbalcones.org