For two decades, Corpus Christi has been recognized as the “Birdiest City in America” and offers a year-round haven for hundreds of bird species. To celebrate, the annual Birdiest Festival in America is held every April in the Coastal Bend Region, bringing birders to the Gulf Coast to experience the amazing spring migration among other amazing events. If you love birds, nature, and the outdoors, this festival, is perfect for you.

2025 Birdiest Festival in America

 

1. Spring Migration  

The timing of this festival couldn’t be more perfect. South Texas is home to many species of birds, some of which can’t be found anywhere else in America. During the Spring Migration, which is when birds begin preparing for their long journey, the variety of species to see increases greatly. Since South Texas is on the birds’ flyway, and has plenty of food, water, and rest areas, what better place to enjoy this experience than Corpus Christi?

2. Hundreds of Bird Species 

Catch a glimpse of the smaller, vibrantly colored birds such as warblers, vireos, orioles, grosbeaks, and buntings; shorebirds moving along the shoreline and interior ponds; peak raptor migration; and a majority of local species that can only be seen in South Texas. Since its inaugural year in 2017, the number of species spotted at the Birdiest Festival continues to increase, putting it in the running to have the largest species count of any festival in the country. 

  • 2017: 249 species
  • 2018: 257 species
  • 2019: 262 species
  • 2021: 271 species
  • 2022: 284 species
  • 2023: 268 species
  • 2024: 274 species

 

 

3. Keynote Speaker 

Join Kevin Karlson, an accomplished birder, author, wildlife instructor, and photographer, for his keynote presentation, "Through the Looking Glass: Reflections of a Grateful Birder." Known for his engaging bird identification workshops and captivating storytelling, Kevin brings years of expertise as a professional tour leader to this inspiring session, offering unique insights into the world of birding.

4. Enjoy Bird Walks 

The South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center in Corpus Christi offers a peaceful outdoor setting with exceptional birding opportunities, located along a prime migration corridor. Explore 182 acres of diverse habitats, from shrubland to ponds, and discover vibrant bird species like warblers, vireos, orioles, and grosbeaks. Discover a wide range of birds, including Hudsonian Godwit and Tropical Kingbird. For a deeper experience, join one of their guided bird walks, where expert guides lead you through the trails—such as the Brennecke Nature Trail and Wetland Boardwalk—offering up-close views of the area's rich avian life and stunning natural beauty.

 

5. Field Trips 

Enjoy various optional, separately priced field trips to nearby birding hot spots like King Ranch, Guadalupe Delta Wildlife Management Area, Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, Port Aransas, and more. Choose from full-day, half-day, and u-drive trips, and experience the South Texas habitats unique to the birds with local and regional birding experts providing wisdom and insights. Space is limited, so attendees must register in advance to secure their spot. Check out the many field trip options here.  

6. Photography Workshop 

If you’re someone who loves taking photos for fun, grab your camera and sign up for a photography workshop at the festival. Starting with a classroom session and followed by a drive to Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center in Port Aransas, David Sikes and Tony Clements will give hands-on, side-by-side instructions on capturing the best photo in various conditions, so come ready to learn and take photos of birds, butterflies, nature, and more. Limited seating is available, be sure to sign up ahead of time!

 

7. Family Fun 

Bring friends and family of all ages to the Family Fun Area, where there will be various kid friendly activities including arts and crafts, nature learning, and animal interactions.  

8. Artisan Market 

Happening Saturday only, the Artisan Market will be available at the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center during the Birdiest Festival. Shop nature-related items from local arts and crafts vendors at the market, located in the Big Tent behind the Rose Garden.

 

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