Join us in Del Rio, TX for Birding the Border 2025!
Discover Birding the Border
Every spring, bird enthusiasts flock to Val Verde and Kinney counties, Texas, for Birding the Border, an extraordinary event set against the vibrant backdrop of the Central Flyway. Nestled at the crossroads of three distinct ecoregions, this location offers unparalleled opportunities to observe a diverse array of avian species in the unique borderlands of southwest Texas.
Welcome to an Unforgettable Experience
Kick off your birding adventure with our Welcome Social. Here, you’ll meet our team of expert guides and fellow birding enthusiasts while enjoying the ambiance of Texas’s oldest bonded winery and a savory taco bar!
Explore Diverse Habitats
Over the next three days, immerse yourself in the varied landscapes of the Edwards Plateau, South Texas Plains, and the Chihuahuan Desert. You’ll have the chance to spot target species like the golden-cheeked warblers, black-capped vireos, Morelet’s seedeaters, and the vibrant buntings—varied, indigo, and painted.
Tailored Birding Trips
Each morning, choose from five unique locations for a guided birding adventure. With groups capped at 10 to 13 participants, you’ll receive personalized attention as you explore and learn. For photography aficionados, specialized trips focus on capturing stunning images at bird blinds and scenic spots, limited to just six participants per day.
Educational Seminars
Enhance your birding knowledge with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s seminars. On May 2nd and 3rd, enjoy informative sessions in the comfort of air conditioning, covering various bird-related sciences.
Special Events
Connect with fellow birders and guides at our curated social events:
- Welcome Social
- Birds, Bats, and Owls Benefit Dinner at Kickapoo Caverns State Park
- Tweets & Treats Social & Vendor Tradeshow – Friday Evening
- Birding with Extension Dinner – Saturday Evening
Join us at Birding the Border for an enriching experience filled with community, learning, and the breathtaking beauty of Texas’s avian wonders.
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Introducing the 2025 Birding the Border T-Shirt!
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If you are a Master Naturalist, our educational seminars, birding trips, and some special events may count for Advanced Training! Advance Training Hour Request Form — Coming Soon for 2025! |
About Birding with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
In 2017, Birding with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension was initiated when we (Emily, to be exact!) had the ambitious idea of gathering bird enthusiasts on a bus to showcase birding opportunities on private lands in Texas. Although the bus didn’t materialize, this concept evolved into our flagship initiative, Birding the Border. We now spend three enriching days with 16 avid birders, exploring and learning on private ranches in Kinney County. Our mission from the outset has been to connect people to the land through birding, nurturing a keen interest in conserving natural resources.
As our program has expanded, our goals have remained steadfast:
- Educate Landowners: We aim to inform landowners about simple bird management strategies they can adopt to enhance bird habitats while complementing their agricultural practices.
- Unique Educational Experiences: Our programs feature expert guides and AgriLife specialists dedicated to education. We focus on creating a complete experience—not only do we want you to observe remarkable birds, but we strive to help you grow as a birder. The social aspect is also significant, offering you the chance to connect with fellow birders, enjoy great food, and have fun.
- Inclusive Birding Experiences: By hosting youth and beginner programs, we aim to educate and inspire future generations of birders.
Join us to explore our current Birding with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service events and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of birding.
Regarding COVID-19
We are excited to host Birding the Border 2024! Birding the Border will comply with all local, state, and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service guidelines and procedures to keep our participants safe and healthy.
**If Birding the Border 2025 is canceled for any reason, participants will receive a full refund.** All other refunds will be subject to the following policy:
- Cancellations made before February 1, 2025, will be refunded minus a $75 service fee.
- Cancellations made between February 2 and March 1, 2025, will be refunded half the purchase price.
- After March 1, 2025, there will be no refunds given.
- Schedule and locations are subject to change due to landowner access, birds, weather, and other factors that are out of our control. While we do our best to keep everything running as planned, no refunds will be given if we must change locations or schedules.