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.

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. The inaugural year of 2017 had 249 species, and more recently in 2022, there were 284 species, and in 2023, there were 268 species, bringing this festival in the running to have the largest species count of any festival in the country.

 

3. Keynote Speaker 

Join avid birder, Cameron Cox, as he speaks on the beauty of terns. The evening session will explore terns in all their charisma and beauty, while simultaneously sharing his experience in creating the book Terns of North America. Learn everything about terns from their incredible migratory feats to the elegance of their appearance and their stunning courtship displays.  

4. Enjoy Bird Walks 

Gather the whole family and friends for a bird walk nature stroll at a relaxing outdoor venue that sits along a prime migration corridor.  

2024 Bird Walk Schedule: 

  • 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center on April 25-27.  
  • 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center on April 28. 

 

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.