FeatherFest

Birding & Nature Photography Festival

Galveston Island is home to some 300 species of birds, and every year there is a celebration and gathering of bird watchers and photographers to view and photograph these magnificent creatures. This year Featherfest will be held April 20-23, 2023. There are so many activities every day for both new and seasoned bird watchers.

Fledglingfest

Designed specifically for kiddos 6 and older, as well as their grown-ups, they can take part in one or more events as part of your nature adventure and introduction to the world of wonders of Galveston’s natural environment. There are FREE Birds of Prey Raptor Shows for which you can attend regardless of age, and you do not have to be registered. Note: You must be registered in order to be admitted on the FledglingFest field trips and only registered children aged 6 and up and their adults can participate.

Some of the events offered for FledglingFest are Exploring the Beach at Galveston Island State Park, Free Birds of Prey Raptor Shows, Dolphins & Birds by Boat, Moody Gardens Rainforest, and Birding Field Trip by Bus.  

All Are Welcome

Whether you are new to birding or nature photography or you are a seasoned pro, you are welcome here. If you are a beginner birder and looking for some beginner specific activities to get your beak wet, look for events that are labeled as Beginner or All Skill Level, such as Coastal Birding Workshop & Field Trip or Nature within the Urban Landscape. These will help ease you into the arena before diving in. If You are a beginning photographer look for Beginner or All Skill Level excursions, like Moody Gardens Photography – Birds & More Up Close with Ruth Hoyt or Shorebird Photography at East Beach Field Trip.

Limited Mobility

If you have limited mobility, the activity level is listed for each field trip, and you can filter your search in the Events By Day section and find activities that are listed as “Easy.” They suggest any of their indoor workshops, the new Easy Paced Birding by Bus, or Wildlife Photography by Car at Anahuac Wildlife Refuge.

Traveling with Children

FledglingFest is designed just for the youngsters, and it is recommended that they join these specifically designed outings. For regular field trips registrants should be at least 16 years of age. Some of the trips can be long and tiring and require birders to traverse stealthfully and listen quiet whispers from the leader, so please prepare accordingly.

Registration Discounts

Members of Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council GINTC, receive 10% off most festival fees. Membership fees to GINTC are $35 for individual members and $70 for family membership. Please join GINTC and help preserve nature for current and future birders.