Balcones Songbird Festival 2009 April 23, 2009

Where: Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge - While many of the tours and events take place across the hill-country, the main event will be located at Refuge Headquarters on FM 1431 just west of Lago Vista.

Who: Hosted by the Friends of the Refuge, Travis Audubon Society and Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. It would not be possible without the generous help our sponsors and partners.

Why: The Balcones Songbird Festival is a celebration of nature through a collection of interpretive events to experience birds, butterflies and wildflowers.

What: Nature Tours are $23.00. Exhibits and some events are FREE. See the registration form or visit our website for details.

Attendance: The Balcones Songbird Festival events have brought over 1,000 participants out to see the endangered Golden-cheeked Warbler and Black-capped Vireo. This year’s new format and added events will likely widen the focus and appeal to hikers, naturalists, environmentalists, and families.

Program: The festival spans 3 days and 3 nights! Watch for more details as they become finalized on our website. REGISTRATION BEGINS FEB 1st!

Saturday Evening: The festival celebrates with ‘Wine & Star Shine’ event Saturday evening--a chance to share in the joy of accomplishment for volunteers and participants alike. Executive Chef Heidi will delight you with food pairings to complement Flat Creek Estate award winning wines and the Austin Astronomical Society will provide tales and lights of the sky at dusk.

Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday: Tours start with the early birds! Bring your camera and take guided tours with wildlife experts. They will help you see the endangered songbirds, unique native plants and wildlife, and the natural habitat of the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge.

Sunday Afternoon: Reserved for the family and geared towards our children, Sunday afternoon promises to be an outdoor event that is sure to have something for everyone. See and touch exhibits of captive birds! Our children’s sub-committee is exploring interactive events and contests that involve the schools, scouts, and libraries. These events do not require a registration fee but some may incur materials cost.

Physical Address & Directions: To reach the Refuge Headquarters from Lago Vista, go West on FM 1431 for 5 miles past the intersection with Bar-K Road. If you are coming west on FM 1431, the office will be one mile from Cow Creek Road. The office is on the north side of the highway.

Official Website: http://balconessongbirdfestival.org