Nevada State Parks, Nevada Department of Wildlife, Northwest Nevada Bird Alliance, and the Carson City Parks, Recreation & Open Space Department will host the inaugural Northern Nevada Bird Fest on Saturday, Oct. 3, bringing birders, families, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts together to celebrate Nevada’s birds and the habitats they depend on.
The free event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Group Use Area of Washoe Lake State Park, with a guided bird walk beginning at 9 a.m. for birders of all experience levels. Park entrance fees will be waived throughout the event, and no registration is required.
Bird Fest will feature educational booths, interactive activities, local nature-inspired art, and opportunities for visitors to explore the park’s bird habitat. A self-guided bird walk will also be available for visitors who want to explore at their own pace.
The Nevada State Parks Foundation will also be serving hot dogs and hamburgers throughout the event for a suggested donation. All proceeds will directly support Nevada’s state parks, helping fund projects such as new restrooms, park improvements and other visitor and facility enhancements.
After browsing the selection of bird-inspired artwork from Northern Nevada artists, enjoy 15- minute educational presentations beginning at 10:30 a.m. Topics will include Washoe Lake habitat, bird biology and feathers, birding essentials, and owl pellet dissection.
The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) will bring its Operation Game Thief trailer, where visitors can learn about hunting safety, responsible outdoor recreation and the role hunting and hunting-related funding play in supporting wildlife conservation throughout Nevada. Bird Fest also coincides with the opening of waterfowl hunting season, offering visitors an opportunity to learn more about the connection between hunting and habitat conservation.
For the full schedule and more information, visit parks.nv.gov/events.
