Bird Conservancy of the Rockies

Thirsty Bird - Science on Tap
2026-09-03 16:00 - 18:00, 2026-12-10 16:00 - 18:00 (America/Denver) | New Belgium Brewery, 500 Linden St, Fort Collins, 80524
Join us at our Thirsty Bird – Science on Tap programs this year! Guests will learn about what we do as an organization, our programs in local communities and get a glimpse into our research. We hope you’ll join us throughout 2026 to raise a glass to birds and learn more about Bird Conservancy of the Rockies!
Each Thirsty Bird starts at 4 p.m. From 4 – 5 p.m. you can mingle with Bird Conservancy staff and supporters, grab a drink, and get a good seat! Starting promptly at 5 p.m. a staff member will begin a presentation focused on their work at Bird Conservancy as well as fun natural history facts about local birds. These presentations are engaging, thoughtful and you will walk away with new knowledge! Last year our Thirsty Bird events were very well attended. If you are hoping to get a seat at a table we recommend arriving at 4 p.m. Otherwise it may be standing room only.
Presenter is TBD. Stay tuned!
All Thirsty Bird events in 2026 will be held at New Belgium Brewery!

Barr Lake Banding Station
2026-09-08 - 2026-09-13, 2026-09-15 - 2026-09-20, 2026-09-22 - 2026-09-27, 2026-09-29 - 2026-10-04, 2026-10-06 - 2026-10-11, 2026-10-13 - 2026-10-18, 2026-10-20 - 2026-10-23 | Barr Lake Banding Station, 13401 Picadilly Road, Brighton, CO, 80603
Migration is a magical time of year! Join us for a unique opportunity to experience science in action and observe a wildlife biologist banding and collecting important scientific data on live, migrating birds. The data collected gives us insight to many aspects of avian life history and can be used to inform conservation decisions.
Click Here to Register!
Scholarships are available! Please apply before registering for your visit. You can apply by clicking here.
Open to the public August 22 through October 23, six days a week (closed Mondays). Weekday programs available from 7:30 – 8:30 a.m., and weekend programs are available from 8-9 a.m., 9-10 a.m., and 10-11 a.m.
Schedule is weather permitting. Station is closed during precipitation or high winds, and may close early during very hot weather and open later if very cold.
Important notice: We’re back to our original location this year! Access to the Banding Station requires traveling ~1/3 of a mile on a fairly level, gravel trail. Seating is available at the Station. Please let us know if we can offer any accommodations or assistance to help you get to the Station.
Parking is available at the Barr Lake State Park Nature Center Parking lot ($10/vehicle Daily Entrance Fee; Annual State Park Pass; or Keep Colorado Wild Pass entrance fee applies) – 13401 Picadilly Road, Brighton, CO 80603. Accessible parking and accessible restrooms are available.
If you have any questions, please contact Sarah Doxon, Education Manager, at sarah.doxon@birdconservancy.org or (303) 659-4348 x53

Fall Birding Festival
2026-09-12 07:00 - 13:30 | Barr Lake State Park, 13401 Picadilly Rd., Brighton, CO, 80603
Bird Conservancy’s Fall Birding Festival at Barr Lake State Park is a must attend for anyone interested in birding, nature, or time outside with the family. People of all ages and abilities can see birds up close at the bird banding station, experience a mindful bird walk, visit educational booths, and have fun with family friendly games and activities.
Full event schedule coming soon!

Lory State Park Bird Walk - Overlook Trail/West Valley Trail
2026-09-19 07:00 - 10:00 | Lory State Park, 708 Lodgepole Dr, Bellvue, CO, 80512
This hike will meet at the Trail Head for Arthur’s Rock and follow it up to the offshoot for the Overlook Trail. We will follow that through forested and meadow habitat, use the southern part of the Well Gulch Trail to reconnect with West Valley Trail to loop back to the Arthur’s Rock Trail head. We should have a chance to see fall migrants stopping in forest and meadow habitats. Bird Conservancy will provide binoculars to those who need them. Whether new to birding, or a seasoned birder, participants of all experience levels are welcome!
Click here to register!
Meeting Point: Arthur’s Rock trailhead at the Arthur’s Rock Trailhead Parking Please note, a $10 Daily or Annual Colorado State Parks Pass is required for entry into the park at all times. The trail is a roughly 3 mile loop with an ascent of roughly 450 ft. It is an easy though a bit long. Please dress for the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Bird Conservancy is committed to making our events as accessible as possible, if you require an accommodation or service to participate, please contact Stephanie Wheeler at stephanie.wheeler@birdconservancy.org. Our community of practice is to be an organization that welcomes people of all backgrounds, beliefs, colors and creeds to join in, benefit from, and contribute to our mission. We strive for inclusivity of all persons regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other status.

Bird Banding Workshop - Chico Basin Ranch
2026-09-21 - 2026-09-23 | Chico Basin Ranch, 22500 S Peyton HWY, Colorado Springs, CO, 80928
Bird Conservancy of the Rockies is offering a 3-day hands-on bird banding workshop at Chico Basin Ranch, Colorado. This workshop is designed for beginner to intermediate banders, no prior experience required. Participants will learn safe operation of mist-nets, safe bird-handling techniques, in-hand aging and sexing of passerine birds, and terminology regarding molt and interpreting the Pyle Guide.
This workshop will take place during regular operation of the banding station and will also include afternoon discussion-based presentations covering a variety of banding-related topics. Participation is capped at 6 individuals to ensure plenty of 1-on-1 training and feedback for each participant.
Note: Bird safety is always our top priority and we aim to keep holding times to a minimum, so not all participants will be able to handle every bird. However, every effort will be made to maximize hands-on training opportunities for our workshop participants, within our ethical and bird safety guidelines.

Cost: $500 per participant
When: September 21st through 23rd, 2026
Where: Chico Basin Ranch, El Paso County, Colorado

Site details: Chico Basin Ranch is a working cattle ranch on the eastern plains of Colorado. Our banding station is located in a cottonwood grove on the north end of the ranch. The ranch is about a 45-minute drive from Colorado Springs, with the last several miles on a 2wd-accessible dirt road.
Lodging and Food: Free car or tent camping is available on-site, limited beds in on-site bunkrooms may be available, please inquire if interested. Otherwise, participants must arrange their own lodging in nearby Fountain or Colorado Springs. Portapotties are on-site but no other bathrooms or showers are available. We will provide a refillable potable water jug but participants will need to provide their own meals, snacks, and any other beverages. If staying on-site, think of it as rustic car-camping and plan to be self-sufficient!
How to Register: Fill out this google form and you will be contacted with a registration link. Participants must be 18 years of age or older.
Payment: $100 deposit will be required upon registration, with the remaining $400 required by August 14th, 2026. Registrations after August 14th will be paid in full at time of registration. We require a minimum of three registered participants by August 14th to run this workshop, all fees (including deposit) will be refunded if this minimum is not met.
Cancellation Fee:
Prior to August 14th: No cancellation fee (deposit refunded)
On or after August 14th: $100 cancellation fee (deposit not refunded)
Please contact Banding Manager Colin Woolley with any questions at colin.woolley@birdconservancy.org

South Platte Birding Club
2026-09-26 08:30 - 11:00 | Barr Lake Banding Station, 13401 Picadilly Road, Brighton, CO, 80603
The South Platte Birding Club will create community and celebrate the ecosystem of the South Platte River; the river that gives life to Barr Lake State Park. We will meet monthly, choosing a unique birding location along the river each time.
September location: Barr Lake Banding Station
To foster a sense of community, we will start each outing with food, beverage, and connection for participants. This Club is meant for birders of all levels; Bird Conservancy will provide mentorship to new birders but also encourage sharing of knowledge among all participants. Outings will vary from traditional bird walks to stationary birding, depending on the interest and needs of participants.
These walks are free, but registration is required. Registration and location will be available two weeks prior to the event at the link below!
Click here to register!

Youth Banding Weekend
2026-10-03 - 2026-10-04 | Barr Lake Banding Station, 13401 Picadilly Road, Brighton, CO, 80603
Get ready to roll up your sleeves at the Barr Lake State Park Banding Station, where you’ll dive into the world of bird banding and become an expert on songbird migration and conservation. It’s a weekend of winged wonders you won’t want to miss! Campers will learn the processes of bird banding at the Barr Lake State Park Banding Station and work towards understanding songbird migration and conservation work first hand.
Ages 14 – 18
October 3rd & 4th from 6:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Campers must apply for a chance to get in.
Click here to apply!

Lory State Park Bird Walk - Well Gulch Nature Trail
2026-10-10 07:30 - 10:00 | Lory State Park, 708 Lodgepole Dr, Bellvue, CO, 80512
Come along on this hike of the Well Gulch Nature Trail. Interact with and meet other local birders in the community and see what other fall beauty Lory has to offer. We may catch late migrants as they move through the different habitats! Bird Conservancy will provide binoculars to those who need them. Whether new to birding, or a seasoned birder, participants of all experience levels are welcome!
Click here to register!
Meeting Point: Well Gulch Trailhead at the South Eltuck Picnic Area Please note, a $10 Daily or Annual Colorado State Parks Pass is required for entry into the park at all times. The trail is a 1.7 mile loop with an ascent of 417 ft. It is rated as an easy trail that families and newer hikers could handle. Please dress for the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Bird Conservancy is committed to making our events as accessible as possible, if you require an accommodation or service to participate, please contact Stephanie Wheeler at stephanie.wheeler@birdconservancy.org. Our community of practice is to be an organization that welcomes people of all backgrounds, beliefs, colors and creeds to join in, benefit from, and contribute to our mission. We strive for inclusivity of all persons regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other status.

A Night for the Birds
2026-10-16 18:00 - 21:00 | Denver Museum of Nature and Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO, 80205
Save the Date for our annual A Night for the Birds fall fundraiser on October 16, 2026
Bird Conservancy of the Rockies’ annual fall fundraiser celebration is our most anticipated event of the year! A Night for the Birds attracts hundreds of bird lovers, philanthropists, and conservation and community leaders from across the Front Range and beyond. Guests enjoy wonderful food and drinks, vie for the highest bids in the silent and live auctions, compete for prizes in exciting games, and learn about our programs from special guest speakers.
When: October 16, 2026 from 6 – 9 p.m.
Where: Denver Museum of Nature and Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205
Tickets will be available in August.
If you’d like to donate an experience or item to our auction please contact Taylor Dziedzina or (303) 495-3428 X 18

South Platte Birding Club
2026-10-24 08:30 - 11:00 | CO
The South Platte Birding Club will create community and celebrate the ecosystem of the South Platte River; the river that gives life to Barr Lake State Park. We will meet monthly, choosing a unique birding location along the river each time.
October location: Veteran’s Memorial Park
To foster a sense of community, we will start each outing with food, beverage, and connection for participants. This Club is meant for birders of all levels; Bird Conservancy will provide mentorship to new birders but also encourage sharing of knowledge among all participants. Outings will vary from traditional bird walks to stationary birding, depending on the interest and needs of participants.
These walks are free, but registration is required. Registration and location will be available two weeks prior to the event at the link below!
Click here to register!

Lory State Park Bird Walk - West Valley Trail
2026-11-14 08:00 - 10:30 | Lory State Park, 708 Lodgepole Dr, Bellvue, CO, 80512
Come along on this hike of the West Valley Trail in search of raptors and wintering birds. Our experienced guides will help you see and identify birds along the way. Interact with and meet other local birders in the community as we move into winter birding and look for resident species. Bird Conservancy will provide binoculars to those who need them. Whether new to birding, or a seasoned birder, participants of all experience levels are welcome!
Click here to register!
Meeting Point: Timber Trail trailhead at the Timber Trail Parking Area Please note, a $10 Daily or Annual Colorado State Parks Pass is required for entry into the park at all times. The trail is a 2.3 mile out and back hike with an ascent of 226 ft. It is rated an easy trail that families and newer hikers could handle. Please dress for the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Bird Conservancy is committed to making our events as accessible as possible, if you require an accommodation or service to participate, please contact Stephanie Wheeler at stephanie.wheeler@birdconservancy.org. Our community of practice is to be an organization that welcomes people of all backgrounds, beliefs, colors and creeds to join in, benefit from, and contribute to our mission. We strive for inclusivity of all persons regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other status.

South Platte Birding Club
2026-11-14 08:30 - 11:00 | CO
The South Platte Birding Club will create community and celebrate the ecosystem of the South Platte River; the river that gives life to Barr Lake State Park. We will meet monthly, choosing a unique birding location along the river each time.
November location: Ken Mitchell Park
To foster a sense of community, we will start each outing with food, beverage, and connection for participants. This Club is meant for birders of all levels; Bird Conservancy will provide mentorship to new birders but also encourage sharing of knowledge among all participants. Outings will vary from traditional bird walks to stationary birding, depending on the interest and needs of participants.
These walks are free, but registration is required. Registration and location will be available two weeks prior to the event at the link below!
Click here to register!

Lory State Park Bird Walk - West Valley/Well Gulch Trail
2026-12-12 08:30 - 11:00 | Lory State Park, 708 Lodgepole Dr, Bellvue, CO, 80512
This hike will start along the West Valley Trail and then follow the Well Gulch Nature Trail to cover a variety of habitats in search of raptors and winter residents. Interact with and meet other local birders in the community and see what other winter beauty Lory has to offer. Bird Conservancy will provide binoculars to those who need them. Whether new to birding, or a seasoned birder, participants of all experience levels are welcome!
Click here to register!
Meeting Point: Timber Trail trailhead at the Timber Trail Parking Area Please note, a $10 Daily or Annual Colorado State Parks Pass is required for entry into the park at all times. The trail is a roughly 3 mile loop with an ascent of 417 ft. It is rated as an easy trail that families and newer hikers could handle. Please dress for the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Bird Conservancy is committed to making our events as accessible as possible, if you require an accommodation or service to participate, please contact Stephanie Wheeler at stephanie.wheeler@birdconservancy.org. Our community of practice is to be an organization that welcomes people of all backgrounds, beliefs, colors and creeds to join in, benefit from, and contribute to our mission. We strive for inclusivity of all persons regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other status.

South Platte Birding Club
2026-12-27 | CO
The South Platte Birding Club will create community and celebrate the ecosystem of the South Platte River; the river that gives life to Barr Lake State Park. We will meet monthly, choosing a unique birding location along the river each time.
December location: Barr Lake Christmas Bird Count
To foster a sense of community, we will start each outing with food, beverage, and connection for participants. This Club is meant for birders of all levels; Bird Conservancy will provide mentorship to new birders but also encourage sharing of knowledge among all participants. Outings will vary from traditional bird walks to stationary birding, depending on the interest and needs of participants.
These walks are free, but registration is required. Registration and location will be available two weeks prior to the event at the link below!
Click here to register!
