Alabama Audubon takes over management of Alabama Coastal BirdFest

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Black-Necked Stilt
Black-necked Stilt (The Bama Buzz)

The John L. Borom Alabama Coastal BirdFest is moving forward under the management of the Alabama Audubon.

The official announcement was made this week. The popular birding festival was established in 2004 and previously hosted by the South Alabama Land Trust (SALT).

SALT will turn their focus to land protection and sought out Alabama Audubon to take the reins for the festival.

“SALT’s core mission is protecting land. As we sharpen our focus on addressing the urgent need to protect land, we searched for the right partner to continue the growth and legacy of BirdFest. Alabama Audubon’s leadership in bird conservation and their connection to the community make them the right fit. We’re proud to pass the torch to an organization that shares our conservation values and vision for the future of BirdFest.”

Jane Herndon, SALT’s Executive Director

Alabama Audubon, the state’s preeminent birding conservation organization, will host the 2026 festival which is scheduled for the spring. Official dates will be announced at a later time.

John L. Borom Alabama Coastal BirdFest

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Semipalmated Plover (The Bama Buzz)

The annual festival has seen substantial growth over the last two decades. Most recently, the four-day event had over 30 birding and nature tours across 20 venues.

The goal is to connect participants of all ages and experience levels to the rich birdlife of lower Alabama through field trips, workshops and educational seminars.

“We are excited and honored to accept this responsibility. Not only is Coastal BirdFest one of the state’s most anticipated annual nature festivals, but it also has the potential to attract birders from around the world to witness the unique regional birding spectacles coastal Alabama offers.”

Dr. Scot Duncan, Executive Director of Alabama Audubon

Alabama Audubon will move the festival to the spring to coincide with the peak return of migrating birds. That means there will not be one held in the fall of 2025.

The complete event schedule along with ticket information is expected to be released in the coming months.

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Caleb Turrentine
Caleb Turrentine
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