Whether you know it casually as a “red bird” or more formally as a “northern cardinal,” you’re welcome at nature’s observation deck known as bird watching! As with most hobbies, interests and skill levels can vary, along with investments in time and resources. The one constant? There’s almost always a bird to watch!
Build your bird identification skills and learn how to level up your birding experience during four events geared to beginner, intermediate, and advanced bird watchers. Tips for recognizing the size, shape, color, and behavior of various Oklahoma birds will be shared at each event, and birders of all levels have the chance to put their identification skills into action during the series’ three planned bird walks or tours.
Registration is required for each event through Go Outdoors Oklahoma.
Birding Basics
When: Jan. 31, 2026; 9 a.m. – Noon
Location: Arcadia Conservation Education Area, Edmond, Okla.
Suggested Level: Beginner – Intermediate
Registration: $10/person
This classroom-style session will cover bird identification, an overview of the resources and equipment typically used by birders, tips for when and where to go birding, and how to share nature sightings. No bird walks are planned for this event, but feeders will be stationed outside of the classroom for window-birding opportunities.
Spring Bird Walks
When: March 21, 2026; 8:30 – 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. – Noon
Location: Arcadia Conservation Education Area, Edmond, Okla.
Suggested Level: Beginner – Intermediate
Registration: $10/person
Join the Wildlife Department for one of two bird walks along a 3/4-mile gravel and dirt path. Wintering birds and early spring migrants may be spotted along the lake shoreline, or amid grassland and wooded habitats. Participants are encouraged to bring their own birding gear, but binoculars and field guides will be available to borrow during the event. Restrooms will be available at the beginning and end of the walk.
Register Now (10:30 a.m. – Noon)
Birding Open House
When: April 25, 2026, 7 – 10:30 a.m.
Location: Hackberry Flat Wildlife Management Area, Frederick, Okla.
Suggested Level: Intermediate – Advanced
Registration: $10/person
Hackberry Flat WMA’s wetland units are a popular stopover for migrating shorebirds, allowing visitors to challenge their identification skills and build their bird lists. For this open house, birders will caravan in their personal vehicles along public roads and stop at multiple locations to look for a mix of wetland and grassland birds. Participants are encouraged to bring their own birding gear, but binoculars and field guides will be available to borrow during the event. Restrooms will be available at the beginning and end of the open house.