Spring on the Gulf Coast brings beautiful flowering plants, sunshine peeking through the oaks, and fantastic birding opportunities. These gorgeous creatures make their way through our area in the spring months of March, April, and May.

Here’s a quick list of some species to look for:

  • swallows
  • Louisiana waterthrushes
  • northern parulas
  • ruby-throated hummingbirds
  • shorebirds

The trained eye certainly has much to feast on each spring, from Orange Beach to Dauphin Island. Our coastal area is a natural aviary that expands as the seasonal temperatures call birds back to their homes.

Birding is a beloved hobby across all ages. To start or enhance your education on birding, we recommend attending the Birmingham Audubon Bird Banding Event this April. Bird banding is the process of catching birds, marking them with an identifier or recording information from a previously attached band, then releasing them. These professionals are opening this experience to the general public, allowing you a close-up view of some amazing birds while you learn from Alabama’s leading researchers.

The public is encouraged to participate:

  • Tuesday, April 16, noon to 3 p.m.
  • Wednesday, April 17, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Thursday, April 18, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Friday, April 19, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 20, 8 a.m. to noon

Please bring water, bug spray, sunscreen, and an outdoor chair to make the most of your experience. The event is free, but there is an entrance fee to Fort Morgan.