City of College Station Blog

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By Kelli Nesbitt, Parks & Recreation Marketing Coordinator

Each spring and fall, millions of birds cross Texas skies during their migrations, drawing birding enthusiasts from across the country eager to spot their favorite species.

In College Station, that seasonal movement sets the stage for an annual celebration of World Migratory Bird Day. The 33-year global campaign highlights the importance of protecting migratory birds and their habitats. Our community is recognized as a Bird City for its conservation efforts and joins cities and towns worldwide participating.

This year’s theme, “Every Bird Counts,” encourages participants to observe birds in local parks and record their sightings using tools such as eBird and iNaturalist. Lick Creek Park is a prime location for birders of all experience levels, with opportunities to spot rare species such as the Swainson’s warbler, Kentucky warbler (pictured at the top) and eastern whippoorwill, along with familiar favorites like painted buntings, ruby-throated hummingbirds and northern cardinals.

To encourage community involvement, College Station Parks and Recreation and the Rio Brazos Audubon Society will host a World Migratory Bird Day celebration on Saturday, May 9, from 8-11 a.m. at the Gary Halter Nature Center.

The free, family-friendly, come-and-go event welcomes everyone to enjoy guided bird hikes, educational booths, games, and practical tips for creating bird-friendly habitats.

Here’s what to expect:

• Join the Brazos Valley Audubon Society for guided hikes along Lick Creek Park’s trails to discover native and migratory bird species.
• Transform your yard into a haven for birds with help from the Post Oak Chapter of the Native Plant Society’s seed and plant giveaway.
• Draw your favorite bird, bat or bug at the Fellowship of the Wing chalk art area.
• Discover how birds eat through hands-on activities, including testing different tools and searching for gummy worms.
• Learn about migrating birds through interactive displays and educational exhibits.
• Create and fly your own bird kite.
• Help build a giant barn swallow nest.
• Pick up practical tips for creating bird-friendly habitats and learn how to make your own birdhouse and feeder.
• Participate in bird migration games and obstacle courses.
• Vote for your favorite window in the bird migration window painting contest.

Additional parking will be available at the Lick Creek equestrian entrance off Rock Prairie Road.

For more information, visit cstx.gov/LickCreek or call 979-764-6216.

About the Blogger

Kelli Nesbitt has served the Parks & Recreation Department for 19 years, including 12 years as marketing coordinator. She also served 1.5 years as the marketing and community engagement specialist for the City of Bryan from 2023-25. A Bryan native, Nesbitt earned a bachelor’s degree in health & kinesiology from Sam Houston State.

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