Chat (GPT): Not AI, but real information about this year’s featured bird: the charismatic Yellow-breasted Chat. Long classified with Wood Warblers, scientists have now assigned it to its own family. We’ll look at the natural history of this lovely bird, where it lives, what it eats, what kind of nest it builds – and how it sounds. We’ll also explore its place in the world of birds, unique among other chats.

PPart of the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival

Join us 100 miles North of Phoenix in North Central Arizona’s Verde Valley for the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival. Experience birding during the peak Spring migration season at Dead Horse Ranch State Park on the banks of the Verde River. Close proximity to the Verde, Oak Creek, Sycamore Creek, and other perennial waters offers a wide selection of guided tours, hikes, and workshops in one of Arizona’s richest birding habitats.

Our experienced guides have extensive knowledge of birds and the unique habitat that makes this region special. The festival, presented each April by Friends of the Verde River, is a purpose-driven community benefit organization and 501(c) 3 non-profit working to preserve one of the last perennial flowing rivers in the American Southwest.

Festival site is at Dead Horse Ranch State Park.