Tuesday, May 7,  8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
$75 per person, max. 12 people

Join James Giroux for a beautiful day of birding at Rancho Rio Vado near Johnson City. Pam and Jeff Autrey’s place on the Pedernales offers beautiful habitat for native plants and birds, as well as a shady overlook near the river. There was a crossing point for stagecoaches and horses here with a relatively flat rock ridge that is accessible on both sides—the vado, or ford, in the name. You’ll enjoy birds in both riparian and rocky oak habitats, including chances for Painted Bunting, Blue Grosbeak, Pyrrhuloxia, Summer Tanager, and copious woodpeckers. Water-loving birds like herons and ospreys could grace us at the river.

The riverfront area is mainly level but can have some rocks along the path. The upper habitat has lots of dolomite and is rough terrain—most of the property is in a natural state, so be sure to wear the right boots and consider hiking poles or a walking stick. We’ll also do some birding by car.

Be sure to bring your own water, lunch, and camping chair for a picnic by the Pedernales.

Learn more and register for this trip by navigating to our events calendar and selecting the event.

Can't attend but want to support this fundraiser? Use the Donate button on the righthand side of this page to make a contribution!

Birdathon is Travis Audubon’s most entertaining way to engage in our mission to protect native birds! Teams of birders compete to see as many birds during one trip as possible. All registration fees and team donations benefit Travis Audubon. All skill levels are welcome to join a trip, start a team, or compete as an individual.