BIRD-303: Raptor Identification in Central Texas

Photo by Susuann Harm

Take your raptor identification skills to the next level with this advanced course focused on the birds of prey found in Central Texas. Through illustrated presentations, discussion, and interactive exercises, participants will develop a deeper understanding of field marks, flight styles, age and plumage variation, seasonal occurrence, migration patterns, and behavior of hawks, eagles, falcons, vultures, kites, and other raptors.

Designed for birders who already have a basic familiarity with raptors, this course emphasizes the subtle identification challenges often encountered in the field. Participants will gain practical tools and confidence for identifying raptors at a distance, in flight, and under varying field conditions.

The timing of this course coincides with peak fall raptor migration in Central Texas, giving participants the opportunity to immediately apply what they learn while observing migrating birds throughout the region.

Put your newly sharpened raptor identification skills into practice during an optional field trip to the annual Celebration of Flight Festival on September 26–27, 2026. This renowned event attracts birders and raptor enthusiasts from across teh continent to witness the spectacular fall migration of hawks, falcons, eagles, and other birds of prey.

Led by instructor Byron Stone, participants will visit key observation areas, learn field identification techniques in real time, and experience one of the premier raptor migration events in the country. Whether you're tracking distant kettles of Broad-winged Hawks or studying individual birds through spotting scopes, this field experience provides a unique opportunity to apply the concepts covered during the course.

Participation is limited to 15 attendees to ensure a quality learning experience. If the trip fills, a waitlist will be established.

Byron “Doc” Stone is a lifelong Austin naturalist whose passion for birds began along Shoal Creek and was shaped by early mentorship from some of Texas’s most respected birders. A former President of the Texas Ornithological Society and former member of the Texas Bird Records Committee, he is also a statewide and regional eBird reviewer with decades of field experience. Byron is known for his thoughtful, careful approach to identification and his dedication to sharing birding skills through teaching, field trips, and events like the annual Sparrowfest.

Zoom Information
This course will be conducted live via Zoom. Registered participants will receive access information prior to each session. A Zoom assistant will be available to help facilitate class participation and questions.

Email Policy
The email used to register for this class will be used to communicate important updates, schedule changes, Zoom access information, and field trip details. Please check your inbox and spam folder regularly before each session.