The 2018 annual Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival takes place Jan. 24-29 and will be based on the Titusville campus of Eastern Florida State College, at 1311 North U.S. Route 1. The event is expected to be bigger and better than ever before, attracting birding enthusiasts and nature experts from around the world to share in their passion for wildlife. Since its inaugural year in 1997, it has grown to be the largest activity of its kind in the United States*, acting as both a national and international destination for birding, wildlife and other nature-based pursuits. The festival features various activities that are led by nationally prominent naturalists and scientists, as well as photographers, artists, authors and ornithologists.
“Every year, the event and its activities shine a light on the uniquely special wildlife population of Florida’s Space Coast,” said Eric Garvey, Executive Director of Florida’s Space Coast Office of Tourism. “Our coastline is home to the largest collection of endangered wildlife and plants in the continental U.S., so this festival, in particular, offers nature and birding enthusiasts from across the world the opportunity to explore areas which are considered world-renowned natural habitats.”
Each year, the six-day festival offers new and one-of-a-kind nature experiences that are sure to thrill even the most novice of nature enthusiasts, and 2018 is no exception. This year, the festival’s attendees will have a chance to explore the birding communities recently devastated by Hurricane Irma and witness the impact the natural disaster had on the area’s habitats.
Excursions focused on technology, photography and the local culture, are also listed on the festival itinerary, along with workshops, exhibits and lectures led by leaders and authorities in the industry.
The Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival is organized by the Brevard Nature Alliance, whose mission is to build public awareness and appreciation of the value of the natural resources in Brevard County, Florida, by fostering and promoting ethical, nature-based ecotourism.