The 2012 Winter Wings Festival Was a Year for the Record Books!We had more participants than ever in our over 30-year history, about 680 attendees. They represented 13 states, also a record. About one-half were first time visitors to the Winter Wings Festival. We appreciate sharing the Klamath Basin with all the newcomers and past attendees. We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who participated in the 2012 Festival: our two keynoters Kenn Kaufman and Darrell Gulin, our field trip leaders, workshop and mini-session presenters, the OIT hosts, our incredible sponsors including title sponsor Canon USA, our vendors, the photo and art show contestants, every volunteer who contributed their time and expertise, and the media for their outstanding coverage. Kenn Kaufman made his first appearance at the Festival and wowed the crowds. At his keynote he stressed the importance of taking pride in your birding and being an activist for birds. Darrell Gulin took our collective breath away with his photos from around the world. Like clockwork, the birds on the Pacific Flyway began showing up about 10 days before the festival. Although some flock sizes were down, (probably related to the warm winter before the festival and diminished water at Lower Klamath Refuge), the birds were still spectacular and in good numbers. We recorded 117 different species over the weekend. Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge from Scott Nelson on Vimeo. |
Save the DatesThe Next Winter Wings Festival: We are planning to add one more day to the schedule to meet the growing demand for field trips. If you have program suggestions, please feel free to contact us. Watch for details on the 2013 festival on our Facebook page and enjoy the photos posted from the 2012 festival. On-line registration for the 2013 Festival is scheduled to open up December 8, 2012. Watch for official announcements closer to that time. We recommend that you book your field trips as early as possible for the best selection. |