Monthly Bird Walks at the Heard Museum

A Tufted Titmouse feeds her eager fledgling.

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is an excellent resource for nature lovers in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. In conjunction with the Timbers Audobon Society, they offer monthly bird walks, a bird photography club, and plenty of opportunities for volunteer nature work, such as bird counts and bird banding.

The museum leads monthly bird walks from May to September. Birding experts teach identification skills, and answer your birding questions during the 1.5 hour trek. The wildlife sanctuary’s 289 acres include woodland, wetland and prairie habitats, so visitors can see quite a variety of species.

Even if you decide to skip the guided bird walk, the Heard Museum makes a great daytrip from the DFW area. Be sure to pack a picnic, because there is plenty to see and do. Although the museum has a gift store and houses a collection of folio plates from James Audubon and other nature artists, you will probably spend most of your time outside. The grounds include 6.5 miles of nature trails, a native plant garden, ropes course, sanctuary, amphitheater and museum exhibits. There is one caveat, however; Fido must stay home. To ensure the safety of the sanctuary’s residents, pets are not allowed.

The Heard Museum offers educational programs and special events for kids and adults throughout the year. Check their website to learn more about the live animal presentations, guided hikes, workshops, training, and other programs they offer.

What: Guided Bird Walks
When: May – September, the second Saturday of each month, from 9am-10:30am
Where: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary (map)
Price: Free, with museum admission
More information: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary official website. To register for monthly bird walks, call 972.562.5566 ext. 237.

Photo credit: Tui Cameron