Young Birding Program
Photo by Spring Ligi
The Young Birding Program offers field trips, workshops and lectures for youth ages 10 to 18 to introduce them to birding, help them grow as birders and educate them about conservation. These events are led by experienced young birders and adults, and let participants directly contribute to citizen science efforts that support research and conservation in our region and across the globe. We also partner with local organizations, programs and agencies.
For questions, comments or suggestions about the program, please contact the Young Birding Program Coordinator Patrick Lewis at plewis@loudounwildlife.org.
Upcoming Events
Use the links below to learn more about an event and to register.
The Big Sit at Algonkian Park — Saturday, October 11, 7:00 am – 7:00 pm (no registration required)
Young Birders Walk at Algonkian — Sunday, October 19, 8:00 am
Young Birders Walk at Algonkian — Sunday, November 16, 8:00 am
Central Loudoun Christmas Bird Count — Monday, December 29
Young Birders Walk at Gilbert’s Corner — Sunday, January 25, 9:00 am
Getting Started with Birding
If you are interested in birding, but don’t know where to start, the resources described below are easy starting points.
Bird Walks
Along with the events hosted by the Young Birding Program, Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy leads bird walks every month that are open to anyone, including beginning birders. These walks are listed on the event calendar.
The best way to begin birding is to simply get out there! Going on walks is a great way to find and identify birds and to meet other birders. With practice, you will become a better birder no matter what your experience level is.
Places to Go Birding in Loudoun County
There are many excellent spots for birding in Loudoun. You can find some of them described in Loudoun’s Great Places. There are checklists for some of these locations, which were developed for the Loudoun County Bird Atlas.
Young Birding Newsletter
Sign up for Young Birding News, a bi-monthly digital newsletter that began publication in December 2023.
Online Resources and Books for Birders
There are websites dedicated to learning about birds, reporting bird observations and organizations for birders. And don’t forget about field guides. View recommended resources.