Bird the American Serengeti
The Southern Plains Land Trust (SPLT) is proud to present the first-ever Southern Plains Birding Festival! Come join us at our preserves for this two-day (9-10 May 2026) birding extravaganza in Bent County, Colorado. On this website, you can explore our curated selection of birding and nature excursions, ranging from early morning prairie auto-tours to guided reptile hikes to wildflower walks, and more!
Purchasing a general admissions ticket ($40) will give you the opportunity to participate in three guided excursions. See you on the Southern Plains!
All proceeds from the event will go directly towards grassland bird conservation at the Southern Plains Land Trust's preserves.
Conservation Keynote
Engaging lunchtime presentation about grassland bird conservation by the Executive Director of Southern Plains Land Trust (SPLT), Dr. Henry Pollock.
Stay on the Plains
Experience the American Serengeti first-hand with on-site lodging at Heartland Ranch Nature Preserve. Choose from secluded primitive camping or one of our exclusive rustic cabins for an immersive festival stay. For those seeking traditional comforts, additional accommodations are available in nearby Lamar (45 minute drive).
Those adventurous enough to join us at Heartland for the evening can join the bonfire, enjoy prairie conversation, and take advantage of some of the darkest skies in Colorado to enjoy the stars!
All photos courtesy of Karen Voepel
2026 Southern Plains Birding Festival
Deepen your connection to the landscape of the American Serengeti while supporting grassland birds. All proceeds from the event will go directly towards grassland bird conservation at the Southern Plains Land Trust's preserves.
Sponsors
We are grateful to our sponsors Denver Audubon and Reefs to Rockies, who helped make the Southern Plains Birding Festival possible through their generous contributions and commitment to prairie conservation.
Support
We are thankful to Denver Field Ornithologists and Colorado Field Ornithologists for supporting the Southern Plains Birding Festival with their communication and media.
Vendors
We are excited to host these amazing vendors at the Heartland Ranch Preserve for the Southern Plains Birding Festival. Participants will be able to purchase their wares on-site!