The aim of our BLACK BELT BIRDING INITIATIVE is to bring the economic and environmental benefits of bird-based ecotourism to one of the country’s most economically challenged rural areas. Through field trips, special events, research partnerships, and national outreach, we leverage our expert staff and statewide reach to make a positive difference for the Black Belt’s birds and the people who love them.

The region features a mix of habitat, from open prairie grasslands to forests to bottomland swamps, giving festival attendees the rare opportunity to catch a glimpse of many species of birds in pristine settings.

Already known for its historic civil rights and Native American sites, as well as for hunting and fishing excursions, the ecological diversity of the Black Belt draws the interest of bird watchers throughout the region and nation. We are dedicated to supporting and showcasing the diverse bird communities that flock to the Black Belt and we invite each of you to join us.

“As the Southeast’s largest prairie ecosystem, the Black Belt is unique unto itself. There is nowhere else you can find Wood Storks and Swallow-tailed Kites alongside Dickcissels and Scissor-tailed Flycatchers. We are committed to fostering connections in the region so that more people, from all over, have the opportunity to experience this extraordinary place.” R. Scot Duncan

SWALLOW-TAILED KITE Donald Wuori / Audubon Photography Awards

Black Belt Birding Festival, August 1-3rd 2025

The fifth annual BLACK BELT BIRDING FESTIVAL will take place on August 1, 2, & 3, 2025. Highlighting the birds, history, and heritage of Alabama’s Black Belt region, the festival brings together the joy of birding with the benefits of ecotourism to a region of profoundly important ecology and civil rights history.

“We are super excited about this year’s festival given that participation has surged over the past two years. Nowhere else can you see Wood Storks, Scissor-tailed Flycatchers, and Swallow-tailed Kites against a backdrop of bountiful grasslands and epic civil rights history.”—Dr. Scot Duncan, Executive Director of Alabama Audubon

The Black Belt is the largest natural grassland region in the eastern U.S.  Named for its dark soils, grassland and wetland birds thrive here among the region’s ranches, farms, and restored prairies.

The 2025 Keynote Address will be presented by author, photographer, and filmmaker Dudley Edmondson on The Browning of Birding and its Impact on Conservation and Outdoor Recreation, where he will explore the intersection of race, representation, and environmental stewardship. Drawing from his compelling book, People the Planet Needs Now, Dudley will share power stories from 25 Black and Brown scientists and activists whose lived experiences and groundbreaking work offer new perspectives on addressing the world’s most pressing environmental and social challenges. Through vivid storytelling and full-color photography, Dudley will illustrate how these diverse voices are leading the charge for environmental justice and innovation, while emphasizing why the work of land trusts is essential for fostering meaningful connections to nature for all communities.

Throughout the weekend, visitors and Black Belt residents can enjoy community-based programming, including a special gallery exhibit and artists market at Aaron Sanders Head’s Sumac Cottage (1107 South St., Greensboro) throughout the day on Saturday. 

Get tickets and find out more here!

Black Belt Birding Festival 2024

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