Wildlife lovers and families alike are invited to celebrate the wonders of West Texas wildlife at the annual Wildlife Weekend, taking place January 30 through February 1 at the Museum of the Big Bend, 400 N. Harrison St. This year’s spotlight? Owls.
Presented in partnership by Texas Parks and Wildlife, the Borderlands Research Institute, and other conservation organizations, the event blends science, art, and fun with a special emphasis on education, hands-on experiences, and a community-wide scavenger hunt.
🦉 Weekend Highlights
Welcome Reception (Friday, Jan. 30, 6 p.m.)
The weekend kicks off at the Museum with conservation partner meet-and-greets, research updates, and a special screening of “Talking to Owls”, a short film from Texas Parks & Wildlife.
Owl Walk at Kokernot Park (Fully Booked)
Participants will explore owl habitats along Alpine Creek with Dr. Maureen Frank and Romey Swanson. Though reservations are now full, the walk signals a growing interest in nocturnal wildlife.
Saturday Programming (Jan. 31)
Saturday brings a full slate of events, including:
- Guided Hike on Hancock Hill (9 a.m.) – Dr. Ryan S. Luna leads a 1.8-mile hike focused on mammal and quail habitats.
- Family Fun at Alpine Farmers Market (9 a.m.–noon) – With a Wildlife Scavenger Hunt, booths, and kid-friendly activities.
- Downtown Wildlife Theme Day – Shops and restaurants offer wildlife-themed goods, menus, and activities, including Cookies & Crafts at Bread Garden Bakery (11 a.m.)
- Lunch & Learn at Granada Theatre (12 p.m.) – Brief research talks from Sul Ross graduate assistants and lunch from Alcove Social.
- Cartoon Animal Drawing Session (1 p.m.) – Chris Ruggia draws 5-minute animal sketches live at Front Street Books.
- Keynote & Panel (5 p.m. at Granada Theatre) –
- Romey Swanson presents new research on owls of the Davis Mountains.
- Bryce Spangler and Austin Alvarado share conservation-focused documentary work.
Sunday Events (Feb. 1)
- Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center Botanical Tour (10 a.m.) – Master Naturalist Warren Shaul leads a guided garden tour.
- Wildlife Photography Workshop (2 p.m.) – Learn bird and landscape photography techniques from experts Michael Gray and Robert Greeson.
📸 Wildlife Photo Contest
Attendees can enter one photo per category. Winners, chosen by public vote during the keynote event, must be present to win.
🎉 Win Prizes with the Activity Stamp Card
Pick up a contest card at the Museum and collect stamps at each event or downtown business to increase your chances to win a grand prize.
📍 Details and Accessibility
Location:
Museum of the Big Bend
400 N. Harrison St., Alpine, Texas
Website:
visitalpinetx.com/wildlife
