Bird enthusiasts will gather in Marathon later this month for West Texas Wingwatch, a weekend event highlighting spring migration across the region.
Hosted by the Marathon Chamber of Commerce, the event is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, and Sunday, April 19, with guided birding sessions from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Post Park and the Gage Gardens.
Dr. Alejandro Chávez Treviño will lead participants through areas known for seasonal bird activity as migratory species move through West Texas. Organizers say spring migration offers some of the best birdwatching opportunities of the year in the region.
Participants may spot species such as scissor-tailed flycatchers, western kingbirds, vermilion flycatchers, ladder-backed woodpeckers and roadrunners, along with a variety of migrating warblers.
The event is free and does not require registration. Attendees are asked to bring their own transportation and lunch. Organizers plan for participants to meet at V6 Coffee Shop to caravan to birding locations.
An optional guided star party is also scheduled at sundown with Bill Ramey at the Marathon Motel & RV Park.
West Texas Wingwatch is open to the public and aims to showcase the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Marathon area during peak migration season.
