Klamath Bird Observatory is excited to help welcome the Western Field Ornithologists’ 50th Annual Conference to Ashland, Oregon, September 17–20, 2026. This milestone gathering will bring birders, researchers, conservation practitioners, students, and field ornithology enthusiasts to the Rogue Valley for four days of birding, science, skill-building, and community.
Western Field Ornithologists hosts a multi-day annual conference each year, featuring scientific presentations, field trips, workshops, panels, a keynote address, the annual membership meeting, and community events. In 2026, WFO will celebrate five decades of field ornithology with a special anniversary conference centered in Ashland, with field trips exploring the diverse habitats of southern Oregon.
KBO is proud to partner with WFO on this important event, alongside support from the Oregon Birding Association. As a regional organization dedicated to bird conservation through science, education, and partnerships, KBO is es…
Klamath Bird Observatory’s Thomas McLaren was recently featured in a Pacific Crest Trail Association blog post exploring the fascinating relationship between Clark’s nutcrackers and whitebark pine in the Southern California Mountains.
In the article, Tom shares insights from his previous research on Clark’s nutcrackers, a bird species known for its remarkable memory and important role in dispersing whitebark pine seeds. This mutualistic relationship is especially important as whitebark pine faces serious threats from disease, insects, and changing environmental conditions.
Winter can be a great time of year to enjoy raptor viewing in the picturesque Klamath Basin! Please join KBO board members Amanda Alford and Dick Ashford, who will share their enthusiasm and knowledge during an informative (and fun!) Hawk ID workshop. On Thursday, February 19th, from 6 – 8:30 PM, and February 21st all day.
We invite you to join the Klamath Bird Observatory and the Mantiqueira Bird Observatory for a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. From September 3–12, 2026, this 10-day adventure offers the perfect blend of birding, culture, and conservation impact.
This is more than a trip; it’s a chance to support science-based conservation beyond borders while experiencing one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
Join Board President Shannon Rio for a Talk and Walk. She will be presenting at the KBO office in Ashland on December 3rd, the presentation is an invitation to visit the Refuge and will provide information on how to get there and what you might expect to see in terms of glory. Brochures will be available. The walk at the Lower Klamath Refuge is on December 7th and will be lead by Shannon and Kevin Spencer of the Klamath Basin Audubon Society, The spots for the field trip are limited but you can still join us for the presentation. Click the link below to learn more and register.
Klamath Bird Observatory (KBO) has launched a new webpage that brings its conservation travel program to life. Designed for nature lovers, birders, and eco-conscious explorers, this page showcases how every journey with KBO supports science, education, and habitat restoration. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious traveler, these trips offer a rare chance to connect deeply with birds, landscapes, and the people working to protect them. Check out what trips we have coming up in 2026 and secure your spot before they are gone.
Please join KBO board members Dick Ashford and Amanda Alford for a hawk-finding outing to beautiful Scott Valley, CA! November should show the early signs of raptor migration in the area; we will search for newly arrived migrants, birds just passing through, and local residents.
Join Shannon Rio and Kevin Spencer for a Fall Birding Outing in the Klamath Basin! Spend a full day immersed in nature as we explore the rich birdlife of Rocky Point, Fort Klamath Area, and the Wood River Wetlands. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just curious about the feathered wonders of the Klamath Basin, this relaxed and scenic outing promises great company and unforgettable sightings. Let’s go birding!
Come experience bird science in action with Klamath Bird Observatory! On Friday, September 19th, we’ll visit our banding station near Wildlife Images for a half-day, family-friendly outing. We’ll carpool from Ashland* at 6:30 a.m. and return by noon.
Join us for Harry Fuller’s “Oaks and Other Creatures” presentation on May 12th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The presentation will be hosted at the KBO office in Ashland, and there is a virtual option.
