The Festival focuses on the abundance and diversity of the natural world around us – from the Atlantic Ocean westward through the Indian River Lagoon estuary system to the St. Johns River and surrounding wetlands. Educational emphasis is placed on the preservation and management of animals and their habitats, as well as the cultural heritage and historical venues to be found in East Central Florida. The Festival features bird and wildlife watching opportunities, nature and technology tours, boat and kayaking trips, field trips, seminars, workshops, photography sessions and evening keynote presentations.

The Brevard Nature Alliance has done a wonderful job of organizing a birders heaven in Titusville, Florida. The 2009 Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival has been a ton of fun for me. It started on Wednesday and I gave 2 seminars on Purple Martins. The festival has assembled a prestigious group of nationally and internationally recognized scientists, biologists, photographers, ornithologists and naturalists.
 
I especially loved Jonathan Woods presentation of the Raptor Project as I was fortunate to have my booth be located DIRECTLY in front of the stage. So basically for 8 hours of the day I was within 10 feet of about a dozen raptors, including an American Bald Eagle, Golden Eagle, Barn Owl and other assorted Owls, Falcons, Hawks, Kestrel, and even a raven! Flying over head WITHIN the exhibit area several times a day. I was very impressed with the art show that was located right next to me. The quality of the art was phenomenal. I met some great people with the Enchanted Forest, the Merrit Island National Wildlife Refuge and more. It really has been a great 3 days. Tomorrow is the last day and I will again be there preaching “purple” at my booth.
I hope to see you there and I hope to join them again next year!
Check out the website for the Festival at  http://www.nbbd.com/fly/
Blog & Photos Copyrighted 2009: S.Halpin/ PurpleMartins-R-Us.com