Join GARNA and our Birding Club to learn how Buena Vista resident Christian Hagenlocher took a unique approach to birding’s most well-known competition – the ABA Big Year. In 2016, Christian traveled on a budget from Alaska to Florida to fill in the gaps in his life list of birds, seeing over 750 species in total, becoming the youngest birder to pass the 700 mark. He interviewed birders he met along the way, gathering stories and blogging about his adventures at thebirdingproject.com. Later, Christian traveled the country, teaching people about birds with a focus on engaging young people with birds and photography. Come hear Christian’s stories, see his bird and landscape images, and learn about what birds have to teach us – whether you are a beginner or expert birdwatcher.

In 2016, Christian Hagenlocher became the youngest birder to break 700 during an ABA (American Birding Association) Big Year. His adventure took him to 49 states, 48 of which he drove to in his Subaru Outback, living out of the trunk. He is currently writing an autobiography about overcoming fear and adversity through developing a love for birds and nature. His passion for birds began at an early age, and has only continued to grow. As a teacher and licensed falconer, Christian has integrated birds into curriculum in unique ways, exposing students to the ancient sport of falconry and leading international science-focused trips. He has led students abroad to Belize, Costa Rica, Israel, and most recently, Peru. While birding in Alaska, Christian found a whale washed up on the beach that scientists have recently confirmed to be a new species. Currently, Christian teaches Science at The Link School, an alternative high school in Buena Vista, Colorado.

The cost of the program is $7 for GARNA members and $9 for non-members. Fees support coordination and promotion of GARNA and Birding Club programs.

Online registration is now closed. There will be tickets available at the door!