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!
Many GARNA programs require a Liability Release Form be filled out each calendar year.
Your registration is secured upon receipt of payment, as long as there space is still available in a program. If you prefer not to register online (recommended), you may mail a check, made out to “GARNA” to the address below or stop by the office. Please include a note with the program you are registering for. Be aware, some programs sell out quickly, and we cannot confirm your spot with a mailed registration.
PO Box 1522
Salida CO 81201
Cancellation policy:
If we are notified of your need to cancel by 24 hours of program date, your program fee will be refunded except for a $3.00 administrative fee. No refunds within 24 hours or after the event (but most events are transferable). If minimum enrollment has not been met 2 days before program date, programs will be cancelled and we will refund the full amount.
