– Community event benefiting Avian Behavior Conservancy and the Escondido Creek Conservancy takes place October 3 at Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve –
–Birds, plants, wildlife, and hands-on discovery come together this fall for Birds, Botany, and the Creek, a special community fundraiser benefiting the Avian Behavior Conservancy and the Escondido Creek Conservancy. Happening on Saturday, October 3, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Interpretive Center at Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve, the event invites nature lovers of all ages to spend a morning exploring and learning more about the natural world while supporting local conservation and environmental education. Set against the natural backdrop of the Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve, guests will enjoy special avian experiences, nature walks, interactive exhibits, arts and crafts, educational talks, and immersive opportunities to discover the birds, plants and wildlife that make this region unique. The morning will also feature a silent auction and drawings with exciting packages and prizes from local vendors. More than a morning of discovery, Birds, Botany & the Creek will help support the work of two local nonprofit organizations dedicated to connecting people with nature. Proceeds from the event will benefit conservation and environmental education efforts throughout North San Diego County and the greater community.
“We are thrilled about bringing our communities together for a morning that celebrates the distinct wildlife and natural spaces that make this region so special,” said Ariel Reed, Education Director at the Escondido Creek Conservancy.
“We hope people leave with a greater connection to the natural world and an understanding that each of us plays a vital role in protecting it for the future,” said Hillary Hankey, Executive Director of Avian Behavior Conservancy.
What: Birds, Botany & the Creek: A Fun-draiser for Nature, benefitting the Avian
Behavior Conservancy and the Escondido Creek Conservancy
When: Saturday, October 3, 2026 | 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Where: Interpretive Center at Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve
Tickets: $12 standard admission | $45 four pack | $50 VIP*
Tickets are available for purchase on Eventbrite:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2000215416154?aff=oddtdtcreator
For sponsorship opportunities, please contact ariel@escondidocreek.org or
hillary@avain-behavior.org.
*VIP tickets include: Reserved front-row seating for demonstrations; Small bird encounter and photo opportunity with trainer (approximately 10 minutes); limited Conservancy merchandise.
About The Escondido Creek Conservancy
Established in 1991, the mission of The Escondido Creek Conservancy is to preserve and restore the Escondido Creek watershed. Flowing from the mountains above Lake Wohlford in Escondido to the San Elijo Lagoon and shores at Cardiff Reef, the Escondido Creek watershed encompasses over 75 square miles of land in North San Diego County. Celebrating 35 years of conservation in 2026, the Conservancy’s vision remains to serve as a model of vibrant urban communities and viable natural ecosystems thriving together. For more information, visit
About Avian Behavior Conservancy
Avian Behavior Conservancy is dedicated to creating meaningful connections between people
and birds through education and engaging avian experiences. Through its programs and work
with birds, the organization inspires curiosity, understanding and appreciation for the natural
world. The programs support their work researching declining avian species in North America
and globally. For more information, visit avian-behavior.org.
