Graphic: Learning to guide starts with paying attention—to the birds, to the group, and to the moment. This scene captures participants observing together while sharpening their skills in the field.
A well-led bird walk can create a lasting connection between people and birds. Indiana Audubon is offering a new training workshop for birders who want to step into that role and help others discover what makes birding so meaningful.
Leading Bird Walks is a free, three-hour workshop designed for birders who are ready to guide their first outings or want to improve the way they support a group. The content is introductory in terms of how to guide, with a focus on group dynamics, pacing, and communication. Participants should already have a basic comfort with birding itself, but no previous guiding experience is required. This workshop is a good fit for anyone taking the first steps into leading, as well as those who have led walks and want to build confidence through shared practice and feedback.
The workshop will be offered in three locations across the state this summer and fall:
- Sunday, July 20 – Monroe County Public Library’s Ellettsville Branch in Bloomington
- Saturday, August 16 – Meadowbrook Nature Preserve in the Indiana Dunes
- Saturday, September 6 – Fort Harrison State Park Visitor Center in Indianapolis
Each workshop includes a mix of indoor discussion and time outdoors on the trail. Inside, you’ll explore how to plan a walk, create a welcoming tone, support birders with different experience levels, and adapt to what the group needs in the moment. Outside, you’ll take turns leading a short stretch of the walk and receive live coaching.
Each workshop is free of charge and limited to 15 participants, with advance registration required. The format is designed to offer a strong foundation for leading with room to ask questions, practice guiding, and connect with others who want to help more people experience the joy of birding.
Additional virtual trainings will be available this fall for those who want to keep building their skills or who are unable to attend in person.
