spring wings bird festival

Every May, Fallon is for the birds—and bird lovers.

By PARRY THERIOT | March/April 2010

Photo: PR

No matter which way you drive into the Northern Nevada town of Fallon, you might never know this charming town boasts more than farms, ranches, and the Naval Air Station, home of Top Gun. Located about 60 miles east of Reno and Carson City, the drive takes you through mountains and then a flat expanse of sand, scrub brush, and rocks.

In other words, it’s not blatantly obvious that you have passed some of the richest wetlands in the West—whether it’s Lahontan and Sheckler Reservoirs to the west of town or Stillwater Marsh or Reservoir to the east. It’s only when you stop along the road or take a stroll through the country that you realize this area is so much more. 

Silence is broken by the wonderful sound of gentle flapping wings, air whooshing through feathers, and the music of well-traveled birds looking forward to a nice rest and plenty of food. The yearly migration has begun.

Fallon celebrates this migration each year at the Spring Wings Bird Festival, which will be held in 2010 for the 13th year, May 14-16. This festival draws people from around the world ranging from novice bird watchers to serious birders. Offering information, fun, local crafters, music, artists, and more, this festival promotes the interest and awareness of these important wetlands. It also encourages community support to ensure these wetlands are protected and preserved for years to come.

In addition to featured speakers, members of the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service, Nevada Department of Wildlife, Nevada Audubon Society, and Nevada Waterfowl Association provide educational seminars.

Most popular are the many tours offered. The Hot Spot tours, a local favorite, are always a surprise. You’ll go where the birds are, so the journey can be short or long, but it’s always educational. Other tours take you out to the larger areas, such as Stillwater, Carson Lake, Walker Lake, and other canals and reservoirs. There are also opportunities to view birds from a canoe, learn about bats and their habitat, and appreciate our raptor friends by way of the owl prowl.