Fall migration is a good time to learn that identifying a bird takes more than a field guide picture. The City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department leads a relaxed walk around Riverbend Ponds Natural Area on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, from 9 to 11 a.m., with possible side trips to the Cattail Chorus and Cottonwood Hollow ponds depending on where the birds are. The city’s page says participants learn to use behavior, microhabitat, flight patterns and vocalizations alongside appearance. It is free, outdoors and unhurried, which makes it a natural homeschool science morning.
Know before you go
- Where: Riverbend Ponds Natural Area, East Prospect Road, Fort Collins, CO 80524; meet at the large parking lot off Prospect Road
- When: Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, 9 to 11 a.m.
- Cost: Free. Ages: not specified
- Sign up: the city asks you to register at engage.fcgov.com; questions to 970-416-2815 or naturalareas@fortcollins.gov
- Bring binoculars if you have them and dress for a cold morning by the water
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