Fall is in the air and so are birds migrating south for the winter! Get out your binoculars and get ready to win some prizes for spotting our feathered friends as part of the new Utah Birding Slam.
What’s the Birding Slam?
Launched by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) in collaboration with multiple conservation groups, the Birding Slam is part challenge, part community builder, and 100% bird-friendly.
It’s designed for everyone — from seasoned birders to total beginners — to sharpen their identification skills, fuel their excitement for feathered visitors, and raise funds for critical habitat research and improvement projects.
How It Works
- Register: Head here or visit any license agent to sign up. It’s $20 for adults (18+) or $10 for youth (17 and under).
- Get geared up with eBird: Create a free eBird account. If you’re under 18, parental consent is needed.
- Pick your slam & bird: There are six to choose from — ranging from the ultra-accessible Beginner Slam to the lofty High-Elevation Slam.
- Bird, record, submit: Hit the trails, gather your observations in eBird, fill out the online completion form, and get your reward … a commemorative pin!
Where To Look
There are so many places to bird — luckily, we’ve got a guide to help you find the best spots, whether you’re an experienced birder or a beginner! Check out our episode on birding in Salt Lake (we even play some of our favorite bird calls).
What You’ll Find
There are so many wonderful creatures of all sizes, colors, and behaviors that stop by this time of year. On the larger end of the spectrum, there’s the Caspian Tern and giant Sandhill Crane (which has an incredible call and complex mating dance!). And if you want to see some tiny creatures, you’ll be absolutely delighted by the brightly hued Western Tanager.
🦤 There are a number of local birding groups where you can find your flock. So grab your binoculars, pick your slam, and get to know your neighbors on land and in the air!
