FIELD TRIPS AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
These Better Birdwatching events are FREE but some may require park passes, and more details may be listed below. The presenter Joe LaFleur holds degrees in wildlife biology and communications and is the author of Better Birdwatching, a series of DVDs about birds of North America, and also the book Mountain Birds of Teller County. He has been an active birdwatcher for over 30 years and lives in Woodland Park, Colorado.
Ages 5 and up, binoculars suggested for bird walks. In the event of extreme weather like severe rain and/or snow the walk will be cancelled. For more info: joe@betterbirdwatching.com, 719-301-8801.
OCTOBER
Saturday, October 3, 11:00 AM-12:00 PM, Cañon City
FREE Audiovisual Program
Learn to identify resident birds by sight and sound that are likely to be seen in the Cañon City area year round. Meet at Cañon City Public Library, 516 Macon Ave., 719-269-9020. Program led by birding expert and author Joe LaFleur. LaFleur will be selling and signing his Mountain Birds books after program.

Saturday, October 3, 2:00-8:00 PM, Cañon City
Relay for Life Cancer Awareness Event
Better Birdwatching will be at the event from 2:00-6:00 PM selling and signing Mountain Birds books.
WHAT: The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life is a unique celebration of life in honor and in memory of those whose lives have been touched by cancer. It has been described as a “huge
compassionate support group”, a place where friends, family, and loved ones join to celebrate survivorship and to honor those who have lost the battle. Relay For Life involves teams of people who take turns walking or running around a track and a party-like atmosphere prevails as team members camp out for the duration of the event to enjoy music, food, fun, entertainment, and activities while building camaraderie with fellow teammates and participants. Money is raised through team commitment fees and an individual goal of $100 in donations secured from family, friends, companies, or corporations.
WHERE: Mountain View School 1313 College Ave, Canon City, CO, 81212
WHO: Everyone is welcome! Athletes and non-athletes join teams representing clubs, corporations, organizations, neighborhoods, and families at this fun, community-oriented event!
HISTORY: Relay For Life was the idea of Gordy Klatt, M.D. In 1985, Dr. Klatt ran and walked for 24 hours on a track in Tacoma, Washington, traveling about 81 miles and raised $27,000 for the
American Cancer Society. From there, Relay For Life was born and is now held nationwide, with more than 6000 communities participating!
WHY: The money raised helps support American Cancer Society programs in research, education, advocacy, and services – locally, statewide, and nationally!
SURVIVORS’ LAP: Cancer survivors from around the community are invited to take a victory lap and be cheered on by fellow participants. This is a true celebration of their courageous
battle!
LUMINARIA: A candlelight ceremony pays tribute to those who have been affected by cancer. Luminarias are purchased in honor of those who have survived their battle with cancer, for those
still fighting, and in memory of those who have courageously battled this disease, but lost. The luminarias are kept burning through the night to represent the healing power of the community and the importance of funding to find a cure.
For tickets visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/canon-city-schools-mountain-view/relay-for-life-fremont-and-custer-county-oct-3rd-2026/1268986828388318/
Saturday, October 24, 9 AM-4 PM, Colorado Springs
Coronado High School Holiday Craft Fair, 1590 W. Fillmore St.
Better Birdwatching will be at the event on Saturday selling and signing Mountain Birds books. We welcome the community to our 14th annual Craft Fair and Bazaar! This event is the main fundraiser that supports the Coronado High School Instrumental Music Program.

Saturday, October 31, 9:00-10:00 AM
Bird and Nature Walk at Manitou Lake
Bird and nature walk for about one mile around Manitou Lake. Learn to identify birds by sight and sound while also learning about the trees and plants where birds live. Walk led by local author and birding expert Joe LaFleur. Meet at entrance to Manitou Lake, on Hwy. 67 north of Woodland Park. Access fee $11 per vehicle.
More info: joe@betterbirdwatching.com, 719-301-8801

Better Birdwatching- 888-414-2837, 719-301-8801, joe@betterbirdwatching.com