Exploring theWorld of Birds
Lavender Birding Tours is a guiding service that seeks to connect people of all interest and skill levels with the joy of birds and birding in North Georgia.
Beyond Birdwatching
Through my guided trips, I seek to provide clients with the opportunity to see a variety of bird species along with a deeper understanding of how those species interact with their environment and the challenges southeastern birds face in a rapidly changing world.
See more of Georgia’s incredible bird diversity
More than 430 bird species have been recorded in Georgia, and many of those breed, overwinter, or migrate through the Athens area. We offer trips to see a variety of (usually 30-50 species per trip) of Georgia’s incredible avian diversity, as well as specialized trips for particular species.
Learn About Avian Natural History
Guiding is about so much more than seeing new species. Each bird species has a unique story about how it lives and interacts with its environment, and learning these stories enriches our birding experience.
Learn About Conservation
Every bird species faces unique challenges in a world that is increasingly altered by humans. I seek to teach clients about conservation and spread awareness about how we can ensure the persistence of declining southeastern bird species.
Explore North Georgia Wetlands
Wetlands are home to a unique suite of birds species, and kayaks offer a unique way to see wildlife. To find out more about our kayak trips, click here
Photograph Unique Bird Species
Lavender Birding Tours also offers trips for bird photographers looking to photograph specific species, such as Prothonotary Warblers (see photo below).
A Variety of Birding Locations for a Diversity of Bird Species
With over 250 bird species recorded in Clarke County and a variety of excellent birding locations near and in town, the Athens, GA area offers unique opportunities to birders and bird photographers to experience the state’s diverse avian communities.
Species like the Cedar Waxwing (above photo) are regular winter visitors and a favorite of my clients. Photo by Josiah Lavender.
Red-shouldered Hawks (above photo) are denizens of deciduous bottomland forests throughout the southeast–Athens, GA included! We regularly see these beautiful raptors on guided trips in the area. Photo by Josiah Lavender.
In the spring and summer, the deciduous forests along the banks of the lower part of the Oconee River are filled with the sweet, rhythmic song of the Prothonotary Warbler (pictured above). We regularly see this species on spring trips to Dyar Pasture, both on foot and by kayak. Photo by Josiah Lavender.
“Birding trips with Josiah Lavender are more than bird watching outings. Josiah is particularly good at finding birds and patient with helping us hear and see them. Josiah also provides much information on bird habitats, behavior, migration, and other aspects of life history. This approach helps us see the birds as integral parts of ecosystems, rather than ornate individual organisms. I highly recommend Josiah Lavender for guided bird trips.”
Dr. Michael Conroy
Emeritus Professor
UGA Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources
Lavender Birding Tours 