At Finca Cántaros Environmental Association (FCEA) in Coto Brus, Costa Rica, environmental education and community engagement are at the heart of everything they do. Join us to learn how FCEA uses birds to engage youth and women from across their community in meaningful environmental education experiences. Their programs foster awareness and appreciation for birds, involve participants in hands-on habitat restoration that benefits both resident and migratory species, and build local capacity for the co-production of scientific knowledge through bird banding and Motus Wildlife Tracking

They will share success stories from their partnerships with local schools using the BirdSleuth curriculum of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and you’ll discover how they are creating the spaces for women—a historically underrepresented group in ornithology—to empower themselves and become bird banders and educators, sharing their knowledge with participants in FECA’s Women Committed to the Earth program.

And of course, they will showcase plenty of stunning photos of the beautiful birds that call their backyard home—sure to inspire you to visit!

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It’s one thing to talk about how FCEA empowers young women from rural communities to become bird banders, but it’s quite another to show you in action! Get ready to be inspired.

Virtually visit the Finca Cántaros banding station and meet the team. Observe bird banding with both resident and migrant species, including the Golden-winged Warbler. Hear from NABC-certified bird banding trainer Holly Garrod and FCEA Director Lilly Briggs discuss the program's impact on conservation, science, and education. Experience the event virtually and consider an in-person visit in 2026.

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