![WOWE Logo[144]_edited.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/267f80_91c12b4e0a534f4c96d53c729a992955~mv2.png/v1/crop/x_0,y_0,w_384,h_335/fill/w_265,h_230,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/WOWE%20Logo%5B144%5D_edited.png)
30th Annual
Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo
February 5 - 7, 2026
The Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo returns to the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary on Feb. 5th- 7th, 2026 for its 30th year showcasing the natural treasures of South Texas and the Lower Laguna Madre!
History of WOWE
The Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo began as a small nature program founded by the
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Port Isabel. In its initial years, the expo was a single day event that gave Winter Texans the opportunity to learn about local fishing. It eventually grew to be a two-day expo held at the SPI Convention Center that featured a live raptor show and various seminars about the local wildlife of South Texas and the Laguna Madre. After 20 years and having outgrown multiple host sites, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church decided it was time to search for a new sponsor to take over the rapidly-evolving annual event. In 2016, the Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo found its new host in the SPI Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary. What started as a small-scale fishing program has become a multi-day event with exciting field trips leading up to the expo, a photo-contest that recognizes those capturing the incredible wildlife in the lower Rio Grande Valley and three days of compelling presentations by expert naturalists from all over the state of Texas.
WOWE 2026
This February 2026, the Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo returns to the SPIBNCAS for its 30th year! Attendees can expect three excitement-filled days of pre-expo tours to the Bahia Grande and other local wildlife refuges to gear them up to the three days of enthralling nature presentations and informative exhibits from local wildlife and conservation organizations. Jonathan Wood returns with his nationally acclaimed The Raptor Project show and, for the first time in WOWE history, Gator Country, our sister alligator sanctuary, joins the expo with two impressive shows featuring their incredible reptile ambassadors. Join us Feb. 5th, 6th, and 7th and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of South Texas and the lower Laguna Madre as we mark 30 years of the Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo!
WOWE Pre-Expo Field Trips
Register for a fun and educational guided coastal nature adventure!
These tours will showcase the best of nature of the Laguna Madre area and will visit hard-to-reach or normally inaccessible environments!
February 2nd - 4th, 2026
(Van tours are limited to 10 participants and boat tours to 6 participants)
To be Amazed is our Nature
Bahia Grande Tour - Wednesday, February 4thSold OutWed, Feb 04South Padre Island Birding & Nature Cent
Presenter Schedule
Thursday
Auditorium
Conference Room
Exhibit Hall
10:00AM -
10:45AM
PI High School
Coastal Monitoring Program
Coastal Monitoring Program
Port Isabel High School
The Texas High School Coastal Monitoring
Program engages people who live along the coast
in the study of their natural environment. High
school students, teachers, and scientists work
together to gain a better understanding of dune
and beach dynamics on the Texas coast. Scientists from the University of Texas at Austin, Bureau of Economic Geology provide the tools and training needed for scientific investigation. Students and teachers learn how to measure the topography, map the vegetation line and shoreline, and observe weather and wave conditions.
11:00AM -
11:45AM
Laura George Grayson
Ecology of the Lower Laguna Madre
Laura George Grayson
UTRGV Coastal Studies Lab
Laura George Grayson is the Program Manager for
the UTRGV Coastal Studies Lab. She holds a Master
of Science in Biology and is passionate about
coastal and marine ecology. A native of Brownsville,
Texas, she appreciates the diverse opportunities for
exploring and enjoying outdoor spaces that life in
the Rio Grande Valley affords.
Mike Heep
Plants of the Coastal RGV
Mike Heep
Heep's Nursery
Mike Heep has been the leading Native Plant
Nurseryman to the Rio Grande Valley
community for decades. The native plants
that he grows and sells have created important
habitats in home gardens businesses, and most
of the nature centers in the Rio Grande Valley.
His work has had a significant impact in
bringing nature back into the lives of those
who purchase his native plants. His knowledge and friendly demeanor have made him a trusted resource and reference to naturalists and those developing an interest in nature across the RGV.
Keynote Speaker
Curtis Hayungs
RGV Reef
Curtis Hayungs
Keynote Speaker, RGV Reef
A marine conservation enthusiast and experienced
diver from McAllen, Texas, Curtis Hayungs leads
RGV Reef as President in creating and maintaining
the largest artificial reef site off the Texas Coast.
As an active diver, he frequently participates in
underwater documentation and maintenance
operations. Curtis combines his extensive business
acumen as CEO of Operations at Merchant Resource Group with his passion for ocean conservation. Key achievements in his career, aside from overseeing RGV Reef's 1,650-acre artificial reef site and leading underwater documentation and maintenance operations, include establishing strategic partnerships with marine biologists and conservation organizations and successfully merging business expertise with marine conservation to expand RGV Reef's impact.
Jonathan Wood
Raptor Project Show
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Raptor Project
Exhibit
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
12:15PM -
1:00PM
LUNCH TIME
12:15PM - 1:00PM
1:00PM - 1:45PM
Jace Tunnell
Beachcombing the Texas Coast
Jace Tunnell
Harte Research Institute
Jace Tunnell is Director of Community Engagement
at the Harte Research Institute at Texas A&M
University -- Corpus Christi. He is the founder of
Nurdle Patrol, a citizen science project that tracks
plastic pellet pollution worldwide to raise awareness and inform policy. Jace also directs and produces Beachcombing, a video series that highlights unusual items washing up on Gulf Coast beaches and the stories they tell about marine life and ocean processes. His outreach extends through a weekly NPR radio segment, and televised episodes aired on PBS-KEDT. His conservation work focuses on engaging the public in marine science, increasing awareness of plastic pollution, and protecting coastal resources. Jace earned his Master's degree in Marine Biology from Texas A&M University -- Corpus Christi in 2001.
Robert Gaitan
Native Plants & Habitats of the Lower Laguna Madre
Robert Gaitan
Native Plant Society of Texas, RGV Chapter
Roberto Gaitan is a Valley native but he left the RGV
after high school to attend college and chase his
technical career. He returned almost three decades
later when he took up his second career as a high
school Science teacher. To help him become a better
teacher, he became a Texas Master Naturalist in 2014. It is then that Roberto discovered the uniqueness of his backyard and the peril of our native speciaes and native habitat. Two years ago, he helped establish the RGV chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas in order to champion our native plants and habitats, the basis for our special region.
What drives Roberto above anything else is the desire to educate the public on the natural treasures of our home and promote public support for conservation projects and activities. Only through a unified public effort can we hope to maintain this Texas oasis for our native plants and animals. The survival of our native species depends on the efforts of citizens that care.
Jonathan Wood
Raptor Project Show
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
2:00PM -
2:45PM
Shelby Bessette
Encompassing Ecotourism
Shelby Bessette
Wildlife Habitat Federation
Shelby Bessette is a coastal conservationist and
UTRGV alumni, currently working for Wildlife
Habitat Federation. Her work entails collaboration
for conservation initiatives and supporting land
stewards through various partnerships. Most
recently, during her 2025 sabbatical, she explored
avenues of ecotourism and will be sharing a diversity
of ideas behind the drive of conservation in Texas.
Keynote Speaker
Curtis Hayungs
RGV Reef
Curtis Hayungs
Keynote Speaker, RGV Reef
A marine conservation enthusiast and experienced
diver from McAllen, Texas, Curtis Hayungs leads
RGV Reef as President in creating and maintaining
the largest artificial reef site off the Texas Coast.
As an active diver, he frequently participates in
underwater documentation and maintenance
operations. Curtis combines his extensive business
acumen as CEO of Operations at Merchant Resource Group with his passion for ocean conservation. Key achievements in his career, aside from overseeing RGV Reef's 1,650-acre artificial reef site and leading underwater documentation and maintenance operations, include establishing strategic partnerships with marine biologists and conservation organizations and successfully merging business expertise with marine conservation to expand RGV Reef's impact.
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Raptor Project
Exhibit
3:00PM -
3:45PM
4:00PM -
5:00PM
[Screening]
Richard Moore
Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
Documentary
Richard Moore
Award-winning Photojournalist
Richard Moore is a South Texas Native who
grew up hunting, fishing and exploring the
wild lands of the Rio Grande Valley. After
earning his degree in Journalism from Trinity
University in San Antonio, he returned to
his homeland where for the past 30 plus years he has photographed, written and produced a television series featuring the regions unique wildlife. His programs air weekly on the NBC affiliate KVEO-TV 23 and are archived on ValleyCentral.com.
He is an award winning photojournalist who has produced 13 documentaries focusing on the wildlife and history of southernmost Texas. His documentaries air on the Rio Grande Valley’s NBC affiliate, PBS and are available for Internet streaming.
DVD/Blu-Ray and or Pin Drive copies of the documentaries are distributed to all schools in Region I encompassing approximately 600 campuses.
Richard Moore has recently worked on two new documentaries featuring the Sabal Palm Sanctuary and Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, the latter which will be screened at the 30th Annual Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo.
Richard Moore
Award-winning Photojournalist
Richard Moore is a South Texas Native who
grew up hunting, fishing and exploring the
wild lands of the Rio Grande Valley. After
earning his degree in Journalism from Trinity
University in San Antonio, he returned to
his homeland where for the past 30 plus years he has photographed, written and produced a television series featuring the regions unique wildlife. His programs air weekly on the NBC affiliate KVEO-TV 23 and are archived on ValleyCentral.com.
He is an award winning photojournalist who has produced 13 documentaries focusing on the wildlife and history of southernmost Texas. His documentaries air on the Rio Grande Valley’s NBC affiliate, PBS and are available for Internet streaming.
DVD/Blu-Ray and or Pin Drive copies of the documentaries are distributed to all schools in Region I encompassing approximately 600 campuses.
Richard Moore has recently worked on two new documentaries featuring the Sabal Palm Sanctuary and Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, the latter which will be screened at the 30th Annual Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo.
[Screening]
Richard Moore
Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
Documentary
Jonathan Wood
Raptor Project Show
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Friday
Auditorium
Conference Room
Exhibit Hall
10:00AM -
10:45AM
Tia Offner
TPWD Coastal Fisheries and the Fishes of the lower Laguna Madre
Tia Offner
Texas Parks and Wildlife
Tia Offner is a Fish and Wildlife Technician at
TPWD Coastal Fisheries, working out of the
Brownsville field office. She has a B.S. from
Cornell University and an M.S. from Mississippi
State University, and spent her time before
working with freshwater and saltwater fishes,
oyster aquaculture, and in aquariums. She is a
Texas Master Naturalist (2025) and a
Mississippi Master Naturalist (2022). She likes to spend her free time birding and posting the critters she finds on iNaturalist.
11:00AM -
11:45AM
Javier Gonzalez
Coastal Tip
Christmas Bird Count
Javier Gonzalez
SPI Birding, Nature Center & Alligator
Sanctuary
Javier is the Naturalist Educator at the South Padre
Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary.
He is a biologist, avid naturalist, and photographer.
He has a special interest in birds, butterflies, habitat
ecology, and pollinator conservation and loves to
share his knowledge with visitors to the center.
He will be a guide on most of the pre-expo field tours for the 30th Annual Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo.
Devin Johnston
Beach Buzz, Native Bees of the South Texas Coast
Devin Johnston
R9 Hive & Honey
Insects are ubiquitous and despite having over
4,000 species in a rainbow of colors, the native bees
of North America remain underrated and under-
documented. Butterflies, dragonflies, and beetles reign
supreme in the world of insect enthusiasts, while the
love of bees generally begins and ends at European
Honey Bees. Nestled in flowers or zooming past with a
loud buzz, native bees can be a rewarding photography
subject. In the Rio Grande Valley alone there is estimated to be as many as 800 species of native bees, many of them undescribed by scientists.
Explore the colorful world of Rio Grande Valley bees with Devin Johnston, a professional beekeeper and hobbyist “bee bother-er”. She spends her weekdays working to remove feral honey bee colonies from homes and commercial properties but enjoys photographing native bees on the weekends.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
The Peregrine Fund
Northern Aplomado Falcon Restoration in South Texas
Jeff Grayum
Keynote Speaker, The Peregrine Fund
Jeff Grayum began work with The Peregrine Fund in
2017 on the Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk Program.
In 2018, he transitioned to the California Condor
Program, where he remained until 2021 before leaving
to pursue a graduate degree. Jeff returned to The
Peregrine Fund full-time in 2014 as a Conservation Field
Biologist, splitting his time between the Aplomado Falcon
Recovery Program and the California Condor Program.
Jonathan Wood
Raptor Project Show
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Raptor Project
Exhibit
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
12:15PM -
1:00PM
LUNCH TIME
12:15PM - 1:00PM
1:00PM - 1:45PM
Captain Gus
Fishing the
Laguna Madre
Captain Augustus McGarraugh
Capt. Gus's Saltwater Adventures
Capt. Gus McGarraugh grew up splitting his time
between Colorado and South Texas all his life. His father
moved to South Padre Island when Capt. Gus was a boy,
teaching young Gus the ins and outs of the bay every
summer throughout his childhood. They spent countless
hours finding pot holes full of trout and sand flats littered
in red fish. His father instilled a passion for the outdoors
in Capt. Gus, driving him to pursue a career chasing the
critters he has come to love and respect. With the help
of some local legends, including forty year veteran Capt. Skipper Ray, Capt. Gus has honed his skills as a fisherman and professional guide on South Padre Island and in the Lower Laguna Madre. The bay provides an incredible environment to learn and grow. During the fall, he heads north to Crawford, Colorado to team up with the Homestead Ranch Crew to chase elk, deer, mountain lion and bear. Homestead Ranch is an original homestead that has been maintained since 1914 by six generations of incredible perseverance. Whether it is inshore or offshore fishing, duck or goose hunting or the big game hunt of your dreams, Captain Gus welcomes you to Capt. Gus's Saltwater Adventures!
Andrew Grunwald
Habitat Management, Wildlife Conservation, and Research at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
Andy Grunwald
Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
Andy Grunwald is the Wildlife Biologist of
Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, which
is a 120,000 acre Wildlife Refuge managed by the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the Rio Grande
Valley. Although he was born and raised in
Wisconsin, he came to the RGV after finishing his
Bachelor's degree in 2015 to intern at Laguna
Atascosa and fell in love with the refuge and the
surrounding area. After that internship, he traveled
around the country for a variety of temporary wildlife conservation jobs and received his Master's degree at Clemson University before his life came full circle and he landed his dream job at Laguna Atascosa. His job at the refuge is focused on habitat management to conserve the priority species, which include the aplomado falcon, ocelot, neotropical migratory birds, mottled ducks, and wintering waterfowl.
2:00PM -
2:45PM
Mark Conway
Bird Banding
in the RGV
Mark Conway
Bird Bander, Retired Teacher
Mark Conway is a dedicated bird bander with a rich
history in research education. He has been banding birds
for over 22 years and has reached a milestone by
processing his 20,000th bird. His work has been
instrumental in documenting bird migration patterns and
longevity records. Conway's research includes capturing
and tagging birds for study, which has led to significant
findings about bird behavior and migration. His efforts have not only contributed to scientific research but also to the education of students in biology.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
The Peregrine Fund
Northern Aplomado Falcon Restoration in South Texas
Jeff Grayum
Keynote Speaker, The Peregrine Fund
Jeff Grayum began work with The Peregrine Fund in
2017 on the Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk Program.
In 2018, he transitioned to the California Condor
Program, where he remained until 2021 before leaving
to pursue a graduate degree. Jeff returned to The
Peregrine Fund full-time in 2014 as a Conservation Field
Biologist, splitting his time between the Aplomado Falcon
Recovery Program and the California Condor Program.
3:00PM -
3:45PM
4:00PM -
5:00PM
Watercolor in Nature
Painting Session with Dr. Susan Duve
on the back deck
*Limited to 20 people. First-come, first-served basis.*
Dr. Susan Duve
Holistic Practitioner, Artist, Nature Enthusiast
Dr. Susan Duve is a holistic practitioner and
professional who has been in practice for 31 years.
While she is not tending to patients via Holistic
Telehealth, she volunteers with TPWD at Garner
State Park, teaching various programs as one of the
park's Interpreter Naturalists and Park Host. She is
also a Master Naturalist in the Brush Y Canyon Chapter. Some of her roles include educating guests on wildlife, ecosystems, conservation, Native American traditions, art, science & nature. Dr. Duve blends creativity, mindfulness and a love of nature to help others connect more deeply with their environment.
Join Dr. Duve for a scenic hands-on, nature-inspired watercolor experience right on our back patio. *LIMITED TO 20 PEOPLE ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS*
Jonathan Wood
Raptor Project Show
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Raptor Project
Exhibit
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Jonathan Wood
Raptor Project Show
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Conference Room
Exhibit Hall
Saturday
Parking Lot
10:00AM -
10:45AM
11:00AM -
11:45AM
12:15PM -
1:00PM
1:00PM - 1:45PM
2:00PM -
2:45PM
3:00PM -
3:45PM
4:00PM -
5:00PM
Jonathan Wood
Raptor Project Show
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Raptor Project
Exhibit
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Photo Contest
Ceremony
Gator Country Show
Gary Saurage
Gator Country
Gary Saurage is the owner and founder of Gator Country, a family-friendly
wildlife attraction that opened in 2005. Built on a deep respect for animals and a
commitment to education and conservation, Gator Country was created to give
visitors a hands-on, meaningful connection to wildlife—especially American
alligators. With a lifelong passion for animals, Gary has dedicated his work to
conservation efforts, public education, and community engagement. His mission
is to help people of all ages better understand wildlife, respect nature, and
appreciate the importance of preserving it for future generations. Gary’s work
and expertise can currently be seen on Texas Gator Savers on EarthXTV, where he shares real-life experiences rescuing, relocating, and protecting alligators across Texas. Through both the park and television, Gary continues to educate the public while promoting coexistence between people and wildlife. Above all, Gary is known for his strong community values, love for children and families, and unwavering dedication to all living creatures—qualities that have made Gator Country a trusted and beloved destination.
Gator Country Show
Reptile Exhibit
Gary Saurage
Gator Country
Gary Saurage is the owner and founder of Gator Country, a family-friendly wildlife attraction
that opened in 2005. Built on a deep respect for animals and a commitment to education and
conservation, Gator Country was created to give visitors a hands-on, meaningful connection
to wildlife—especially American alligators. With a lifelong passion for animals, Gary has
dedicated his work to conservation efforts, public education, and community engagement. His
mission is to help people of all ages better understand wildlife, respect nature, and appreciate
the importance of preserving it for future generations. Gary’s work and expertise can currently
be seen on Texas Gator Savers on EarthXTV, where he shares real-life experiences rescuing, relocating, and protecting alligators across Texas. Through both the park and television, Gary continues to educate the public while promoting coexistence between people and wildlife. Above all, Gary is known for his strong community values, love for children and families, and unwavering dedication to all living creatures—qualities that have made Gator Country a trusted and beloved destination.
LUNCH TIME
12:15PM - 1:00PM
Jonathan Wood
Raptor Project Show
Raptor Project
Exhibit
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Jonathan Wood
Raptor Project Show
Jonathan Wood
The Raptor Project
The Raptor Project is an extraordinary array of eagles,
hawks, falcons and owls that have won the rapt
attention of audiences throughout the nation.
Presenting almost 1000 educational programs to over
10 million people annually, The Raptor Project leads
the way in outstanding, professional wildlife education. Featuring raptors from diverse habitats at each presentation, these dynamic fierce predators capture hearts of both young and old. Its founders, Jonathan and Susan Wood of New York's Catskill mountains have assembled a traveling collection of feathered predators that is unrivaled in scope and size anywhere in the world. Jonathan Wood is a Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator, bringing unique insights, observations and humor to his nationally acclaimed shows. Many of the birds in The Raptor Project have permanent handicaps and have been donated to his project by crowded wildlife centers around the country because they were unable to be re-introduced to the wild. Some faced euthanasia and have been trained to educate the public as ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit. Jonathan and Susan Wood and their staff operate the organization from a beautiful 14-acre, private facility in New York's Catskill mountains, working with birds of many sizes. From small falcons and owls weighing 3-4 ounces to majestic eagles with 6-8 foot wingspans. He is honored with 35 years of handling experience and has presented The Raptor Project to over 10 million people... up close and personal!
Closing Reception
with live music from Jenuine Cello
Hotel & Lodging
Holiday Inn Resort South Padre Island - Beachfront
100 Padre Boulevard
South Padre Island, Texas 78597
Ph: (956) 426-9066
OPTION 1: Reserve Online
Click button below:
or scan QR code:
