Golden Cheek

05/16/2026

The BEST Birdwatching Equipment For BEGINNERS IN 2026
https://youtu.be/8XKy4XHjm_s

30 likes, 8 comments. "The BEST Birdwatching Equipment For BEGINNERS IN 2026"

05/06/2026

The Northern Yellow Warbler. Probably one of the most common you’ll see around me, but the first one that gets me excited about the season ahead.

From Merlin: Common and conspicuous warbler with extensive range across North America. Typically bright yellow overall; most males have reddish-brown streaks below, females usually plainer. Some immatures are very drab grayish. Always note uniform appearance, plain face, and rather stout bill for a warbler. Favors brushy habitats near water, often foraging in shrubs fairly low to the ground; migrants found in any wooded or shrubby habitat. Listen for strong chip calls, given incessantly when agitated. Breeds from Alaska to central Mexico, winters to northern South America. In nonbreeding season, overlaps with Mangrove Yellow Warbler; keep in mind that Northern Yellow often winters in mangroves, too! Adult males distinctive; identification of some females and immatures more difficult.

05/05/2026

While the first week of May usually brings birders to Port A for warblers, the shore birds are still fun to observe any time.
The Dunlins were grazing near the trees photogs were focused on for migrating birds, but I couldn’t help and enjoy these birds who did not care about me whatsoever.

05/04/2026

When you’re visiting a birding hotspot you’ll normally hear about a bird being discussed in the different groups at the various birding sights.
On my recent trip to Port Aransas it wasn’t the flamingo anymore, it was the Purple Gallinule, and thankfully it wasn’t shy.
If you love head to the gift shop for birding and hiking gifts. Link in profile.

04/25/2026

Migration Bird Day Festival is Wimberley is fast approaching! Come out and have some fun during this family-friendly, free event:

Celebrate the Journey: Discover the Wonders of Migratory Birds!

04/14/2026

Due to Painted Tree filing for chapter 7 bankruptcy, Golden Cheek is closed at this location. Thanks to everyone that shopped over the last two years. If you’re in the Austin area I hope to be moving through inventory at some upcoming markets and a great festival May 9th.
You can still shop online though! Plenty of online exclusive tees and hats.

Be well!

04/01/2026

What is your life list goal this spring?
Warblers are always the sign for me that spring migration is here, and seeing this Hooded Warbler was one of my favorite shots from last year.

03/23/2026

Spring has sprung! Head over to Golden Cheek for your birding and hiking goodies.
March has been SUPER SLOW, but I’m hopeful things will start to turn around, so please share this with your buddies.
You can shop in store OR online! And there are a handful of online exclusive items available too. If it’s your first time shopping online, use code BIRDS15 for 15% off of your purchase.

03/20/2026

UPDATED SCHEDULE: Help us spread the word about the Lights Out, Texas! campaign; in March, come pick up a FREE yard sign from one of the participating Austin Public Library branches. Learn more here.

https://travisaudubon.org/lights-out-texas

03/18/2026

Took my mom to Hornsby Bend Bird Observatory for her birthday, and after admiring all of the birds on the water, this little one was hiding in the plant next to the car.
From Merlin Bird App: A medium-sized sparrow with crisp patterning. Slightly smaller than Song Sparrow, with finer streaking on breast (like a pen-and-ink drawing vs. an oil painting). Also note thin pale eyering, bright buffy breast that contrasts with white throat and belly, and often peaked crown. Breeds in thickets and shrubby clearings, usually within mixed or coniferous forests. Can be found in any brushy or weedy habitat in migration and winter. Beware of juvenile Song Sparrows in late summer, which can look buffy and show finer streaks than adults. Infrequently visits feeders.

02/08/2026

Happy Sunday!