(BIVN) – In an early morning hike out to Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park in Kailua-Kona, a band of birders got what they came to see at the Hawaii Island Festival of Birds.

Lance Tanino led the way as the groups’ guide, pointing out the assortment of feathered-creatures that frequent this shoreline.

Birdwatching is just a part of the three day long festival. The heart of the event is here at the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay. Attendees could visit informational booths, enjoy bird inspired arts, and listen to a panel of speakers. It’s all part of the vision of co-founder Rob Pacheco.

But it’s what happen outside the event center that best typifies the experience an avid birder is after. The trip Kaloko-Honokōhau also served as an introduction to the new 90-mile Hawai‘i Island Birding Trail.