2026 Rio Grande Valley Bird & Wildlife Workshop

Experience the Wild Magic of South Texas!

Get ready for four unforgettable days in one of North America’s most thrilling nature photography destinations—The Rio Grande Valley! Known among birders and nature photographers as The Valley, this South Texas gem boasts over 500 bird species, 150+ reptiles, and 150+ mammal species—a wildlife wonderland waiting for your lens.

Join professional photographer Todd Nettelhorst for an immersive 4-day photo workshop packed with incredible wildlife encounters, hands-on instruction, and exclusive access to private ranch blinds. Whether you’re chasing that bucket list shot of a Green Jay, Painted Bunting, or Crested Caracara, or hoping to catch a glimpse of a stealthy Bobcat, this is your chance to shoot like a pro in the heart of biodiversity.

What You’ll Capture:
South Texas stars like Green Jays, Orioles, Thrashers, Golden-fronted Woodpeckers, and more!
Up-close raptor action from private blinds featuring Harris Hawks, Caracaras, Vultures, and others.
South Texas mammals like Javelinas, White-tailed Deer, Armadillos, Rabbits, and maybe even a Bobcat!
A variety of reptiles and amphibians including Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes, Indigo Snakes, Texas Tortoises, and Leopard Frogs.

Relax in Comfort:
Enjoy cozy lodging at the fully-equipped guesthouse, accommodating up to 16 guests. Choose a private annex suite with its own bath or a shared room in the main house with access to two full bathrooms. Your stay includes delicious, chef-prepared meals daily so you can focus on the photography (and not the grocery list!).

What’s Included:
✔ 4 days of expert photography instruction with Todd
✔ All lodging at the guesthouse
✔ All meals & non-alcoholic beverages
✔ Exclusive access to the ranch blinds
✔ Ranch access fees and taxes

What’s Not Included:
✖ Transportation to/from the ranch
✖ Alcoholic beverages
✖ Gratuities

Limited to just 6 photographers for maximum personal attention and total blind access—no waiting, no sharing, just shooting!

Workshop Fee: $3,350 per photographer
Single Room Upgrade: $450 additional

Spots are filling fast—don’t miss this rare opportunity to photograph the untamed beauty of South Texas with personalized mentorship!

Reserve your spot today and prepare to bring home images (and memories) you’ll never forget.

“There are no rules for good photographs, there are only good photographs.” ~ Ansel Adams