Fort Mason (SF)

The focus of the May field trip will be looking for late migrants.  May can bring a surprise migrant, and there should still be migrating flycatchers, vireos and warblers moving through. In previous years, we have had a Western Wood Pewee, a Western Tanager and a Black Headed Grosbeak. Nesting birds could include Pigeon Guillemots, ... Read more

Sibley Volcanic Regional Perserve (Oakland)

This will be a half day walk in a good variety of habitats: Baccharis chaparral, grassland, Monterey Pine and Eucalyptus woodland. This area has been historically good for Lazuli Bunting, Pygmy Nuthatch and Rufous-crowned Sparrow. Wear good hiking shoes and bring water. Indoor restrooms at the parking lot. We’ll cover about 2.5 miles.  Leader: Rusty ... Read more

Blake Garden (Kensington)

We are well into spring and the Blake Garden is full of activity! Come bird the garden with us to observe bird species nesting and fledging young. We have had a turn-around in species from wintering birds to summer residence. The garden is full of bird chatter now with territorial disputes. If you are a ... Read more

Valle Vista EBMUD Watershed (Moraga)

Birding in the Moraga area on level trails and fire roads owned by East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD). This area features a variety of habitats: chaparral and scrub, grassland, pine-oak woodland, marsh, and the top of the reservoir. Likely birds include raptors, sparrows, California Thrasher, nuthatches, wrens, and the shy Wood Ducks. We will ... Read more

Vollmer Peak (Berkeley/Orinda)

Vollmer Peak, at 1,905 feet tall, is considered the highest point in the Berkeley Hills and a magnet for migrating birds and rarities.  The combination of hilly, shrubby, and open habitats give us excellent opportunities to view a variety of birds, while also enjoying spectacular views from the Bay to Mt. Diablo (and all the ... Read more

Joaquin Miller Park (Oakland)

We will meet at the bottom of the Woodminster Cascade (the series of fountains)  for a walk through the forest of Joaquin Miller Park. Expect our resident breeding birds and migrating birds if we're lucky!  This walk will be moderately strenuous with elevation gain on both stairs and trails. Leader: Megan Jankowski, mindfuldocumentation@gmail.com, (415) 515-0732 ... Read more

Introduction to Point Reyes (Point Reyes)

Curious about birding Point Reyes but unsure of where to go? Join ranger Carlo Arreglo and explore some of the park's birding "hotspots."  Birdwatchers of all levels are welcome. We'll start at the Bear Valley area then drive towards the Outer Point with possible stops at Drakes Beach, A, B, and C ranches, the lighthouse ... Read more

Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park (Bridle and Stream Trails)

Special target birds include California Quail, Wilson’s Warbler, Pacific-slope Flycatcher and Pacific Wren. This is a great trip for those who want to start learning to identify birds by sound, as several of the birds that make their homes here or arrive for the summer have distinctive songs and calls. (I’ll email some suggested birds ... Read more

Event Series Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline, Oakland

Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline, Oakland

Arrowhead Marsh - MLK Regional Shoreline Park 81 Swan Way, Oakland, CA

Join us to restore shoreline habitat for endangered Ridgway's Rails and other waterfront birds in this lovely, popular Oakland park. Our work sessions always include some time looking for and learning about local bird life! Wear closed-toe shoes, and bring and wear a Covid mask. You may bring your own gloves, or we can provide ... Read more

Lake Merritt and Lakeside Park (Oakland)

Come see what's happening at Lake Merritt as spring winds toward summer. Most of the winter migrants will be gone, but we have a chance to see some laggards, plus some local residents in the family-growth business.... MASKS REQUIRED FOR THIS WALK.  Leader: Hilary Powers, hilary@salamanderfeltworks.com, Lyla Arum, lyla.arum@gmail.com This trip is free but advance ... Read more

Jewel Lake (Berkeley)

All shapes, sizes are welcome, though LGBTQ+ and BIPOC folks are especially invited to this participatory field trip. We all benefit when anyone shares their observations, knowledge and enthusiasm!  Binoculars help, so let Rachel know in advance if you’d like a loaner pair. We'll explore 1-2 miles on flat terrain from the parking lot to ... Read more

Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park (Stream Trail)

This is a shorter trip with less walking than our usual field trips at this location.  We will enjoy quality time, what Malcolm Margolis calls “deep hanging out,” but will finish before it gets really hot and the park gets very crowded on Memorial Day Weekend. Special target birds include California Quail, Wilson’s Warbler, Pacific-slope ... Read more