Phainopeplas are the only representatives of the silky flycatcher family that are regularly found in the US. In Contra Costa County, they are most commonly found east of Mount Diablo in winter, but in summer they can also be found locally in select places. We’ll search Lime Ridge for Phainopeplas early in the day before the heat kicks in. Keep an eye out for clumps of mistletoe in the oaks, which the birds love. We’ll also have a chance to see other summer visitors including Ash-throated Flycatcher, Western Kingbird, and multiple swallow species.

Water, sunscreen, and shade are musts on this hike! Even by late morning it can get quite warm.

Trail Rating: 3 – Dry, hilly, potentially hot, and more than a mile.
Leader: Elisa Fernandes-McDade,
Meeting Point: 5150 Montecito Dr, Concord, CA 94521. There are multiple access points along Lime Ridge. We’ll meet at the parking lot just off Ygnacio Valley Road.
GPS: 37.94668064840542, -121.99249383706143

Directions: (Northbound) Take I-680 north. Take Exit 44 for Rudgear Rd and continue on South Broadway for 1 mile. Take a right onto Newell Ave and be prepared to take the next left in 300 ft onto Newell Hill Pl. Turn left onto San Miguel Dr. Be prepared to take the next right in 300ft onto Sierra Dr. In half a mile, turn left onto Walnut Blvd and continue for another half mile before turning left onto Ygnacio Valley Blvd. Continue for 5 miles. Turn right onto Montecito Dr. The destination will be on your right just after the intersection.

This outing is limited to 15 people. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/search-for-the-silky-flycatcher-tickets-1989778836062

(Image of Phainopepla by Maren Smith)