We will be birding the reservoir, Loma Island and surrounding grassland areas. Expected species include waterfowl, woodland, riparian/marsh, shore and grassland birds. Dress appropriately, bring lunch and drinks. Rating: Category 2, Moderate. About a mile walk, some of it on turf. Elevation change: Minor Leader: Mona Lange Meet: Contra Loma Regional Park, Channel Point Parking […]

This walk begins in oak woodlands with lots of spring wildflowers and birds. We then continue up through grasslands, ending at Sindicich Lagoons. We return the way we came, with about 3 miles round trip over hilly trails. Bring liquids & a snack if you like. Trail Rating: Category 3 - uphill climb Elevation change: […]

This trip includes a steep climb up a rocky trail with an elevation gain of several hundred feet. Why make the climb? Because the location offers the best chance in our MDBA territory to see and hear Canyon Wrens! Footing can be tricky---be advised! There is no guarantee on finding the wrens, but we will […]

We will walk into Mitchell Canyon on the lower slopes of Mount Diablo State Park. Many spring birds are possible here: warblers, hummingbirds, flycatchers, gnatcatchers and more. Spring flowers will be blooming. Trail Rating: Category 3. 3+ miles on a potentially hot, dusty trail. Elevation change: up to 400 feet Leader: Sandy Ritchie, (925) 381-2514 […]

As we drive along Del Puerto Canyon, on the east side of the Diablo Range, we'll be looking for Canyon Wren, Costa’ s Hummingbird, Greater Roadrunner, and other goodies. It can get very warm! Bring lunch and plenty of liquids as this trip takes us further from conveniences that most of our outings. Trail Rating: […]

We will walk into Mitchell Canyon on the lower slopes of Mount Diablo State Park. Many spring birds are possible here: warblers, hummingbirds, flycatchers, gnatcatchers and more. Spring flowers will be blooming. Bring a lunch too, if you'd like to sit down and eat with the group at the end of the trip. Trail Rating: […]

This fieldtrip is good for birders of all levels, including beginners. Pine Canyon, which includes the Castle Rock EBRPD recreational area and the Diablo Foothills Regional Park just beyond, provides rich habitat and resources for spring migrants passing through, as well as for many returning and nesting summer residents. Warbling Vireos along with their cousins, […]

A visit to the west entrance of Briones Regional Park in the spring offers views of spring wildflowers and spring birds. Lazuli Buntings are often present, along with flycatchers, vireos, and many other species. Bring water and snacks. It might be warm by mid-day. Leader: Cheryl Abel Rating: Category 2--moderate hiking over dirt and gravel […]

We will meet at Big Break/Delta Science Center. After birding there we'll drive to Marsh Creek Trail and, if time permits, Bethel Island. These locations are usually good for waterfowl, raptors and some passerines not easily found elsewhere in the county. It may get hot by mid-day. This trip is appropriate for birders of all […]

An evening walk from Hidden Lakes to Hidden Valley Park and back, to look for owls. We’ll first hike to the eucalyptus grove Hidden Valley Park to try to catch Great Horned Owls dueting. As we make our way back to Hidden Lakes, we’ll keep our eyes and ears out for Barn Owls and other […]

Point Reyes is one of the premiere birding locations in Northern California, a great spot to find rarities during migration---like the Prairie Warbler pictured above (image by Beth Branthaver). MDBA tries to visit at least twice a year. On our spring trip we hope to see northbound migrants as well as resident birds in their […]