MDBA Field Trip -- Putah Creek
2026-01-06 09:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Putah Creek Road, 3836 Putah Creek Rd, Winters, CA, 95694, United States
This is a great chance to see a variety of birds and ducks along Putah Creek and Lake Solano. Possible species include Osprey, Lewis’s Woodpecker, Phainopepla, Barrow’s Goldeneye and Hooded Merganser. Dress warmly; this is a cold, windy area. Bring lunch. Exact itinerary to be determined the day of the trip. Rain cancels.
Hike rating: 1 – Easy.
Elevation change: Minor
Co-Leaders: Maren Smith, 925-322-9477, and Susana de Trapaga
Meet: 9 AM at the large gravel pull-out on the right side of Putah Creek Road, west of the Lake Solano dam.
GPS: 38.489104513137754, -122.01167874098729
Directions: When driving from the Bay Area to Vacaville on I-80, take Exit 51A at Cherry Glen and Lagoon Valley Roads. Turn left to cross over the freeway, heading north, and drive approximately 1 mile on Cherry Glen Road to stop sign at Pleasants Valley Road. Turn left on Pleasants Valley Road. Drive 12 miles and keep an eye out for Yellow-billed Magpies and raptors. Turn right on Putah Creek Road, and drive about 1.2 miles, to the large gravel parking turn-out on the right (with “no camping, no dumping” signs). About 1 hour drive from Walnut Creek area.
Bring $8 cash—in exact bills—for the parking fee!
This hike is limited to 20 participants. All field trips require registration and participants must acknowledge the MDBA liability waiver. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/putah-creek-birding-tickets-1972930092015
(Photo: Female Phainopepla at Putah Creek by Isaac Aronow)

Monthly Program: January 2026
2026-01-08 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Bornean Bristlehead. Photo by Bob Lewis.
The Importance of Islands to Avian Evolution
Bob Lewis

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, January 8 in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94598.
6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Announcements
7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:30 PM Main Program: The Importance of Islands to Avian Evolution
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea

Islands play a pivotal role in both the evolution of new avian species and the extinction of others. Because islands are isolated landmasses, species that arrive there evolve separately from their parent groups, eventually becoming unique through genetic drift. However, because island species are restricted to small areas with limited populations, they are highly susceptible to natural disasters—such as hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, and rising sea levels—as well as human-caused pressures. This talk focuses on the issues unique to islands and how we might protect these vulnerable species.

Bob has taught birding classes in the Bay Area for over 25 years and is an avid traveler, specifically seeking out islands in search of birds. He is a board member of the Farallon Islands Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering life on islands. He has visited many of the world’s major biodiversity hotspots, including Madagascar, Borneo, Hawaii, Indonesia, New Guinea, New Zealand, and Cuba.

Eastern Crested Berrypecker. Photo By Bob Lewis

MDBA Field Trip -- Bridgeway Island Pond, West Sacramento
2026-01-22 09:15 - 13:00 | McDonald’s West Sacramento, 2244 Lake Washington Blvd., West Sacramento, CA, 95691
Bridgeway Island Pond in West Sacramento is a low-key birding hotspot, offering fairly close views of an assortment of waterfowl and shorebirds. In past years it’s been a great spot for Blue-winged Teal, as well as American Avocet, Cinnamon Teal, and Sora. Easy access with a mostly flat, grassy area. Not much walking will be required, more standing and observing at different areas along the pond. We’ll make another bird-related stop afterwards, to be determined based on weather. Last year we visited the Raptor Center in Davis.
This is a good trip for beginning birders!
Hike rating: 1 – Easy.
Leader: Mona Lange, 510-414-2959
Meet: the McDonalds at 2244 Lake Washington Blvd. in West Sacramento at 9:15 AM for a restroom stop, proceeding to the pond by 9:30.
Directions: Take 80 East toward Sacramento. Exit at Enterprise and Harbor Blvd (exit 81) and go Right. Take the 2nd Left to Industrial Blvd. After a few miles Industrial Blvd changes its name to Lake Washington Blvd. Make a Left on Southport Parkway and then first left to enter the shopping center. Another first Left then leads to the McDonalds.
GPS for the 9:15 meeting point at McDonalds: 38.556747929224194, -121.5399085526047
After McDonalds we’ll go back out to Southport making a Right onto it. Going a few more miles, make a Right on Oakland Bay Drive. First Right onto Bowen Island street which changes to Solomon Island Rd as it goes around the corner. First Right takes you to where we’ll park for the pond, on Pender Island Street. We may have to park in the neighborhood also.
GPS for the Pond, where we expect to arrive by 9:30: 38.540701884803845, -121.57782606798398
This outing is limited to 12 birders of any experience level, including beginners. Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-bridgeway-island-pond-west-sacramento-tickets-1974369101130
(Photo: Blue-winged Teal, by Mona Lange)

MDBA Field Trip -- Woodbridge Road & Sandhill Crane Fly-In
2026-01-25 15:30 - 18:00 | Woodbridge Ecological Reserve, 7730 W Woodbridge Rd, Lodi, CA, 95242
This outing is especially suitable for people with mobility issues.
A very special trip arranged with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. At 3:45 PM we’ll meet their volunteer docents at the South Unit of the Woodbridge Ecological Reserve, near Lodi, where they will introduce us to the many waterfowl and shorebirds that winter in the area.
About 90 minutes before sunset, we will move over to the blinds that overlook the roosting area for Sandhill Cranes. We’ll be able to sit and watch as hundreds of cranes fly in for the evening. It’s a spectacular event!
This trip is open to all MDBA members of any birding level of experience, and especially suitable for those with mobility issues. The platform overlooking the ponds at the South Unit—our first stop—is about 40 yards from the handicapped parking spots, up a short, accessible ramp. The blinds where we’ll sit and watch the cranes fly in are also just a short walk over level ground from the parking spots. There are toilets at the South Unit (and I think at the North Unit too, though I’m not sure.)
MDBA trip coordinator Matt Tarlach plans to drive a carpool to accommodate any member who doesn’t want to drive this distance (Woodbridge Reserve is a little over an hour from Heather Farm), or drive back after dark. If you would like to ride with this group, please email ASAP after signing up, so he knows how many would like to join the carpool. We may rent a minivan or other vehicle, depending on what’s needed.
Leader: Matt Tarlach, MDBAFieldtrips@gmail.com
Hike Rating: 0. A few very short walks over flat terrain.
Meet: Carpool will meet at Heather Farm. If driving on your own, meet at 3:45 at the South Unit of Woodbridge Ecological Reserve
GPS for the meeting point: 38.15775478150474, -121.44355433233056
Trip goes rain or shine. The blinds are open and unheated, so dress to sit outdoors until after sunset, about 90 minutes.
There is room in the blinds for about 25 people but parking for only about 14 cars. Plan to drive with a friend, or to share a casual carpool with another member.
Due to the capacity limit and expected strong interest, this trip is for MDBA members only. Members may bring a guest; if you’d like to bring more than one guest please email the leader before booking. If you may bring children, please consider the need to sit quietly outdoors, on a cool evening, for over an hour.
There is no charge by MDBA for this event—including for the carpool, if needed. However, every attendee must have a Lands Pass from the CA DFW: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing/Lands-Pass
Sign up at the link below. And if the outing is ‘Sold Out’, please join the waitlist! There are usually some cancellations from the early bookings:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/woodbridge-road-sandhill-crane-fly-in-tickets-1980437460757
(image of Sandhill Cranes by Sharon Anderson)

Monthly Program: February 2026
2026-02-05 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Brandt’s Cormorant, Photo by Farallon Institute.
Alcatraz Island – A Climate Refuge for Seabirds
Julie Thayer

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, February 5 in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94598.
6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Announcements
7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:30 PM Main Program: Alcatraz Island – A Climate Refuge for Seabirds
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea

Alcatraz Island’s Brandt’s Cormorants moved into San Francisco Bay in the early 1990s during a coastward population shift. Alcatraz is now one of the largest Brandt’s Cormorant breeding colonies, and one of only two estuarine colonies. Alcatraz seabirds, including Pigeon Guillemots and Western Gulls, have been outperforming their ocean counterparts despite a high level of human disturbance in this urban setting. The bay hosts a large anchovy population and demersal fish nursery, with strong tidal currents and the river plume into the ocean concentrating prey for seabirds and other predators. We are working to mitigate anthropogenic stressors to support this important colony and increase seabird resilience to climate change.

Julie Thayer has worked in the California Current marine ecosystem for three decades, with a brief hiatus on the north coast of Brazil. She studied at the University of California at Santa Cruz/Long Marine Lab and UC Davis in Marine Biology and Ecology. Thayer has done field research on Alcatraz seabirds, studying population changes, diet, productivity, and human disturbance since 1997.

Seabird colony at Alcatraz Island, Photo: Zoe Burr

MDBA Field Trip -- Bodega Bay
2026-02-07 09:30 - 15:00 | Tides Restaurant Bodega Bay, 835Bay Highway, Bodega Bay, CA, 94923, United States
Why do we go all the way to Bodega Bay? To see loons close up – the Common, Pacific, and Red-throated species are all possible. To see Brant, the sea geese that spend the winter here. To see Double-crested, Brandt’s and Pelagic cormorants side-by-side, to strengthen our ID skills. This is a great place for birders of all levels and birders new to Northern California.
We’ll meet at 9:30 am at the Tides Wharf and Restaurant, outside on the deck behind the restaurant. There are restrooms here. From the Tides we’ll drive out to Bodega Head, and later bird Porto Bodega and other stops around the bay. Precise itinerary tbd by tides and conditions.
This is the Norcal coast so be prepared for damp, cool, breezy weather—regardless of the forecast. Bring lunch, as we will gather for a picnic lunch out near Bodega Head. There are restrooms at the meeting point, and pit toilets at several stops along our route.
A carpool location will be announced. Given the distance, and limited parking at some of our stops, it is helpful to carpool either from our home area or once we set out from the Tides.
Hike Rating: 1 – Easy, with little elevation change.
Leader: Matt Tarlach, mdbafieldtrips@gmail.com
Meeting point: Behind the Tides Restaurant, Bodega Bay.
GPS: 38.328869668535894, -123.04502163182391
Directions: Take US 101 north to Petaluma. Exit at Washington and head SW. Washington becomes Bodega Ave, which becomes Petaluma-Valley Ford Rd, which eventually merges into CA Hwy 1. Take Hwy 1 to Bodega Bay. After passing the Inn at the Tides, you’ll see the Tides Restaurant on the left. From Walnut Creek, it’s about a 2 hour drive.
Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-around-bodega-bay-tickets-1980647264285
(image by Pam Lorenz)

MDBA Field Trip -- The Delta including Cosumnes Preserve
2026-02-11 08:45 - 14:00 | Westgate Landing Regional Park, 4GF5+HP, Terminous, CA, 95242, United States
We’ll take a few short-to-medium walks at locations in the Delta, hoping to see Tundra Swans, Sandhill Cranes, raptors and grassland birds. A highlight is Cosumnes Preserve. Trip will go in light rain. Bring lunch and a beverage.
Leader: Mona Lange
Hike rating: 1 – Easy.
Elevation change: Minor
Meet: 8:45 AM in Westgate Landing Park at end of Glasscock Road.
GPS for meeting point: 38.12455685348655, -121.49006201506424
Directions: Take SR 4 to Antioch Bridge, go north on SR 160 along river to Rio Vista bridge. Turn right on SR 12 for 11.5 miles. East of Terminous, turn right onto the exit to Glasscock Rd. The road will go under the bridge. Turn left onto Glasscock Rd. proper and continue to the park at the end. After meeting at Westgate Landing and a quick check of the area within view, we’ll continue towards Thornton.
This field trip is limited to 14 participants. All trips require registration and participants must acknowledge the MDBA liability waiver, available during registration.
Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-in-the-delta-including-cosumnes-preserve-tickets-1980645235216
(image of Red-winged Blackbird by Mona Lange)

MDBA Field Trip -- Sunset Birding at Pacheco Marsh
2026-02-12 15:00 - 18:00 | Pacheco Marsh, 2501 Waterfront Rd, Martinez, CA, 94553
Pacheco Marsh is a diverse new habitat managed by the John Muir Land Trust. Hosting many species, it is especially known as a good place to spot Short-eared Owls near sunset. We will walk out along level paths in search of marshland birds, including ducks and rails, and hope to see owls in flight as the sun sinks low.
There is a bathroom at the trailhead. The marsh is on the edge of Suisun Bay, and it may be cooler and breezier than locations farther inland, so dress accordingly.
Note: I know the image above is not of a Short-eared Owl! I haven’t captured an image of our target bird on this outing—yet.
Hike Rating: 2 – Walking of a little over a mile on smooth, level paths.
Leader: Ted Robertson, tedr@berkeley.edu
Meet: Pacheco Marsh Preserve, Waterfront Road, Martinez.
GPS: 38.030855340180295, -122.08804788860651
Directions from Walnut Creek: I-680 north to Marina Vista exit. At the light, turn right, and proceed 1.4 miles to Pacheco Marsh on the left.
This trip is limited to 24 participants, and will be cross-promoted with JMLT — so sign up early to ensure your spot. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sunset-birding-at-pacheco-marsh-tickets-1980650802869
(Image of Great-horned Owl by Matt Tarlach)

MDBA Field Trip -- Sunday at the Sewage Ponds (Las Gallinas)
2026-02-22 08:30 - 13:00 | Las Gallinas Ponds, Las Gallinas Valley birding loop, Smith Ranch Rd, San Rafael, CA, 94903
The Las Gallinas Sanitary District maintains a complex of water treatment ponds that are a magnet for migratory waterfowl. Dozens of waterfowl species can be seen here in the winter. The presence of similar species in close proximity, such as Canada Geese and Cackling Geese, Horned Grebes and Eared Grebes, and Snowy Egrets and Great Egrets; makes it a great opportunity to sharpen one’s ID skills. If we’re very lucky, we may even get to see more uncommon species like Eurasian Wigeon or Least Bittern.
This is a good outing for beginner birders to see a diverse mix of northern California winter waterfowl, and sharpen their ID skills. If you have a scope, do bring it, as they’re helpful here.
There is one portable bathroom at the trailhead, no drinking water, and it’s colder at the reservoir than it usually is inland. Please plan accordingly.
Hike Rating: 1 – Easy. Mostly level paths, up to 1 mile walking
Leader: Elisa Fernandes-McDade, elisa.fernandesmcdade@gmail.com
Meet: Las Gallinas Reservoir Birding Loop on Smith Ranch Rd., San Rafael, CA.
GPS: 38.025632105791466, -122.51775182773106
Directions: Take I-580 West toward San Rafael. Go over the San Rafael Bridge. Then, merge onto US-101 North. Stay on the 101 for 4.5 miles, then take Exit 456 onto Smith Ranch Rd. Stay on Smith Ranch Rd. for 1.5 miles until you reach a small parking lot on your left before the small reservoir building. There is a portable restroom and a bridge leading to the trailhead there.
This event is limited to 15 participants. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sunday-birding-at-the-sewage-ponds-las-gallinas-tickets-1980649112814
(Image by Linda Kwong)

MDBA Field Trip -- Contra Costa City Parks
2026-02-25 08:30 - 12:00 | Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Dr, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
This is a great outing for beginning birders!
Starting in Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek, we will walk around the large, mostly natural pond. From there we will carpool to two or three other area parks, to be determined on the day of the trip.
Trail Rating: Category 1-Easy. Up to a mile walking total, on level paths.
Elevation change: Minor
Leaders: Randi and Herb Long, hrlong13@sbcglobal.net
Meet: Wooden railing at the Natural Lake in Heather Farm (not the pond surrounded with concrete.)
GPS: 37.92123253937827, -122.04360842199883
Directions: Turn into the park on North San Carlos Drive from Ygnacio Valley Road. This is east of John Muir Hospital, the intersection has a Shell and a Chevron gas station. Drive to the stop sign past the community building and turn left into the parking lot. The wooden railing is straight ahead.
The field trip is limited to 14 participants. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-contra-costa-city-parks-tickets-1980724436108
(Image of White-breasted Nuthatch by Matt Tarlach)

MDBA Field Trip -- Valle Vista
2026-03-03 08:00 - 12:00 | Valle Vista, RVC6+WQ, Moraga, CA, 94556, United States
**NOTE THIS FIELD TRIP DATE HAS CHANGED FROM 2/16 TO 3/3 DUE TO WEATHER**
A walk through various habitats at this EBMUD property usually allows us to see 40-50 species. Bring your EBMUD trail pass, if you have one. This property is at the upstream end of the Upper San Leandro Reservoir. If it has been raining, the first section could be a bit muddy, but most of the route is on a gravel trail or road.
This is a good outing for beginning birders.
Trail Rating: Category 2, Moderate. About a mile and a half walk, possible patches of mud, some short inclines.
Elevation change: Minor
Leader: Ted Robertson, tedr@berkeley.edu
Meet: Valle Vista Staging Area, Canyon Road
GPS: 37.82230052053301, -122.13798507376949
Directions: From SR 24 in Orinda, take Moraga Way to Moraga. From Mt. Diablo Blvd in Lafayette, take Moraga Road south to Moraga. At the Chevron station, go south 1 mile on Canyon Road to Valle Vista Staging Area.
This field trip is limited to 16 participants. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-valle-vista-tickets-1980773515907
(Image of Red-breasted Sapsucker by Isaac Aronow)

Monthly Program: March 2026
2026-03-05 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
In the Shadow of the Bridge: Birds of the Bay Area
Dick Evans and Hannah Hindley

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, March 5 in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94598.
6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Announcements
7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:30 PM Main Program: In the Shadow of the Bridge: Birds of the Bay Area
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea

Join photographer Dick Evans and essayist Hannah Hindley for a lively talk inspired by their new book, In the Shadow of the Bridge: Birds of the Bay Area (Heyday Books, 2025). Blending striking photography with beautiful storytelling, they’ll share the creative journey behind the book, highlight regional conservation stories, and offer tips on bird photography as well as resources for more deeply knowing and protecting our local avian world. Proceeds from the book will benefit Point Blue Conservation Science, whose scientists guided Dick and Hannah into the world of birds and will join them onstage for this presentation. This talk invites readers, birders, and nature lovers to discover the human and natural forces that make this region one of the richest places on the continent for birdwatching.
Dick Evans became interested in photography as a graduate student at Stanford University and continued his practice throughout a forty-seven-year career in the global metals industry that took him all over the world. San Francisco always remained home base, though, and he now lives in the city with his wife, Gretchen. Evans is the author or coauthor of the photography books San Francisco and the Bay Area: The Haight-Ashbury Edition, The Mission, and San Francisco’s Chinatown.
Hannah Hindley is a wilderness guide and the recipient of the Thomas Wood Award in Journalism, the Ellen Meloy Desert Writers Award, and the Barry Lopez Prize in Nonfiction. She graduated from Harvard with degrees in English and evolutionary biology; she holds an MFA in creative nonfiction from University of Arizona. Her environmental essays can be found in Bay Nature, The Sun, Hakai, and more. Hannah writes about small creatures, big landscapes, and the scientists who love them.
Lishka Arata is Point Blue’s Communications Manager and supports, facilitates, and leads science communications to engage more people in conservation action. She is committed to conserving and restoring the natural world and cultivating a sustainable future where people, wildlife, ecology, and economy are working together in one big, mutually beneficial system.

Pacific Brown Pelicans – Marin Headlands, photo by Dick Evans

MDBA Field Trip -- Winter Waterfowl in Walnut Creek
2026-03-13 09:00 - 11:00 | Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Carlos Dr, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
A short-and-easy bird walk with the Mt. Diablo Bird Alliance. Non-members are welcome, with pre-registration.
This is a great outing for beginning birders!
Heather Farms is a small pocket of wildlife habitat in suburban Walnut Creek. It provides a nice mix of riparian, oak woodland, and wetland habitat that attract many winter visitors such as the handsome Bufflehead pictured, Northern Flickers and Ring-necked Decks.
Trail Rating: Category 1 – Easy. Under a mile walking total, mostly on paved paths.
Elevation change: None
Leader: Elisa Fernandes-McDade, elisa.fernandesmcdade@gmail.com
Meet: The Natural Lake in Heather Farm (not the pond surrounded with concrete.) Meet at the lookout below the parking lot.
GPS: 37.92123253937827, -122.04360842199883
Directions: Turn into the park on North San Carlos Drive from Ygnacio Valley Road. This is east of John Muir Hospital, the intersection has a Shell and a Chevron gas station. Drive to the stop sign past the community building and turn left into the parking lot. The wooden railing is straight ahead.
The field trip is limited to 12 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver (available during registration).
Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-waterfowl-in-walnut-creek-tickets-1980774346391

MDBA Field Trip -- Contra Loma Regional Park
2026-03-19 08:30 - 13:00 | Contra Loma Reservoir, 1200 Frederickson Ln, Antioch, CA, 94509, United States
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.
Hike Rating: 2, Moderate. We usually walk just over a mile. Elevation change is minimal, with optional excursions of up to 200 yards over turf.
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Mona Lange
Meet: Contra Loma Regional Park–Channel Point Parking Lot
GPS: 37.97200543351621, -121.82718089904367
Directions: From Hwy. 4 in Antioch, go south on Lone Tree Way. Continue south to Golf Course Road and turn right. Continue on Golf Course Road to Frederickson Lane, turn right and continue into the park and the entry kiosk. Fee required at kiosk. Turn left and park in the first lot on the right, Channel Point Parking Lot.
This field trip is limited to 15 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver (available during registration). Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-contra-loma-regional-park-tickets-1980654324402
(Image of American Bittern with a fish by Isaac Aronow)

MDBA Field Trip -- Birding Moorhen Marsh
2026-03-25 08:30 - 12:00 | Mountain View Sanitary District, 3800 Arthur Rd, Martinez, CA, 94553, United States
An outing for birders of all experience levels, and especially good for beginners.
Moorhen Marsh in Martinez was one of the first water treatment facilities in the US designed to provide healthy habitat for birds. Today its several ponds are home to many resident species, and it’s often visited by migrants as well. Managed by the Mountain View Sanitary District, Moorhen Marsh is open for birding only by appointment. This is not a two-day class: Similar outings will be held on both Wednesday and Sunday, to accommodate various schedules.
We’ll meet at 8:30AM in front of the MVSD administration building, then proceed together into Moorhen Marsh. There will be a short introductory presentation on the birds we hope to see and on birding in general. Then we’ll take a walk around the marsh, hoping to see and hear egrets, herons, warblers and wrens, with raptors and other species also possible. As we depart Moorhen Marsh we’ll stop at Waterbird Regional Preserve, just across the freeway, where we’ll use scopes to identify the variety of long-legged shorebirds, ducks, and more who winter there.
Binoculars will be available to lend. If you’d like to borrow a pair please contact the leader in advance, so we have enough on hand.
Hike Rating: 1 – Easy. Under 1 mile on flat terrain. Unpaved paths, potentially muddy if it’s rained recently.
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Matthew Tarlach, MDBAFieldtrips@gmail.com, Cheryl Abel and Elisa Fernandes-McDade.
Meet: In front of the MVSD administration building at 8:30AM. Please note that Moorhen Marsh is gated. If you’re more than a few minutes late you won’t be able to get in.
Directions: From I-680 northbound, exit at Pacheco Blvd, turn right onto Arthur Road and go under the freeway. At the end of Arthur Road, continue ahead and left through the MVSD gate. Follow the service road about half a mile and proceed through the tunnel under the freeway—watch for oncoming traffic! After emerging from the tunnel, the admin building will be on your right.
Register HERE for Wednesday March 25:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-moorhen-marsh-tickets-1983167706997
or HERE for the same itinerary on Sunday March 29:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-moorhen-marsh-beginners-welcome-tickets-1983197453971
(Image of Black-crowned Night Herons by Isaac Aronow)

MDBA Field Trip -- Birding Moorhen Marsh
2026-03-29 08:30 - 12:00 | Mountain View Sanitary District, 3800 Arthur Rd, Martinez, CA, 94553, United States
An outing for birders of all experience levels, and especially good for beginners.
Moorhen Marsh in Martinez was one of the first water treatment facilities in the US designed to provide healthy habitat for birds. Today its several ponds are home to many resident species, and it’s often visited by migrants as well. Managed by the Mountain View Sanitary District, Moorhen Marsh is open for birding only by appointment. This is not a two-day class: Similar outings will be held on both Wednesday and Sunday, to accommodate various schedules.
We’ll meet at 8:30AM in front of the MVSD administration building, then proceed together into Moorhen Marsh. There will be a short introductory presentation on the birds we hope to see and on birding in general. Then we’ll take a walk around the marsh, hoping to see and hear egrets, herons, warblers and wrens, with raptors and other species also possible. As we depart Moorhen Marsh we’ll stop at Waterbird Regional Preserve, just across the freeway, where we’ll use scopes to identify the variety of long-legged shorebirds, ducks, and more who winter there.
Binoculars will be available to lend. If you’d like to borrow a pair please contact the leader in advance, so we have enough on hand.
Hike Rating: 1 – Easy. Under 1 mile on flat terrain. Unpaved paths, potentially muddy if it’s rained recently.
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Matthew Tarlach, MDBAFieldtrips@gmail.com, Cheryl Abel and Elisa Fernandes-McDade.
Meet: In front of the MVSD administration building at 8:30AM. Please note that Moorhen Marsh is gated. If you’re more than a few minutes late you won’t be able to get in.
Directions: From I-680 northbound, exit at Pacheco Blvd, turn right onto Arthur Road and go under the freeway. At the end of Arthur Road, continue ahead and left through the MVSD gate. Follow the service road about half a mile and proceed through the tunnel under the freeway—watch for oncoming traffic! After emerging from the tunnel, the admin building will be on your right.
Register HERE for Sunday March 29:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-moorhen-marsh-beginners-welcome-tickets-1983197453971
or HERE for the same itinerary on March 25:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-moorhen-marsh-tickets-1983167706997
(Image of Black-crowned Night Herons by Isaac Aronow)

Monthly Program: April 2026
2026-04-02 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
How the East Bay Got Its Regional Parks
Amelia Marshall

Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, April 2 in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94598.
6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Announcements
7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:30 PM Main Program: History of the East Bay Regional Park District
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea

Learn about the founding of the East Bay Regional Park District with a presentation about the history of the Park District.
Amelia Sue Marshall is a 27-year volunteer for the East Bay Regional Park District, with the Volunteer Trail Patrols and the District archives and history center. There, a team of park district retirees, staff members, and others curate materials, develop oral histories, and recall stories that rarely appear in official documents. She was awarded the 2023 “Outstanding Volunteer” award by the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts.
Her first book on local history was Oakland’s Equestrian Heritage (Arcadia Publishing 2008). The second is East Bay Hills: A Brief History (The History Press, 2017), which describes the origins of parks in Oakland, Moraga, and Castro Valley. She is currently collaborating with the Verona Band of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe.
Amelia serves as trails chair for California State Horsemen’s Association. Region 5 (Alameda and Contra Costa Counties). She sits on three nonprofit boards: the Regional Park Association, the Oakland Heritage Alliance, and the Friends of Joaquin Miller Park. She and her family live on Peralta Creek in Oakland with a plus-size German Shepherd named Chewy.

MDBA Field Trip -- North Briones
2026-04-07 08:30 - 12:30 | Briones Regional Park (North), XV37+VX, Martinez, CA, 94553, United States
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, hiking about 3 miles round trip over fire roads and hilly trails. Bring liquids & a snack if you like.
Trail Rating: Category 3 – uphill climb.
Elevation change: 300+ feet.
Leader: Cheryl Abel, 925-957-6229
Meet: Parking area at the north entrance of Briones Regional Park.
Directions: Take Briones Road south off Alhambra Valley Road and drive up this narrow, winding road. Park at the end.
The field trip is limited to 15 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-north-briones-tickets-1983165537508
(Photo of Red-tailed Hawk by Isaac Aronow)

MDBA Field Trip -- Mitchell Canyon
2026-04-14 08:00 - 13:00 | Mitchell Canyon, 96 Mitchell Canyon Road, Clayton, CA, 94517, United States
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
Meet: Mitchell Canyon parking lot, Clayton.
Directions: From Ygnacio Valley Road in Concord, turn south on Clayton Road. Turn right onto Mitchell Canyon Road and drive past the quarry to the end.
Unless you have a State Parks pass a $6 parking fee is required—bring exact bills.
This field trip is limited to 15 participants. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-mitchell-canyon-tickets-1983196665613
(Wilson’s Warbler photo by Jerry Britten)

MDBA Field Trip -- Black Diamond Mines
2026-04-17 08:00 - 13:30 | Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, X45P+PP, Antioch, CA, 94565, United States
This trip includes a vigorous climb up a steep 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! The trail is rocky, and footing can be tricky—Be advised!
There is no guarantee of finding the elusive wrens, but we will certainly see many other birds. California Thrasher, Rufous-crowned Sparrow and Phainopepla are often seen here. At the worst, we will share an adventure in a beautiful and historically interesting location. Be sure to bring enough water, and lunch or a snack.
Rating: Category 3, steep rocky trail, potentially hot.
Elevation change: 600 feet
Leader: Matt Tarlach, MDBAFieldtrips@gmail.com
Meet: Black Diamond Mines parking lot at the south end of Somersville Road.
Directions: Exit Hwy 4 at Somersville Road in Antioch. Drive south, enter the park gate and drive about 1 mile uphill to the last parking lot at the road’s end.
This trip is limited to 12 participants. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-hike-at-black-diamond-mines-tickets-1983196862201
(Photo of Canyon Wren by Vicky Atkinson)

MDBA Field Trip -- Del Puerto Canyon
2026-04-21 09:00 - 15:00 | Del Puerto Canyon Rd & Diablo Grande Pkwy, Del Puerto Canyon Rd, Patterson, CA, 95363, United States
We’ll drive along Del Puerto Canyon, on the east side of the Diablo Range, looking for Canyon Wren, Costa’ s Hummingbird, Greater Roadrunner, and other special birds. 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: 1 – This is mostly a car trip, with several easy walks.
Leader: Steve Buffi (925) 200-4555
Carpools should plan to leave at 7:30 AM from Sycamore Valley Road Park and Ride. OR, meet on Del Puerto Canyon Road west of I-5 at 9 AM at the Patterson Exit (Diablo Grande Parkway and Sperry Road) off I-5 (56 miles from Sycamore Valley Road). Take I-580 east to I-5 south.
We’re usually home for dinner.
There is no capacity limit on this trip. Carpooling is strongly recommended. We usually meet at Sycamore Valley Road.
Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-del-puerto-canyon-tickets-1983169624733
(Western Kingbird photo by Isaac Aronow)

MDBA Field Trip -- Lagoon Valley & Pena Adobe
2026-04-23 09:00 - 13:30 | Peña Adobe Regional Park, 4699 Peña Adobe Rd., Vacaville, CA, 95687
We will first bird at Pena Adobe Park, located off I-80 just west of Vacaville. Pena Adobe is a historic park with well established trees, including an orange tree planted as early as the1860s. Birds we’ve seen here include Brown Creeper, Hermit Thrush and Black-headed Grosbeak.
After exploring Pena Adobe we will drive to Lagoon Valley Park. There is a $5 parking fee here, and note the kiosk only takes either exact cash—no change given!—or debit/credit card. Birds seen at Lagoon Valley have included Western Bluebird, Cliff Swallow, Bullock’s Oriole and Western Kingbird. If the lake level is low, there is a good chance for Wilson’s Snipe and Greater Yellow-legs. Bufflehead and American Wigeon are often among the waterbirds on the lake.
Trail Rating: 1 – Easy. Mostly level paths.
Leader: Mona Lange, 510-414-2959
Meet: Pena Adobe Park, off I-80 between Fairfeld and Vacaville.
Directions: Take 680 to 80 East towards Sacramento. Take Exit 51B, Pena Adobe Road.
DO NOT take the Lagoon Valley Road exit. After the stop sign, proceed straight veering to the LEFT onto Pena Adobe Road. Meet at the restroom building. Address is 4699 Pena Adobe Road, Vacaville, CA.
This field trip is limited to 12 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver (available during registration). Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-lagoon-valley-tickets-1985234526911
(Photo of Brown Creeper by Mona Lange)

MDBA Field Trip -- Brannan Island & Delta Rookery
2026-05-01 08:30 - 12:30 | Brannan Island State Recreation Area, 17645 CA-160, Rio Vista, CA, 94571
We’ll start at the entrance to Brannan Island SRA, in the parking lot east side of Hwy 160. Pay the entrance fee at the station or by envelope if no one’s there, $10 or $9 for seniors. Note that most public libraries have a pass you can check out that allows free day use parking. Western Kingbird, Western Bluebird and Bullock’s Oriole have been seen there, plus raptors. Then we’ll drive to the site of a rookery where, in past years, several species of heron and egret have nested, along with cormorants. There are picnic tables from which you can enjoy the rookery while having a snack. This trip is good for beginners.
Hike Rating: 1, Easy. A few walks on level trails adding up to probably less than a mile.
Elevation change: N/A
Leader: Mona Lange, 510-414-2959
Meet: Brannan Island State Recreation Area. GPS: 38.11017164265391, -121.6966400433512
Directions: Central Contra Cost take Hwy 4 towards Antioch. Where the highway forks take Hwy 160 north over the Antioch Bridge (toll). After crossing the bridge, continue about 7 miles to Brannan Island. The park entrance is on your right, 1/4 mile after crossing 3-Mile Slough. Meet at the parking lot, 200 yards east of Hwy 160.
This field trip is limited to 12 participants. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-brannan-island-delta-rookery-tickets-1985233802745
(Image of Great Blue Heron by Warren Regelmann)

MDBA Field Trip -- West Briones Regional Park
2026-05-05 08:30 - 13:00 | Bear Creek Staging Area Briones, Bear Creek Staging Area, 16 Bear Creek Rd, Lafayette, CA, 94549, United States
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.
There’s a nice picnic area here so consider bringing lunch and staying a while. It might get warm before our walk is done, so bring sufficient water.
Leader: Cheryl Abel
Rating: Category 2–moderate hiking over dirt and gravel trails with mild slopes.
Elevation change: 200 feet
Meet: Bear Creek Staging Area parking lot
Directions: From SR 24 in Orinda, drive north on Camino Pablo about 2.25 miles, turn right on Bear Creek Road, continue for 4.5 miles to park entrance. Drive to farthest parking lot on the right.
This field trip is limited to 15 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver (available during registration). Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-west-briones-regional-park-tickets-1985181520367
(Lazuli Bunting photo by Jerry Britten)

MDBA Field Trip -- East Contra Costa County
2026-05-07 08:00 - 13:00 | Big Break Regional Shoreline, 69 Big Break Road, Oakley, CA, 94561, United States
Note: this itinerary is subject to change, as migrating birds arrive and opportunities appear. Watch the May Quail, and your email in the days before the outing, for possible updates.
We plan to 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.
Hike Rating: 1-Easy
Elevation change: N/A
Leaders: Randy Huey, 925-518-8439
Meet: Big Break parking lot in Oakley at 8 AM
Directions: Take Highway 4 east toward Stockton/Pittsburg, after Antioch take right Exit 30 toward CA-160/Sacramento/Rio Vista. Take Exit 1A, East 18th/Main Street, turn right at the bottom of the exit onto Main Street, proceed east a little over 1 mile, then turn left onto Big Break Road. Turn into Big Break Regional Shoreline/Delta Science Center just past the last houses on the right.
This field trip is limited to 20 participants. Register HERE:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-eastern-contra-costa-county-tickets-1985236060498
(Photo: Western Kingbird by Mona Lange)

Monthly Program: May 2026
2026-05-07 19:00 - 20:30 | The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Rusty-collared Seedeater. Photo by Steve Hunter.
Bobcat film preview and Total Uruguay
Mount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday, May 7 in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94598.

6:30 PM Doors Open
7:00 PM Bobcat Film preview
7:15 PM Announcements
7:30 PM Refreshments and Raffle
7:45 PM Main Program: Total Uruguay
*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea
Our meeting will begin with a short preview of an upcoming film about bobcats. Vishal Subramanyan is a National Geographic Young Explorer and Osher Fellow at the California Academy of Sciences. For nearly a decade, he’s been observing the life of an urban bobcat living along the Diablo Range, and is now producing a long-term documentary film that follows this animal’s story. In this short pre-program presentation, Vishal will share a teaser from the film and behind-the-scenes footage from years of fieldwork, highlighting what bobcats can teach us about coexistence in the East Bay Area. He’ll also touch on habitat connectivity and the ripple effects of rodenticides on local wildlife, and share what’s ahead for completing the film.
Main Program: Total Uruguay with Viviana Wolinsky
Viviana Wolinsky and Steve Hunter began birding within the last decade, combining this new passion with their love of travel. Steve focuses on bird photography and provided all the bird images for the presentation. Viviana has a life-list of over 3,000 birds, more than half of which she observed in South America. She has visited Uruguay twice for birding, most recently on the Golden Gate Birding Alliance’s (GGBA) “Total Uruguay” trip, and currently holds the number 121 spot on the eBird lifetime list for the country.
Both are active GGBA volunteers. Viviana serves as an assistant instructor for Steve’s intermediate birding and sparrow classes. Together, they have led numerous local field trips and a special Birdathon trip to Colorado. Viviana also serves as the co-compiler for the Oakland Christmas Bird Count.
This presentation offers a preview of what to expect on a birding trip to Uruguay such as GGBA’s upcoming 2027 trip. While the country is roughly the size of Washington state with a climate similar to California’s, it possesses a wide range of habitats, including the Pampas, Atlantic Forest, savannas, wetlands, and palm tree forests. This diversity allows for a great variety of bird species to be seen easily across short distances. Uruguay is also a vital feeding and breeding destination for many migratory species.

Straight-billed Reedhaunters. Photo by Steve Hunter.

MDBA Field Trip -- Pine Canyon
2026-05-11 08:00 - 13:00 | Diablo Foothills Regional Park Trailhead Parking, 1700 Castle Rock Rd, Walnut Creek, 94598
Pine Canyon, which encompasses the Castle Rock (EBRPD) recreation area and Diablo Foothills Regional Park, provides rich habitat for spring migrants and returning summer residents. Warbling Vireos and their cousins, Cassin’s Vireos, both nest within the canyon. We also hope to find orioles, flycatchers, wrens, and various warblers—and if we’re lucky, a Lazuli Bunting or a Peregrine Falcon.
Please bring water, snacks, and a lunch if you would like to enjoy the shady picnic tables in the park after our trek.
Trail Rating: 2–3. Out-and-back along a wide dirt trail, with some short climbs. We’ll need to cross little Pine Creek several times – without bridges. These crossings are not deep but can be muddy or a bit adventuresome, depending on recent rains.
Elevation Change: 200 feet, in a very gradual climb
Leader: Ted Robertson, 925-899-1872
Directions: From Ygnacio Valley Road, drive south on either Walnut Avenue or Oak Grove Road to the traffic circle. Continue south on Castle Rock Road, pass Northgate High School, then drive to the end of the road.
This field trip is limited to 18 participants.
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-pine-canyon-tickets-1987369743401
(Townsend’s Warbler photo by Jerry Britten)

MDBA Field Trip — Shadow Cliffs Rookeries
2026-05-15 08:30 - 12:00 | Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area, 2500 Stanley Blvd, Pleasanton, CA, 94566, United States
Every year, Herons and Cormorants nest in the tall trees within the park’s riparian area. We will visit these rookeries, hopefully catching glimpses of chicks within the nests. The park also hosts several Wood Duck nest boxes; with luck, we may spot ducklings and other young waterfowl as well.
Shadow Cliffs, located in Pleasanton, can get quite hot this time of year. Please dress appropriately (a broad-brimmed hat is highly recommended) and bring sunscreen and plenty of water. There is a restroom located near the trailhead.
Please factor in the potential for traffic when planning your departure.
Parking Fee: $5 per vehicle.
Trail Rating: 2 – One hill to get onto the levee trail and just over a mile of walking with few places to sit.
Leader: Elisa Fernandes-McDade (elisa.fernandesmcdade@gmail.com)
Meet: Small shade structure near Levee Trail trailhead and next to the shaded/solar panel parking lot
GPS: 37.9277763, -122.0644239. Shadow Cliffs Regional Park, 2500 Stanley Blvd, Pleasanton, CA 94566 USA
Directions: From Walnut Creek, take I-680 South. In Dublin, take Exit 30 to merge onto I-580 East toward Stockton. Stay on the I-580 for about 3 miles, then take Exit 47 for Santa Rita Rd toward Tassajara Rd. After about 1.5 miles, take a left onto Valley Ave. After about 1 mile, take another left onto Stanley Blvd. Continue for 1 mile, then turn right into the Shadow Cliffs entrance.
There will be a large, brown sign with white lettering. After paying at the entry kiosk and going through the roundabout, turn right into the parking lot with solar panels near the base of the hills.
This trip is limited to 20 participants. Carpooling is encouraged!
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-shadow-cliffs-registration-1987575958195
(Photo of Great Blue Heron by Warren Regelmann)

Student Cello Recital Fundraiser for MDBA
2026-05-21 15:00 - 17:00 | San Ramon Valley High School Performing Arts Center, 501 Danville Blvd, Danville, CA, 94526
Olivia Qian, a junior at San Ramon Valley High School (SRVHS) and founder of the school’s bird-watching club, is hosting a solo cello recital fundraiser on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 3:00 PM. The performance will take place at the San Ramon Valley High School Performing Arts Center and will feature masterworks by Bach, Saint-Saëns, Elgar, and Lalo.
All proceeds from the event will be donated to support the conservation programs of the Mount Diablo Bird Alliance. In addition to the performance, MDBA members will be on-site to share information about local bird conservation efforts and how you can get involved.
Join us for an afternoon of beautiful music and community spirit in support of birds and their habitats.
Suggested donation: $7 online or bring cash in exact change.
View the fundraiser flyer for additional details.

MDBA Field Trip -- Point Reyes
2026-05-30 08:30 - 15:00 | Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center, 1 Drake Beach Rd, Inverness, CA, 94937, United States
Point Reyes is one of the premier birding locations in Northern California and a renowned spot for finding rarities during migration—such as the Prairie Warbler pictured above (image by Beth Branthaver). MDBA visits at least twice a year; on our spring trip, we hope to observe northbound migrants as well as resident birds in their finest breeding plumage.
The exact itinerary will depend on the weather, but after checking Drakes Beach and the lagoon behind it, we will likely visit the Lighthouse area and the “fish docks.” After lunch, we may walk down the Avenue of Cypresses to the historic RCA building.
Please bring water and lunch, as this area is remote. The weather at the Point is highly changeable; bring warmer clothing than you think you’ll need—ensuring you include a windproof layer—as well as sun protection.
Trail Rating: 2 — up to a mile total walk, almost entirely on paved roads but with some moderate grade.
Elevation Change: 100 ft
Leader: Matt Tarlach, mdbafieldtrips@gmail.com
Meet: Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center, Drake’s Beach
GPS: 38.027828257127936, -122.96201741318059
Directions: Depending on your starting point, take the best route to San Rafael and go North on US 101. From 101, take Lucas Valley Road to Nicasio. At the reservoir, turn left. Follow signs to Point Reyes Station, and when you get to town turn left onto US-1. After passing through town (the Bovine Bakery is a tasty stop for breakfast pastries), turn right from US-1 onto Sir Francis Drake Blvd and follow it for 15 miles to Drakes Beach Road.
Due to limited parking, this trip is limited to 12 participants. Carpooling is encouraged!
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/point-reyes-registration-1987575551980
(Prairie Warbler photo by Beth Branthaver)
