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DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241107T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241107T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241020T033005Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241020T033400Z
UID:8666-1731006000-1731011400@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:Monthly Program: November 2024
DESCRIPTION:Pied Barbet\, Namibia. Photo by J. Britten \nBirds of Namibia\nJerry Britten\n \n\nMount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday\, November 7\, in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm. \n6:30 PM Doors Open\n7:00 PM Announcements\n7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle\n7:30 PM Main Program: Birds of Namibia\n*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea \n7:30 PM Main Program: Namibia Birds\n \n\n\nJerry Britten \n\nEarlier this year\, MDBA President Jerry Britten\, his wife and another couple set off on a self-driving adventure to explore the vast desert country of Namibia in southern Africa. Their 3-week journey of over 1300 miles\, a good portion over gravel roads driving from lodge-to-lodge\, took them through magnificent desert and coastal dunes\, barren deserts\, rocky scrub\, and flat acacia thornscrub teeming with game. While at the lodges they did game drives\, a little bit of walking\, sitting in waterhole hides\, and relaxing. Of course\, a lot of birding and photography was involved. Jerry will present highlights of the many birds and other animals he was able to photograph on this trip\, and offer his perspective on the sights and sounds of this part of Africa. \nWhen not birding or engaged with MDBA goings-on\, Jerry is a mostly-retired independent contractor/consultant in the fields of optical coatings and diffractive optic design and manufacture. He retired from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in 2016 after a 30+ year career as a chemical engineer.
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/monthly-program-nov2024/
LOCATION:The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm\, 1540 Marchbanks Drive\, Walnut Creek\, CA\, 94598\, United States
CATEGORIES:Monthly Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Pied-Barbet_Namibia_J-Britten.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Ariana Rickard":MAILTO:arianajrickard@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241111T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241111T100000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241022T074448Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241022T074631Z
UID:8678-1731312000-1731319200@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:Introducing the Birds of Heather Farm
DESCRIPTION:This trip is especially good for beginners! \nHeather Farm Park in Walnut Creek is an underrated birding spot\, home to dozens of resident species. We’ll hope to see some winter visitors as well! We’ll meet at the overlook of the Natural Lake\, west of North San Carlos Drive\, about 100 yards beyond the community center. \nMeeting point GPS: 37.921260813409184\, -122.04358260674651 \nAt 8:00AM an experienced birder or two will be on hand to demonstrate how to properly use binoculars\, and to discuss birding guidebooks and apps. We’ll be scanning the lake to see which ducks and other birds might have arrived to spend the winter. \nWe should be done around 10:00. Birders of all experience levels are welcome! Bring binoculars if you have them; we’ll also have a few pairs to borrow. \nTrip will go on in damp weather\, but significant rain or high wind cancels.\nREGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meeker-slough-tickets-1052245593897 \n(Image of White-breasted Nuthatch by Matt Tarlach)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/introducing-birds-of-heather-farm-nov-2024-2/
LOCATION:Heather Farm Park\, 301 N San Carlos Dr\, Walnut Creek\, CA\, 94598\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Birding Classes,Education,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/WBNU_HF_MTsmall.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241114T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241114T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241022T074750Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241022T075031Z
UID:8680-1731573000-1731591000@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Lodi Lake & Woodbridge Preserve
DESCRIPTION:We’ll bird first at Lodi Lake and its riparian area alongside the Mokelumne River. Plan to see waterfowl and many bird species including Woodpeckers\, White-breasted Nuthatch\, Cedar Waxwing\, Herons\, Warblers and Wood Duck. (We’ve had Varied Thrush in the past but cannot guarantee!) \nFrom Lodi Lake we’ll move on to Woodbridge Ecological Reserve\, where we’ll see waterfowl and other birds\, including hopefully some early-arriving Sandhill Cranes. (The state requires a CDFW Lands Pass at Woodbridge Reserve\, with a fee of $5.40 per day. An annual Lands Pass is $30.50) \nDress in layers. Bring water\, snacks and lunch if so choose. \nHike Rating: 2 – Easy to moderate loop of 1.5 – 2 miles on level ground with some paved areas. A few very short off-trail lookouts with easy to moderate slope access. There are a few benches to rest on as well.\nElevation change: N/A\nLeader: Mona Lange 510-414-2959\nMeet: Lodi Lake parking lot (1101 W. Turner Rd) (bathroom at parking lot). Bring cash to pay the parking fee of $5/car or $3/car for seniors. Exact change. \nDirections: Hwy 4 East toward Antioch/Rio Vista. Go over Antioch bridge (toll). At stop light make RIGHT onto Hwy 12 toward Lodi. Stay on 12 East past interstate 5. About 2 miles past I-5 make a LEFT on DeVries Rd (the light after the RR tracks.) Carefully and safely watch for Yellow-billed Magpies in the area. At the second stop sign make a RIGHT onto W. Turner Rd. When in town\, stay in the left lane. After crossing the RR tracks start looking for the Lake entrance on your LEFT. (On the other side of the Do Not Enter Sign.) \nThis trip is limited to 12 participants. Rain cancels.\nREGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lodi-lake-woodbridge-reserve-tickets-1050122313107 \n(Photo of Great Blue Heron by Maren Smith)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/lodi-lake-and-woodbridge-preserve-nov-2024/
LOCATION:Lodi Lake\, 1101 W. Turner Rd\, Lodi\, CA\, 95242\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/GBLH_Maren.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241116T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241116T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241022T075121Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241022T075400Z
UID:8683-1731745800-1731765600@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip — Palo Alto Baylands/Charleston Slough
DESCRIPTION:We see a variety of birds on the water on this trip that is only about a 55 minute drive from Walnut Creek. It is exciting to be on the largest tract of undisturbed marshland remaining in the San Francisco Bay. Locations include Charleston Slough\, Shoreline Lake\, Palo Alto Baylands\, and Redwood Shores. \nHike Rating: 1-Easy\nDistance: We do some walking on flat terrain but drive from one location to the next.\nElevation change: Minor\nLeaders: Herb and Randi Long at herblong7@gmail.com 925-948-5113\nMeet: Meet at entrance to Palo Alto Baylands on Terminal Boulevard in Mountain View at 8:30 AM. \nDirections: If using Google maps\, enter “Terminal Boulevard Mountain View\, CA.” \nTake I-680 South 24 miles to Exit 12 for Mission Boulevard /State Route 262 (second Mission Blvd exit so that you head west on Mission Blvd). Keep right at the fork; follow signs for Mission Blvd West and merge onto CA-262 South/Mission Blvd. Continue through two traffic lights and take I-880 ramp South. In 3 miles\, use the right two lanes to take CA-237 toward Mountain View. Connect to US-101 North toward San Francisco. Once on US-101 North\, take Exit 400C for San Antonio Road. Turn right on San Antonio. Continue for about 0.4 mile and turn right onto Terminal Road and park. Entrance toPalo Alto Baylands is on the left. There is a bathroom at the entrance. \nDrive time is about 1 hour + 5 minutes from Walnut Creek / Danville. \nBring lunch! \nREGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/palo-alto-baylandscharleston-slough-tickets-1050110126657 \n(American Avocets photo by Maren Smith)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/palo-alto-baylands-charleston-slough-nov-2024/
LOCATION:Terminal Boulevard\, Terminal Boulevard\, Mountain View\, CA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/American-Avocets-Maren-Smith.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Herb and Randi Long":MAILTO:herblong7@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241121T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241121T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241022T075455Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241022T175626Z
UID:8686-1732208400-1732217400@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- A Poorwill Quest
DESCRIPTION:**Please note the time correction** \nHike up a fire road on the east face of North Peak in Mount Diablo State Park\, to see Common Poorwills as they forage for moths along the fire roads through the chaparral. They will be detected by their eyeshine from our lights. \nThis is a nocturnal hike. It is Trail Category 3 because\, although only 2 miles round-trip\, the road is quite steep and there is a stream crossing near the trailhead with the possibility of getting wet feet. Bring layers\, wellington-type boots that can be stashed in the bushes after the stream crossing for normal hiking wear\, and a flashlight/headlamp. Expect to be in the field for ~1.5 hrs. \nHike Rating: Category 3 — Strenuous. Read trip details\nElevation change: Substantial\, steep in places\, and we will be descending after dark.\nLeader: Jerry Britten\nMeet: GPS 37°53’58.7″N 121°52’24.5″W \nDirections: From Clayton drive east on Marsh Creek Road. Turn right on Morgan Territory Road and go about out 1500′\, to a turnout on the right. \nThis field trip is limited to 5 Participants max\, due to limited parking and the need for quiet. \nREGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/poorwill-quest-tickets-1050120698277 \n(Photo by Jerry Britten)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-poorwill-quest-nov-2024/
LOCATION:Morgan Territory Road\, 2800 Morgan Territory Road\, Clayton\, CA\, 94517
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/poorwill.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jerry Britten":MAILTO:president@mtdiabloaudubon.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241204T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241204T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241022T075836Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241022T080856Z
UID:8689-1733306400-1733319000@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Meeker Slough
DESCRIPTION:Meeker Slough is a wetland area in Richmond\, on the coast of San Francisco Bay. We’ll look for shorebirds\, ducks\, herons\, and coastal passerines during the incoming tide. The walk is mostly on a paved and level trail. If time permits\, we will also drive a few miles to check out Vincent Park and the Richmond Marina (Inner Harbor Basin). Please bring a spotting scope if you own one\, I will bring two scopes if someone can carry one of them. I have a few loaner binoculars I can bring—if contacted ahead of time. \nDress in layers. Bring water\, snacks and lunch if so choose. \nHike Rating: 1 – Easy\nElevation change: N/A\nLeader: Ted Robertson\, 925-899-1872\nMeet: Parking Circle at the end of Bayside Drive\, Richmond\nTrailhead GPS coordinates: 37.911705\, -122.338982 \nDirections: Take Hwy 580 to Richmond and and take Exit 10A for S. 23rd St/Marina Bay Pkwy. Head west onto Marina Bay Pkwy. In about 1 mile\, turn left onto Bayside Drive. Park at or near the parking circle at the end of Bayside Dr. Trailhead is at the parking circle. \nThis trip is limited to 20 participants. Rain cancels.\nREGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meeker-slough-tickets-1052245593897 \n(Photo of Black Bellied Plover by Pam Lorenz)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-meeker-slough-dec-2024/
LOCATION:Meeker Slough\, Bayside Dr\, Richmond\, CA\, 94804
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/BBPL_Lorenz_small.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241207T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241207T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241022T081058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241022T081330Z
UID:8693-1733565600-1733580000@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Lynch Canyon Open Space Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Lynch Canyon Open Space\, an asset of the Solano County Land Trust\, is a fantastic place for raptors in the winter! It’s also home to grassland species\, and waterbirds on the reservoir. \nThe trails are wide and firmly packed but unpaved. Participants will be able to choose between two routes: A loop of about 2.5 miles around Lynch Reservoir\, with some gentle elevation gain; or a longer loop of about 3.25 miles with a longer\, steeper climb (14% grade at one stretch). Co-leaders will be present to accompany along either route. On both routes we’ll stop frequently to look for raptors\, and to scope the reservoir. \nLynch Canyon is still a working ranch so we can expect to encounter free-ranging cattle. Some of the trails are part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail\, and we may encounter bicyclists\, e-bikes\, and equestrians. \nPlease bring $6 (exact bills) for the off-season parking fee. Bring ample water (none is available on site) and sun protection. There is almost no shade on the trails. \nThere is a pit toilet at the parking lot. Solano County Land Trust asks us to bring our own hand sanitizer. \nBring snacks or lunch. On the longer loop\, there are picnic tables. \nLeaders: Susana de Trapaga\, trapaga@sbcglobal.net\, 510.333.2693 and Maureen Lahiff\, MLahiff@aol.com\, 510.484.6529\nHike Rating: 2 (longer route is 3) Elevation change on the longer loop trail option is approximately 500 feet.\nMeeting place: Parking lot for Lynch Canyon Open Space\nURL: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7mHmYSfFws1CmowQ6 \nHeavy rain cancels the trip. We’ll send an email if we’re cancelling\, or if weather looks iffy. \nDirections: Take I-80 east to exit 36\, American Canyon Road/Hiddenbrook Pkwy. At the stop sign at the end of the exit ramp\, turn right and then immediately left onto McGary Road\, which runs alongside the freeway. After about 1.7 miles\, turn left onto Lynch Road\, pass under I-80\, and drive all the way to the parking lot. \nFor more information about Lynch Canyon Open Space: https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/rm/countypark/lynchcyn.asp \nREGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lynch-canyon-tickets-1050134830547 \n(Image of Golden Eagle and Raven by Isaac Aronow)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-lynch-canyon-open-preserve-dec-2024/
LOCATION:Lynch Canyon Open Space Preserve\, Fairfield\, 3100 Lynch Rd\, Fairfield\, CA\, 94534\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/golden-eagle-raven-isaac-aronow-rotated.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241212T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241212T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241122T211536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241122T212045Z
UID:8705-1734030000-1734035400@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:Monthly Program: December 2024
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Van Schmidt surveying a California Gull breeding colony on a levee in the salt ponds \nFlows of Water and Waterbirds across California\nNathan Van Schmidt\n \n\nOur December meeting will be held the second Thursday of the month\, on December 12. We will meet in person at the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm. \n6:30 PM Doors Open\n7:00 PM Announcements\n7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle\n7:30 PM Main Program: Flows of Water and Waterbirds across California\n*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea \n7:30 PM Main Program: Flows of Water and Waterbirds across California\nNathan Van Schmidt\n \n\n\n\nWater has always been the heart of California\, providing essential habitat for both waterbirds and people. After the Gold Rush\, California experienced rapid and widespread destruction and modification of natural hydrological ecosystems and wetlands. This included the rapid conversion of Delta wetlands to peat farmland\, development of many North Bay and San Francisco wetlands\, and the conversion of much of south San Francisco Bay to commercial salt production ponds. To recover endangered tidal marsh birds and protect communities from sea level rise\, the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project is now restoring large swaths of tidal marsh habitat–but they are faced with a new dilemma: many bird species that had used wetlands lost or degraded elsewhere in California have come to use the salt ponds as accidental habitat. Drawing connections across a decade of research on waterbird use of anthropogenic habitats in California and beyond\, Dr. Van Schmidt will discuss the contemporary challenges and promising paradigms for conservation of waterbirds in ecosystems that have already been grappling with repeated dramatic transformations over the past 175 years. \nDr. Van Schmidt is an ecologist whose research emphasizes understanding ecosystems and land-use as coupled systems\, combining field research with simulation methodology. His talk will explore habitat use and connections between accidental anthropogenic wetland habitats not only in the San Francisco Bay’s salt ponds\, but across California\, and reflect on how efforts to adapt water-dependent ecosystems to climate change may have surprising trade-offs for wildlife that need to be accounted for. The talk will draw not only on his current work as Director of Landscape Sustainability Science\, but also on past research at UC Berkeley on Black Rails in the Sierra Nevada\, and on reintroduced Whooping Crane’s use of farmland.
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/monthly-program-dec2024/
LOCATION:The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm\, 1540 Marchbanks Drive\, Walnut Creek\, CA\, 94598\, United States
CATEGORIES:Monthly Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/CAGU-survey-1-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Ariana Rickard":MAILTO:arianajrickard@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250102T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250102T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241122T212111Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241122T212956Z
UID:8709-1735844400-1735849800@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:Monthly Program: January 2025
DESCRIPTION:Blood Pheasant. Photo by Bob Lewis \nBirds of Bhutan\nBob Lewis\n \n\nMount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday\, January 2 in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm\, 1540 Marchbanks Drive\, Walnut Creek\, CA 94598. \n6:30 PM Doors Open\n7:00 PM Announcements\n7:10 PM Christmas Bird Count Report\n7:25 PM Refreshments and Raffle\n7:40 PM Main Program: Birds of Bhutan\n*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea \nAlong with our main program\, Mount Diablo Bird Alliance President Jerry Britten will report highlights of the 2024 Christmas Bird Counts. \n7:30 PM Main Program: Bhutan – A Happy Place for Birds and Birders\nBob Lewis\n \n\n\n\nThe Himalayan Buddhist country of Bhutan calls itself the Happiest Place in the World\, and indeed\, it is a delight for birders. With over 60% of its land forested\, from Alpine scrub to Tropical broadleaf habitats\, there are many birds to be seen. Bob joined a spring 2024 tour and will discuss many interesting families of birds seen as the group traveled east from the airport at Paro\, and then returned along the Indian border in the south. The talk is illustrated with many striking bird images\, as well as some illustrations to give a feeling of a lovely country. \nBob trained as a chemist and worked in the energy field for 33 years. He’s taught birding classes in the Bay Area for over 30 years and served as the chair of Golden Gate Audubon’s Adult Education Committee. Recently he’s been giving classes and talks via Zoom. Bob was honored with American Birding Association’s Chandler Robbins Award for Education and Conservation in 2016\, and Golden Gate Bird Alliance’s Paul Covel Education Award in 2010 and 2017. He loves to travel and photograph birds and has chased birds in over 60 countries. His life list is over 5400 species.
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/monthly-program-jan2025/
LOCATION:The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm\, 1540 Marchbanks Drive\, Walnut Creek\, CA\, 94598\, United States
CATEGORIES:Monthly Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blood-Pheasant-6632-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Ariana Rickard":MAILTO:arianajrickard@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250104
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250105
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241206T032031Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241206T032031Z
UID:8715-1735948800-1736035199@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:Contra Costa Large Day
DESCRIPTION:Saturday January 4\, Predawn to Dusk \nSpend the first Saturday of the New Year on an all-day birding trip that will visit several different habitats spread across Contra Costa County. To maximize the fun and minimize issues with parking\, we’ll carpool\, starting from a place or places to be discussed by the group—perhaps Heather Farm and/or Lafayette BART. \nFrom the meeting point we’ll drive to Valle Vista\, arriving before dawn to listen for owls and maybe spot a poorwill. We’ll spend the first part of the morning at this rich hotspot\, then pile into our cars and drive west to Richmond where we’ll scope the Bay\, and look for shorebirds. Then back east across the county on Highway 4\, making multiple stops before finishing our day in the Delta. The exact itinerary will be determined partly by what we find during our Christmas Bird Counts. \n“Big” days are known for their frenetic pace\, with birders pushing hard to max out their species count. This “Large” day will be somewhat more relaxed. We’ll stay together in a group as much as possible\, and take relaxed breaks when needed. The pace will still be more urgent than a typical field trip\, though\, and this is an all-day commitment—things to consider before signing up. More details to follow by email\, to those who sign up. Please note that signups for this trip (and wait list) close a week in advance. \nHike Rating: 2 – moderate grades in some places\, probably a few miles total walking throughout the day.\nElevation change: TBD\, probably not over 100 feet in one climb.\nLeader: Matthew Tarlach\, 925-482-6129\, mdbafieldtrips@gmail.com\nMeet: TBD \nThis special trip is for MDBA members only\, and limited to 12 participants. We will carpool\, hopefully fitting into 3 vehicles to minimize parking hassles. Register HERE:\nhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/contra-costa-large-day-tickets-1090305837109
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/contra-costa-large-day/
LOCATION:CA
CATEGORIES:Birding
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CoCoBirdingHotspots.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250108T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250108T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241206T032232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241206T033533Z
UID:8718-1736326800-1736344800@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Putah Creek
DESCRIPTION: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. \nHike rating: 1 – Easy.\nElevation change: Minor\nDistance: Depending on the route decided.\nCo-Leaders: Maren Smith\, 925-322-9477\, and Susana de Trapaga\nMeet: 9 AM at the large gravel pull-out on the right side of Putah Creek Road\, west of the Lake Solano dam.\nDirections: 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. PLEASE NOTE that the location marked on the map by Eventbrite is a few hundred yards east of the actual meeting location. \nBring $8 cash—in exact bills—for the parking fee! \nThis hike is limited to 20 participants. All field trips require registration and participants must acknowledge the MDBA liability waiver. Register HERE:\nhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/putah-creek-birding-tickets-1084887139639 \n(Photo: Female Phainopepla at Putah Creek by Isaac Aronow)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/putah-creek-jan-2025/
LOCATION:Putah Creek Road\, 3836 Putah Creek Rd\, Winters\, CA\, 95694\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/240103_PutahCreek_PHAI_Aronow-topaz-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Maren Smith":MAILTO:marensmithbkk@yahoo.com
GEO:38.4889042;-122.0146615
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Putah Creek Road 3836 Putah Creek Rd Winters CA 95694 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=3836 Putah Creek Rd:geo:-122.0146615,38.4889042
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250118T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250118T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241206T033449Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241206T033449Z
UID:8721-1737189000-1737212400@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Marin: Las Gallinas and Shollenberger Park
DESCRIPTION:Both of these locations are great for wintering waders\, shorebirds\, waterfowl and raptors. Bring lunch and a beverage\, as both sites take time to bird and there is a drive in between. This trip is appropriate for birders of all experience levels\, including beginners. \nHike rating: Category 2 – Moderate. Walking some distance and gentle slopes.\nElevation change: Minor\nLeader: Sandy Ritchie\, (925) 381-2514\nMeet: Carpool meets at Sun Valley Mall at 7:30AM. Or meet at the Las Gallinas ponds in San Rafael at 8:30AM\nDirections: Check here later for updates. \nThis field trip is limited to 15 participants. Register HERE:\nhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-las-gallinas-shollenberger-park-tickets-1090298956529 \n(Photo: American Bittern by Beth Branthaver)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-marin-las-gallinas-and-shollenberger-park-jan-2025/
LOCATION:Las Gallinas Ponds\, Las Gallinas Valley birding loop\, Smith Ranch Rd\, San Rafael\, CA\, 94903
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AMBI_Shollenberger_Branthaver.jpg
GEO:38.025641;-122.517525
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Las Gallinas Ponds Las Gallinas Valley birding loop Smith Ranch Rd San Rafael CA 94903;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Las Gallinas Valley birding loop\, Smith Ranch Rd:geo:-122.517525,38.025641
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250129T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250129T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20241206T034114Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241206T034558Z
UID:8727-1738139400-1738155600@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Lake Merritt and Arrowhead Marsh at High Tide
DESCRIPTION:Winter ducks on Lake Merritt and other birds usually means easy viewing from the sidewalk. The lake is one of the few places in the Bay Area where Barrow’s Goldeneyes can be seen. An entry fee past the gate at Children’s Fairyland is usually required.\nWe will move to Arrowhead Marsh at around 10:00AM\, arriving in time for the high tide. Ridgeway’s Rails are one of the highlights here\, though we will see many other birds. A visit to Garretson Point will follow. Bring lunch and drinks.\nThis trip is appropriate for birders of all experience levels\, including beginners. \nHike rating: Category 1–Easy\nElevation change: N/A\nLeader: Sandy Ritchie\, (925) 381-2514\nMeet: Lake Merritt parking lot off Bellevue Avenue\, 8:30 AM\nDirections: Take SR 24 to Oakland and I-980\, take 27th Street exit and turn left. Cross Broadway and Harrison\, then join Grand Avenue. Turn into park at Children’s Fairyland (fee possible) and follow around to parking lot entrance on right between boathouse and aviary. \nThis field trip is limited to 15 participants. Register HERE:\nhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-lake-merritt-and-arrowhead-marsh-at-high-tide-tickets-1090303640539 \n(Photo: Ridgway’s Rail by Beth Branthaver)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-lake-merritt-and-arrowhead-marsh-jan-2025/
LOCATION:Lake Merritt\, 699 Bellevue Ave\, Oakland\, CA\, 94610\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/RIRA_ArrowheadMarsh_Branthaver.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250205T091500
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250205T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250121T051813Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250121T053631Z
UID:8796-1738746900-1738760400@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Bridgeway Island Pond\, West Sacramento
DESCRIPTION:New Trip! \nThis is a birding hotspot. We can hope for close views of an assortment of waterfowl and shorebirds. Blue-winged Teal.\,American Avocet\, Cinnamon Teal\, and Sora have often been seen here. Easy access with a mostly flat\, grassy area. Not much walking will be required\, more standing and observing at different areas along the pond. \nOn the way back we’ll stop at another birdy spot\, to be decided. \nThis is a good trip for beginning birders. \nHike rating: 1\, Easy.\nLeader: Mona Lange\, 510-414-2959\nMeet: 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.\nDirections: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. \nGPS for the meeting point at McDonalds: 38.556747929224194\, -121.5399085526047 \nAfter 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. \nGPS for the Pond: 38.540701884803845\, -121.57782606798398\nGPS for Jepson Prairie (our after-lunch stop): 38.27532148059968\, -121.82378799141179 \nRegister HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-bridgeway-island-pond-west-sacramento-tickets-1148773916709 \nPhoto: Blue-winged Teal\, by Mona Lange
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-bridgeway-island-feb-2025/
LOCATION:McDonald’s West Sacramento\, 2244 Lake Washington Blvd.\, West Sacramento\, CA\, 95691
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BWTE_BridgewayPond_Lange-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250206T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250206T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250116T211949Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250116T213929Z
UID:8785-1738868400-1738873800@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:Monthly Program: February 2025
DESCRIPTION:Mandarin Duck. Photo by Jill Hedgecock \nIn Nature and Imaginations: Birds and Art in Central Europe\nJill Hedgecock\n \n\nMount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday\, February 6 in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm\, 1540 Marchbanks Drive\, Walnut Creek\, CA 94598. \n6:30 PM Doors Open\n7:00 PM Announcements\n7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle\n7:30 PM Main Program: Birds and Art in Central Europe\n*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea \nJill Hedgecock will share photos from her birding adventures\, museum visits\, and more during her travels through Amsterdam\, Germany\, Prague\, and Salsburg. From taking a cable car to the highest mountain in Germany and seeing the alpine cough\, to stumbling upon a stunningly beautiful nonnative mandarin duck\, Central Europe was full of birding surprises. Jill will also show how birds have found their way into many art forms in Europe. She will provide background information on bird-inspired paintings such as Rembrandt’s 1639 Self-Portrait with a Dead Bittern and his 1635 Abduction of Ganymede painting\, from her visit to the Old Master’s Picture Gallery in Dresden\, Germany\, and the parrot mosaic she saw in Berlin’s Pergamon Museum. \nJill Hedgecock\, who has spoken to MDBA on topics from rhino conservation\, microplastics\, and falconry in Scotland\, returns to share more of her international travels with the Mount Diablo Bird Alliance. She has a M.S. degree in Environmental Management and is the author of two novels inspired by her love of rhinos. She previously served as the International Conservation Coordinator for the club back in the early 1990s and was a long-term leader of the Black Diamond Mine Christmas Count circle. \nParrot Mosaic\, photo by Jill Hedgecock
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/monthly-program-feb2025/
LOCATION:The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm\, 1540 Marchbanks Drive\, Walnut Creek\, CA\, 94598\, United States
CATEGORIES:Monthly Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/mandarinduckHedgecock-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Ariana Rickard":MAILTO:arianajrickard@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250212T084500
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250212T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250121T053730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250121T054100Z
UID:8801-1739349900-1739368800@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Thornton Area/Cosumnes Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Tundra Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, hawks and grassland birds. Trip will go on in light rain. Bring lunch and a beverage. If questions\, call the leader. \nHike rating: 1 – Easy.\nElevation change: Minor\nLeader: Mona Lange\, 510-414-2959\nMeet: 8:45 AM in Westgate Landing Park at end of Glascock Road.\n\nDirections: Take SR 4 to Antioch Bridge\, go north on SR 160 along the 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. \nThere is a $5 parking fee at one of the stops; bring exact change. \nRegister HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-in-the-thornton-area-including-cosumnes-preserve-tickets-1148769684049 \nPhoto: Sandhill Cranes\, by Sharon Anderson
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-thornton-cosumnes-feb-2025/
LOCATION:Westgate Landing Regional Park\, 4GF5+HP\, Terminous\, CA\, 95242\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Sandhill-Cranes-Thornton-Sharon-Anderson.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250219T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250219T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250121T054252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250121T054547Z
UID:8803-1739955600-1739970000@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Big Break and East County
DESCRIPTION:We will be birding at Big Break/Delta Science Center and then driving to at least one other location\, to be determined by conditions. These locations are usually good for waterfowl\, raptors and some passerines. Dress warmly\, bring lunch and drinks.\nThis trip is appropriate for birders of all experience levels\, including beginners. \nHike Rating: 1\, Easy\nElevation change: N/A\nLeaders: Mona Lange\, 510-414-2959\nMeet: Big Break parking lot in Oakley at 9 AM\nDirections: 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. \nRegister HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birds-of-east-contra-costa-county-tickets-1148762853619 \nPhoto: Common Gallinule\, by Maren Smith
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-big-break-east-county-feb-2025/
LOCATION:Big Break Regional Shoreline\, 69 Big Break Road\, Oakley\, CA\, 94561\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/COGA_ContraLoma_MSmith.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250222T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250222T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250121T054730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250121T060445Z
UID:8807-1740216600-1740236400@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Bodega Bay
DESCRIPTION:Why do we go all the way to Bodega Bay? To see loons close up – the Common\, Pacific\, and Red-throated species are all likely. 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 the Bay Area. \nWe’ll meet at 9:30 am at the Tides Wharf and Restaurant\, out 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 along the bay.\nURL for meeting place: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kdi3H728KCvdn7Dj6 \nBe prepared for variable weather. Bring lunch\, snacks\, and liquids. There are pit toilets at Bodega Head\, Campbell Cove\, and Porto Bodega Marina. \nHike Rating: 1\, Easy\, with little elevation change\nLeader: Maureen Lahiff\, MLahiff@aol.com\, 510-484-6529\nMeeting point GPS: 38.328869668535894\, -123.04502163182391\nDirections: 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. \nRegister HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-bodega-bay-tickets-1148790044949 \nPhoto: Common Loon\, by Isaac Aronow
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-bodega-bay-feb-2025/
LOCATION:Tides Restaurant Bodega Bay\, 835Bay Highway\, Bodega Bay\, CA\, 94923\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/COLO_Bodega_Aronow.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Maureen Lahiff":MAILTO:MLahiff@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250226T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250226T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250121T060628Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250121T061104Z
UID:8811-1740558600-1740571200@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Walnut Creek Local City Parks
DESCRIPTION:Starting in Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek\, we will walk around the large\, mostly natural pond\, birding along the way. From there we will drive to two or three local parks\, as we may venture into Concord or Clayton\, to be determined the day of the trip. \nTrail Rating: Category 1\, Easy. Maybe up to a mile walking total\, on level paths.\nElevation change: Minor\nLeader: Randi and Herb Long\, hrlong13@sbcglobal.net\nMeet: Wooden railing at the Natural Lake in Heather Farm (not the pond surrounded with concrete.)\nDirections: 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 thirty yards beyond the parking lot. \nThe field trip is limited to 10 participants. Register HERE:\nhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-contra-costa-city-parks-tickets-1148797537359 \nPhoto: White-breasted Nuthatch\, by Matt Tarlach
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-walnut-creek-parks-feb-2025/
LOCATION:Heather Farm Park\, 301 N San Carlos Dr\, Walnut Creek\, CA\, 94598\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/WBNU_HF_MTsmall.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Herb and Randi Long":MAILTO:herblong7@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250303T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250303T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250121T062618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250121T062833Z
UID:8815-1740988800-1741003200@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Valle Vista
DESCRIPTION:A walk through various habitats at the EBMUD property usually allows to see at least 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 part could be a bit muddy but most of the route is on a gravel trail or a road. \nTrail Rating: Category 2\, Moderate. About a mile and a half walk\, possible patches of mud\, some short inclines.\nElevation change: Minor\nLeader: Ted Robertson\, 925-899-1872\nMeet: Valle Vista Staging Area\, Canyon Road\nDirections: 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. \nThis field trip is limited to 16 participants\, with pre-registration required. MDBA members receive priority in registration but non-members are welcome\, if we have enough spots. \nRegister HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-valle-vista-tickets-1148801027799 \n(Photo of Red-breasted Sapsucker by Isaac Aronow)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-valle-vista-mar-2025/
LOCATION:Valle Vista\, RVC6+WQ\, Moraga\, CA\, 94556\, United States
CATEGORIES:Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/red-breasted-sapsucker-isaac-shadow-cliffs.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250306T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250306T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250216T064940Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250216T065704Z
UID:8866-1741287600-1741293000@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:Monthly Program: March 2025
DESCRIPTION:Juvenile Osprey \nKEEP ‘EM FLYING — Helping Raptors Survive in the Human Environment \nCraig Nikitas\n \nMount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday\, March 6 in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm\, 1540 Marchbanks Drive\, Walnut Creek\, CA 94598. \n\n6:30 PM Doors Open\n7:00 PM Announcements\n7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle\n7:30 PM Main Program: Bay Raptor Rescue\n*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea \nCraig Nikitas\, a retired urban planner\, has been a wildlife volunteer working with raptors for over fifty years.His talk will provide an overview of 10 years of raptor rescue work\, focusing on common issues necessitating intervention\, and accounts of rescues of common and rare local species and techniques to help them. \nCraig’s career has included caring for captive animals at the Randall Museum\, Steinhart Aquarium\, and the San Francisco Zoo\, tending birds in rehab at WildCare\, trapping and banding migratory and dispersive birds of prey for 30 years with the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory\, and presenting talks on the natural history of corvids\, diurnal raptors\, and owls at schools\, colleges\, universities\, local naturalist groups\, park associations\, the Point Reyes Birding and Nature Festival\, and to professional staff at the Lindsay Wildlife Experience\, CuriOdyssey\, and the S F and Oakland Zoos. \nIn 2015\, Craig founded Bay Raptor Rescue to provide a free service to aid predatory birds in distress. The work is done under permit from US Fish and Wildlife Service\, and the Cal Department of Fish and Wildlife. His work comprises trapping free-flighted birds in buildings\, netting birds grounded by illness or injury\, and transporting those who need veterinary care to local rehabilitation facilities. \nBurrowing Owl
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/monthly-program-mar2025/
LOCATION:The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm\, 1540 Marchbanks Drive\, Walnut Creek\, CA\, 94598\, United States
CATEGORIES:Monthly Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Juvenile-Osprey.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Ariana Rickard":MAILTO:arianajrickard@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250315T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250315T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250224T055419Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250224T060620Z
UID:8881-1742027400-1742040000@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Moorhen + McNabney Marshes
DESCRIPTION:Two trips this month! Mt. View Sanitary District has offered MDBA special access for a Saturday visit. Both trips will be open to the public\, and are very suitable for beginning birders. Binoculars are available for borrowing—just email the leader in advance so they know how many extra pairs to bring. \nCreated by MVSD in 1974\, Moorhen Marsh was the first wetland on the west coast that made use of treated effluents as its primary water source. Today the 21-acre constructed wetland offers critical habitat for wildlife. Native species dependent on Moorhen Marsh for habitat include the western pond turtle\, North American river otter\, and many species of birds. Directly across the freeway\, McNabney Marsh—aka Waterbird Regional Preserve—in winter hosts many species of ducks\, shorebirds and waterbirds. \nWe’ll meet at the observation deck near the south end of McNabney Marsh\, off of Arthur Road\, and scan the area with our scopes. After that we’ll move the cars a short distance into the MVSD facility and take a walk around the cleverly human-made Moorhen Marsh. \nHike Rating: 1 – Easy. Under 1 mile on flat terrain. Unpaved paths can get muddy after rain.\nElevation change: N/A\nLeader: Matthew Tarlach\, mdbafieldtrips@gmail.com \nMeet: Meet at the observation deck off of Arthur Road at 8:30 AM. There’s plenty of parking. \nDirections: From I-680 northbound\, exit at Pacheco Blvd\, turn right onto Arthur Road and go under the freeway. Arthur Road will bend left. Where Arthur Road ends\, the paved road turns sharp left through a gate into Mt. View Sanitary’s private access road. Drive about .3 mile to the gravel parking lot just before the one-lane tunnel. The observation deck is to the right (east) of the road. \nThis field trip is free and open to the public\, with prior registration required. Limited to 15 participants. Participants will need to click to acknowledge the MDBA liability waiver. Anyone entering Moorhen Marsh will need to sign the MVSD liability waiver also\, to be provided on site. \nRegister for Saturday 3/15:\nhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-moorhen-marsh-and-mcnabney-marsh-tickets-1250021350509 \n(Image of Black-crowned Night Herons by Isaac Aronow.)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-moorhen-mcnabney-marshes-mar-2025/
LOCATION:Mountain View Sanitary District\, 3800 Arthur Rd\, Martinez\, CA\, 94553\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/BCNH_MVSD_Aronow.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250319T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250319T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250224T060723Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250224T061158Z
UID:8886-1742373000-1742385600@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Moorhen + McNabney Marshes
DESCRIPTION:Two trips this month! Mt. View Sanitary District has offered MDBA special access for a Saturday visit. Both trips will be open to the public\, and are very suitable for beginning birders. Binoculars are available for borrowing—just email the leader in advance so they know how many extra pairs to bring. \nCreated by MVSD in 1974\, Moorhen Marsh was the first wetland on the west coast that made use of treated effluents as its primary water source. Today the 21-acre constructed wetland offers critical habitat for wildlife. Native species dependent on Moorhen Marsh for habitat include the western pond turtle\, North American river otter\, and many species of birds. Directly across the freeway\, McNabney Marsh—aka Waterbird Regional Preserve—in winter hosts many species of ducks\, shorebirds and waterbirds. \nWe’ll meet at the observation deck near the south end of McNabney Marsh\, off of Arthur Road\, and scan the area with our scopes. After that we’ll move the cars a short distance into the MVSD facility and take a walk around the cleverly human-made Moorhen Marsh. \nHike Rating: 1 – Easy. Under 1 mile on flat terrain. Unpaved paths can get muddy after rain.\nElevation change: N/A\nLeader: Matthew Tarlach\, mdbafieldtrips@gmail.com \nMeet: Meet at the observation deck off of Arthur Road at 8:30 AM. There’s plenty of parking. \nDirections: From I-680 northbound\, exit at Pacheco Blvd\, turn right onto Arthur Road and go under the freeway. Arthur Road will bend left. Where Arthur Road ends\, the paved road turns sharp left through a gate into Mt. View Sanitary’s private access road. Drive about .3 mile to the gravel parking lot just before the one-lane tunnel. The observation deck is to the right (east) of the road. \nThis field trip is free and open to the public\, with prior registration required. Limited to 15 participants. Participants will need to click to acknowledge the MDBA liability waiver. Anyone entering Moorhen Marsh will need to sign the MVSD liability waiver also\, to be provided on site. \nRegister for Wednesday 3/19:\nhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-moorhen-marsh-and-mcnabney-marsh-tickets-1252473153919 \n(Image of Black-crowned Night Herons by Isaac Aronow.)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mdba-field-trip-moorhen-mcnabney-marshes-mar-2025-2/
LOCATION:Mountain View Sanitary District\, 3800 Arthur Rd\, Martinez\, CA\, 94553\, United States
CATEGORIES:Birding,Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/BCNH_MVSD_Aronow.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250326T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250326T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250121T062956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T205407Z
UID:8817-1742977800-1742994000@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Contra Loma Regional Park
DESCRIPTION: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. \nRating: Category 2\, Moderate. About a mile walk\, some of it on turf.\nElevation change: Minor\nLeader: Mona Lange\nMeet: Contra Loma Regional Park\, Channel Point Parking Lot\nDirections: 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. \nThis field trip is limited to 15 participants. \nRegister Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-contra-loma-regional-park-tickets-1148782151339 \nPhoto: American Bittern\, by Pam Lorenz
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/contra-loma-regional-park-mar-2025/
LOCATION:Contra Loma Reservoir\, 1200 Frederickson Ln\, Antioch\, CA\, 94509\, United States
CATEGORIES:Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/AmericanBittern_ContraLoma_Lorenz.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250403T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250403T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250321T031639Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T032408Z
UID:8910-1743706800-1743712200@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:Monthly Program: April 2025
DESCRIPTION:Birds of Prey Live Animal Presentation\nLindsay Wildlife Experience\n  \nMount Diablo Bird Alliance will meet Thursday\, April 3 in the Camellia Room at the Gardens at Heather Farm\, 1540 Marchbanks Drive\, Walnut Creek\, CA 94598. \n\n6:30 PM Doors Open\n7:00 PM Announcements\n7:15 PM Refreshments and Raffle\n7:30 PM Main Program: Live Raptors\n*as a conservation organization we encourage you to bring your own mug for coffee or tea \nExplore the wonders of California’s native wildlife with Lindsay Wildlife Experience. Delve into the captivating world of creatures that call our state home. From intriguing natural history specimens to interactive encounters with live animal ambassadors\, this event is designed to spark your curiosity and foster a deeper appreciation for the marvels of nature. Join us for an engaging journey you won’t soon forget!
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/monthly-program-april2025/
LOCATION:The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm\, 1540 Marchbanks Drive\, Walnut Creek\, CA\, 94598\, United States
CATEGORIES:Monthly Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/191113_Ambassadors-143-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Ariana Rickard":MAILTO:arianajrickard@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250408T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250408T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250224T061313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250224T061642Z
UID:8889-1744101000-1744113600@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- North Briones
DESCRIPTION: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. \nTrail Rating: Category 3 – uphill climb\nElevation change: 300+ feet\nLeader: Cheryl Abel\, 925-957-6229\nMeet: Parking area at the north entrance of Briones Regional Park. \nDirections: Take Briones Road south off Alhambra Valley Road and drive up this narrow\, winding road. Park at the end. \nThe field trip is limited to 15 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver. \nRegister here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-north-briones-tickets-1250812577089 \n(Photo of Red-tailed Hawk by Isaac Aronow)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/north-briones-apr-2025/
LOCATION:Briones Regional Park (North)\, XV37+VX\, Martinez\, CA\, 94553\, United States
CATEGORIES:Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RTHA_WestBriones_Aronow.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250410T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250410T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250224T061751Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250224T062048Z
UID:8893-1744272000-1744290000@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Black Diamond Mines
DESCRIPTION: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!\nThere is no guarantee on finding the wrens\, but we will certainly see many other birds. California Thrasher\, Rufous-crowned Sparrow and Phainopepla are often seen here though again\, nothing is certain. At the worst we will share an adventure in a beautiful and historically interesting location. Be sure to bring enough water\, and lunch. \nLeader: Matt Tarlach\, MDBAFieldtrips@gmail.com\nRating: Category 3\, difficult uphill trail\, potentially hot.\nElevation change: 600 feet\, steep in places.\nMeet: Black Diamond Mines parking lot at the top of Somersville Road. \nDirections: 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. \nThis trip is limited to 12 participants. \nRegister here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-hike-at-black-diamond-mines-tickets-1250808354459 \n(Photo of Canyon Wren by Vicky Atkinson)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/black-diamond-mines-apr-2025/
LOCATION:Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve\, X45P+PP\, Antioch\, CA\, 94565\, United States
CATEGORIES:Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CAWR_BDM_AtkinsonCrop-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250417T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250417T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250324T042554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T053603Z
UID:8920-1744876800-1744894800@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Mitchell Canyon
DESCRIPTION: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.  \nTrail Rating: Category 3. 3+ miles on a potentially hot\, dusty trail.\nElevation change: up to 400 feet\nLeader: Sandy Ritchie\, (925) 381-2514\nMeet: Mitchell Canyon parking lot\, Clayton.\nDirections: 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. \nThis field trip is limited to 15 participants. Participants must acknowledge the MDBA Liability Waiver (available during registration). \nRegister HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-mitchell-canyon-tickets-1292232354759 \n(Wilson’s Warbler photo by Jerry Britten)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mitchell-canyon-apr-2025/
LOCATION:Mitchell Canyon\, 96 Mitchell Canyon Road\, Clayton\, CA\, 94517\, United States
CATEGORIES:Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/wilsons-warbler.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250422T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250422T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250324T043443Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T045125Z
UID:8922-1745307000-1745334000@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Del Puerto Canyon
DESCRIPTION: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. \nTrail Rating: 1 – This is mostly a car trip\, with several easy walks.\nLeader: Steve Buffi (925) 200-4555 \nCarpool/caravan leaves at 7:30 AM from Sycamore Valley Road Park and Ride lot.\nOR\, meet on Del Puerto Canyon Road at 9 AM\, west of I-5 at 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. \nNote that the Larry Combs Rest Area near Westley\, our first stop in past years\, is closed. If services are needed\, try the Love’s Travel Stop in Patterson just off I-5. There are no other facilities on this trip until our lunch stop. \nThere is no limit on this trip. Carpooling from Sycamore Valley is recommended. \nRegister HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-del-puerto-canyon-tickets-1292214812289 \n(Western Kingbird photo by Isaac Aronow)
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/del-puerto-canyon-apr-2025/
LOCATION:Del Puerto Canyon Rd & Diablo Grande Pkwy\, Del Puerto Canyon Rd\, Patterson\, CA\, 95363\, United States
CATEGORIES:Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/WEKI_DelPuerto_Aronow.jpg
GEO:37.4626529;-121.1857453
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Del Puerto Canyon Rd & Diablo Grande Pkwy Del Puerto Canyon Rd Patterson CA 95363 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Del Puerto Canyon Rd:geo:-121.1857453,37.4626529
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250422T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250422T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T142628
CREATED:20250324T051901Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T053757Z
UID:8932-1745308800-1745330400@mtdiablobirds.org
SUMMARY:MDBA Field Trip -- Mitchell Canyon II
DESCRIPTION: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. \nBring a lunch too\, if you’d like to sit down and eat with the group at the end of the trip. \nTrail Rating: Category 3. 3+ miles on a potentially hot\, dusty trail. It is an out-and-back so anyone who gets too hot or tired can head back early.\nElevation change: close to 400 feet\nLeader: Ted Robertson\, 925-899-1872\nMeet: Mitchell Canyon parking lot\, Clayton.\nDirections: 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. \nThis field trip is limited to 10 participants. \nRegister HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birding-mitchell-canyon-tickets-1295311584819
URL:https://mtdiablobirds.org/event/mitchell-canyon-apr-2025-2/
LOCATION:Mitchell Canyon\, 96 Mitchell Canyon Road\, Clayton\, CA\, 94517\, United States
CATEGORIES:Field Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mtdiablobirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/wilsons-warbler.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR